New Equipment for Biodegradability Testing of Plastics
To support our ongoing research and development in sustainable materials, we have recently acquired a state-of-the-art respirometer system from ECHO Instruments. This equipment enables us to perform standardized testing for the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions, in accordance with ISO 14855-1:2005.
With the growing use of plastics and the environmental challenges associated with their disposal, the need for reliable biodegradability testing has never been greater. While recycling remains a priority, complete recovery of plastic waste—especially post-consumer litter—remains difficult. Biodegradable plastics offer a promising solution, but their environmental performance must be thoroughly validated.
The newly installed system allows us to:
- Measure carbon dioxide evolution during composting to assess biodegradation
- Simulate aerobic composting conditions representative of municipal solid waste treatment
- Evaluate the disintegration and breakdown of plastic and bioplastic materials in both sea and fresh water
This multi-channel respirometer is designed for low maintenance, precise aeration control, and automated data logging, with remote access and real-time graphical monitoring.
It is therefore a handy instrument for us to be used in our research, testing and certification activities (e.g., OEKO-TEX®)
By integrating this advanced testing capability into our lab, we aim to:
- Support the development of next-generation biodegradable materials
- Provide accurate and standardized biodegradability assessments
- Contribute to more sustainable product design and certification
This investment strengthens our position as a research partner in the field of circular plastics and environmental performance testing.
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