IEC 60068-2-10:2005
(Main)Environmental testing - Part 2-10: Tests - Test J and guidance: Mould growth
Environmental testing - Part 2-10: Tests - Test J and guidance: Mould growth
IEC 60068-2-10:2005 Provides a test method for determining the extent to which electrotechnical products support mould growth and how any mould growth may affect the performance and other relevant properties of the product. Since mould growth conditions include high relative humidity, the test is applicable to electrotechnical products intended for transportation, storage and use under humid conditions over a period of some days at least. The main changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below:
- Two test fungi replaced by two others
- Concentration of the spores defined for each test fungus
- Spores suspension in mineral salt solution additionally introduced
- Pre-conditioning of the specimens by damp heat storage prescribed
- Supersonic aerosolization of the spores suspension as the preferred inoculation method introduced
- Duration of incubation reduced from 84 days to 56 days
- Extent of mould growth grade 2 split into grade 2a and grade 2b
- Detailed information on methods of inoculation given in Annex B
- Annex E: flow-chart deleted.
Essais d'environnement - Partie 2-10: Essais - Essai J et guide: Moisissures
IEC 60068-2-10:2005 Fournit une méthode d'essai pour déterminer l'importance des moisissures supportées par les produits électrotechniques et la manière dont une moisissure peut compromettre la performance et les autres propriétés correspondantes du produit. Etant donné que les conditions de moisissures comprennent une humidité relative élevée, l'essai est applicable aux produits électrotechniques destinés au transport, au stockage et à l'utilisation dans des conditions humides sur une période d'au moins quelques jours. Les principaux changements par rapport à l'édition précédente sont listés ci-dessous:
- Deux champignons d'essai remplacés par deux autres
- Concentration des spores définie pour chaque champignon d'essai
- Suspension de spores dans une solution de sels minéraux (addition)
- Préconditionnement des spécimens par stockage en chaleur humide (exigence)
- Production d'aérosols ultrasonores de la suspension de spores comme méthode d'inoculation privilégiée (addition)
- Réduction de la durée d'incubation de 84 jours à 56 jours
- Extension du grade 2 de moisissures divisé en grade 2a et 2b
- Information détaillée sur les méthodes d'inoculation à l'Annexe Ba
- Annexe E: suppression du diagramme.
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
NORME CEI
INTERNATIONALE
IEC
60068-2-10
INTERNATIONAL
Sixième édition
STANDARD
Sixth edition
2005-06
PUBLICATION FONDAMENTALE DE SÉCURITÉ
BASIC SAFETY PUBLICATION
Essais d’environnement –
Partie 2-10:
Essais – Essai J et guide:
Moisissures
Environmental testing –
Part 2-10:
Tests – Test J and guidance:
Mould growth
Numéro de référence
Reference number
CEI/IEC 60068-2-10:2005
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NORME CEI
INTERNATIONALE
IEC
60068-2-10
INTERNATIONAL
Sixième édition
STANDARD
Sixth edition
2005-06
BASIC SAFETY PUBLICATION
PUBLICATION FONDAMENTALE DE SÉCURITÉ
Essais d’environnement –
Partie 2-10:
Essais – Essai J et guide:
Moisissures
Environmental testing –
Part 2-10:
Tests – Test J and guidance:
Mould growth
CODE PRIX
V
Commission Electrotechnique Internationale
PRICE CODE
International Electrotechnical Commission
МеждународнаяЭлектротехническаяКомиссия
For price, see current catalogue
Pour prix, voir catalogue en vigueur
– 2 – 60068-2-10 CEI:2005
SOMMAIRE
AVANT-PROPOS.4
1 Domaine d’application .8
2 Références normatives.8
3 Description générale .8
4 Risques auxquels est exposée la santé des investigateurs .10
5 Description des variantes d’essai .10
5.1 Variante d’essai 1.10
5.2 Variante d’essai 2.10
6 Réactifs et matériaux.12
6.1 Fourniture et état des cultures ou spores.12
6.2 Préparation de suspensions de spores .14
6.3 Bandes de contrôle .16
7 Description de l'appareillage d’essai.16
7.1 Inoculation par pulvérisation.16
7.2 Incubation des spécimens de petites dimensions .16
7.3 Incubation des spécimens de grandes dimensions .18
8 Sévérités .18
9 Examens initiaux .18
10 Préconditionnement.18
10.1 Nettoyage.18
10.2 Stockage en chaleur humide .20
11 Epreuve.20
11.1 Application .20
11.2 Inoculation .20
11.3 Incubation .22
12 Examens finaux.22
12.1 Examen visuel.22
12.2 Effet de la croissance.24
12.3 Importance de la croissance.24
13 Renseignements à fournir dans la spécification particulière.26
14 Renseignements à fournir dans le rapport d’essai au minimum.26
Annexe A (informative) Dangers encourus par le personnel .28
Annexe B (normative) Méthodes d’inoculation (se reporter également à 11.2) .32
Annexe C (informative) Mesures de sécurité recommandées .38
Annexe D (informative) Procédures de décontamination .42
Annexe E (informative) Informations sur les champignons d’essai .46
Annexe F (informative) Guide .50
60068-2-10 IEC:2005 – 3 –
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.5
1 Scope.9
2 Normative references .9
3 General description .9
4 Health hazards to operators .11
5 Description of the test variants .11
5.1 Test variant 1 .11
5.2 Test variant 2 .11
6 Reagents and materials.13
6.1 Cultures or spores – Supply and conditions.13
6.2 Preparation of spore suspension .15
6.3 Control strips.17
7 Description of test apparatus .17
7.1 Inoculation by spraying.17
7.2 Incubation of small specimens.17
7.3 Incubation of large specimens .19
8 Severities .19
9 Initial examinations.19
10 Pre-conditioning .19
10.1 Cleaning.19
10.2 Damp heat storage .21
11 Conditioning .21
11.1 Application .21
11.2 Inoculation .21
11.3 Incubation .23
12 Final examinations .23
12.1 Visual examination .23
12.2 Effect of growth .25
12.3 Extent of growth .25
13 Information to be given in the relevant specification .27
14 Information to be given in the test report as a minimum .27
Annex A (informative) Danger to personnel.29
Annex B (normative) Inoculation methods (see also 11.2) .33
Annex C (informative) Recommended safety precautions.39
Annex D (informative) Decontamination procedures.43
Annex E (informative) Information on the test fungi.47
Annex F (informative) Guidance.51
– 4 – 60068-2-10 CEI:2005
COMMISSION ÉLECTROTECHNIQUE INTERNATIONALE
____________
ESSAIS D’ENVIRONNEMENT –
Partie 2-10: Essais – Essai J et guide:
Moisissures
AVANT-PROPOS
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La Norme internationale CEI 60068-2-10 a été établie par le comité d'études 104 de la CEI:
Conditions, classification et essais d’environnement.
