October 3, 2024
Many companies are looking for new ways to become more environmentally conscious, and one common aspect of this movement is the push for biodegradable products. But in order for these products to actually be considered biodegradable in a satisfactory manner, certain international standards need to be met.
What is ASTM?
ASTM stands for American Society for Testing and Materials. ASTM International is an organization that develops international voluntary consensus standards for testing methods, products, and materials. These standards are defined by technical industry experts with the goal of improving people’s everyday lives.
ASTM was first used to develop standards for the booming railroad industry in the United States but now serves 90 industries around the globe.1 Some of these standards involve plastics, paints, metals, textiles, energy, and more.
What is ASTM D6400?
ASTM D6400 is a biodegradation test standard created by ASTM International. It is often used with plastics and products made from plastics.
In order for something to be considered an ASTM D6400-certified product, it must compost in a satisfactory manner in municipal and industrial aerobic composting facilities. That is, it must be biodegradable at a rate that is comparable to other compostable items.2 This standard has been applied to plastics, paper products, food packaging, and now glues.
Are There ASTM D6400-Certified Glues?
Traditionally, glues have been regarded as not being very environmentally friendly, but many companies have been looking for an adhesive solution that is safer for the earth and more biodegradable.
Recently, there has been a breakthrough. New advances in the adhesives industry have led to the development of products that have been tested and seen to have met ASTM D6400 adhesive standards. These hot melt adhesives are most often used in packaging applications but can have other uses and come in different forms.
1/2" Biodegradable Glue Sticks
These glue sticks provide an environmentally conscious product for precision applications with cardboard and paper substrates. They are great for applications that are smaller or only require a low adhesive output.
5/8" Environmentally Friendly Glue Sticks
These larger ASTM D6400 tested glue sticks are great for applications with higher adhesive outputs or involving heavier substrates. They also meet FDA 175.105 standards for indirect food contact.
These slugs are larger than the glue sticks and made for high-volume adhesion. They are great for large-scale and industrial packaging applications involving paper or cardboard substrates.
Biodegradable Bulk Hot Melt Adhesive
For use in bulk hot melt systems, this particular product comes in 44-pound cartons. Its large size is made to minimize the negative impact on the environment for large-scale applications.
If you are not sure which product to use or just want to learn more about what can be considered an ASTM D6400-certified glue, we want to help. We have adhesive experts available to offer product recommendations. We also offer adhesive lab testing services to see if one of these products will work for your specific application.
Sources:
- ASTM International-About Us
- ASTM International-Standard Specification for Labeling of Plastics Designed to be Aerobically Composted in Municipal or Industrial Facilities
