Study of material biodegradation

Biodegradation is a key parameter in the environmental assessment of materials. It refers to the ability of an organic material to decompose under the action of microorganisms in natural or simulated environments. Biodegradability analysis makes it possible to measure the environmental impact of a product, its potential end-of-life, and to guide eco-design choices.

Objective of the analysis

This test aims to characterize the degradation of organic materials (bio-based or not) exposed to specific laboratory conditions, with the goal of:

• Evaluate the degradation kinetics in a given environment (compost, soil, fresh water, seawater)
• Compare different materials or formulations
• Verify compliance with environmental standards or benchmarks
• Justify the claim of biodegradability or compostability

Methodology

Depending on the objectives and the nature of the material, several protocols can be implemented, often inspired by OECD, ISO or ASTM guidelines:

• Industrial composting test (ISO 14855, ISO 17088) : simulation of degradation in compost at 58°C
• Natural soil test (ISO 17556) : study at ambient temperature in the presence of soil microorganisms
• Freshwater or seawater test (ISO 14851, ISO 18830) : evaluation in aqueous environments
• Measurement of mass loss, CO₂ release (mineralization), or structural changes (FTIR, SEM, etc.)

The tests can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the chosen standard. The percentage of biodegradation is generally calculated from the CO₂ production relative to a reference material.

Affected matrices

• Bio-based or compostable plastics
• Films, packaging, bags, coatings
• Cellulosic or synthetic textiles
• Products of natural origin (starch, PLA, PHAs, etc.)
• Biodegradable composite materials

Industrial applications

• Eco-design and validation of environmental claims
• Development of alternative solutions to conventional plastics
• Environmental labeling (compostable, biodegradable, marine-safe)
• REACH declaration, regulation on single-use plastics (SUP)

Why go through YesWeLab?

YesWeLab connects you with expert laboratories specializing in biodegradation testing, equipped with dedicated equipment (reactors, climate chambers, CO₂ analyzers) and adhering to standardized protocols. We assist you in selecting the most suitable conditions for your product and regulatory requirements.

See also:

• Study of the biodegradation of dissolved substances (OECD 301)
• Industrial compostability test