1.1 This test method covers the determination of the degree and rate of mineralization of carbon-based materials in high-solids anaerobic conditions. The test materials are exposed to a methanogenic inoculum derived from anaerobic digesters operating only on pretreated household or municipal waste. The anaerobic decomposition takes place under high-solids (more than 30% total solids) and static non-mixed conditions. 1.2 This test method is designed to be applicable to all carbon-based materials that are not inhibitory to the microorganisms present in anaerobic digesters operating on household or municipal waste. 1.3 Reports shall clearly state the percentage of net gaseous carbon generation for both the test and reference samples at the completion of the test. Furthermore, the test report shall not extrapolate the results past the actual duration of the test.

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Rationale

This is a mirrored test method with D5511, which is under the jurisdiction of D20 (Plastics). There is industry interest in using this test method for carbon-based materials that are not plastic, such as paper, fiber, and other such materials. Per discussions with the chairpersons of both D20 and D34 as well as ASTM staff, it was decided that D34 should ballot the relevant standards within D34 that mirror the procedure but expand the types of materials used as test specimens. These new test methods may not be verbatim as they may have alterations that are relevant to differing types of carbon-based materials and use terminology as relevant for waste management and D34.

The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.