Fungus

Why choose Environ for your Fungus Testing Needs:
  • Our staff is very experienced and participates in the revisions of ASTM standards
  • Consistent interpretation of results ensures repeatable data
  • We evaluate fungus growth weekly and can give you periodic updates before the 28 day test has concluded
  • We photograph samples showing fungus growth
  • Tests can be started within a week of your request
Some of the more common specifications that we frequently perform:
  • ASTM G21
  • ASTM D3273
  • MIL-STD-810F Method 508.5
  • RTCA/DO-160
  • GR-487-CORE
A brief explanation why fungus testing is needed:

Fungi can degrade products, causing them to malfunction:

  • Fungi can degrade gaskets, O-rings, paint, and other components
  • Fungi can overgrow a surface such as on a filter and affect its function
  • Fungi can short out electrical circuits
Fungus
Fungus Sporocarp
Explanation

There are many different species of fungi. All fungi require organic substrates for their energy sources. Each species of fungi has many enzymes that can break down organic substrates. Fungi differ in their enzymatic capabilities. Some fungi can only metabolize certain sugars. Specific species of fungi can degrade starches, cellulose, rubber, and various manufactured polymers (cellophane, polyethylene).


An Example: ASTM G21

How the five different fungi attack the various substrates:

  • Aspergillus niger ATCC 9642 degrades plastics
  • Trichoderma virens ATCC 9645 degrades cellulose and plastics
  • Aureobasidium pullulans ATCC 9348 degrades polymers, paints, lacquers
  • Penicillium funiculosum ATCC 9644 degrades plastics
  • Chaetomium globosum ATCC 6205 degrades paper, paperboard, cotton
Fungal Hyphae
Fungal Hyphae