Standard Active Last Updated: Sep 03, 2025 Track Document
ASTM D8527-25

Standard Test Method for Assessment of Fungal Biomass on Surfaces or Coatings by Measuring Fungal β-N-acetylhexosaminidase (NAHA) Activity

Standard Test Method for Assessment of Fungal Biomass on Surfaces or Coatings by Measuring Fungal β-N-acetylhexosaminidase (NAHA) Activity D8527-25 ASTM|D8527-25|en-US Standard Test Method for Assessment of Fungal Biomass on Surfaces or Coatings by Measuring Fungal β-N-acetylhexosaminidase (NAHA) Activity Standard new BOS Vol. 11.07 Committee D22
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Significance and Use

5.1 This test method is used to assess fungal biomass on surface swab samples by measuring fungal NAHA activity via fluorimetry.

5.2 This test method may also be used to categorize fungal biomass loadings on a surface as being typical, atypical, or indicative of fungal growth.

5.3 This test method can assist the practitioner with a fungal assessment in buildings (Guide D7338).

5.4 The test method results can typically be obtained in less than one hour.

5.5 When analyzed in the field, this method is useful for onsite decisions regarding the presence of fungal growth or PRV when used in conjunction with visual assessments.

5.6 The test method is an objective quantitative determination of total fungal biomass.

5.7 This test method measures all the fungal structures present collectively as total fungal biomass.

5.8 This test method cannot differentiate low density fungal growth from excessive accumulation of dry (non-viable) fungal material.

5.9 There can be some variability in the enzyme activity per fungal biomass unit among fungal taxa.

Scope

1.1 This test method contains procedures for both collection and analysis of surface swab samples for total fungal biomass by measuring the activity of fungal β-N-acetylhexosaminidase (NAHA) by use of a 4-methylumbelliferyl fluorogenic enzyme substrate together with an inhibitor of non-fungal NAHA activity.

1.2 NAHA activity is present in all forms of fungal material such as spores, hyphal fragments, and other particles of fungal origin that are not optically recognizable. Collectively, this material is the fungal biomass. See Refs (1-4).2

1.3 This test method can quantify surface fungal biomass loading for comparison purposes (1-4).

1.4 This test method does not identify or differentiate fungal taxa.

1.5 This test method does not differentiate between viable and non-viable fungi.

1.6 This test method can be used to supplement visual observations during fungal assessments and fungal post-remediation verification (PRV).

1.7 This test method does not measure bacteria.

1.8 This test method may involve potentially hazardous chemicals and microorganisms, and should be performed only by persons who have had appropriate training.

1.9 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard. For purposes of this standard, these terms have no technical meaning.

1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.11 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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Details
Book of Standards Volume: 11.07
Developed by Subcommittee: D22.08
Pages: 8
DOI: 10.1520/D8527-25
ICS Code: 07.100.99