What is “non-biodegradable” and why is it important?
For our purposes, “non-biodegradable” is a classification for sorbents that is required for that sorbent to be put into a landfill. The sorbent is tested for it’s ability to remain in its natural biodegraded state and will not have a secondary release of the liquid originally sorbed. This is crucial for a sorbent to pass because if it fails the tests ASTM G22-76 and ASTM G21-90 (reference Test Data & Results section) it can not go into a landfill. If the sorbent is biodegradable it will leach or release the liquid into the landfill through the leachate water from normal weathering (rain, snow, etc.). In short, the sorbents that are non-biodegradable are better for the environment and will not release or leach the oils in a secondary release. As non-biodegradable absorbent, P.O.L. Sorb may be placed in a landfill (check federal, state, and local laws and regulations which set the guidelines for disposal in landfills).
