CEC-L-33-A-93 test for investigation of the biodegradability of lubricants; CEC-L-33-A-93 Test zur biologischen Abbaubarkeit von Schmierstoffen

At the moment the CEC-L-33-A93 test methods is the only one which was developed for determination of the biodegradability of poorly water soluble lubricants. The test method is suitable for the test of composed finished products and not only for pure substances. The lecture shall show, to what extent the CEC-L-33-A93 can be distinguished from other test methods for biodegradability. The relative good repeatability of the test combined with a low demand on special lab equipment is the reason why the CEC-L-33-A93 is willingly used in the field of research and development. This is clearly shown by the broad use in the mineral oil industry with a wide variety of lubricants. The fact that eco-labels like the German Blaue Engel or the Euromargerite do not demand results according to CEC-L-33-A93, does not mean the test has a low relevance for the environment. (orig.)