ASTM D5660 – Phototoxicity Testing

The ASTM D5660 test method is the legacy standard test method for assessing the microbial detoxification of chemically contaminated water and soil using a toxicity test with a luminescent marine bacterium, Photobacterium phosphoreum.

Testing provides valuable information on how a chemical may contaminate water or soil while in use and after disposal.  Sensitive environments can be greatly affected by even a small amount of contamination.

Although great effort goes into preventing chemicals and other liquid materials from entering the environment, it is inevitable that the outside environment will be exposed to some level of contamination from both liquid and solid materials.

Toxicity testing plays an important part in determining how different liquid materials will impact their surrounding environment during use.

If the biologically treated material is disposed of in a way that potentially impacts surface waters and ground water, then it is recommended that the appropriate regulatory agency is contacted for guidance documents to determine the proper test species for evaluating potential environmental impact.

The results from the ASTM D5660 method are reported in terms of an inhibitory concentration (IC).

The quantitative reduction in light output of luminescent marine bacteria measures the inhibition.

Results from testing can aid in product development and support marketing claims and initiatives.   Many customers request Biodegradability and Toxicology testing to meet certain regulatory and market requirements.

For more information on Environmental Fate & Toxicology Testing, contact the lab at 847-483-9950 or info@situtest.com.