Standard Protocol
Standardized determination of bio-based content in plastic products relies on precise carbon isotope measurement. The provisions of iso 16620-2 define the methods for measuring the bio-based carbon content of synthetic resins, fibers, and composite materials. This standard is used by textile testing laboratories to verify the renewable content in bio-polyester, bio-nylon, and polyurethane fibers.
It establishes the benchmark for international bio-based claims in the textile sector.
Isotopic Analysis
The testing methodology compares the ratio of carbon-14 to total carbon in the polymer sample. Synthetic polymer materials derived from petrochemicals do not contain carbon-14, whereas modern bio-based materials carry a specific atmospheric isotopic concentration. By measuring this difference, the laboratory can calculate the percentage of bio-based carbon relative to total carbon.
This calculation is expressed as a bio-based carbon content percentage.
Apparel Verification
Garment buyers use this test to confirm that a supplier has utilized the specified amount of renewable raw materials in a fabric run. It operates as a verification tool against the fraudulent blending of cheaper petrochemical-based synthetics. The laboratory report provides an audit trail that can be used to satisfy retail regulators and consumer protection groups.
This verification is essential for brands that market high-performance apparel as environmentally friendly, as it provides an empirical shield against class-action lawsuits and regulatory fines for false advertising.
Limit Analysis
The standard measures bio-based carbon as a fraction of total carbon. It does not measure non-carbon elements. The test does not apply to non-polymeric components.
