Biodegradation

Organic waste transforms into nutrient-rich soil as the matter breaks down, temperatures rise, microbes multiply, and the compost pile becomes a hotbed of microbial activity. Common test standards that determine if a material is compostable are ASTM D6400 and EN 13432.

Ocean water biodegradation is the natural process by which organic pollutants and debris in marine environments break down through microbial activity. Water temperature, oxygen levels, and nutrient availability influence its efficacy. Common test standards ASTM D6691 and ISO 14593 evaluate biodegradation in marine environments.

Landfill biodegradation occurs when organic materials undergo anaerobic decomposition in an oxygen-limited environment, releasing methane and carbon dioxide gases as byproducts. ASTM D5511 and ISO 15985 are common test standards for screening landfill materials.

In soil biodegradation, microbial communities within the soil matrix tirelessly decompose various materials, from plant-based residues to biodegradable plastics—the ASTM D5988 and ISO 17556 tests gauge material biodegradability in soil.

Wastewater treatment relies on biodegradation. Diverse microbial communities break down organic pollutants and contaminants present in wastewater streams. ASTM D5210, ISO 11734, and OECD test methods, such as OECD 301 and OECD 302, assess biodegradation in wastewater.