The criteria for compostability under ASTM D6400 include:
Biodegradability: The material must break down by 90% within 180 days in a commercial composting facility. Disintegration: The plastic must physically fragment and decompose such that it is not visually distinguishable in the compost. Ecotoxicity: The compost should not have any adverse effects on plant growth or soil quality.
These criteria ensure that compostable plastics do not pose a toxic threat during or after the composting process.