The ability to maintain design function (for example, reinforcement, separation, barrier, etc.) or design properties (for example, tensile strength, chemical resistance, etc.), or both, of a geosynthetic may be affected by damage to the physical structure of the geosynthetic due to the rigors of field installation. The effect of damage may be assessed by analyzing specimens cut from sample(s) retrieved after installation in a representative test section. Analysis may be performed with visual examination or laboratory testing of specimens from the control sample(s), and from the exhumed sample(s).

A uniform practice for installing and retrieving representative sample(s) from a test section is needed to assess installation damage using project specific or generally accepted, representative materials and procedures. Damage of a specific grade and type of geosynthetic under specific installation procedures may be assessed with sample(s) exhumed from a full-scale test section.

1.1 This practice covers standardized procedures for obtaining samples of geosynthetics from a test section for use in assessment of the effects of damage immediately after installation caused only by the installation techniques. The assessment may include physical testing. This practice is applicable to any geosynthetic.

1.2 This practice is limited to full-scale test sections, and does not address laboratory modeling of field conditions. This practice does not address which test method(s) to use for quantifying installation damage.

1.3 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.