Cette sixième édition annule et remplace la cinquième édition parue en 1988. Cette édition
constitue une révision technique.
Les principaux changements par rapport à l’édition précédente sont listés ci-dessous:
– Deux champignons d’essai remplacés par deux autres
– Concentration des spores définie pour chaque champignon d’essai
– Suspension de spores dans une solution de sels minéraux (addition)
– Préconditionnement des spécimens par stockage en chaleur humide (exigence)
60068-2-10 IEC:2005 – 5 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING –
Part 2-10: Tests – Test J and guidance:
Mould growth
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
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patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60068-2-10 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 104:
Environmental conditions, classification and methods of test.
This sixth edition cancels and replaces the fifth edition published in 1988. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
The main changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below:
– Two test fungi replaced by two others
– Concentration of the spores defined for each test fungus
– Spores suspension in mineral salt solution additionally introduced
– Pre-conditioning of the specimens by damp heat storage prescribed
– 6 – 60068-2-10 © CEI:2005
– Production d’aérosols ultrasonores de la suspension de spores comme méthode d’inocu-
lation privilégiée (addition)
– Réduction de la durée d’incubation de 84 jours à 56 jours
– Extension du grade 2 de moisissures divisé en grade 2a et 2b
– Information détaillée sur les méthodes d’inoculation à l’Annexe B
– Annexe E: suppression du diagramme
Le texte de cette norme est issu des documents suivants:
FDIS Rapport de vote
104/365/FDIS 104/373/RVD
Le rapport de vote indiqué dans le tableau ci-dessus donne toute information sur le vote ayant
abouti à l'approbation de cette norme.
Cette publication a été rédigée selon les Directives ISO/CEI, Partie 2.
Elle a le statut d’une publication fondamentale de sécurité conformément au Guide CEI 104.
Cette norme constitue la partie 2-10 de la CEI 60068 qui comporte les parties principales
suivantes, présentées sous le titre général Essais d'environnement:
Partie 1 Généralités
Partie 2: Essais
Partie 3: Documentations d'accompagnement et guide
Partie 4: Renseignements destinés aux rédacteurs de spécification
Partie 5: Guide pour la rédaction des méthodes d'essais
Le comité a décidé que le contenu de cette publication ne sera pas modifié avant la date de
maintenance indiquée sur le site web de la CEI sous «http://webstore.iec.ch» dans les
données relatives à la publication recherchée. A cette date, la publication sera
• reconduite;
• supprimée;
• remplacée par une édition révisée, ou
• amendée.
60068-2-10 © IEC:2005 – 7 –
– Supersonic aerosolization of the spores suspension as the preferred inoculation method
introduced
– Duration of incubation reduced from 84 days to 56 days
– Extent of mould growth grade 2 split into grade 2a and grade 2b
– Detailed information on methods of inoculation given in Annex B
– Annex E: flow-chart deleted
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
104/365/FDIS 104/373/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
It has the status of a basic safety publication in accordance with IEC Guide 104.
This standard forms Part 2-10 of IEC 60068 which consists of the following major parts, under
the general title Environmental testing:
Part 1: General and guidance
Part 2: Tests
Part 3: Supporting documentation and guidance
Part 4: Information for specification writers
Part 5: Guide to drafting of test methods
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in
the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed;
• withdrawn;
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
– 8 – 60068-2-10 CEI:2005
ESSAIS D’ENVIRONNEMENT –
Partie 2-10: Essais – Essai J et guide:
Moisissures
1 Domaine d’application
La présente partie de la CEI 60068 fournit une méthode d’essai pour déterminer l’importance
des moisissures supportées par les produits électrotechniques et la manière dont une
moisissure peut compromettre la performance et les autres propriétés correspondantes du
produit.
Etant donné que les conditions de moisissures comprennent une humidité relative élevée,
l’essai est applicable aux produits électrotechniques destinés au transport, au stockage et à
l’utilisation dans des conditions humides sur une période d’au moins quelques jours.
2 Références normatives
Les documents de référence suivants sont indispensables pour l'application du présent
document. Pour les références datées, seule l'édition citée s'applique. Pour les références
non datées, la dernière édition du document de référence s'applique (y compris les éventuels
amendements).
ISO/CEI 17025:1999, Prescriptions générales concernant la compétence des laboratoires
d’étalonnage et d’essais
ISO 846:1997, Plastiques – Evaluation de l’action des micro-organismes
MIL–STD–810 F:2000, Méthode 508.5 Fungus (champignons)
nd
Laboratory Biosafety Manual 2 Ed., WHO 1993, ISBN 92 4 1544503
3 Description générale
Le présent essai a pour objet l’inoculation des produits électrotechniques avec une sélection
de spores de moisissures, suivie par une période d’incubation dans des conditions favorables
à la germination de spores et à la croissance de moisissures.
Deux variantes d’essai sont proposées. La variante 1 préconise une inoculation du spécimen
avec les spores de moisissures sans substances nutritives, tandis que la variante 2 prescrit
l’inoculation avec les spores de moisissures en suspension dans une solution nutritive qui
entretient la croissance de moisissures.
Il est conseillé d’utiliser des méthodes d’essais tels que spécifiés pour les plastiques dans
l’ISO 846 afin d’évaluer la vulnérabilité aux dommages par moisissures des matériaux de
construction utilisés.
NOTE Il est recommandé que les laboratoires de microbiologie testant les produits techniques soient accrédités
conformément à l’ISO/CEI 17025. Pour de plus amples informations, voir l’ Annexe F.
60068-2-10 IEC:2005 – 9 –
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING –
Part 2-10: Tests – Test J and guidance:
Mould growth
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60068 provides a test method for determining the extent to which
electrotechnical products support mould growth and how any mould growth may affect the
performance and other relevant properties of the product.
Since mould growth conditions include high relative humidity, the test is applicable to
electrotechnical products intended for transportation, storage and use under humid conditions
over a period of some days at least.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO/IEC 17025:1999, General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration
laboratories
ISO 846:1997, Plastics – Evaluation of the action of microorganisms
MIL–STD–810 F:2000, Method 508.5 Fungus
nd
Laboratory Biosafety Manual 2 Ed., WHO 1993, ISBN 92 4 1544503
3 General description
This test covers the inoculation of electrotechnical products with a selection of mould spores
followed by a period of incubation under conditions which promote spore germination and the
growth of mould.
