What Is AATCC 100?

AATCC 100 is a quantitative test method used to determine the antibacterial effectiveness of a textile or porous material, such as paper filter media and tissues.

How Does AATCC 100 Work?

Samples are challenged with two different types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The bacteria are exposed to the samples over a 18-24-hour period. During this time the bacteria and samples are kept at 37°C, an optimal temperature for the bacteria to grow.

Following the exposure time of bacteria to the test material, the bacteria are removed from the samples and counted. The number of surviving bacteria is compared to the number of starting bacteria. Differences between the starting and ending number of bacteria are calculated as a percentage reduction or log reduction.

The Microban Standard: 90%+ Reduction in Bacteria

Test samples analysed under the ISO 20743 antibacterial test method are expected to achieve at least a 90% reduction in bacterial growth.

2-log reduction (or 99% reduction) in bacteria after 24 hour contact time for unlaundered fabrics compared to an untreated, unlaundered fabric.
1-log reduction (or 90% reduction) in bacteria after 24 hour contact time for laundered fabrics (25 washings) compared to an untreated, unlaundered fabric.