AATCC 147

AATCC 147, also known as the Parallel Streak Method, is a standardized test used to determine the antibacterial activity of textile materials. This method is widely recognized in the textile and microbiology industries for evaluating the effectiveness of antibacterial finishes applied to fabrics.

AATCC 147 is a qualitative test method developed by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC). It assesses the ability of textile materials to inhibit the growth of bacteria by observing the zone of inhibition formed on an agar plate. The method is particularly useful for screening textiles treated with antibacterial agents.

1. Preparation of Agar Plates: Nutrient agar is poured into sterile petri dishes and allowed to solidify.
2. Inoculation: A nutrient agar plate is streaked with a bacterial culture, typically Staphylococcus aureus or Klebsiella pneumoniae, using parallel lines.
3. Placement of Textile Sample: The test fabric is placed over the streaked agar surface.
4. Incubation: Plates are incubated under specified conditions, usually at 37°C for 18-24 hours.
5. Examination: After incubation, the plate is examined for zones of inhibition (clear areas where bacteria have not grown) along the edges of the textile specimen.

• Zone of Inhibition: The presence and size of a clear zone along the edge of the fabric indicates antibacterial activity.
• No Inhibition: If bacteria grow up to the edge of the textile, the sample does not exhibit antibacterial properties.

• Product Development: Identifying effective antibacterial treatments for medical textiles, sportswear, and home textiles.
• Quality Control: Ensuring that products meet marketing claims for antibacterial performance.
• Research: Screening new textile finishes and technologies for antimicrobial efficacy.