BS EN ISO 17556:2019 - Plastics Biodegradability Standard

In the modern world, where environmental sustainability is more crucial than ever, understanding the biodegradability of plastic materials is essential. The BS EN ISO 17556:2019 standard provides a comprehensive method for determining the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soil. This standard is a vital tool for manufacturers, researchers, and environmentalists who are committed to reducing the ecological impact of plastic waste.

Overview of BS EN ISO 17556:2019

This standard outlines a method to assess the biodegradability of plastics by measuring the oxygen demand in a respirometer or the amount of carbon dioxide evolved. It is a crucial document for anyone involved in the production or study of biodegradable plastics, providing a reliable and standardized approach to testing.

Key Features

• Standard Number: BS EN ISO 17556:2019
• Pages: 36
• Release Date: June 11, 2019
• ISBN: 978 0 580 52245 1
• Status: Standard

Why This Standard Matters

With increasing global awareness of the environmental impact of plastics, the need for biodegradable alternatives has never been more pressing. The BS EN ISO 17556:2019 standard is instrumental in guiding the development of plastics that can break down in soil, thereby reducing their long-term environmental footprint.

This standard is particularly important for:

• Manufacturers: Ensuring that their products meet environmental regulations and consumer expectations for sustainability.
• Researchers: Providing a consistent methodology for testing and comparing the biodegradability of different plastic materials.
• Environmentalists: Offering a scientific basis for advocating the use of biodegradable plastics.

Detailed Methodology

The BS EN ISO 17556:2019 standard describes a method that involves either measuring the oxygen demand in a respirometer or the amount of carbon dioxide evolved. This dual approach allows for flexibility in testing, accommodating different laboratory setups and research needs.

Respirometer Method

This method involves measuring the oxygen consumption of microorganisms as they break down the plastic material. It provides a direct indication of the biodegradability of the material in a controlled soil environment.

Carbon Dioxide Evolution Method

Alternatively, the amount of carbon dioxide evolved can be measured. This method is particularly useful for assessing the complete mineralization of the plastic material, offering a comprehensive view of its biodegradability.

Benefits of Using BS EN ISO 17556:2019

Adopting this standard offers numerous benefits, including:

• Consistency: Provides a standardized method for testing, ensuring that results are comparable across different studies and applications.
• Reliability: Offers a scientifically validated approach to assessing biodegradability, enhancing the credibility of the results.
• Environmental Impact: Supports the development of environmentally friendly plastics, contributing to global sustainability efforts.

Conclusion

The BS EN ISO 17556:2019 standard is an essential resource for anyone involved in the development, testing, or regulation of biodegradable plastics. By providing a clear and reliable method for assessing biodegradability, it plays a crucial role in the global effort to reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability.

Whether you are a manufacturer looking to ensure your products meet the latest environmental standards, a researcher conducting studies on plastic biodegradability, or an environmental advocate promoting sustainable practices, the BS EN ISO 17556:2019 standard is an invaluable tool in your arsenal.

BS EN ISO 17556:2019

This standard BS EN ISO 17556:2019 Plastics. Determination of the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soil by measuring the oxygen demand in a respirometer or the amount of carbon dioxide evolved is classified in these ICS categories:

• 83.080.01 Plastics in general

This document specifies a method for determining the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soil by measuring the oxygen demand in a closed respirometer or the amount of carbon dioxide evolved. The method is designed to yield an optimum degree of biodegradation by adjusting the humidity of the test soil.

If a non-adapted soil is used as an inoculum, the test simulates the biodegradation processes which take place in a natural environment; if a pre-exposed soil is used, the method can be used to investigate the potential biodegradability of a test material.

This method applies to the following materials:

• natural and/or synthetic polymers, copolymers or mixtures of these;

• plastic materials which contain additives such as plasticizers or colorants;

• water-soluble polymers.

It does not necessarily apply to materials which, under the test conditions, inhibit the activity of the microorganisms present in the soil. Inhibitory effects can be measured using an inhibition control or by another suitable method. If the test material inhibits the microorganisms in the soil, a lower test material concentration, another type of soil or a pre-exposed soil can be used.