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An Overview of the Top Biodegradability and Compostability Testing Standards and their Differences

Understanding the Various Biodegradability and Compostability Testing Standards In an era where sustainability has become a global priority, both businesses and consumers are actively seeking environmentally friendly solutions. One important aspect gaining attention is the testing of biodegradability and compostability. These tests ensure that materials, products, and packaging meet specific environmental standards, contributing to a healthier planet. Various biodegradability and compostability testing standards and methods exist to assess the environmental impact of products. These standards differ based on the type of material being evaluated, the intended application of the product, and the specific environmental conditions being simulated. What is Biodegradability and Compostability Testing? Biodegradability testing evaluates a material's ability to break down into natural elements (like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass) through the action of microorganisms within a specific timeframe. Compostability testing encompasses biodegradability as well as disintegration and ecotoxicity testing. It assesses whether a material can decompose in composting environments without leaving toxic residues. Let us explore the various biodegradability and compostability testing standards and some of the key differences between the different protocols. OECD 301 and 302 Series – Ready and Ultimate Biodegradability: Application: These tests apply to a wide range of substances, not limited to plastics. Testing Conditions: They evaluate aerobic biodegradation in various environments, including water and soil. Duration: The tests are typically shorter term, spanning four weeks or longer. These tests apply to a wide range of substances, not limited to plastics. OECD 311 and ASTM D5210 – Anaerobic Biodegradation: Application: This standard is used for the assessment of biodegradability under anaerobic conditions. Testing Conditions: It simulates the conditions found in anaerobic digesters using a digestive sludge as the biomass, where oxygen is limited. Duration: The test period is typically longer than aerobic tests, often lasting two months. This standard is used for the assessment of biodegradability under anaerobic conditions. OECD 306 and ISO 17556: Application: These tests are applicable to a wide range of substances, not limited to plastics. Testing Conditions: They evaluate aerobic biodegradation in marine seawater environments. Duration: The tests are typically over a two-month testing period. These tests are applicable to a wide range of substances, not limited to plastics. ISO 16221 and ASTM D5988 – Aerobic Biodegradation in Soil: Application: These tests are applicable to a wide range of substances, not limited to plastics. Testing Conditions: It assesses aerobic biodegradation in soil under controlled laboratory conditions. Duration: The test typically lasts for six months, simulating the breakdown of materials in a soil environment. These tests are applicable to a wide range of substances, not limited to plastics. ASTM D6400 – Compostability: Application: This standard is relevant for products claiming to be compostable under industrial composting conditions. This standard was designed to evaluate plastic materials. However, it is commonly applied to materials/products that fall outside of these specific definitions. Testing Conditions: They assess the ability of materials to undergo composting in industrial composting facilities. Duration: Composting testing consists of multiple tiers of testing that include biodegradability, disintegration, and ecotoxicity. The total process usually takes a minimum of six months. This standard is relevant for products claiming to be compostable under industrial composting conditions. This standard was designed to evaluate plastic materials. However, it is commonly applied to materials/products that fall outside of these specific definitions. ASTM D6868 – Compostability: Application: This standard is relevant for products claiming to be compostable under industrial composting conditions. This standard was designed to assess products that only incorporate plastics/polymers as coatings or additives. However, it is commonly applied to materials/products that fall outside of these specific definitions. Testing Conditions: They assess the ability of materials to undergo composting in industrial composting facilities. Duration: Composting testing consists of multiple tiers of testing that include biodegradability, disintegration, and ecotoxicity. The total process usually takes a minimum of six months. This standard is relevant for products claiming to be compostable under industrial composting conditions. This standard was designed to assess products that only incorporate plastics/polymers as coatings or additives. However, it is commonly applied to materials/products that fall outside of these specific definitions. *This standard requires that any plastic coating or polymeric additives present in the product be evaluated for biodegradability individually. The ASTM D6868 also offers a testing alternative for chemically unmodified materials of natural origin. EN 13432 – Compostability: Application: This European standard is specifically for packaging materials. Testing Conditions: It assesses compostability under controlled composting conditions. Duration: Composting testing consists of multiple tiers of testing that include biodegradability, disintegration, and ecotoxicity. The total process usually takes a minimum of six months. This European standard is specifically for packaging materials. AS 5810 – Compostability: Application: This Australian standard is relevant for products claiming to be compostable under home composting conditions. This standard was designed to evaluate plastic materials. However, it is commonly applied to materials/products that fall outside of these specific definitions. Testing Conditions: It assesses compostability under home composting conditions. Duration: Composting testing consists of multiple tiers of testing that include biodegradability, disintegration, and ecotoxicity. The total process usually takes a minimum of six months. This Australian standard is relevant for products claiming to be compostable under home composting conditions. This standard was designed to evaluate plastic materials. However, it is commonly applied to materials/products that fall outside of these specific definitions. It is important to note that these standards are often specific to certain types of materials or products (e.g., plastics, packaging, etc.). When evaluating biodegradability and compostability claims, it is crucial to use the appropriate biodegradability and compostability testing standard that aligns with the intended application and disposal conditions of the product in question. Additionally, the regulatory landscape may vary by region, and compliance with specific standards may be required for certain markets. Please contact RespirTek at 228.392.7977 to schedule a free 30-minute consultation with our technical team to learn more about the various biodegradability and compostability testing standards, and which standard best suits your overall objectives. TIME BUSINESS NEWS