ASTM D6866 - Frequently Asked Questions
Standard Test Methods for Determining the Biobased Content of Solid, Liquid, and Gaseous Samples Using Radiocarbon Analysis
What are the differences between the new ASTM test method (ASTM D6866-16) and the previous version of the method (ASTM D6866-12)?
The biggest change is in the way the ASTM D6866-16 accounts for the percent modern carbon (pMC) and its annual degradation rates. In ASTM D6866-12, a static pMC correction factor of 0.95 was used. In ASTM D6866-16, the new correction factor will be 0.98 during 2016 and will then decrease linearly each year through 2019. The new correction factor is more accurate to the current global atmospheric carbon measurement and is harmonized with European and international standard methods.
In addition, there are new parameters regarding how to address testing products containing forestry materials and products consisting of multiple components (referred to as complex assembly products), further harmonizing them with the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
How comparable is the test result from ASTM D6866-12 to that of ASTM D6866-16?
While the overall analysis of biobased content will remain the same, the new correction factor noted above will result in somewhat different test results for a sample tested using both versions of the test method.
When will the BioPreferred Program incorporate ASTM D6866-16?
ASTM D6866-16 is projected to be published early summer 2016 and the BioPreferred Program will implement its use on the date of publication.
Where may I obtain a copy of ASTM D6866-16?
Once ASTM D6866-16 is published, you may purchase it from ASTM at http://www.astm.org/Standards/D6866.htm
My product was tested and certified recently using ASTM D6866-12. May I adjust the product’s certified biobased content with ASTM D6866-16?
The BioPreferred Program will not allow retroactive changes to be made to the reported biobased content of certified products tested before the ASTM D6866-16 publication date.
Who may I contact with further questions about ASTM D6866-16?
If you have additional questions, please contact the USDA BioPreferred Program support staff by email at help@usdabiopreferred.net or by phone at (202) 643-3287.