Plastic Biodegradability Test (ISO 14855-1, 2)
For the evaluation of plastic biodegradability, various testing methods have been established in international standards such as ISO, JIS, ASTM, and others. Here, I will provide an example of a testing method.
Plastic Biodegradability Evaluation Test
| tandard Number | ISO 14855-1（JIS K 6953-1、ASTM D5338） | ISO 14855-2（JIS K 6953-2） |
| Standard Title | Plastics – Determination of the Ultimate Aerobic Biodegradability under Controlled Composting Conditions – Method by Measurement of Evolved Carbon Dioxide Part 1: General Method | Plastics – Determination of the Ultimate Aerobic Biodegradability under Controlled Composting Conditions – Method by Measurement of Evolved Carbon Dioxide Part 2: Mass Measurement Method of Evolved Carbon Dioxide in Laboratory-Scale |
| Overview | Measurement of Biodegradability in the Presence of Oxygen by Microorganisms in Compost | |
| Seeding Source | Compost | |
| The shape of the test samples | Granular, Powdery, Film, and Molded products (testing conducted with the maximum surface area adjusted to approximately 2 square centimeters). | Granular, Powdery, Film |
| Test Container | 2 liters to 5 liters (can be used for screening purposes in quantities less than 2 liters). | 250 mL |
| Test Temperature | 58±2°C (Can be conducted at any temperature if the sample’s melting point is low) | 58±2℃ |
| Test Period | ~6 months (The duration can be shortened if a steady state is reached, and it can be extended if significant biodegradation is occurring) | |
| Measurement | Carbon dioxide evolution | |
| Evaluation | Biodegradability (%) | |
CO2 Concentration Measurement Device – ISO 14855-2
Biodegradation Apparatus – ISO 14855-2
Our organization undertakes commissioned tests for the biodegradability evaluation of plastics. Additionally, we are entrusted with chemical analysis tests related to the identification criteria (biodegradable plastic, biomass plastic) established by the “Japan Bioplastics Association,” covering specific elements and specific harmful substances.
“Biodegradable Plastic” mark of Japan BioPlastics Association (JBPA)
BOKEN is a certified testing institution of JBPA
Our organization is registered as a testing institution for conducting tests required for inclusion in the Positive List (PL) of the identification labeling system operated by the Japan Bioplastics Association (JBPA)
(see photo on the right: JBPA Certified Testing Institution Certificate).
Therefore, we are capable of conducting biodegradability tests [ISO 14855-2 (JIS K 6953-2)] for obtaining the “Biodegradable Plastic” mark.
