5.1 Methods such as Test Method D3273 Standard Test Method for Resistance to Growth of Mold on the Surface of Interior Coatings in an Environmental Chamber and Test Method D3274 Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Degree of Surface Disfigurement of Paint Films by Fungal or Algal Growth or Soil or Dirt Accumulation provide means for assessing mold and algal staining on paints.

5.2 This test method provides a technique for evaluating antimicrobials in or on polymeric solids against staining by Streptomyces species, bacteria and should assist in the prediction of performance of treated articles under actual field conditions.

5.3 Conditioning of the specimens, such as exposure to leaching, weathering, and heat treatment, may have significant effects on performance of antimicrobials against staining. Determination of these effects is not included in this test method.

1.1 This test method is intended to qualitatively assess susceptibility of flat two dimensional vinyl films and other solid polymer products as well as products that may directly contact vinyl to pink-staining by the actinomycete bacteria Streptomyces species. This test method may not be suitable for highly textured or porous substrates.

1.2 This test method is not suitable for evaluating dark-pigmented test samples.

1.3 A knowledge of microbiological techniques is recommended for these procedures.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.