OECD 302 Natural Biodegradability Tests

EUROLAB, together with its state-of-the-art accredited laboratories and expert team, provides precise and rapid testing services within the scope of OECD 302 testing. Biodegradation is one of the most important factors in assessing the environmental fate of chemicals. Substances entering the aquatic environment through wastewater come into contact with wastewater treatment microorganisms and therefore form the basis for the assessment of aquatic biodegradation.

The aim of this study is to monitor the degree of bio-elimination of a test item in a natural biodegradation test. The test is usually only performed after failing the ready-made biodegradability test. The test item is normally exposed to activated sludge from the aeration tank of a domestic wastewater treatment plant for 28 days. Biodegradation is determined by monitoring DOC (Dissolved Organic Carbon) on test items in incubation bottles during exposure.

Native biodegradability testing is commonly requested for test materials that will likely or knowingly not exceed 301 ready biodegradability requirements.

Biodegradation percentages above 20% can be considered as evidence of natural biodegradability, while biodegradation percentages above 70% can be considered as evidence of ultimate biodegradability. This indicates that the material is unlikely to remain in the environment indefinitely.

EUROLAB assists manufacturers with OECD 302 test compliance. Our test experts, with their professional working mission and principles, provide you, our manufacturers and suppliers, the best service and controlled testing process in our laboratories. Thanks to these services, businesses receive more effective, high-performance and quality testing services and provide safe, fast and uninterrupted service to their customers.