Residual Bactericidal Efficacy Testing

Elements' testing portfolio encompasses the full spectrum of residual bactericidal efficacy requirements. We deliver precise, reliable results through established methodologies while maintaining the flexibility to address unique product needs. Our comprehensive approach ensures your products meet all necessary regulatory standards for antimicrobial claims.

Testing services include:

• Residual Self-Sanitizing Efficacy Screen
• EPA Residual Self-Sanitizing Activity Testing
• Antimicrobial Surface Coatings Efficacy Testing
• Copper-Containing Surface Products Testing
• Ex-Vivo Skin Model Testing
• Laundry Additives Residual Testing

We specialize in testing diverse antimicrobial products designed for long-term effectiveness. Our comprehensive testing capabilities cover everything from industrial surface coatings to consumer laundry additives, ensuring accurate validation of your product's residual bactericidal properties. We understand the unique challenges of different material types and adapt our testing protocols accordingly. These products are particularly desired in areas like public transportation where surfaces are touched many times between cleaning and disinfection cycles.

Our advanced testing methodologies align perfectly with current EPA guidance while accommodating innovative product designs. We combine physical wear procedures, systematic inoculation protocols, and quantitative analysis to provide comprehensive validation of your product's long-term effectiveness. Our custom protocol development ensures your specific testing needs are met with precision.

Residual Self-Sanitizing Efficacy Screen

This test evaluates the self-sanitizing activity of antimicrobial products on hard, nonporous, non-food contact surfaces after exposure. The product may be sprayed or applied by other means as specified by the sponsor.

EPA Residual Self-Sanitizing Activity on Hard, Non-Porous Surfaces

Glass or stainless-steel surfaces are treated with the product and allowed to dry. These surfaces then undergo physical wear simulations and controlled microbial exposure to assess real-world contamination scenarios. To pass, the product must achieve a 99.9% reduction in bacteria within 24 hours. Common test organisms include Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae, with additional pathogens tested as needed.

Antimicrobial Surface Coatings Efficacy Test

This test supports the registration of antimicrobial coatings designed to provide long-lasting protection (weeks) as a supplement to standard disinfection. A treated surface is exposed to microbial contamination after chemical and physical stress. After a defined exposure time (≤2 hours), survivors are neutralized and assayed.

Copper-Containing Surface Products Bactericidal Activity Test

Designed for the registration of copper-based antimicrobial surfaces, this test evaluates long-lasting bacterial reduction. The surface undergoes chemical and physical wear before exposure to a microbial film. Survivors are then neutralized and analyzed.

Residual Efficacy Using an Ex-Vivo Skin Model

This method assesses the long-lasting antimicrobial activity of topical skin treatments using an ex-vivo skin model. Microorganisms are applied to treated substrates that mimic skin, then neutralized and assayed after exposure.

Residual Self-Sanitizing Activity of Laundry Additives

This test determines the residual antimicrobial activity of laundry additives on treated fabrics used in the final rinse cycle. Fabric swatches are exposed to microbes, then neutralized and analyzed to verify their residual sanitizing effects.

Element maintains a global network of laboratories and testing facilities, with Element Eagan serving as our flagship antimicrobial testing center. Our international presence ensures consistent, high-quality testing services wherever you operate. Each facility maintains GLP compliance and upholds our rigorous quality standards, offering you both local convenience and global expertise.