Test method for evaluating the permeability of intact prophylactics to viral-size microspheres under simulated...

The alarming number of AIDS cases has increased the attention given to barrier devices such as condoms. The authors describe a new test method that evaluates the permeability of the intact condom when subjected to simulated physiologic conditions. Fluorescent-labelled polystyrene microspheres (110 nm diameter) are used to model cell-free virus. Physical and chemical conditions that are present during coitus, such as pressure, pH, and temperature, are considered in the design of the method. The testing chamber is designed to be continuously monitored for changes in fluorescence due to leakage across the condom surface. The sensitivity of the system is 1 x 10(-5) of the original concentration of microsphere solution (3.4 x 10(11) particles/mL), which corresponds to leak rates as small as .001 microL/sec. The test provides an in vitro test of barrier material permeability relevant to actual use.