Two variations of the test are given. Variant 1 specifies inoculation of the specimen with the
mould spores without nutrients whereas variant 2 specifies the inoculation with the mould
spores suspended in a nutritive solution which supports mould growth.
It is advisable to use testing procedures such as specified for plastics in ISO 846 to assess
the vulnerability to damage by mould growth of the constructional materials used.
NOTE Laboratories for microbiological testing of technical products should be accredited in accordance with
ISO/IEC 17025. See further Annex F.
– 10 – 60068-2-10 CEI:2005
Les spécimens assemblés peuvent se couvrir d’une contamination de surface sous forme de
poussières, d’éclaboussures, de dépôts nutritifs ou de graisses volatiles condensées. Cela
peut être causé par l’exposition à l’air des produits lors de leur stockage, de leur utilisation ou
de leur transport ou de leur manipulation sans couverture protectrice. Cette contamination de
surface peut être responsable de la formation d’importantes colonies fongueuses qui risquent
de continuer à croître et de provoquer des dégâts plus grands. Une évaluation des effets
d’une telle contamination peut être obtenue par l’application de la variante d’essai 2.
En raison des difficultés inhérentes au maintien des conditions requises dans une très grande
étuve, un matériel composite de taille importante sera généralement essayé élément par
élément. Le prix de l’essai s’en trouvera ainsi diminué, car plusieurs éléments peuvent avoir
une construction tellement similaire qu’il ne sera nécessaire d’en essayer qu’un seul.
4 Risques auxquels est exposée la santé des investigateurs
Des spores de moisissures viables sont requises pour cette procédure d’essai, et les
conditions ambiantes doivent favoriser la croissance de moisissures.
En conséquence, il est essentiel d’étudier les annexes contenues dans la présente norme
avant de manipuler les cultures de moisissures ou d’entreprendre les phases de l’essai
décrites ultérieurement.
Annexe A Dangers encourus par le personnel
Annexe B Méthodes d’inoculation
Annexe C Mesures de sécurité recommandées
Annexe D Procédures de décontamination
nd
Le Laboratory Biosafety Manual, 2 Ed., World Health Organization 1993,
ISBN 92 4 1544503 contient des informations générales de base sur la sécurité des
installations traitant des champignons.
5 Description des variantes d’essai
5.1 Variante d’essai 1
Après une période d’incubation de 28 jours déterminant
− l’importance de la croissance de moisissures par examen visuel;
− les détériorations physiques provoquées par la croissance de moisissures;
− dans le cas de croissances de moisissures, l’effet sur le fonctionnement et/ou les
propriétés électriques si cela est prescrit dans la spécification particulière.
La période d’incubation doit être portée à un total de 56 jours avant vérification de la fonction
et/ou mesure des propriétés électriques si cela est prescrit dans la spécification particulière.
5.2 Variante d’essai 2
Après une contamination simulée avec des substances nutritives suivie par une période
d’incubation de 28 jours déterminant
− l’importance de la croissance de moisissures par examen visuel;
− les détériorations physiques provoquées par la croissance de moisissures;
− l’effet de croissances de moisissures sur le fonctionnement et/ou les propriétés
électriques si cela est prescrit dans la spécification particulière.
60068-2-10 IEC:2005 – 11 –
Surface contamination in the form of dusts, splashes, condensed volatile nutrients or grease
may be deposited upon assembled specimens. This can be brought about by storage and use
or transport with the product exposed to the atmosphere or handled without protective
covering. This surface contamination can cause an increased colonization by fungi and may
lead to greater growth and damage. An assessment of the effect of such contamination can
be given by the application of test variant 2.
Due to the difficulty of maintaining the necessary conditions in a very large chamber, a large
composite equipment will normally be tested as a number of sub-units. This will in any case
minimize the cost of the test since several sub-units may be so similar in construction that
only one of them need be tested.
4 Health hazards to operators
This test procedure requires the use of viable mould spores and the application of ambient
conditions which promote mould growth.
Therefore before any attempt is made to handle mould cultures, or to carry out steps of the
test subsequently described, it is important that the annexes of this standard be studied.
Annex A Danger to personnel
Annex B Inoculation methods
Annex C Recommended safety precautions
Annex D Decontamination procedures
nd
Laboratory Biosafety Manual, 2 Ed., World Health Organization 1993, ISBN 92 4 1544503
includes general background reading on safety in facilities dealing with fungi.
5 Description of the test variants
5.1 Test variant 1
After a 28 days incubation period determine
– the extent of mould growth by visual inspection;
– the physical damage caused by mould growth;
– in the case of mould growth the effect on functioning and/or electrical properties if
required in the relevant specification.
The incubation period shall be extended to a total of 56 days before checking the function
and/or measuring electrical properties if required in the relevant specification.
5.2 Test variant 2
After a simulated contamination with nutrients followed by a 28 days incubation period
determine
– the extent of mould growth by visual inspection;
– the physical damage caused by mould growth;
– the effect of the mould growth on functioning and/or electrical properties if required in the
relevant specification.
– 12 – 60068-2-10 CEI:2005
La résistance superficielle du spécimen sera réduite par application des substances nutritives
pour la simulation de la contamination sans croissance de moisissures. Cet effet doit être pris
en considération si la fonction est vérifiée et/ou si les propriétés électriques sont mesurées.
Du fait de l’application de substances nutritives, des croissances de moisissures existeront et
un effet fongique doit donc être considéré.
6 Réactifs et matériaux
6.1 Cultures ou spores – Fourniture et conditions
Les champignons suivants doivent être utilisés pour effectuer l’essai (voir le Tableau 1). La
nature de l’attaque que l’on peut attribuer à chaque champignon est donnée à titre indicatif.
Mais les spores de toutes les cultures doivent être utilisées ensemble dans une suspension
mélangée quelle que soit la nature du spécimen.
Les cultures ou les spores lyophilisées doivent être obtenues par une collection de cultures
mycologiques reconnue. Elles doivent être livrées dans des boîtes avec la date d’inoculation
de la culture sur les boîtes.
Un certificat doit confirmer la conformité de la culture avec le champignon et le numéro
d’origine comme spécifié dans le Tableau 1 et/ou à l’Annexe E.
Les cultures et les spores lyophilisées doivent être stockées et manipulées conformément aux
recommandations de l’organisme fournisseur et des exigences correspondantes de la
présente norme. Lors de la préparation d’une culture par le laboratoire d’essai à partir d’une
culture de souche ou de spores lyophilisées, la date d’inoculation doit être marquée sur le
tube de culture.
