Introduction
One of the most recognized standards in this field is ASTM D6400. This certification plays an important role in defining what qualifies as compostable, especially in industrial and municipal composting environments. For companies like Ellspo Eco, which produces compostable mailers, meeting ASTM D6400 standards demonstrates their commitment to environmental sustainability.
What is ASTM D6400?
ASTM D6400 is a specification established by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) that outlines the requirements for labeling plastics and products made from plastics as compostable in municipal and industrial composting facilities. It is designed to ensure that compostable designed products, such as Ellspo Eco’s mailers, break down effectively and safely in these environments. Learn more about eco-friendly packaging from Why Sustainable Packaging Matters for Your Business.
Key Requirements of ASTM D6400
Biodegradation
To be certified under ASTM D6400, a product must biodegrade to at least 90% of its original material within 180 days in a commercial composting facility. This ensures that the product breaks down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass. For a deeper understanding of the testing standards for biodegradability and compostability, read Biodegradability and compostability testing by national and international standards by Ida Tarko.
Disintegration
The standard also requires that the product physically disintegrates within the composting process. Specifically, the product must break down to the extent that it is indistinguishable from the finished compost and can pass through a 2mm screen in less than 12 weeks. This ensures that the compostable item does not require additional sorting or separation during the composting process.
Eco-Toxicity
ASTM D6400 mandates that the compost resulting from the biodegraded product must not exhibit any toxicity that would inhibit plant growth. The certification includes tests to ensure that no harmful levels of heavy metals or other toxic substances are present in the final compost.
Material Composition
The standard specifies limits on the amount of renewable, non-renewable, and biodegradable components in the product. Products like Ellspo Eco’s compostable mailers are carefully formulated to meet these material composition requirements, ensuring they align with both compostability standards and environmental sustainability goals. Learn more about the advantages of compostable packaging in our article on the Top 5 Benefits of Using Compostable Mailers for Your Business.
Takeaway
For consumers and businesses, it offers assurance that the products they are using will perform as advertised when disposed of in the appropriate composting facilities. This transparency helps build trust and promotes responsibility. For Ellspo Eco, ASTM D6400 certification is more than just a label—it’s a commitment to reducing plastic waste and supporting sustainable practices.
FAQs
What types of products can be certified under ASTM D6400?
ASTM D6400 is applicable to products made from plastics, including packaging materials, food service items, and agricultural films. To receive certification, these products must meet specific criteria for biodegradation, disintegration, and eco-toxicity in industrial composting facilities.
How does ASTM D6400 differ from home composting standards?
ASTM D6400 is specifically designed for industrial and municipal composting facilities, which operate under controlled conditions such as higher temperatures and specific microbial activity. Home composting typically occurs at lower temperatures and varies widely in conditions, so not all ASTM D6400-certified products will compost effectively at home.
Why is it important to look for ASTM D6400 certification on compostable products?
ASTM D6400 certification provides assurance that a product will compost as expected in industrial settings. This certification is backed by rigorous testing and standards, giving consumers confidence that they are choosing products that truly support sustainable waste management practices. ASTM D6400 sets a clear benchmark for what it means to be compostable in a commercial setting, making it an important certification for companies and consumers alike who are committed to sustainability.
