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
- Method expert
Business hours: Mon–Fri 9 AM – 5 PM Finnish time (EET/EEST)
Other tests we offer
Biodegradability in seawater according to OECD 306
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) in water
Total fluorine in plastic, paper, and other combustible materials
Nanoparticle analysis according to REACH
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) analysis of solid samples
Ready biodegradability according to OECD 301
PFAS in plastic, paper, and other solid materials
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) for Regulation (EU) 2019/1021
Cleaning validation of medical devices according to ISO 17664
Horizontal flame propagation according to UN/ECE Regulation No. 118, Annex 6
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