The chemical characteristics of a product or material determine how safe it is. Most important in this respect are the heavy metals and fluorine, as these can have a negative effect on the environment. Normec OWS offers heavy metals and fluorine testing as a standalone service and also as a standard part of composting and certification testing. We can test for 11 different kinds of heavy metal and fluor.
Normec OWS offers the flexibility to either carry out a full test for all 11 heavy metals and fluor, both soluble and insoluble, or to target them individually. The heavy metals include zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), selenium (Se), arsenic (As), and cobalt (Co). The results of heavy metals & fluorine testing by Normec OWS are globally accepted.
Based on your individual requirements, we have the capabilities in-house to test according to all possible standards. Our standardized testing procedures comply with the different standards for Europe (EN 13432), France (NF T51-800), USA (ASTM D6400 and ASTM D6868), and Canada (CAN/BNQ 0017-088). Each standard has its own set of heavy metal and fluor limits, with EN 13432 being the most stringent.
Yes, we are recognized by DIN CERTCO in line with ISO 17025. This accreditation covers all test procedures and standards with regard to compostability and biodegradation. Additionally, we are ISO 17025 accredited by BELAC for our compost analyses and also recognized by TÜV Austria. Normec OWS is also ISO 17020 accredited for inspection services and ISO 14001 approved for environmental management. View our recognitions & certificates.
Our main offices are located in Ghent, Belgium. We also have a subsidiary located in Kettering, Ohio to serve the needs of our American customers.
Testing duration depends on the specific type of test and the product itself. This can range from a couple of weeks for material characteristics testing, to months or even years for biodegradation testing. As these are microbial processes, we cannot predict the exact duration beforehand.
