5.1 As explained in Test Method D4595, narrow geotextile specimens demonstrate the tendency to contract (neck down) in the gage area when under stress. The wider width specimen will minimize this phenomenon in seams during strength testing. The results achieved in this test method can more accurately correlate to the seam strength values anticipated in the field.

5.2 This test method can be used to measure the seam strength of geotextiles, and may also be used for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of geotextiles.

5.3 This test method can be used to help determine seam design engineering for the geotextiles being evaluated.

5.4 This test method is not intended to address long term performance of a seam nor any of its components such as the thread or the adhesive. However, it can be used as an index value to monitor the behavior of a seam exposed to any particular exposure, in example as part of an effort to assess its long term performance.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the seam strength of geotextiles, using a wide specimen.

1.2 The long term performance of a seaming technique is not addressed by this test method. This test method will provide data to indicate the short term seam strength that can be achieved for each particular geotextile and seam assembly construction. To assess the long term performance of a seaming technique, it is possible to use Practice D6389, using this test method to determine the anticipated strength reduction in the initial, short term wide-width tensile strength (Test Method D4595) results.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.