Antibacterial activity on plastic and non-porous surfaces by ISO 22196

Standard ISO 22196 outlines a method for evaluating the antibacterial activity of plastics and other non-porous surfaces.

The procedure involves inoculating a test sample with a specified concentration of bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli, and incubating it under controlled conditions. After incubation, the number of viable bacteria on the test surface is compared to that on an untreated control surface. The difference is quantified as a logarithmic reduction, indicating the level of antibacterial activity.

This method is widely recognized as reproducible and consistent, making it a reliable tool for assessing the efficacy of antibacterial treatments in industries such as healthcare, packaging, and consumer products.