Biodegradability and Compostability Testing
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Biodegradation is the natural breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. In today's world, the quality and safety of packaging materials are paramount, and their disposal has become a critical aspect of manufacturers' product responsibility.
Biodegradable packaging materials cater to the growing consumer demand for sustainable products and align with the principles of the circular economy. Clear labelling of biodegradable materials is essential, making tests for biodegradability and compostability a prerequisite.
Testing Standards
Biodegradability testing assesses the eco-friendly physical, chemical, and toxicological degradation of products and materials in a controlled environment. This testing should adhere to international standards such as:
- ISO 17088
- ASTM D6400 and ASTM D5338
- ISO 14855
- EN 13432
- OECD 208
According to ISO 17088 and EN 13432, the following four aspects must be addressed to identify and label plastics and plastic products as suitable for recovery through aerobic composting:
- Biodegradation
- Disintegration during composting
- Negative effects on the composting process and facility
- Negative effects on the quality of the resulting compost, including the presence of high levels of regulated metals and other harmful components.
It aims to establish the requirements for labelling plastic products and materials, including packaging, as “compostable” or “compostable in municipal and industrial composting facilities” or “biodegradable during composting.”
Materials We Test
We test a variety of materials, including:
- Packaging materials
- Shopping bags
- Garbage bags
- Disposable products
- Food contact articles
Types of Biodegradable Plastics
Some biodegradable plastics available in the market are:
- Starch-based plastics
- Bacteria-based plastics
- Soy-based plastics
- Cellulose-based plastics
- Lignin-based plastics
- Natural fibre reinforcement plastics
Our Advanced Laboratory Equipment
Eurofins Spectro, with its advanced and well-equipped laboratory, enables you to deliver fully compliant and effective biodegradable materials. Some of our key equipment includes:
- CHNS Analyzer (Make: LECO)
- FTIR (Make: Agilent)
- TGA (Make: Perkin Elmer)
- STA (Make: Perkin Elmer)
- TOC Analyzer (Make: SIEVERS)
- ICP-OES (Make: Agilent)
- CO2 free compressed air
- Plant toxicity test
- Earthworm toxicity test
- Compost yard
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ's )
What is the difference between biodegradability and compostability?
Biodegradability refers to the breakdown of materials by microorganisms into natural substances like water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. Compostability is a subset of biodegradability, where the material not only breaks down but also results in compost that supports plant growth.
Why are testing standards like ISO 17088 and EN 13432 important?
These standards ensure that materials labelled as biodegradable or compostable meet specific criteria for environmental safety and effectiveness, ensuring that they decompose as intended without harming the environment.
What materials can be tested for biodegradability and compostability?
We test a variety of materials, including packaging materials, shopping bags, garbage bags, disposable products, and food contact articles.
How do you test for negative effects on compost quality?
We assess the compost for high levels of regulated metals and other harmful components to ensure that the resulting compost is safe and of high quality.
What types of biodegradable plastics are available in the market?
Biodegradable plastics include starch-based, bacteria-based, soy-based, cellulose-based, lignin-based plastics, and natural fibre reinforcement plastics.
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