Our laboratories have extensive experience in performing these tests and generally follow one of several internationally recognised testing guidelines, including OECD 301B, D, or F for ready biodegradability.

Each test is tailored to the chemical nature of the product being tested (based on solubility, volatility, etc.) and will help support your marketing claims, providing a safer choice for your client base.

Eurofins Agroscience Services laboratories can perform ready biodegradability tests OECD 301B, 301D, 301F, 302, 306 and 310.

Ready Biodegradability OECD 301 (B/D/F)

These methods permit the screening of chemicals for their potential to biodegrade in an aerobic aqueous medium, namely activated sludge obtained from a sewage treatment plant. The best experimental design is based on the physical and chemical attributes of the product.

Image: OECD 301-F Test

Inherent Biodegradation OECD 302

OECD 302 is an inherent aerobic biodegradation test that is useful because extended exposure of the test substance to microorganisms and a low ratio of test substance to biomass are allowed. This offers a better chance to obtain a positive result compared to tests for ready biodegradability.

Biodegradability in Seawater OECD 306

OECD 306 is a biodegradation test that demonstrates specifically how a material biodegrades in seawater.

Ready Biodegradation - Sealed Vessel OECD 310

OECD 310 is also a screening method for the evaluation of ready biodegradability of chemicals. It has the advantage of also examining inorganic carbon as part of the degradation process.