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Environmental fate & pathways

Biodegradation in water: screening tests

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Description of key information

In an enhanced biodegradation test based on an OECD 301B test with a prolonged exposure time of 60 days the degradation of 1-(vinyloxy)octadecane was between 40 and 50%. In respirometric tests using industrial activated sludge, a biodegradation degree of 30 to 60% was determined. Hence the substance is not readily biodegradable but may be considered as inherent biodegradable without fulfilling specific criteria.

Key value for chemical safety assessment

Biodegradation in water:
inherently biodegradable, not fulfilling specific criteria

Additional information

In an enhanced biodegradation test based on an OECD 301B test with a prolonged exposure time of 60 days the degradation of 1-(vinyloxy)octadecane was between 40 and 50% (BASF SE, 2012). Hence the substance is not readily biodegradable. At test termination biodegradation was still ongoing without reaching a plateau phase. Based on the very low water solubility, the bioavailability of 1 -(vinyloxy)octadecane might be limited and therefore reduce the biodegradation velocity. Biodegradation processes were also demonstrated in two respirometric tests conducted in 1979 by BASF AG. In one of the tests an emulsifier was used whereas the second one was conducted without a vehicle. In both tests industrial sludge was used and hence the possibility of using adapted microorganisms can not be ruled out. Nevertheless in both tests teh degradation degree ranged from 30 to 60 % after 7 days of exposure, also indicating a potential for complete biodegradation.

In conclusion 1 -(vinyloxy)octadecane is not readily biodegradable according to OECD criteria but complete biodegradation is possible after prolonged exposure and may be considered as inherently biodegradable without fulfilling specific criteria.