Biodegradation in freshwater
Certain consumer products, such as detergents and flushable wipes, inevitably end up in the freshwater environment. Therefore, it is important that these products biodegrade without causing damage to the ecosystem or water quality. Normec conducts tests to determine the biodegradation and chemical properties of materials in freshwater according to international standards. The results can be used for certification, marketing or legal claims and for research and product development.
Our approach
The results of our tests can be used for various purposes, such as certification and product development. The main certificate for biodegradation in fresh water is the OK Biodegradable WATER certificate from TÜV AUSTRIA. This certificate requires tests for biodegradation and analyses of heavy metals and fluorine to verify that water quality is not adversely affected.
Biodegradation tests according to ISO 14851 measure the conversion of organic carbon to CO₂ in fresh water. For certification, 90% of the carbon must be converted to CO₂ within eight weeks.
We also conduct tests according to OECD 301F and OECD 301B (Sturm). These tests are used to demonstrate whether a material is readily biodegradable (>60%) or inherently biodegradable (20-60%) within 28 days. In addition to certification tests, we also offer screening tests for research and product development.
Biodegradable products in freshwater
Test results can be used for certification of products that enter the freshwater environment, such as detergents, coatings, polymers and non-woven materials.
Specifically, what does this mean for you?
- You demonstrate that your product is biodegradable in freshwater
- You meet international standards and certification requirements
- You can substantiate sustainability and environmental claims
- You prevent negative impacts on water quality and ecosystems.
- You support product development with reliable test results
We support in conducting the tests and preparing the certification dossier.
Expertise in biodegradation and environmental testing.
Normec is an independent and globally recognized laboratory for biodegradation and environmental testing. We perform testing according to international standards such as ISO, OECD and EN standards and support certifications such as TÜV AUSTRIA OK Biodegradable WATER.
In addition to biodegradation tests, we also perform dispersibility and solubility tests according to EN 14987. These tests show how well a material disperses or dissolves in fresh water. In addition, we can perform optional quantitative and qualitative disintegration tests.
Prepared for the future
Regulations and sustainability goals place increasingly stringent requirements on products released into the environment. Biodegradability in water is therefore becoming increasingly important for manufacturers of consumer products, packaging, coatings and chemicals. Through timely testing and certification, you ensure that your products meet future regulations and environmental requirements. This is how you work towards sustainable product development and demonstrable environmental performance.
Want to know more about degradation in fresh water?
Frequently Asked Questions
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The duration of a test depends on the type of test and the material or product being tested. Some tests, such as material properties or disintegration under screening conditions, may take several weeks. Biodegradability tests, however, can take several months or even several years.
Because biodegradation depends on microbial processes, the exact test duration cannot always be determined in advance. During the process, we will of course keep you informed of the progress and expected turnaround time.
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Yes, Normec is accredited according to ISO 17025. We are recognized by DIN CERTCO for test procedures and standards related to compostability and biodegradation. In addition, we are ISO 17025 accredited by BELAC for compost analyses and recognized by TÜV Austria.
Furthermore, Normec is ISO 17020 accredited for inspection services and ISO 14001 certified for environmental management. This assures you of reliable, independent and internationally recognized test results.
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Normec is an independent testing laboratory and therefore does not take an active role in product development. Our independence is important to guarantee objective and reliable test results.
However, we can share our expertise on how a product is likely to perform or degrade in a particular environment. We can also help think about areas of concern and testing strategies so that your product can be tested more efficiently and prepared for certification.
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It means that a material is degraded by microorganisms in a freshwater environment, converting organic carbon into CO₂ and biomass.
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A material is biodegradable in water when it meets standards for biodegradation and does not adversely affect water quality.
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The most important certification is OK Biodegradable WATER from TÜV AUSTRIA.
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It depends on the standard, but can range from 28 days to about eight weeks.
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For example, detergents, coatings, polymers, non-woven materials and flushable products.