Microfiber Release Quantitative/Qualitative/Biodegradability/Environmental Toxicity Evaluation
This standard is a standardized evaluation method for classifying fiber products based on their environmental impact, especially during the washing process, with regard to microfiber (fiber debris). In this method, fiber products are classified based on the perspective of fiber release (release of fiber debris) during the washing process, using an appropriate analysis system. To simulate the environmental conditions of wastewater treatment plants, the biodegradability in wastewater is tested, and the degree of decomposition within a specified period is measured to classify the degree of decomposition of fiber products (fiber debris). Finally, appropriate environmental toxicity tests are conducted to determine the toxicity of fiber residues after the biodegradation process.
Standard Number
DIN SPEC 4872: 2023-02
Standard Title
Determination of fibre release during washing and aerobic degradation level in aqueous medium in consideration of ecotoxicity
Summary
To determine the environmental impact of fiber products during washing, the following tests are conducted:
1.Fiber release (fiber debris) analysis: The washing process follows the TMC method/AATCC TM212.
・Quantification of fiber debris (cellulosic fibers/synthetic fibers).
・Average length and length distribution of fiber debris using a Dynamic Image Analyzer.
2.Biodegradability evaluation
・Measurement of biodegradability in aquatic media (compliant with DIN EN ISO 14851).
・Activated sludge is used as the medium.
・Measurement period is up to 2 months.
・Measurement of oxygen consumption using a closed respirometer.
3.Environmental toxicity evaluation
・Conducted using samples from the test in 2.
・Evaluation method based on DIN EN ISO 20079.
・Using duckweed, evaluation is based on the number of mature duckweed leaves and dry mass.
4.Overall test scheme
Classification
Fiber Release Classification
| Classification | Fiber Release (Fiber Quantity/Fiber Material 1g) |
| A | x < 1,500 |
| B | 1,500 ≤ x < 6,000 |
| C | x ≥ 6,000 |
Biodegradation Level Classification
| Classification | Biodegradation Level (Maximum 2 months:%) |
| 1 | x > 80 |
| 2 | 40 < x ≤ 80 |
| 3 | 5 ≤ x ≤ 40 |
| 4 | x < 5 |
Environmental Toxicity Impact Classification
| Classification | Environmental Toxicity Impact |
| 「T」 | Environmental Toxicity |
| No Environmental Toxicity |