Tableau 1 – Champignons d’essai
o o
3)
N Nom Origine N Attaque sur Note
1) 2)
1 Aspergillus niger ATCC 6275 nombreux matériaux
1) 2)
2 Aspergillus terreus ATCC 10690 matériaux en plastique
1) 2)
3 Chaetomium globosum ATCC 6205 cellulose
lubrifiants à base
–
4 Hormoconis resinae DSM 1203
d’hydrocarbures
1) 2)
5 Paecilomyces variotii ATCC 18502 plastiques et cuir
nombreux matériaux
1) 2)
6 Penicillium funiculosum ATCC 36839
spécialement les textiles
1) 2)
7 Scopulariopsis brevicaulis ATCC 36840 caoutchouc
cellulose, textiles
2)
8 Trichoderma virens ATCC 9645
et plastiques
1)
Egalement spécifié dans l’ISO 846.
2)
Egalement spécifié dans la MIL–STD–810 F, Tableau 508.5–Ι.
3)
Voir également l’Annexe E.
Les cultures doivent être utilisées pour la préparation de la suspension de spores d’essai
lorsqu’elles sont bien sporulées.
60068-2-10 IEC:2005 – 13 –
The surface resistance of the specimen will be reduced by application of nutrients for
simulation of contamination without any mould growth. This effect should be considered if
checking the function and/or measuring electrical properties.
Due to the application of nutrients, mould growth will exist; failing this, a fungicidal effect shall
be considered.
6 Reagents and materials
6.1 Cultures or spores – Supply and conditions
The following fungi shall be used for performing the test (see Table 1). The nature of the
attack to be expected from each fungus is indicated for guidance. The spores of all cultures,
however, shall be used together in a mixed suspension whatever the nature of the specimen.
The cultures or freeze-dried spores shall be obtained from a recognized mycological cultures
collection. They shall be supplied in containers with the date of inoculation of the culture
thereon.
A certificate shall confirm the accordance of the culture with the fungus and strain number as
specified in Table 1 and/or Annex E.
Cultures and freeze-dried spores shall be handled and stored in accordance with the
recommendations of the supplier and the relevant requirements of this standard. Preparing a
culture by the test laboratory from a stock culture or from freeze-dried spores the date of
inoculation shall be marked on the culture tube.
Table 1 – Test fungi
3)
No. Name Strain No. Attacks Note
1) 2)
1 Aspergillus niger ATCC 6275 many materials
1) 2)
2 Aspergillus terreus ATCC 10690 plastic materials
1) 2)
3 Chaetomium globosum ATCC 6205 cellulose
hydrocarbon based
4 Hormoconis resinae DSM 1203
–
lubricants
1) 2)
5 Paecilomyces variotii ATCC 18502 plastics and leather
many materials
1) 2)
6 Penicillium funiculosum ATCC 36839
especially textiles
1) 2)
7 Scopulariopsis brevicaulis ATCC 36840 rubber
cellulose, textiles
2)
8 Trichoderma virens ATCC 9645
and plastics
1)
Also specified in ISO 846.
2)
3) Also specified in MIL–STD–810 F, Table 508.5–Ι.
See also Annex E.
Cultures shall be used for preparing the test spore suspension when they are well sporulated.
– 14 – 60068-2-10 CEI:2005
On l’atteint dans la plupart des cas après une période d’incubation de 7 à 14 jours à (29 ± 1) °C.
NOTE Le fournisseur des cultures ou des spores lyophilisées peut recommander d’autres conditions pour
développer la culture.
Si les cultures ne sont pas appelées à être utilisées immédiatement, elles doivent être
stockées dans un réfrigérateur à une température comprise entre 5 °C et 10 °C pendant une
période ininterrompue ne dépassant pas six semaines. Les cultures utilisées pour préparer la
suspension doivent avoir au moins 14 jours mais pas plus de 28 jours à partir de la date
d’inoculation indiquée sur la boîte.
Le bouchon du récipient ne doit être retiré qu’au début de la préparation de la suspension de
spore. Une seule suspension doit être effectuée à partir d’une boîte ouverte.
6.2 Préparation d’une suspension de spores
6.2.1 Généralités
La suspension est d’abord préparée dans de l’eau distillée stérilisée à laquelle on aura ajouté
0,05 % d’un agent mouillant. On a constaté que l’utilisation d’un agent à base de taurine-
méthyle-N ou de dioctylsulfosuccinate de sodium est appropriée. L’agent mouillant ne doit pas
contenir de substances susceptibles de stimuler ou d’inhiber la croissance des moisissures.
10 ml du mélange eau/agent mouillant sont versés doucement dans chaque culture. Un fil de
platine ou de nichrome doit être stérilisé par chauffage au rouge dans une flamme, puis
refroidi. Ce fil doit être utilisé pour gratter légèrement la surface de la culture de façon à
libérer les spores.
Le liquide doit être agité doucement pour disperser les spores sans détacher les fragments
mycéliens. La suspension doit être ensuite transvasée lentement et filtrée à travers une
couche mince de laine de verre stérile ou à travers un entonnoir de microfiltration à
dimensions de pores de 40 µm à 100 µm dans un tube centrifugeur stérilisé
La suspension de spores filtrée doit être centrifugée et le liquide surnageant doit être rejeté.
Le résidu doit être remis en suspension dans au moins 10 ml d’eau distillée stérilisée et être
centrifugé à nouveau. Les spores doivent être lavées de cette manière trois fois de suite.
6.2.2 Préparation pour la variante d’essai 1
Diluer le résidu de spores final de chaque culture dans un volume
• de solution de sels minéraux conformément à 6.3 mais sans saccharose si la spécification
particulière prescrit un examen visuel uniquement (voir 5.1);
• d’eau distillée stérilisée si la spécification particulière prescrit de vérifier la fonction ou de
mesurer les propriétés électriques (voir 5.1);
6 6
en réglant la concentration de spores à 1 × 10 à 2 × 10 /ml déterminée à l’aide d’une
chambre de comptage ou par turbimétrie.
Mélanger des volumes égaux des suspensions uniques suffisants pour la procédure
d’inoculation appropriée afin d’obtenir une suspension de spores mélangées finale prête pour
l’inoculation. La suspension de spores dans la solution de sels minéraux doit être utilisée
dans les 48 h qui suivent la préparation. La suspension de spores dans l’eau distillée
stérilisée doit être utilisée dans les 6 h qui suivent la préparation.
NOTE Préparer des volumes totaux d’environ 100 ml pour l’inoculation par pulvérisation ou d’environ 500 ml pour
l’inoculation par badigeonnage ou immersion par exemple.
