ISO 14855 Testing

Standard Test for Aerobic Biodegradation Under Composting Conditions

What is ISO 14855?

ISO 14855 is an international standard that determines the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions. This test method measures the amount of carbon dioxide released as plastic materials break down in an environment that simulates industrial composting facilities.

Why This Test Matters

ISO 14855 is critical for evaluating how plastic materials containing biodegradation-enhancing additives, like those developed by PlastScience, perform in aerobic environments rich in microorganisms. This test is particularly relevant for products that may be processed in industrial composting facilities and provides internationally recognized validation of biodegradation claims.

ISO 14855 Composting Test

Test Methodology

The ISO 14855 test follows a rigorous methodology to accurately measure biodegradation:

  1. Sample Preparation: Test materials are reduced to small pieces and mixed with mature compost.
  2. Controlled Environment: The mixture is placed in bioreactors maintained at 58°C (±2°C) with controlled humidity and aeration.
  3. Measurement Period: The test runs for up to 180 days (or until a plateau in biodegradation is reached).
  4. CO₂ Measurement: The amount of carbon dioxide produced is continuously measured, which directly correlates to the level of biodegradation occurring.
  5. Comparison: Results are compared against both a negative control (non-biodegradable plastic) and a positive control (cellulose, which biodegrades readily).
  6. Calculation: Biodegradation percentage is calculated based on the theoretical amount of carbon dioxide that could be produced if the material fully biodegraded.

Key Point: For a material to be considered biodegradable according to international standards, it must achieve at least 90% biodegradation in absolute or relative to the positive control (cellulose) within the test period.

PlastScience Performance

PlastScience additives have been extensively tested using the ISO 14855 protocol. Our technology has demonstrated exceptional performance in enhancing the biodegradability of conventional plastics under composting conditions.

Test Results Example

When tested according to ISO 14855, plastic materials containing PlastScience additives have demonstrated:

  • Significant biodegradation of up to 30% within 180 days for polyethylene (PE)
  • Enhanced biodegradation rates for polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS)
  • Consistent performance across multiple test batches
  • No negative impact on the composting process or compost quality
  • Positive correlation between biodegradation rate and additive concentration

Understanding the Results

Results from ISO 14855 testing provide valuable insights into how plastic materials will behave in real-world composting environments. However, it's important to understand these findings in their proper context:

Strengths

  • High correlation with industrial composting conditions
  • Internationally recognized standard
  • Rigorous control parameters ensure repeatable results
  • Provides quantitative data on biodegradation rates

Limitations

  • Test conditions are optimized and may differ from actual composting facilities
  • Does not account for all variables present in real-world composting
  • The 180-day test period may not capture full biodegradation timeline
  • Results cannot be directly extrapolated to home composting environments

Comprehensive Testing Approach

At PlastScience, we understand that no single biodegradation test provides a complete picture of real-world performance. That's why we utilize multiple testing methodologies to evaluate our additives, including:

  • ASTM D5511 - Anaerobic biodegradation in high-solids environments (landfill conditions)

This multi-method approach allows us to understand how our additives perform across different disposal scenarios and environmental conditions.

Implications for Product Development

The results from ISO 14855 testing have significant implications for product development and marketing:

  • Formulation Optimization: Tests help determine the optimal concentration of PlastScience additives for different polymer types.
  • Regulatory Compliance: ISO 14855 data supports compliance with various international standards for biodegradable materials.
  • Marketing Claims: Results provide scientific validation for biodegradability claims.
  • Continuous Improvement: Ongoing testing helps refine our technology and develop better solutions.

Want detailed information?

Our technical team can provide detailed ISO 14855 test reports specific to your polymer type and application. Contact us to discuss how PlastScience additives can enhance the biodegradability of your plastic products.

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