By content81c70d6e36 | Last updated 30th May 2025

ISO 17556 Ultimate Aerobic Biodegradability of Polymers in Soil

ISO 17556 is an international standard specifying a test for the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soil. It quantifies the oxygen demand or carbon dioxide evolved by microorganisms that could degrade the plastic ( simulating natural biodegradation processes). This process can be applied to a wide range of natural and synthetic polymers, including common plastic additives such as plasticizers, colorants, and even water-soluble polymers.

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    Introduction to ISO 17556

    As bio-derived plastics in agriculture (agricultural films to mulch sheets, and planters) are gaining widespread use, the issue has to be faced whether these are completely biodegradable in natural environments. ISO 17556 is a standard test method to define the aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soil. ISO 17556 is to provide a degradability in soil solution for plastics materials under aerobic (oxygen-augmented) field conditions, and assess how microbes use the plastic. It is usually the oxygen demand in a closed respirometer or the carbon dioxide evolved obtained from measurements of this.

    ISO 17556 Test Method

    Test procedure The purpose of this test is to obtain the optimum rate of biodegradation of a plastic material in a test soil through the control of soil humidity, and to measure the ultimate biodegradability of the material. The plastic, which is the only source of carbon, is added to the soil. This is then allowed to stay in a flask for a certain amount of time. This is done until biodegradation has plateaued at a constant rate, or for a total of six months.

    ISO 17556 Equipment and Sample Preparation

    Specimen DetailsSpecialized equipment like respirometers and carbon dioxide analyzers is used to measure the parameters of the test. 

    ISO 17556 Results and Interpretation

    The biodegradation of the plastic material is measured either by measuring oxygen consumption and comparing it to the theoretical oxygen demand or by measuring the amount of CO2 evolved and comparing it to the theoretical CO2 demand. 

    Service NameRemarks
    ISO 17556 Testing
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    Use of ISO 17556 in Various Industries

    Generally used in bioplastics manufacturing, packaging, agricultural materials, and in wastewater management. 

    Materials Commonly Tested with ISO 17556

    The method applies to various materials, including natural and synthetic polymers, copolymers, and mixtures of these. It also covers plastic materials containing additives like plasticizers or colorants, and water-soluble polymers.

    FAQ's

    Where can I get the iso 17556 tested?

    You can share your iso 17556 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific iso 17556 test to various testing techniques.

    How much do I need to pay for the iso 17556 test?

    Please contact us for a detailed quote for your iso 17556 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different iso 17556 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.

    How many samples are required for iso 17556?

    The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the iso 17556 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.

    How much discount can I get on the iso 17556 test?

    MaTestLab has a vast testing laboratory network, hence we bring you the best testing facilities in a cost-effective way. We offer considerable discounts (15-20%) to our returning customers based on test volume and frequency.

    How many days will it take to complete the iso 17556 test?

    The turnaround time for iso 17556 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.

    Where can I get the iso 17556 tested?

    You can share your iso 17556 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific iso 17556 test to various testing techniques.

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