When it comes to antimicrobial technology, ensuring performance and reliability is non-negotiable. At BioCote®, we rigorously test and certify antimicrobial products to meet the highest industry standards, using globally recognised testing methods such as ISO 22196, ISO 20743, and ASTM G21. These standards validate the antibacterial and antifungal performance of materials, ensuring they provide reliable, lasting protection.

The Importance of Testing and Certification

Testing and certification are vital to the credibility of antimicrobial technology. Without clear performance data and adherence to recognised standards, antimicrobial claims may lack substantiation, potentially misleading customers. BioCote® is committed to transparency and upholding industry integrity, ensuring every product meets rigorous testing criteria.

BioCote® Antimicrobial Testing Process

Material Analysis

The first stage of integrating antimicrobial technology is evaluating material compatibility with the chosen additive. Understanding the product’s material allows us to determine the correct additive quantity and dosage, ensuring optimal antimicrobial performance and longevity without compromising structural integrity.

Third-Party Antimicrobial Testing

We partner with third-party laboratories to conduct non-biased testing using globally recognised standards, including:

• ISO 22196: Evaluates antibacterial activity on plastics and non-porous surfaces, providing quantitative data on microbial reduction.
• ISO 20743: Used to assess antimicrobial performance for textile materials.
• ASTM G21: Tests fungal resistance, critical for products exposed to humid or damp environments.

Although these standards do not define a pass rate, BioCote® upholds its own benchmark of at least 95% microbial reduction for ISO 22196 and ISO 20743 testing. When our recommended dosage rates are used, a reduction of 99.9% is often achieved. This ensures BioCote®-treated products achieve scientifically validated, real-world efficacy.

Additionally, BioCote® ensures that control samples are included in all testing protocols. Control samples confirm that observed efficacy is due to our antimicrobial additive rather than other factors, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in untreated materials. While VOCs can temporarily inhibit bacteria, they deplete over time, leading to bacterial growth. Without controls, efficacy results may be misleading, a risk we help our partners avoid.

The Importance of Control Samples in Testing

By insisting on control samples, BioCote® mitigates the risk of misleading results caused by VOCs, which may temporarily inhibit bacteria. For example, recent testing revealed that VOCs, not antimicrobial additives, were responsible for initial antimicrobial effects. By identifying such issues early, we protect our partners from costly missteps.

Ensuring Long-Term Antimicrobial Performance

Antimicrobial performance must endure over time. BioCote® conducts rigorous durability assessments, including aging simulations, to verify long-term stability. For instance, a BioCote®- treated paint was aged 40 years in a case study to assess additive effectiveness under real-world conditions.

BioCote® Quality Assurance and Certification

Before market launch, we verify that all antimicrobial claims are substantiated and comply with the regulatory standards of the markets where your product will be sold. BioCote® certification represents trust and reliability, with all products undergoing third-party testing to meet industry requirements, including HACCP International certification for food safety and ISO compliance.

BioCote® certification not only validates antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria, fungi, and algae but also reflects our commitment to transparency. Certified partners benefit from:

• Regular antimicrobial re-testing for long-term performance monitoring.
• Expert feedback and analysis of test results.
• Assistance with material compatibility and performance challenges.

Why Choose BioCote®?

BioCote® certification represents trust, reliability, and adherence to globally recognized industry standards. All certified products undergo independent, third-party laboratory testing to validate antimicrobial performance, ensuring results are credible, accurate, and universally accepted.

Our testing aligns with key international standards, including ISO 22196, ISO 20743, and ASTM G21, which substantiate antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria, fungi, and algae. Testing is part of your antimicrobial product development, the BioCote® team ensures seamless integration and validation without unnecessary delays or costs. We provide valuable insights into your quality control processes, supporting you every step of the way. Our ongoing support – from concept to market – helps partners create market-leading antimicrobial products.

Partner with BioCote® to deliver antimicrobial solutions that exceed expectations. In addition to our advanced technology, BioCote® partners receive comprehensive sales, marketing, and regulatory support, whenever needed.