scope:

This Standard provides an evaluation method for assessing the resistance of surfaces of wood products, treated or untreated, coated or uncoated, to the growth of molds. The main objective of the method is to determine the relative resistance of wood products to surface growth of molds in an environment favorable for growth of fungi. Resistance to mold growth is evaluated relative to reference products and unprotected sapwood of a species of pine. Pine sapwood is included as an untreated control substrate to indicate viability of molds in the test chamber and severity of growth conditions. This test method may also be used to evaluate compounds or formulations that may inhibit fungal growth and the aggregate levels for their use. Products evaluated with this method would be intended for use in interior environments where the products may be unintentionally subjected to conditions favorable to the growth of molds. This Standard is based on the ASTM Standard Test Method D 3273-00, Standard Test Method for Resistance to Growth of Mold on the Surface of Interior Coatings in an Environmental Chamber. This test method is intended to be a screening test.

The method is applicable to the testing of commercial or experimental wood products designed to be resistant to the growth of molds. Performance at a certain rating does not imply any specific period of time for a fungal free surface in service, however products with a better rating would likely perform better in actual end use.