ASTM D6400 Labeling Plastics Designed to be Aerobically Composted in Municipal or Industrial Facilities

Introduction to ASTM D6400

This specification covers plastics and products made from plastics that are designed to be composted in municipal and industrial aerobic composting facilities. The characteristics reported in this specification are those necessary to determine if plastics and products made from plastics will compost satisfactorily, including biodegradation at rates consistent with known compostable materials. The purpose of this specification is to establish standards for the identification of products and materials that will compost satisfactorily in commercial and municipal facilities for composting. 

Test Method ASTM D6400 

This specification involves three types of tests.

1. Biodegradation:  ASTM D5338  or ISO 14855 is used to determine the biodegradation rate by measuring the CO2 evolved from the material in 90-180 days under thermophilic conditions.
2. Disintegration: ISO 16929 or ISO 20200 is used to evaluate  90% disintegration of materials while composting in 84 days. 
3. Ecotoxicity: OECD 208 is used to determine to adverse effect on the plant 

ASTM D6400 Results and Interpretation

1. Biodegrades 90% of the material  in 180 days 
2. 90% of organic carbon degradation
3. Shows no toxic effects to the environment and stays within the heavy metal limit.

Use of ASTM D6400 in Various Industries

It is used in industries such as Food & Packaging companies, Municipal composting programs, and  Regulatory agencies to ensure eco-friendly materials. 

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in ASTM D6400 Testing

The common challenges are additives that prevent biodegradation or elevate heavy metal levels, materials that successfully disintegrate but do not meet ecotoxicity standards because of residue, and conditions of excessive or insufficient composting that can distort biodegradation outcomes.