This test method determines the level and efficiency of biodegradation of plastic materials in an anaerobic environment (ASTM D5511).

Inoculum: from the anaerobic digestion of household waste. This usually comes from the sediment of a certain proportion of solid matter mixed in the composting equipment of the water treatment plant. This inoculum contains methanogenic bacteria that can also be found in landfills. The control device and sample plate of the sediment are all materials used for ASTM D5511 testing

Negative control: untreated material that is the same or similar to the test material. This is usually not included in the test because the material is not representative of degradation.

Positive control: the cellulose product being tested. Positive control ensures biodegradation within 30 days, such as a piece of paper. Once the cellulose shows 100% biodegradation, the test is stopped and a comparison with the BIO™ sample is made.

Sample: material processed with BIO™

After the initial combustion aerobic activity, oxygen is consumed in the culture vessel. Then, anaerobic bacteria began to multiply and settle in the container. As these bacteria begin to use carbon in the test sample, they produce carbonaceous gases such as CO2 (carbon gas) and CH4 (methane gas). Measure these gases every day and record the results carefully.

The molar weight of the total gas produced by the test sample is calculated and compared with the carbon weight of the original sample, and the biodegradation percentage of the sample can be determined.

After 3 days, the plastic containing BIO additives under the conditions listed in the ASTM D-5511 method showed 7.4% biodegradation after a 30-day test

All tests are carried out at Northeast Laboratories, In. testing facility.

ASTM D-5511 test Regarding: Biosphere Sample (690 Days)