60068-2-10 IEC:2005 – 15 –
This is reached in most cases after a 7 to 14 days incubation period at (29 ± 1) °C.
NOTE The supplier of cultures or freeze-dried spores may recommend other conditions to develop the culture.
If the cultures are not for immediate use, they shall be stored in a refrigerator at a
temperature between 5 °C and 10 °C, for a continuous period of not more than six weeks
commencing not earlier than 14 days and not later than 28 days from the date of inoculation
given on the container.
The lid of the container shall not be opened once the preparation of the spore suspension has
started. Only one suspension shall be made from the opened container.
6.2 Preparation of spore suspension
6.2.1 General
The suspension is first prepared in sterilized distilled water, to which has been added a
wetting agent with a concentration between 0,005 % and 0,01 %. An agent based on N-
methyl-taurine or on dioctyl-sodium sulphosuccinate has been found to be suitable. The
wetting agent shall not contain substances which support or inhibit mould growth.
10 ml of the water containing the wetting agent shall be added gently to each culture.
A platinum or nichrome wire shall be sterilized by heating to red heat in a flame and allowed
to cool. This wire shall be used to gent
...
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IEC 60068-2-10 ®
Edition 6.1 2018-04
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
BASIC SAFETY PUBLICATION
PUBLICATION FONDAMENTALE DE SÉCURITÉ
Environmental testing –
Part 2-10: Tests – Test J and guidance: Mould growth
Essais d’environnement –
Partie 2-10: Essais – Essai J et guide: Moisissures
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 19.040 ISBN 978-2-8322-5660-2
IEC 60068-2-10 ®
Edition 6.1 2018-04
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
REDLINE VERSION
VERSION REDLINE
colour
inside
BASIC SAFETY PUBLICATION
PUBLICATION FONDAMENTALE DE SÉCURITÉ
Environmental testing –
Part 2-10: Tests – Test J and guidance: Mould growth
Essais d’environnement –
Partie 2-10: Essais – Essai J et guide: Moisissures
– 2 – IEC 60068-2-10:2005+AMD1:2018 CSV
IEC 2018
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
1 Scope . 5
2 Normative references . 5
3 General description . 5
3.1 Background . 5
3.2 Selection of test procedure . 6
3.3 Considerations when specifying test procedures . 6
4 Health hazards to operators . 7
5 Description of the test variants . 8
5.1 Test variant 1 . 8
5.2 Test variant 2 . 8
6 Reagents and materials . 8
6.1 Cultures or spores – Supply and conditions . 8
6.2 Preparation of spore suspension . 9
6.3 Control strips . 10
7 Description of test apparatus . 11
7.1 Inoculation by spraying . 11
7.2 Incubation of small specimens . 11
7.3 Incubation of large specimens . 11
8 Severities . 11
9 Initial examinations . 12
10 Pre-conditioning . 12
10.1 Cleaning . 12
10.2 Damp heat storage . 12
11 Conditioning . 12
11.1 Application . 12
11.2 Inoculation . 13
11.3 Incubation . 13
12 Final examinations . 14
12.1 Visual examination . 14
12.2 Effect of growth . 14
12.3 Extent of growth . 14
13 Information to be given in the relevant specification . 15
14 Information to be given in the test report as a minimum . 15
Annex A (informative) Danger to personnel . 16
Annex B (normative) Inoculation methods (see also 11.2) . 18
Annex C (informative) Recommended safety precautions . 21
Annex D (informative) Decontamination procedures . 23
Annex E (informative) Information on the test fungi . 25
Annex F (informative) Guidance . 27
Bibliography . 34
IEC 2018
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING –
Part 2-10: Tests – Test J and guidance:
Mould growth
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
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patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This consolidated version of the official IEC Standard and its amendment has been prepared
for user convenience.
IEC 60068-2-10 edition 6.1 contains the sixth edition (2005-06) [documents 104/365/FDIS and
104/373/RVD] and its amendment 1 (2018-04) [documents 104/740/CDV and 104/790/RVC].
In this Redline version, a vertical line in the margin shows where the technical content is
modified by amendment 1. Additions are in green text, deletions are in strikethrough red text.
A separate Final version with all changes accepted is available in this publication.
– 4 – IEC 60068-2-10:2005+AMD1:2018 CSV
IEC 2018
International Standard IEC 60068-2-10 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 104:
Environmental conditions, classification and methods of test.
This sixth edition constitutes a technical revision.
The main changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below:
– Two test fungi replaced by two others
– Concentration of the spores defined for each test fungus
– Spores suspension in mineral salt solution additionally introduced
– Pre-conditioning of the specimens by damp heat storage prescribed
– Supersonic aerosolization of the spores suspension as the preferred inoculation method
introduced
– Duration of incubation reduced from 84 days to 56 days
– Extent of mould growth grade 2 split into grade 2a and grade 2b
– Detailed information on methods of inoculation given in Annex B
– Annex E: flow-chart deleted
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
It has the status of a basic safety publication in accordance with IEC Guide 104.
This standard forms Part 2-10 of IEC 60068 which consists of the following major parts, under
the general title Environmental testing:
Part 1: General and guidance
Part 2: Tests
Part 3: Supporting documentation and guidance
Part 4: Information for specification writers
Part 5: Guide to drafting of test methods
The committee has decided that the contents of the base publication and its amendment will
remain unchanged until the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under
"http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the
publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
IEC 2018
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING –
Part 2-10: Tests – Test J and guidance:
Mould growth
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60068 provides a test method for determining the extent to which
electrotechnical products support mould growth and how any mould growth may affect the
performance and other relevant properties of the product.
Since mould growth conditions include high relative humidity, the test is applicable to
electrotechnical products intended for transportation, storage and use under humid conditions
over a period of some days at least.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO/IEC 17025:1999, General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration
laboratories
ISO 846:1997, Plastics – Evaluation of the action of microorganisms
MIL–STD–810 F:2000, Method 508.5 Fungus
nd
Laboratory Biosafety Manual 2 Ed., WHO 1993, ISBN 92 4 1544503
3 General description
This test covers the inoculation of electrotechnical products with a selection of mould spores
followed by a period of incubation under conditions which promote spore germination and the
growth of mould.
Two variations of the test are given. Variant 1 specifies inoculation of the specimen with the
mould spores without nutrients whereas variant 2 specifies the inoculation with the mould
spores suspended in a nutritive solution which supports mould growth.
It is advisable to use testing procedures such as specified for plastics in ISO 846 to assess
the vulnerability to damage by mould growth of the constructional materials used.
