Introduction-
In recent times, antibacterial products have gained our attention for their ability to restrain microbes on them. From the health care sector to the products used by the general public, the demand for such products is rapidly growing. But, to be certified for commercial use, these materials must undergo specific tests to prove their efficacy. The Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) Z 2801, also popularly known as ISO 22196, plays its role. Based upon the JIS Z 2801, International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 22196 is a quantitative test method carried out to observe the ability of various surfaces to inhibit the growth of microbes on it.
The Test Procedure-
1. Preparation of samples-
The first step of the process involves the preparation of the microorganisms to be used in the test. The two common bacteria used for the purpose are Escherichia Coli and Staphylococcus Aureus. These are generally grown in a liquid culture medium.
2. Inoculation-
In this step, the control and test surfaces in triplicate are inoculated in a working concentration with a temperature of 37° Celsius.
3. Sterilization-
These prepared samples are then sterilized by covering them with a sterile coverslip to promote spreading, prevent evaporation and ensure a homogenous contact surface. To ensure a proper neutralization, a control test is carried out at this step.
4. Incubation-
In the next step, the concentration of the microbes is measured at “time zero” through dilution and planting the appropriate amount of agar. The samples now are left undisturbed at a certain temperature for 18 hours. This is called the incubation stage.
5. Examination of the results-
At the last step in the process, the material's efficacy is evaluated by measuring the microbial concentrations of the samples. To give a proper conclusion to the test, the decrease in bacterial concentration is compared to its initial concentrations and the controlled samples.
Advantages-
Following are some of the important advantages of choosing ISO 22196 over other methods of tests-
The method can be used to test the properties of both bacteriostatic (growth-inhibiting) and bactericidal (bacteria-killing).
Offers highly reliable results to the researchers as a high degree of precision is involved in the process.
It is a highly reliable test method accepted globally; the test results are accepted almost everywhere.
Conclusion-
Not only is the JIS Z 2801 ISO 222196 the simplest method of antibacterial testing, but it also gives a high degree of reliable results. It has emerged as a perfect industry standard with time and is undoubtedly outstanding in other ways of antimicrobial tests. The testing is essential for doctors to provide proper medication to patients suffering from microbial diseases. With proper precautions and precision, this method can provide accurate results for almost every type of surface, especially plastics.