4.1 This guide is intended as a starting place for those wishing to investigate the chemical compatibility of the clay portion of a geosynthetic clay liner to test liquids. Within the scope of this guide, the clay portion of a geosynthetic clay liner that is chemically compatible with a test liquid may be expected to maintain its swelling characteristics. Conversely, the clay portion of a geosynthetic clay liner that is incompatible with a test liquid may be expected not to maintain its swelling characteristics. In instances where the compatibility of the clay portion of a GCL is questionable, additional hydraulic testing under the expected site conditions may be warranted.

1.1 This guide covers procedures and test methods that can be used in the evaluation of the ability of the clay portion of a geosynthetic clay liner to resist change due to exposure to liquids. These liquids may come from a site, or be generated in a laboratory from a site-specific soil.

1.2 The scope of this guide is limited to short-term screening and is not intended to replace evaluation procedures that measure a performance property such as EPA 9100, Test Method D6766, or other suitable ASTM standards as they become available. This guide does not address potential adverse effects of wet-dry cycling.

1.3 This guide applies to the clay component of a GCL. The swell index and fluid loss tests referenced in Section 8 may not be applicable to clay with polymer or other chemical treatment. However, the flux tests referenced in Section 9 are applicable to clay with polymer or other chemical treatment. It is acknowledged that some use the swell index or fluid loss procedure, or both, on clay with polymer or other chemical treatment. However, such use of the standard would be considered a modification of the procedure and must be reported as such. The synthetic carrier components are covered independently as described in Practice D5322.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

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.