NOTE Laboratories for microbiological testing of technical products should be accredited in accordance with
ISO/IEC 17025. See further Annex F.
3.1 Background
Under certain climatic and environmental conditions, micro-organisms may settle on and
colonize the surface of electrotechnical equipment. Their presence or their metabolic products
may not only damage the equipment itself, but may also affect the equipment’s operability and
serviceability. The actions of micro-organisms on equipment are influenced by two different
processes: direct action in which the deterioration of material serve as a nutritive substance
– 6 – IEC 60068-2-10:2005+AMD1:2018 CSV
IEC 2018
for the growth of the micro-organisms and indirect action in which the metabolic products of
the micro-organisms generate deterioration.
The preferred method for controlling the effects of micro-organisms is by the selection of
materials that do not promote growth. Also acceptable is the treatment, or hermetic sealing, of
potentially vulnerable materials and components. Additionally, equipment may not need to be
evaluated if it is stored and/or operated throughout its entire life, in conditions unlikely to
encourage the growth of micro-organisms. Only if these cannot be achieved is it usually
necessary to demonstrate the resistance of complete or partial equipment by testing.
The test procedures and severities of this document are most commonly used to evaluate the
resistance of complete or partial equipment, to the damaging effects due to the presence of
micro-organisms and their metabolic products. Testing of entire equipment is usually
necessary if it is critical that performance be demonstrated after exposure to adverse
temperature/humidity conditions that would support the growth of micro-organisms.
An alternative approach which is sometimes used is to consider only the individual materials
of which an equipment is composed. This alternative approach may be particularly relevant
when the primary concern is with deterioration of structural materials of the equipment rather
than its operability and serviceability. In such cases, individual materials may need to be
evaluated, only if previous evidence exists as to its resistance to the effects of growth of
micro-organisms. The testing procedures in ISO 846 are essentially the equivalent of those
set out in this document but applied to specimens comprising samples of material.
Some materials can, when buried in natural soil that has a water holding capacity, exhibit
significant degradation in structural characteristics. The evaluation of such conditions are not
included in this document. However, should the evaluation of material be required, Method D
(soil-burial test) in ISO 846 is suggested. Similarly, if it is necessary to evaluate a material’s
resistance to biological growth, Method C (resistance to bacteria) in ISO 846 is suggested.
3.2 Selection of test procedure
The test procedures of this document involves exposing electrotechnical products to the
action of a selection of test strains of mould spores for a period of incubation under conditions
which promote spore germination and the growth of mould. At the end of the exposure, the
specimens are assessed for deterioration by visual examination and, if applicable, for any
change in mass or other physical properties.
This document contains two basic test procedures Variant 1 and Variant 2:
a) In Variant 1, specimens are inoculated with a mixed suspension of mould spores in the
presence of an incomplete nutritive medium (without a carbon source). The mould can
only grow at the expense of the specimen. If the specimens contain no nutritive
component, the fungi cannot develop mycelia and there is no deterioration of the material.
b) In Variant 2, specimens are inoculated with a mixed suspension of mould spores in a
(complete) nutritive solution, i.e. with a carbon source. Even if the specimen does not
contain any nutritive elements, the mould can grow over the specimen and their metabolic
products can attack the material. Any inhibition of the growth on the specimen shows
fungal activity of the material or the presence of a fungicidal treatment.
3.3 Considerations when specifying test procedures
Surface contamination in the form of dusts, splashes liquids, condensed volatile nutrients or
grease may be deposited upon assembled specimens. This can be brought about by storage
and use or transport with the product exposed to the atmosphere or handled without
protective covering. This surface contamination can cause an increased colonization by fungi
and may lead to greater growth and damage. An assessment of the effect of such
contamination can be given by the application of test variant 2.
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Due to the difficulty of maintaining the necessary conditions in a very large chamber, a large
composite equipment will normally may be tested as a number of sub–units. This will in any
case minimize the cost of the test since several sub-units may be so similar in construction
that only one of them needs to be tested.
Due to the difficulty of maintaining the necessary conditions in a very large chamber, large
equipment may be tested as a number of sub–units. This will in any case minimize the cost of
the test since several sub-units may be so similar in construction that only one of them needs
to be tested.
The incubation period for determining degradation resistance of equipment is a pragmatic
duration which is normally sufficient for the degradation actions of micro-organisms to become
apparent. It is not necessarily related to, nor is it intended to replicate, the exposure duration
of equipment to adverse temperature/humidity conditions that would support the growth of
micro-organisms.
Regardless of the test variant used, specimens are inoculated with a suspension of mould
spores typically by spraying. The preferred approach is by means of a supersonic aerosol
apparatus, such as that used for therapeutic treatment by inhalation. Such an approach
allows a homogeneous distribution of the spores to be achieved on the surfaces of the
specimen and consequently results in a high reproducibility of the test results. However, if
spraying is not suitable due to the size, design or other properties of the specimen,
inoculation with spore suspension by dipping or painting may be carried out, as stated in the
relevant specification.
This document contains guidance on the post-test visual inspection of specimens as well as
an approach for grading the extent of mould growth. If the purpose of the test is to establish
degradation of the operability of electrotechnical equipment, additional electrical and/or
mechanical checks will need to be specified by the relevant specification. In such cases, it
may be essential that the incubation conditions of temperature and relative humidity
surrounding the specimen are maintained throughout such electrical and/or mechanical
checks. Additionally, controlled recovery conditions may be needed in order to prevent
moisture being absorbed or lost by the specimen before undertaking any required post-test
examinations. IEC 60068-1:2013, 4.4.2 indicates an approach that may be used if the
specimen needs to be subjected to controlled recovery conditions.
4 Health hazards to operators
This test procedure requires the use of viable mould spores and the application of ambient
conditions which promote mould growth.
Therefore before any attempt is made to handle mould cultures, or to carry out steps of the
test subsequently described, it is important that the annexes of this standard be studied.
Annex A Danger to personnel
Annex B Inoculation methods
Annex C Recommended safety precautions
Annex D Decontamination procedures
nd
Laboratory Biosafety Manual, 2 Ed., World Health Organization 1993, ISBN 92 4 1544503
includes general background reading on safety in facilities dealing with fungi.
– 8 – IEC 60068-2-10:2005+AMD1:2018 CSV
IEC 2018
5 Description of the test variants
5.1 Test variant 1
After a 28 days incubation period determine
– the extent of mould growth by visual inspection;
– the physical damage caused by mould growth;
– in the case of mould growth the effect on functioning and/or electrical properties if
required in the relevant specification.
