Ready biodegradability: Headspace test according to OECD 310

In the OECD 310 CO2 headspace test, samples are incubated in sealed bottles, and the CO2 evolved during aerobic degradation is quantified as inorganic carbon (IC) against blank controls. Biodegradation is expressed as a percentage of the theoretical maximum inorganic carbon (ThIC).

Intermediate IC concentrations in mg C/L are reported in addition to the percent biodegradation as % ThIC. For water-soluble substances, DOC removal can be measured as a supporting primary biodegradation endpoint.

The method is technically equivalent to EN ISO 14593, which is referenced in the EU Detergents Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 648/2004) for assessing the ultimate biodegradability of surfactants. OECD 310 is also listed as an accepted biodegradability test under the REACH microplastics restriction (Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055). The pass criterion for ready biodegradability under the guideline and both regulations is ≥60% mineralisation within 28 days.

Suitable sample matrices
Polymers, chemicals
Available quality systems
Accredited testing laboratory
Standard
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