Biofilm Analysis Services
At Materials Metric, we specialize in biofilm analysis services and antimicrobial assessment, providing comprehensive testing solutions for medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. Our expertise helps evaluate material interactions with microbial communities, ensuring the development of biofilm-resistant surfaces, antimicrobial coatings, and infection-control strategies.
Evaluating Antimicrobial Properties
Assessing the antimicrobial effectiveness of materials and coatings is essential for industries such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, food packaging, and water treatment. We offer standardized and customized antimicrobial testing to determine the ability of materials to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth.
Capabilities:
Zone of inhibition assays (qualitative screening)
Colony-forming unit (CFU) reduction testing
Time-kill studies for bactericidal and fungicidal activity
Real-time antimicrobial efficacy monitoring
Aerobic / Anaerobic Cultures
Understanding how aerobic and anaerobic bacteria interact with materials is crucial for healthcare, biotechnology, and environmental applications. We conduct controlled culture studies to assess microbial behavior under various conditions.
Capabilities:
Cultivation of aerobic bacteria (oxygen-requiring) and anaerobic bacteria (oxygen-sensitive)
Biofilm formation studies under controlled conditions
Growth kinetics and metabolic activity analysis
Resistance profiling of bacteria to antimicrobial treatments
Biofilm Imaging
Biofilm imaging is essential for understanding bacterial attachment, colonization, and response to antimicrobial treatments. We utilize advanced microscopy techniques to visualize and analyze biofilm structures.
Capabilities:
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): High-resolution imaging of biofilm architecture
Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM): 3D visualization of biofilm structure with fluorescent staining
Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM): Surface characterization of biofilms and material interactions
Live/Dead Staining Assays: Differentiation of viable vs. non-viable biofilm cells
Consulting Services
Our team of microbiologists, material scientists, and regulatory experts provides consulting services to optimize antimicrobial materials, troubleshoot contamination issues, and develop biofilm-resistant surfaces.
Capabilities:
Material selection for antimicrobial applications
Custom biofilm testing protocols tailored to industry needs
Regulatory guidance for antimicrobial product development (FDA, ISO 22196, ASTM E2180)
Troubleshooting biofilm-related contamination in medical, pharmaceutical, and industrial settings
