Sample Degradation Test in Soil Environment

The degradation of materials in a soil environment is a critical area of study within environmental science and biotechnology. It encompasses the study of how various materials, particularly plastics and lubricants, break down when introduced into the soil matrix. Understanding this process is essential for assessing the environmental impact of these materials and developing sustainable alternatives.

Overview of Sample Degradation Test in Soil Environment

Assessing the biodegradation of materials in the soil environment is a critical aspect of developing sustainable products and waste management strategies. This type of testing evaluates the breakdown of solid and liquid materials, including plastics, lubricants, and other bio-based or biodegradable compounds, when exposed to the complex microbial communities and physicochemical conditions present in natural soils.

The degradation of these materials in soil can occur through a variety of mechanisms, including enzymatic hydrolysis, oxidation, and mineralization by soil microorganisms. Monitoring parameters such as oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide evolution, and the formation of biomass can provide insights into the extent and rate of biodegradation.

Fig. 1 Degradation analysis of bio-based film plastics in soil. (Slezak R., et al., 2023)

Applications of Sample Degradation Test in Soil Environment

Methods of Sample Degradation Test in Soil Environment

• Solid Materials (e.g., Plastics): The test materials, in the form of powder or film, are mixed with a soil matrix and incubated in bioreactors. Biodegradation is quantified by measuring the oxygen consumption (biochemical oxygen demand, BOD) or carbon dioxide evolution over time.
• Liquid Materials (e.g., Lubricants): The testing approach is adapted to accommodate non-volatile liquid samples, which are mixed with the soil matrix and monitored for biodegradation through carbon dioxide evolution or other relevant parameters.

These standard methods outline critical factors that must be controlled, such as soil characteristics (e.g., pH, organic matter content, nutrient balance), test conditions (e.g., temperature, moisture), and the use of appropriate reference materials to ensure the reliability and reproducibility of the test results.

Our Services

At CD BioSciences, we offer a wide range of sample degradation testing services in the soil environment to meet the diverse needs of our clients:

Plastic Biodegradation Testing

Evaluating the biodegradation of conventional and bio-based plastic materials, including films, fibers, and composites, in various soil environments.

Lubricant Biodegradability Testing

Assessing the biodegradation of lubricants, including those designed for forestry, agricultural, and other applications with increased environmental exposure.

Soil Microbial Community Analysis

Characterizing the diversity and activity of soil microorganisms to understand their role in the biodegradation process and the potential impact of test materials on soil health.

Ecotoxicity Assessments

Evaluating the potential adverse effects of test materials or their degradation byproducts on soil organisms and plant growth, ensuring the environmental safety of biodegradable products.

Customized Testing Protocols

Developing tailored test methods to address specific research questions or industry requirements, such as the evaluation of degradation under simulated field conditions or the screening of new biodegradable formulations.

The Types of Samples We Can Test

Our comprehensive suite of analytical capabilities and in-depth expertise in soil science and microbiology ensure that we can provide you with reliable, reproducible, and insightful results to support your product development and environmental sustainability goals. If you are interested in our services, please contact us for more information.

Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.