ASTM G21: Resistance of Synthetic Polymeric Materials to Fungi

ASTM G21: Resistance of Synthetic Polymeric Materials to Fungi

ASTM G21 is the standard practice used to determine how well synthetic polymeric materials resist colonisation and growth by fungi. Airmid Healthgroup carries out this testing to support product claims across surface technologies, textiles, and polymer-based materials.

Scope of ASTM G21

ASTM G21: Resistance of Synthetic Polymeric Materials to Fungi
ASTM G21 testing at Airmid Healthgroup evaluates fungal resistance of synthetic polymeric materials.

ASTM G21 is the standard practice for determining the resistance of synthetic polymeric materials to fungi.

Products tested: Synthetic polymeric materials.

How the ASTM G21 Test Works

  • Fungi are grown on solid medium and a spore suspension is prepared from Penicillium, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Trichoderma, and Aureobasidium.
  • A small volume of the pooled spore preparation is applied directly to the test samples.
  • Petri dishes are sealed and incubated for up to 28 days.
  • Samples are given a semi-quantitative performance score based on fungal growth after 28 days.

5 Fungal Species

Penicillium, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Trichoderma, and Aureobasidium are used in the pooled spore preparation.

28-Day Incubation

Sealed Petri dishes are incubated for up to 28 days before fungal growth is scored.

5-Week Turnaround

Results, including third-party validation, are typically available within 5 weeks.

Third-Party Validation

On passing this test, the product can be labelled as tested by Airmid Healthgroup to ASTM G21, in support of any claim relating to the test and data received.

Accreditation & Compliance for ASTM G21

iAIR Labs offers high-quality testing, inspection, compliance and certification across several regulatory systems. Our labs are routinely, externally audited to ensure that your data is reliable, repeatable, and scientifically accurate. We meet the requirements for submission to both the US EPA and the US FDA. Whether you’re interested in early R&D for your product or GLP testing for a 510(k), contact us with your testing needs.

Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
The Good Laboratory Practices were enacted as law in 1978 to ensure that all data submitted to federal regulatory agencies is performed safely and reliably. The GLPs were introduced to assure that a study is conducted by qualified personnel working in well-maintained facilities with appropriate materials and calibrated equipment, using properly designed experiments recorded with clear and complete detailed documentation, overseen by an independent Quality Assurance Unit, and safely archived for audit/inspection by regulatory agents.

EPA GLP
EPA Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) ensures the quality and integrity of test data submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA writes regulations, provides guidance, reviews submitted data, inspects for compliance, registers toxic materials, and enforces legal action for violations.

FDA GLP
FDA GLP prescribes good laboratory practices for conducting nonclinical laboratory studies that support or are intended to support applications for research or marketing permits for products regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This program supports customers requesting a GLP assessment, as the FDA does not provide a certificate of compliance.

At iAIR Labs, we pride ourselves on adhering to the highest standards of regulatory compliance. All our testing services are conducted in strict accordance with FDA and EPA guidelines and cGLP (current Good Laboratory Practice) regulations, ensuring our clients receive results that are both reliable and recognised by regulatory bodies.

Need ASTM G21 Testing for Your Materials?

Contact Airmid Healthgroup to discuss fungal resistance testing requirements for your synthetic polymeric materials and receive a tailored quote.

Get in Touch

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ASTM G21 measure?

It measures how resistant a synthetic polymeric material is to fungal growth, using a standardised spore-inoculation and incubation method.

Which fungal species are used in the test?

Penicillium, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Trichoderma, and Aureobasidium are grown and pooled into a single spore suspension applied to test samples.

How long does the test take?

Samples are incubated for up to 28 days, with a full turnaround time of approximately 5 weeks including data reporting.

How are results scored?

Samples receive a semi-quantitative performance score based on the extent of fungal growth observed after the 28-day incubation period.

Can I use ASTM G21 results in my marketing claims?

Yes. On passing the test, products can be labelled as tested by Airmid Healthgroup to ASTM G21, supporting any related performance claim.

Related Case Studies

Further Reading

Relevant External Links

Related Tests

Word Tags

ASTM G21 | Standard Practice | Resistance | Synthetic Polymeric Materials | Fungi | Mold | Textiles | Smart Textiles | Antimicrobial Surfaces

Case Studies

Submit Your Enquiry

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Contact Name(Required)
Scroll to Top