ASTM D6866 provides the standard test methods for determining the biobased content of samples. Biobased content refers to the portion of a material or product derived from renewable biological sources, such as plants or biomass. These test methods utilize radiocarbon analysis, which measures the ratio of carbon-14 (C-14) to total carbon (C) in a sample, to determine the biobased content. The results obtained are especially used for quality control and specification purposes. ASTM D6866 provides accurate biobased/biogenic carbon content results to materials whose carbon source was directly in equilibrium with atmospheric CO2 at the time of cessation of respiration or metabolism, such as the harvesting of a crop.
By following ASTM D6866 test method, manufacturers accurately measure the biobased content of their samples, supporting their efforts in producing renewable and sustainable products. This information is valuable for eco-labeling, regulatory compliance, and consumer transparency regarding the environmental impact of materials and products.
ASTM D6866 Test Method
ASTM D6866 test method is given below. Method B utilizes AMS along with Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) techniques to quantify the biobased content of a given product and Method C uses LSC techniques to quantify the biobased content (with a maximum total error of ±3 %) of a product using sample carbon that has been converted to benzene.
| Carbon-14 Measurement | The ratio of carbon-14 to total carbon (C-14/C) in the sample is determined using radiocarbon analysis techniques, such as accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) or liquid scintillation counting (LSC). |
| Biobased Content Calculation | The biobased content is calculated based on the measured C-14/C ratio and a known reference standard. The result is expressed as a percentage of biobased carbon in the total carbon content of the sample. |
