Biodegradability

Chemicals that are capable of being broken down (decomposed) rapidly by the action of microorganisms or other biological means (usually during sewage treatment). Biodegradability of detergents relates to the surfactant system in a particular cleaning product and usually deemed biodegradable if broken down to at least 90% H2O, CO2 and biomass within 6 months.

For detailed information on detergents and cleaning, see Cleaning and Detergents How-To.