5.1 This method is an index test and measures the force required to separate individual plies of a reinforced geomembrane. The acceptable value of adhesion will vary for different types of products. However, for a particular type of product, minimum values of ply adhesion can be determined and agreed to by producer and consumer, and both can monitor to ensure compliance with the agreed-upon value.

5.2 Disputes—In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical difference between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of this difference. At a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens which are from the same lot of material as those type in question and which are as homogeneous as possible. The test specimens should then be randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories should be compared using Student's t-test for unpaired data and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before the testing began. If a difference is found, either its cause must be found and corrected, or the purchaser and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results in the light of the known difference.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the adhesion strength (180° peel) between plies of reinforced geomembranes such as internally reinforced geomembranes and coated fabrics.

1.2 This test method is not intended for determining the strength of geomembrane seams or for determining the ply adhesion strength of geocomposite components (such as nonwoven geotextile bonded to geomembrane, or geotextile bonded to drainage core).

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

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

1.5 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.