ASTM D5511 Anaerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials Scope:

ASTM D5511 determines the rate and degree of anaerobic biodegradation of plastic materials in high-solids anaerobic conditions. The test samples are exposed to a methanogenic inoculum (methane-evolving microorganisms) obtained from anaerobic digesters working on pretreated waste.

Test Procedure:

Anaerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials test by ASTM D5511 is performed by using a concentrated anaerobic inoculum. The test material is exposed to an anaerobic static batch fermentation, and the total carbon in the gas (carbon dioxide and methane) evolved is measured as a function of time. The percentage of biodegradability is achieved by calculating the percentage of sample carbon converted to methane and carbon dioxide.

Sample size:

The test samples for ASTM D5511 can be in the form of pellets, films, powder, articles, or dog bone-shaped as specified by ASTM D618 guidelines. The test samples are analyzed for their carbon content as per ASTM D4129 guidelines.

Data:

The following data is calculated in ASTM D5511:

Maximum theoretical gas production
Percent of biodegradation
Standard error of the percentage of biodegradation
95 % confidence limits (CL)