Natural Seawater Qualities Along the Gulf of Thailand Coast Areas for Plastic Biodegradation Test According to ASTM D6691

Jantana Panpran, Mirantee Deecharern, Nopphawan Srasaengta, Chanchai Kahapana, Suttida Kongjay,
Sirorat Tungsatitporn¹, Anchana Pattanasupong¹

Material Biodegradation Testing Laboratory, Material Properties Analysis and Development Centre, Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand

Abstract: ASTM D6691 could enhance competitiveness, reduce trade barriers, and ensure compliance with management regulations regarding plastic waste in each country. The natural seawater was collected from four provinces along the Gulf of Thailand coast three times a year to monitor the environment and qualities for biodegradation test method development in accordance with ASTM D6691, including the verification of test method validity. The data were analyzed using the Duncan Multiple Range Test. The parameters include ambient temperature, sea surface temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen were significantly differences (p < 0.05). The test method validity was assessed by utilizing reference materials and inoculating with the collected natural seawater. The criteria were to achieve a biodegradation percentage not less than 70% within 10 to 90 days and align with the requirements of ASTM D6691. It could be considered that the natural seawater from these areas were suitable to be applied as an inoculum for biodegradation test although some parameters may be changed depending on time period. The test method could identify the biodegradable properties of materials in the seawater, providing an alternative solution to solve the plastic waste problem.

Keywords: ASTM D6691, Biodegradation, Cellulose chromatography grade, Plastic, Seawater.

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