ISSN:
1476-5535
Keywords:
Fungal colonization
;
Space craft materials
;
Acremonium obclavatum
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
Notes:
Summary Materials being used or considered for use in space flight were examined for their susceptibility to fungal colonization. The materials included soft goods (clothing) and insulation and fabrication products such as Velcro® attachments and elastic cord binders. Materials were exposed for at least 28 days in a highhumidity chamber colonized with over 50 species of fungi, including those species recommended for determining recalcitrance of materials to fungal biodegradation. At least nine of 25 products demonstrated extensive microscopic colonization by fungi, mostly byAcremonium obclavatum. Challenge procedures that rely on observations with the unaided eye, or 40×magnification of growth by a restricted number of fungal species with a cellulosic substrate as a positive control, are insufficient for determining the resistance of synthetic substrates to fungal colonization.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01570062
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