How to evaluate the biodegradability of Biodegradable Bag? What international standards or test methods are there?

Evaluating the biodegradability of a Biodegradable Film & bag is a comprehensive process involving multiple aspects and testing methods. Here are some key steps and common international standards or test methods:
1. Key evaluation steps:
Material analysis: First, analyze the material of the biodegradable bag to understand its ingredients, additives and factors that may affect the degradation performance.
Degradation rate test: simulate the natural environment under laboratory conditions and test the degree of degradation of the bag within a specific time. This usually involves exposing the bag to an environment such as microorganisms, water, light or soil and watching it break down.
Residue analysis: Evaluate the residue of the bag after the degradation process, including the type, quantity and environmental impact of the residue.
Environmental impact assessment: Analyze the potential impact of the bag on the surrounding environment (such as soil, water) during the degradation process, such as whether harmful substances are produced.
2. International standards or test methods:
ASTM D5511: This is a standard test method for determining the anaerobic biodegradability of plastic materials by the action of specific microorganisms. It involves exposing samples to inoculated anaerobic digestion sludge and measuring the biogas produced to determine the extent of degradation.
ISO 14851: This international standard specifies methods for evaluating the biodegradability of plastic materials under specified conditions. It covers testing under aerobic and anaerobic conditions and takes into account material degradation in real-world application environments.
EN 13432: This is the European standard used to evaluate the biodegradability of packaging materials. It requires that packaging materials can be completely degraded under specific conditions, and the residues generated during the degradation process will not have a negative impact on the environment.
In addition, there are some other standards and test methods, such as DIN V 54900, etc., which may vary depending on regions and application fields. Therefore, the selection of appropriate assessment methods and criteria needs to be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Please note that the assessment of biodegradability is a complex process that may involve the combined application of multiple standards and test methods.