Summary
ISO 11734 is a test that specifies a method of determining the biodegradability of organic compounds under anaerobic conditions. This test is designed to yield a percentage of the conversion of carbon in the sample to carbon in the gaseous form of CO2 and CH4.
The ISO 11734 Testing Method
This test is relatively simple and can be applied to a wide range of products and substances. To set this test up, the substance is set up in a closed bottle with no headspace. As degradation occurs, the dissolved oxygen (DO) within the system is consumed. This is what is measured and used to calculate the degradation percentage. To find this percentage, the ratio of dissolved oxygen consumption to theoretical oxygen demand (ThOD) is used.
This test can be used on substances that are highly soluble, volatile, and/or absorbing. It is also important to know the toxicity of the test substance to help determine the appropriate dosage so the material does not inhibit bacteria at the concentration that is tested.
Interested in ISO 11734 Testing? Aropha is Here to Help
Are you looking for streamlined, efficient biodegradability testing? Aropha is here for you. We combine our digital twin simulation platform with lab biodegradability testing to provide accurate results in a short period. From measuring ecotoxicity to compostability to biodegradability of your products, we have the capabilities needed to provide you with detailed, end-to-end testing.
In addition to testing your products, we also can provide you with the test documentation necessary for certain eco-labels and regulatory agencies.
Contact our team today to get started.
ISO 11734 Requirement and Applicability
Different testing methods are applicable for materials with different properties. Below is a summary of the applicability of ISO 11734. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO 11734 | CO2 and CH4 evolution | Organic carbon content * | + | +/- | + |
*“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, 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
$1299/sample for High-Throughput Screening$2399/sample for Biodegradability Certification