An increasing number of manufacturers are incorporating bio-based raw materials into their products. However, it is still necessary to be able to objectively demonstrate the proportion of carbon derived from biomass present in these materials.

That is precisely the purpose of the ASTM D6866 standard. Based on radiocarbon analysis, it measures the bio-based carbon content of many industrial products. But in what situations is this analysis actually useful? Which industries are involved? And in what cases should another standard be used instead?

In this article, we review the main use cases for the ASTM D6866 standard and the benefits it offers to manufacturers.

Why use the ASTM D6866 standard?

The use of renewable raw materials is on the rise in many industrial sectors. This trend is accompanied by a growing need to demonstrate, through independent scientific analyses, the actual bio-based content of products on the market.

The ASTM D6866 standard meets this objective by providing a recognized method for determining the proportion of carbon from renewable sources present in a material. The results obtained can be used to support quality assurance, certification, and regulatory compliance efforts.

Beyond regulatory requirements, this analysis also serves as a decision-making tool for manufacturers, whether they are looking to improve a formulation, compare several raw materials, or verify a product’s compliance.

When should the ASTM D6866 standard be used?

Develop a new bio-based product

During the research and development phases, manufacturers often seek to increase the proportion of renewable raw materials in their formulations.

Analysis in accordance with ASTM D6866 then makes it possible to accurately measure the impact of changes made to a product’s composition and to track changes in its bio-based carbon content throughout the development process.

Verify the compliance of a production run

A formulation validated in the laboratory may change during industrial production. Analytical tests ensure that the proportion of bio-based carbon remains in line with established targets despite variations in manufacturing or raw materials.

This approach helps ensure product quality before products are brought to market.

Inspect raw materials from suppliers

Technical data sheets or supplier declarations are not always sufficient to demonstrate the actual composition of a material.

Radiocarbon analysis provides an independent measurement that verifies the bio-based content of incoming raw materials and strengthens control over the supply chain.

Preparing for a certification or an audit

Proof of bio-based content is frequently required for certifications, solicitations for proposals, or environmental initiatives.

Results obtained in accordance with ASTM D6866 can be included in technical documentation and provide objective evidence during audits or compliance assessments.

What products can be analyzed?

The ASTM D6866 standard applies to a wide range of carbon-containing products. It is currently used in a variety of industries. Among its main applications are:

• plastics and biopolymers,
• paints, resins, and coatings,
• cosmetics,
• biofuels,
• biogas and CO₂ emissions,
• packaging,
• lubricants,
• detergents,
• chemicals,
• aromas, essential oils, and other products derived from biomass.

This wide range of applications makes the ASTM D6866 standard a benchmark for many industries committed to the transition to renewable materials.

Is ASTM D6866 still the most appropriate standard?

Although ASTM D6866 is the international standard for measuring bio-based content, it is not always the only applicable method. In fact, depending on the type of material, the target markets, or the requirements of the specifications, other standards may be more appropriate, particularly certain European standards dedicated to bio-based products (NF EN 16640, ISO 16620, ISO 21644, etc.).

The choice of method therefore depends on several criteria: the nature of the product, the purpose of the analysis, the certification sought, or applicable regulations. Working with a specialized laboratory makes it possible to select the most appropriate protocol from the outset of the project and avoid inappropriate analyses.