Summary
The OECD 310 biodegradability test is an evaluation of ready biodegradability for chemical substances in an aqueous aerobic environment and provides similar information to the OECD 301 test methods. Therefore, a substance that shows positive results in this test can be considered readily biodegradable and consequently rapidly degradable in the environment.
The OECD 310 Testing Method
OECD 310 is performed by adding the test substance, mineral medium, and a mixed population of microorganisms to sealed bottles with headspace. The CO2 evolution resulting from the ultimate aerobic biodegradation of the test substance is determined by measuring the inorganic carbon (IC) produced in the test bottles in excess of that produced in blank vessels containing inoculated medium only. The extent of biodegradation is expressed as a percentage of the theoretical maximum IC production (ThIC), based on the quantity of test substance (as organic carbon) added initially.
Achieving biodegradation >60% ThIC within the 10-d window in this test demonstrates that the test substance is readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions. Once this is determined, no additional testing is typically required. If the sample fails, various factors can be considered to determine the appropriate additional tests.
This test is capable of testing samples that are water soluble and volatile.
Turn to Aropha for OECD 310 Testing
Are you looking for cost-efficient and accurate biodegradable testing? Aropha is here to help. When you partner with us, you will be able to combine our digital twin simulation platform with high-throughput biodegradability testing to get all of the information you need to make sure your products meet the ecological standards your clients desire. From testing biodegradability and compostability to ecotoxicity, we have everything you need to properly evaluate the ecological properties of your products.
Not only do our testing services provide you with the information you need to make improvements to the sustainability of your product, but they also allow us to provide you with the necessary test documentation for you to substantiate biodegradability claims for your products.
Contact our team today to see what we can do for you!
OECD 310 Requirement and Applicability
Different testing methods are applicable for materials with different properties. Below is a summary of the applicability of OECD 310. Please check our Method Selection Guide to select the most appropriate method for your materials. You can also find the applicability for many other methods in our Resource Center.| Test | Analytical Method | Sample Info Required* | Poorly soluble | Volatile | Adsorbing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OECD 310 (Headspace Test) | CO2 evolution | Organic carbon content* | - | + | N/A |
*“Sample info required” is the information needed to calculate the biodegradation percentages. This must be available for a selected method.
*“Organic carbon content” is the ratio of the organic carbon weight to the weight of the sample. It can be calculated by the sample formula (e.g., acetic acid C2H4O2, organic carbon content is 12*2/(12*2+1*4+16*2)=40%). Try our Online C% Calculator. If the formula is unknown, we can send the sample out to a third party lab for you for analysis (normally $110 with a 10-day turnaround time).
Pricing
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