Time-Kill Tests
Standard Time-Kill test (ASTM E2315)
A Standard Time-Kill (STK) is a laboratory test which measures the antimicrobial performance of a liquid sample over a short period of time. The kill test quantifies the reduction in numbers of a known inoculum of microorganisms over specified contact times. This method determines the effective kill rate of a finished product, usually expressed as a % (for example, “kills 99.9% of bacteria in 30 seconds”).
Time-Kill Tests
The Time-Kill test measures changes in a population of aerobic microorganisms within a specified sampling time when antimicrobial test materials are present.
The STK test gives a result such as “kills 99.9% of bacteria in 30 seconds”.
Suitability of test
Test Details
ASTM E2315 | |
---|---|
Exposure times | 30s, 1m, 2m, 3m, 5m |
Sample required (g) | 250 |
Total Species | 4/5 |
Staphylococcus aureus | ● |
Pseudomonas aeruginosa | ● |
Enterococcus hirae | ● |
Escherichia coli | ● |
Candida albicans | ○ |
Test Species
As standard, the STK is performed with a mixture of 4 test species of microorganism.
For specific end products, we can also test against appropriate organisms, for example, feminine wash products may be tested against Candida albicans.
If you require a specific test culture or contact time that is not listed, then please contact us to arrange a customised method.