This project was for the purpose of developing and evaluating a suitable screening-level laboratory method for the evaluation of the potential that an organic compound might be susceptible to anaerobic biodegradation (methanogenesis) in the environment. As it developed, the project focused on a method under consideration by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the report contains several recommendations as appropriate, for the modification of the draft ASTM method. Overall, the report, with the recommended modifications, consists of a single-lab validation of the basic method. The method also appears as one of the EPA Office of Toxic Substances Chemical Fate Test Guidelines. In the method, a chemically defined anaerobic medium containing resazurin, as an oxidation/reduction indicator, and 10 primary anaerobic digestor sludge are dispensed in 100-mL portions into serum bottles. Selected bottles are supplemented with test substance at a concentration equivalent to 50 mg/L as organic carbon. Gas production is measured at appropriate intervals. The extent of biodegradation is determined by comparing gas production from blank control bottles and bottles containing the test substance.

"September 1981." Chiefly tables. "Contract no. 68-01-5043." Includes bibliographical references (pages 36-37). Microfiche.