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ASTM D6400
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Quick understanding of the test
ASTM D6400 - Test for Plastics Designed to be Aerobically Composted in Municipal or Industrial Facilities
Application
- Ensures plastics decompose without leaving harmful residues.
- Verifies products labeled as compostable are eco-friendly.
Turnaround Time
Passing criteria
- Disintegration: <10% residue after 12 weeks.
- Biodegradation: At least 90% organic carbon converted to CO2 within 180 days.
- Ecotoxicity: Compost supports at least 90% plant germination and biomass compared to controls.
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Abstract
ASTM D6400 is a well-established standard that describes the requirements for plastics that are designed to be aerobically composted in either a municipal or an industrial facility. These plastics must meet specific conditions to ensure they decompose safely and completely in an environmentally responsible manner. The biodegradability, disintegration, and safety of the plastic under thermophilic conditions typically prevailing in large-scale composting operations are thus assessed by this test method.
This standard can help manufacturers verify and label products as being compostable, provided they pass all the required biodegradability & compostability testing testing parameters. It establishes essential guidelines for manufacturers to ensure that their plastic products can decompose effectively without leaving any harmful residues or pollutants.
Scope of products for testing
The standard applies to large plastic products, including packaging materials, films, and containers. Products that are intended to be composted in industrial or municipal composting facilities must pass this test to ensure they meet requirements.
ASTM D6400 test conditions
The test conditions closely replicate the conditions found in municipal or industrial composting facilities. These facilities work under aerobic conditions, where the presence of oxygen enables oxidation which leads to decomposition. The process further involves the maintenance of thermophilic temperatures between 40ยฐC and 70ยฐC to enhance biodegradation.
ASTM D6400 test methodology
The test has been divided into several stages to check the plasticsโ ability to compost under standard industrial conditions:
- Sample preparation
Samples are prepared according to the test standardโs guidelines. It includes ensuring the samples have the proper thickness and density of the actual product used in practical applications.
- Controlled composting test
The test samples are subjected to a controlled composting environment that simulates municipal or industrial facilities for composting. The temperature, moisture, and oxygen levels are monitored to reflect conditions as found in these typical facilities.
- Disintegration test
After 12 weeks, any remaining plastic is sieved to establish the percentage of material that has not disintegrated. If less than 10% remains, the plastic passes the disintegration test.
- Biodegradation test
The amount of CO2 produced during the course of composting is measured. The material is considered to pass the biodegradation test if at least 90% of the organic carbon of the plastic is converted to CO2.
- Ecotoxicity test
Compost produced from the test is used to cultivate plants. Plant health compared those grown in regular compost in order to check if plastic does not release any harmful substances that could harm the environment upon disintegration.
Importance of ASTM D6400 test
Performing this test is crucial for the following reasons:
- Environmental responsibility
Testing ensures that plastics branded as compostable do not harm the environment. Plastics that meet this standard and are labeled as compostable break down safely and completely, reducing pollution and waste in landfills.
- Consumer confidence
Products labeled as compostable provide consumers with the confidence that the materials they use are not harmful to the environment and will not cause any long-term environmental damage.
- Compliance
Compliance is often a requirement for product certification in regions that regulate compostable plastics, helping companies ensure that their products are legally compliant.
Need help with Biodegradability & Compostability Testing!
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland, we provide thorough testing services for ASTM D6400 compliance, ensuring your products meet the highest standards for compostability. Contact us today to learn more about our biodegradability & compostability testing solutions!
Frequently Asked Questions
DR. Martinoz Scholtz
The basic requirements for plastic to qualify as compostable would be disintegration, meaning the plastic must degrade fully within 12 weeks with less than 10% residue; biodegradation, requiring 90% conversion to CO2 in 180 days; and ecotoxicity, ensuring the compost is not harmful to plant growth with at least 90% germination and biomass compared to the control.
Various plastic products, including packaging materials, films, and containers, can meet the standard if they are designed for composting.
No, certification is not always mandatory but is often required for labeling and compliance in regulated markets.
ASTM D6400 is designed for industrial composting environments, which, of course, are entirely different from the environment of in-home composting.
Biodegradation must be proven to occur within 180 days under controlled conditions.
No. The standard ensures that plastics biodegrade in specific composting conditions but not necessarily in natural conditions.
Testing must be done in a controlled composting environment, which replicates the industrial conditions of composting.
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