MaTestLab > Test Standards > ASTM D5338 Standard Test Method for Determining Aerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials Under Controlled Composting Conditions, Incorporating Thermophilic Temperatures
Last updated 12th June 2025
ASTM D5338 Standard Test Method for Determining Aerobic Biodegradation of Plastic Materials Under Controlled Composting Conditions, Incorporating Thermophilic Temperatures
ASTM D5338 is a test that measures the degree and rate of aerobic biodegradation of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions in the form of bars, rods, or film at thermophilic temperatures. It detects and quantifies the conversion of carbon included in the sample into carbon dioxide and records the degradation ratio. The test consists of exposing plastic samples to a regulated composting environment with an inoculum based on compost from municipal solid waste.
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Introduction to ASTM D5338
ASTM D5338, established by ASTM International, is used to measure the decomposition of plastic materials in an industrial composting environment. It simulates the real composting condition, well-ventilated, moisture drained, warm, a lot of oxygen (gas exchange), and contains the nutrients needed by microbes during composting. The primary metric by which to measure this is the carbon dioxide (CO₂) volume that is released, the interpretation being that the more CO₂ is released, the more the plastic has been broken down by these microbes.
ASTM D5338 Test Method
Test procedure
The plastic samples are mixed with a compost blend of mature compost, sawdust, and manure. The control samples, such as cellulose and one nondegradable material, like polyethylene, are kept.
ASTM D5338 Equipment and Sample Preparation
Specimen Details
Any type of substance with a designated size. The dry weight of the sample should fall between 50 grams and 100 grams. The material is usually chopped or ground into smaller fragments measuring less than 2 mm. Smaller particle sizes enhance surface area, facilitating microbial breakdown.
Specimen preparation
The test is carried out in a laboratory vessel where the temperature is kept thermophilic, ie, 58 degrees Celsius, for 45- 90 days and above if required. The equipment consists of sealed respirometers, alkali CO₂ traps, and gas measurement systems used for collecting and analyzing the released carbon dioxide.
ASTM D5338 Results and Interpretation
The degradation rate of the test sample is determined in this test by measuring the amount of CO₂ released from the test sample concerning the CO₂ release from the control. A material is considered to be industrially compostable if it undergoes at least 90% breakdown within 180 days.
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ASTM D5338 Testing
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Tests Related to ASTM D5338
The test equivalent to it is ISO 14855, both tests determine the degree and rate of aerobic biodegradation of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions.
Use of ASTM D5338 in Various Industries
It is widely used in the packaging industry, the agriculture industry, medical, and consumer goods like biodegradable cutlery and plates. This ensures the sustainability of the environment.
Materials Commonly Tested with ASTM D5338
The materials usually tested are articles such as food and beverage containers, head boxes, and the like, as well as compostable packaging articles and materials.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in ASTM D5338 Testing
The ASTM D5338 test method for aerobic biodegradation of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions can pose a few issues that may affect the accuracy and reliability of the test results. If compost mixture is inadequate or not mixed properly or the air and moisture levels are not appropriate, microbial activity may be greatly reduced, which prevent the proper decomposition. Further, if the test sample is too thick or heavy, it may not degrade evenly and concentrations get distorted. Temperature variations in the composting environment also add to the erratic results. In order to obtain valid results, compost consistency, good moisture and aeration, a sufficient sample size and constant temperature need to be provided throughout the test period.
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