The incubation period shall be extended to a total of 56 days before checking the function
and/or measuring electrical properties if required in the relevant specification.
5.2 Test variant 2
After a simulated contamination with nutrients followed by a 28 days incubation period
determine
– the extent of mould growth by visual inspection;
– the physical damage caused by mould growth;
– the effect of the mould growth on functioning and/or electrical properties if required in the
relevant specification.
The surface resistance of the specimen will be reduced by application of nutrients for
simulation of contamination without any mould growth. This effect should be considered if
checking the function and/or measuring electrical properties.
Due to the application of nutrients, mould growth will exist; failing this, a fungicidal effect shall
be considered.
6 Reagents and materials
6.1 Cultures or spores – Supply and conditions
The following fungi shall be used for performing the test (see Table 1). The nature of the
attack to be expected from each fungus is indicated for guidance. The spores of all cultures,
however, shall be used together in a mixed suspension whatever the nature of the specimen.
The cultures or freeze-dried spores shall be obtained from a recognized mycological cultures
collection. They shall be supplied in containers with the date of inoculation of the culture
thereon.
A certificate shall confirm the accordance of the culture with the fungus and strain number as
specified in Table 1 and/or Annex E.
Cultures and freeze-dried spores shall be handled and stored in accordance with the
recommendations of the supplier and the relevant requirements of this standard. Preparing a
culture by the test laboratory from a stock culture or from freeze-dried spores the date of
inoculation shall be marked on the culture tube.
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Table 1 – Test fungi
3)
No. Name Strain No. Attacks Note
1) 2)
1 Aspergillus niger ATCC 6275 many materials
1) 2)
2 Aspergillus terreus ATCC 10690 plastic materials
1) 2)
3 Chaetomium globosum ATCC 6205 cellulose
hydrocarbon based
4 Hormoconis resinae DSM 1203 –
lubricants
1) 2)
5 Paecilomyces variotii ATCC 18502 plastics and leather
many materials
1) 2)
6 Penicillium funiculosum ATCC 36839
especially textiles
1) 2)
7 Scopulariopsis brevicaulis ATCC 36840 rubber
cellulose, textiles
2)
8 Trichoderma virens ATCC 9645
and plastics
1)
Also specified in ISO 846.
2)
3) Also specified in MIL–STD–810 F, Table 508.5–Ι.
See also Annex E.
Cultures shall be used for preparing the test spore suspension when they are well sporulated.
This is reached in most cases after a 7 to 14 days incubation period at (29 ± 1) °C.
NOTE The supplier of cultures or freeze-dried spores may recommend other conditions to develop the culture.
If the cultures are not for immediate use, they shall be stored in a refrigerator at a
temperature between 5 °C and 10 °C, for a continuous period of not more than six weeks
commencing not earlier than 14 days and not later than 28 days from the date of inoculation
given on the container.
The lid of the container shall not be opened once the preparation of the spore suspension has
started. Only one suspension shall be made from the opened container.
6.2 Preparation of spore suspension
6.2.1 General
The suspension is first prepared in sterilized distilled water, to which has been added a
wetting agent with a concentration between 0,005 % and 0,01 %. An agent based on N-
methyl-taurine or on dioctyl-sodium sulphosuccinate has been found to be suitable. The
wetting agent shall not contain substances which support or inhibit mould growth.
10 ml of the water containing the wetting agent shall be added gently to each culture.
A platinum or nichrome wire shall be sterilized by heating to red heat in a flame and allowed
to cool. This wire shall be used to gently scrape the surface of the culture to liberate spores.
The liquid shall be slightly agitated to disperse the spores without detaching mycelial
fragments and the suspension shall be gently decanted and filtered through a thin layer of
sterile glass wool or through a micro filter funnel with a pore size from 40 µm to 100 µm into a
sterilized centrifuge tube.
– 10 – IEC 60068-2-10:2005+AMD1:2018 CSV
IEC 2018
The filtered spore suspension shall be centrifuged and the supernatant liquid shall be
discarded. The residue shall be re-suspended in not less than 10 ml of sterilized distilled
water and centrifuged again. The spores shall be washed in this manner three times.
6.2.2 Preparation for test variant 1
Dilute the final spore residue of each culture in a volume of
– mineral salt solution in accordance with 6.3 but without sucrose (saccharose) if the
relevant specification prescribes visual inspection only (see 5.1);
– sterilized distilled water if the relevant specification prescribes checking the function or
measuring electrical properties (see 5.1);
6 6
that adjusting the spore concentration to 1 × 10 to 2 × 10 /ml determined with a counting
chamber or by turbimetry.
Blend equal volumes of the single suspensions sufficient for the relevant inoculation
procedure to obtain the final mixed spore suspension ready for inoculation. Spore suspension
in mineral salt solution shall be used within 48 h after preparation. Spore suspension in
sterilized distilled water shall be used within 6 h after preparation.
NOTE Prepare total volumes of about 100 ml for inoculation by spraying or of about 500 ml for inoculation by
painting or dipping.
6.2.3 Preparation for test variant 2
Dilute the final spore residue of each culture in such a volume of nutritive solution in
6 6
accordance with 6.3 adjusting the spore concentration to 1 × 10 to 2 × 10 /ml determined
with a counting chamber or by turbimetry.
Blend equal volumes of the single suspensions sufficient for the relevant inoculation
procedure to obtain the final mixed spore suspension ready for inoculation. Use the spore
suspension within 6 h after preparation.
NOTE See 6.2.2.
6.3 Control strips
The control strips called for in the test shall consist of strips of pure white filter paper or
untreated cotton textile.
The nutritive solution called for in preparing the control strips shall consist of a solution of the
following reagents in distilled water.
Reagent g/l
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH PO ) 0,7
2 4
Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K HPO ) 0,3
2 4
Magnesium sulphate (MgSO · 7 H O) 0,5
4 2
Sodium nitrate (NaNO ) 2,0
Potassium chloride (KCl) 0,5
Ferrous sulphate (FeSO · 7 H O) 0,01
4 2
Sucrose (saccharose) 30,0
The pH shall be 6,0 to 6,5 at 20 °C. It shall be adjusted with 0,01 molar NaOH if needed.
The solution shall be sterilized in an autoclave at (120 ± 1) °C for 20 min.
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Immediately before inoculated (see 11.2), the control strips shall be saturated by the nutritive
solution, removed from it and allowed to drain free of drips.
7 Description of test apparatus
7.1 Inoculation by spraying
Preferably a supersonic aerosol apparatus, as used for therapeutic treatment by inhalation,
should be used in connection with a safety inoculation chamber (see Annex B).
