5.1 Outdoor exposure tests at one location may not be applicable to a project site at another location. This test method evaluates geotextiles under site-specific atmospheric conditions over an 18-month period. A degradation curve as per 10.8, based on strength, elongation, or modulus, or all of these, may be developed for the geotextile being evaluated.

5.2 This test method can be used for comparative testing of the degradation of geotextiles.

5.3 This test method is considered to be a performance test and as such the responsibility for its performance rests with the specifying or purchasing agency.

Note 1: The intent of this procedure is to provide the user of this test method and geotextiles a standard by which to evaluate weathering degradation in terms of site-specific conditions, not in terms of incident radiation and temperature. If desired, the user may want to have the necessary measurement and recording equipment at each site to do this. However, the expense of doing so at each site may be prohibitive. Therefore, this is not a specific requirement of this test method.

1.1 This test method covers evaluating the deterioration in tensile strength and strain after outdoor exposure.

1.2 The deterioration is assessed as a reduction in strength and strain at failure from the unexposed geotextile.

1.3 The specific location of the light and weather exposure is made on the basis of a site-specific decision between the parties involved.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.5 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.