Contact person
Catrin Lindblad
Forsknings- och utvecklingsingenjör
Contact Catrin
Algal resistance test
Test of the resistance of different surfaces, materials and products to growth of algae is performed according to ASTM D5589 or based on this method but adapted to the task and application of the commissioner.
Purpose
The purpose of this service is to help the commissioner in developing different materials and products which are exposed to environments where algae are common. In addition to the algal resistance test, we can help with pretreatment (leaching, ageing etc.), additional evaluation of the material after test, as well as problem solving.
This method can help in evaluating if a product is likely going to get problems with algal growth, if a product or material can resist algal growth compared to a reference material (with or without biocide for example) or compare different materials to understand which one has the best function. Also cleaning products against algae can be tested. The results can be used by the commissioner for continued development of a product, for advertising purposes etc.
Method
The test is performed at the laboratory by spreading a mixture of different microscopic algae on the material or product. During three weeks of cultivation in light and at optimal temperature and relative air humidity conditions, the extent of growth on the test object is evaluated. The growth is compared to a suitable reference object and optically graded according to a standard scale. Sample preparation, pretreatment and ageing of test objects are performed when needed and additional evaluation can be made on material changes due to algal growth.
Deliveries
Results are given as an electronic RISE report. If asked for, a report on paper can be sent. The laboratory is accredited according to ISO 17025.
