ASTM D6868 Standard Explained
Table of Contents
ASTM D6868 is a compostability standard used to evaluate polymeric coatings, inks, and adhesives that are applied to substrates such as paper or fiber-based packaging.
Unlike ASTM D6400, which applies to fully plastic products, ASTM D6868 focuses on compostable coatings and layers used on otherwise compostable substrates.
It is commonly referenced in the United States when assessing coated paper packaging, food-service items, and laminated compostable products intended for industrial composting.
This page explains what ASTM D6868 covers, how testing works, where it applies, and how it fits into compostable packaging compliance.
What Is the ASTM D6868 Standard?
ASTM D6868 is a standard specification that defines the requirements for plastics and polymeric materials used as coatings or additives on compostable substrates.
The standard ensures that these coatings:
- Biodegrade under industrial composting conditions
- Disintegrate without leaving visible plastic residues
- Do not negatively affect compost quality or plant growth
- Meet strict limits for heavy metals and eco-toxicity
ASTM D6868 is often used together with ASTM D6400 or EN 13432, depending on the base material and target market.
What Types of Products Use ASTM D6868?
ASTM D6868 typically applies to paper-based or fiber-based packaging that includes a thin polymer layer.
Common examples include:
- Paper cups with compostable linings
- Compostable paper food containers
- Paper bags with compostable coatings
- Fiber packaging with compostable barrier layers
- Adhesives or inks used on compostable paper products
The standard does not apply to fully plastic products.
Those products are usually evaluated under ASTM D6400 instead.
Key Testing Requirements Under ASTM D6868
To comply with ASTM D6868, coated materials must pass a series of compostability and environmental safety tests.
Biodegradation
The polymeric coating must biodegrade under controlled industrial composting conditions, converting into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass within defined timeframes.
Disintegration
During composting, coated materials must physically break down so that no visible plastic fragments remain in the finished compost.
Ecotoxicity and Compost Quality
The resulting compost must support healthy plant growth and meet limits for heavy metals and toxic substances.
These tests ensure that coated paper products do not introduce microplastic contamination into composting systems.
ASTM D6868 vs ASTM D6400
Although both standards relate to compostability, they apply to different product structures.
ASTM D6400 applies to fully plastic compostable products
ASTM D6868 applies to polymeric coatings on compostable substrates
A coated paper product may require compliance with both the base substrate standard and ASTM D6868 for the coating layer.
For a full comparison, see: ASTM D6400 standard explained
Relationship Between ASTM D6868 and BPI Certification
In the United States, ASTM D6868 is often referenced within the BPI certification framework for products that contain compostable coatings.
However, ASTM D6868 itself is not a certification program.
Final certification decisions are made by recognized certification bodies, such as BPI, based on complete product construction.
For certification facts and verification details, see: BPI certification
Composting Environment and Limitations
ASTM D6868 is designed for industrial composting systems operating at elevated temperatures.
Products evaluated under this standard:
- Are not intended for home composting
- Require access to commercial composting facilities
- May not be accepted in all local composting programs
Acceptance ultimately depends on regional composting infrastructure and waste management policies.
Common Compliance Risks
Products may fail ASTM D6868 compliance due to:
- Non-compostable polymer coatings
- Excessive coating thickness
- Incompatible inks or additives
- Assuming coated paper is compostable without testing
These risks highlight the importance of final product testing, not assumptions based on base materials alone.
FAQ
No. ASTM D6868 is a technical standard. Certification is granted by authorized certification bodies, not by ASTM itself.
No. The standard applies only to industrial composting conditions.
Only if they contain polymeric coatings, inks, or adhesives that require compostability verification.
Related Compliance Resources
Germany is not just a certification-driven market. It is an execution-driven market.
Successful entry requires:
- Clear understanding of EN 13432 limits
- Accurate labeling and claims
- Awareness of biowaste collection realities
- Alignment with German packaging law requirements
For B2B buyers and suppliers, regulatory understanding is just as important as material performance.
