The standard EN ISO 21644 defines analytical methods for determining the biobased fraction of solid recovered fuels (SRF). This study is a key issue for manufacturers engaged in an energy transition and regulatory compliance process. Through rigorous analysis, this standard guarantees the traceability and quality of materials used in industrial processes.
In this article, we explore the specifics of EN ISO 21644 and its implications for industrial applications. You will also discover the imperatives of bringing your processes into line with this standard. Finally, we'll look at the importance of laboratories and their analyses in helping manufacturers adapt their processes to comply with EN ISO 21644.
Understanding EN ISO 21644 and its implications for industry
The EN ISO 21644 standard establishes a rigorous methodological framework for the analysis of solid recovered fuels (SRF), in particular by determining their biomass content. This essential standard for manufacturers committed to the energy transition ensures accurate assessment of the environmental impact of SRF, while facilitating their integration into demanding industrial processes.
Definition and objectives of EN ISO 21644
The standard ISO 21644 specifies the methodologies for assessing the proportion of biomass contained in these fuels. It was adopted in order to harmonize CSR analysis practices and replaces the old standard EN 15440, improving the accuracy of results and their comparability between laboratories.
Its main objective is to ensure the traceability and conformity of CSR used in energy-intensive industries (including cement kilns and thermal power plants). This standard was born out of a desire to standardize methods to better control the carbon footprint of SRF and optimize their energy recovery.
CSR analysis methods according to ISO 21644
The ISO 21644 standard recommends various analytical and sample preparation techniques to determine the bio-based content of a CSR:
- Carbon 14 (14C) analysis : this is the reference method as it allows for the quantification of biomass content by distinguishing between fossil carbon and bio-based carbon (here, 14C is proportional to the biomass content of the SRF). This method is suitable for all types of samples and uses a material quantity ranging from 0.4 to 2 g for a nominal size less than or equal to 1 mm.
- Selective dissolution (SDM) : is used to isolate certain material fractions and refine the quantification of biobased elements. It is based on the property of biomass to be dissolved in a sulfuric acid/hydrogen peroxide mixture. This method requires at least 5 g of material for a maximum nominal particle size of 1 mm or less.
- The manual sorting method (Msort): although more empirical (based on visual examination of fractions and their separation according to their nature and origin), it remains a complementary approach in certain cases. This method requires a sample quantity in accordance with ISO 21645 (upon receipt), according to the calculations of EN 15443.
The use of these methods guarantees a precise assessment of the sustainability of SRFs and their compliance with environmental regulations. They are essential for manufacturers wishing to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and improve their carbon footprint.
Where to get analyze my CSR ?
Specialized laboratories, such as CIRAM, offer analyses that comply with current standards. Using advanced techniques like mass spectrometry and radiocarbon dating, they ensure reliable measurement of the biomass content in SRF and other industrial materials. This expertise allows manufacturers to optimize their processes and guarantee compliance with regulatory requirements.
CSR requirements and compliance with EN ISO 21644
The ISO 21644 standard imposes strict criteria for sample preparation, analysis methodology, and result interpretation to ensure the reliability of analysis results and compliance with regulatory requirements. Manufacturers must rely on these standardized procedures to avoid observed discrepancies and ensure measurement repeatability.
Criteria for CSR
Sample preparation is a key step to ensure actionable results are obtained. ISO 21645 standard governs sampling and storage protocols to guarantee the representativeness of the analyzed CSRs. In addition, ISO 21646 specifies the methods for chemical and physical characterization of samples.
The minimum quantities required vary according to the technique used:
- For a carbon-14 analysis, a sample of a few grams is generally sufficient.
- Physico-chemical methods require larger volumes, up to several hundred grams.
The expression of the results is standardized: the biosourced fraction of a RSC can be indicated in terms of carbon content, mass or energy content.
Sector challenges and applications for manufacturers
Compliance with CSR standards represents a strategic challenge for several sectors:
- Cement industry and thermal power plants: they must demonstrate the sustainability of their energy sources. Highly energy-intensive, their activities are particularly exposed and controlled.
- Waste recycling: notably through the pyrolysis and gasification of bio-based materials. This sector is at the heart of environmental challenges.
- Agri-food: this sector uses bio-based carbon measurements to assess product authenticity and compliance with environmental labels.
The rigor of ISO 21644, ISO 21645 and ISO 21646, which govern sample preparation, analysis methods and interpretation of results, is an essential pillar in guaranteeing the traceability, comparability and regulatory compliance of CSR. These standards provide manufacturers in the energy, recycling and agri-food sectors with a reliable framework for enhancing their environmental and operational performance.
To achieve this, manufacturers can rely on specialized analytical laboratories in the Industry which use these methods and support teams in integrating them into their business processes.
The key role of analysis laboratories like CIRAM for manufacturers
It is in the interest of manufacturers to rely on specialized laboratories to guarantee the conformity of their RSCs and bio-based materials. Laboratory analysis provides accurate, usable results, facilitating certification processes and regulatory validation. As a leader in radiocarbon analysis, CIRAM supports manufacturers by providing them with reliable data to assess the bio-sourced content of their materials and thus ensure their compliance.
Laboratory expertise in the analysis of bio-based materials
Analytical laboratories play a fundamental role in authenticating the bio-based fraction of compositions and validating CSRs. Their expertise relies on advanced technologies that allow for:
- Quantify the contentof biomassin WtE and other materials using carbon 14 analysis, which distinguishes fossil carbon from biogenic carbon.
- Verify the compliance and origin of bio-based materials, particularly bio-based ingredients and other raw materials used in the industry.
Thanks to these analyses, manufacturers can ensure the traceability of ingredients and guarantee their customers and partners that their materials comply with current standards.
Scientific support for compliance and innovation
Support from a laboratory like CIRAM is not limited to simple sample analysis. It extends to a genuine validation and optimization process for manufacturers seeking to comply with regulations while innovating their processes.
Analysis methods and sampling
The process of analyzing CSRs and bio-based materials begins with rigorous sampling, a key step to ensure actionable results. CIRAM applies protocols compliant with ISO 21645 and ISO 21646 standards in order to ensure:
- The representativeness of samples: helps avoid biases related to material variability.
- Proper sample preparation: aims to ensure their preservation and transport in optimal conditions.
- Volumes suitable for analysis methods: a sample of 50 to 100 mg is generally sufficient for carbon 14 analysis.
Helping manufacturers achieve certification and compliance
In addition to analyses, CIRAM supports industrial clients on several levels:
- Validation and traceability of ingredients:ensures transparency in supply chains and compliance with environmental and bio-based certifications.
- Support for certification: in particular for the standards NF EN 16640 and ASTM D6866, which govern the verification of the bio-based carbon content of materials.
Why do manufacturers need a laboratory like CIRAM?
In an increasingly stringent regulatory environment, manufacturers need to ensure that their materials meet sustainability and eco-responsibility criteria. Thanks to its expertise in radiocarbon and isotope analysis, CIRAM enables manufacturers to :
- Access to precise and internationally recognized results via ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation (scope available on www.cofrac.fr).
- Meet the requirements of environmental labels and certification standards.
- Secure their processes by guaranteeing the quality and traceability of their bio-based materials.
The EN ISO 21644 standard is therefore essential for manufacturers who wish to guarantee the quality and compliance of their solid recovered fuels (SRF). It allows manufacturers to accurately assess the bio-based fraction of their materials through its objective of standardizing analysis methods, in order to optimize their environmental impact and regulatory compliance. Would you like to have your SRFs analyzed or be supported in complying with the EN ISO 21644 standard? Request a study from the CIRAM teams to ensure the compliance and traceability of your materials.