7.2 Incubation of small specimens
Containers of glass or plastic with lids provided with devices for putting on or suspending the
specimens and control strips shall be used.
The container shall be of such size and shape as to expose a sufficient surface area of free
water in the base at all times in order to maintain a value of relative humidity greater than
90 % within it.
The devices for putting on or suspending shall be such as to ensure that specimens and
control strips are not allowed to touch or to be splashed by the water.
The containers shall be placed in a chamber maintaining a uniform temperature throughout
the working space within the range of 28 °C to 30 °C for incubating the specimens and control
strips. Any periodic cycling of temperature due to action of the thermostat shall not exceed
1 °C/h.
7.3 Incubation of large specimens
A suitable humidity chamber shall be used for incubation specimens too large for the
containers specified in 7.2. The humidity chamber shall have a well sealed door to prevent
exchange of atmosphere between its interior and the laboratory.
The relative humidity within the working space shall be maintained at a value greater than
90 %. No condensed water from the walls or roof of the chamber shall be allowed to fall on
the specimens and control strips. The temperature throughout the working space shall be
maintained uniformly within the range of 28 °C to 30 °C. Any periodic cycling of the
temperature due to action of the thermostat shall not exceed 1 °C/h.
In order to achieve the specified humidity and temperature uniformly throughout the working
space it may be necessary to use forced air circulation within it. The flow rate shall not
exceed 1 m/s over the surface of the specimen(s).
8 Severities
The severity for each test variant is determined by the duration of the incubation.
Test variant 1 – severity 1 28 days
– severity 2 56 days
as required in the relevant specification.
Test variant 2 – severity 28 days
– 12 – IEC 60068-2-10:2005+AMD1:2018 CSV
IEC 2018
9 Initial examinations
The specimens shall be visually inspected and shall be electrically and mechanically checked
as required by the relevant specification.
10 Pre-conditioning
10.1 Cleaning
The specimens shall be used for the test in the “as received” condition. Normally, they shall
not be submitted to any special cleaning.
If prescribed by the relevant specification half of the lot of specimens shall be cleaned by
washing with ethanol or demineralized water containing a detergent followed by rinsing with
demineralized water free of detergent and the other half shall remain in the “as received”
condition. By this means any mould growth caused by the use of unsuitable materials in
construction of the product can be distinguished from that due to surface contamination.
When the grade 0 is required in the relevant specification (Test variant 1), consideration
should be given to the need to clean specimens because presence of contamination may
promote mould growth.
NOTE Grade 0, see 12.3.
10.2 Damp heat storage
The specimen(s) shall be stored under the conditions of incubation at (29 ± 1) °C and a
relative humidity > 90 % and < 100 % not less than 4 h immediately before inoculation.
11 Conditioning
11.1 Application
For the test variant stated in the relevant specification the application shall be carried out
according to the method described below.
11.1.1 Test variant 1
If the relevant specification requires checks of functioning and/or measurement of electrical
properties two groups of specimens shall be involved:
Group 1 test specimen(s) inoculated with the spore suspension and incubated;
Group 2 negative control specimen(s) sprayed or painted with or dipped in sterilized
distilled water in accordance with the inoculation method used for group 1 and
stored at the same temperature and relative humidity as prescribed for incubation
but in a sterile environment.
If the relevant specification requires no checks of functioning and/or measurement of
electrical properties the group 1 shall be used only.
11.1.2 Test variant 2
Two groups of specimens shall be involved:
Group 1 test specimens inoculated with spores suspended in the nutritive solution and
incubated;
Group 2 in accordance with test variant 1, group 2.
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NOTE Negative control specimen(s) should be exposed to the specified conditions in a separate chamber to that
in which the inoculated specimens are held. To ensure that no mould grows on the negative control specimens, the
chamber should be sterilized by one of the methods given in D.1.1. The test is valid unless both the test
specimen(s) and a negative control specimen support growth.
11.2 Inoculation
The inoculation of the test specimen(s) and control strips (see 6.3) with the spore suspension
(see 6.2) shall be carried out by spraying if not otherwise prescribed in the relevant
specification.
If spraying is not suitable due to the size, design or other properties of the specimen
inoculation with spore suspension by dipping or painting may be carried out as stated in the
relevant specification.
NOTE Spraying by aerosolization of the spore suspension with a supersonic aerosol apparatus as used for
therapeutic treatment by inhalation in connection with a safety inoculation chamber (see Annex B) allows a very
homogeneous distribution of the spores on the surface to be tested giving a high reproducibility of the test results.
That should be the preferred inoculation method.
11.3 Incubation
The conditions of incubation are (29 ± 1) °C and a relative humidity of >90 % and <100 %.
The conditions shall be maintained in the containers (see 7.2) for small specimens or in the
humidity incubation chamber (see 7.3) for large specimens.
Immediately after inoculation, the small specimens and at least 3 control strips shall be
arranged in the container in a well spaced layout and without restriction of setting the required
relative humidity. After that the container shall be placed in the incubation chamber.
Where applicable, negative control specimens shall be arranged in similar but sterilized
containers as for the inoculated specimens without control strips. The containers shall then be
placed in the incubation chamber.
In the case of large specimens a suitable number of control strips shall be placed in the
chamber with the specimens. Any negative control specimens shall be exposed in a separate
freshly disinfected chamber (see Annex D) used preferably for negative control specimens
only.
The containers or the humidity chamber shall be opened only to
– inspect the control strips ascertaining the viability of the spores and the maintenance of
the conditions of incubation after 7 days;
– supply the containers with oxygen from the air once every 7 days until the completion of
the prescribed duration of incubation;
– perform visual intermediate inspection(s) in accordance with 11.3.7.
The opening shall be for a few minutes only.
After the 7 days incubation, mould growth of more than one strain shall be visible to the naked
eye on each of the control strips. Otherwise the test shall be considered void and shall be
recommenced. In this case, the same specimens may be used.
Any interruption of the incubation is permitted for a visual inspection only and for not more
than 10 min in each case and if required in the relevant specification. Not more than two
visual inspections shall be prescribed to perform within the duration of the incubation. The
time(s) of the visual inspection shall be specified in the relevant specification.
– 14 – IEC 60068-2-10:2005+AMD1:2018 CSV
IEC 2018
12 Final examinations
12.1 Visual examination
The specimens shall be examined (see 12.3), checked and/or photographed (as required by
the relevant specification), immediately after they are removed from the container or humidity
chamber, because the growth can change its appearance by desiccation. See Annex C, for
recommended safety methods of handling.
Following a visual
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