in FOCUS –––Updating specs: An introduction from GMA

Geotextile manufacturers are keen to update the specifying community regarding specifications that are outdated and no longer acceptable in the industry. Two tests retired by industry approval standards continue to creep into the occasional specification: the Mullen Burst Test and the Puncture Strength Test. The Mullen test was devised in 1887 by J.W. Mullen as a measure for the puncture strength of paper. Eventually it was adopted by the textile industry along with the Puncture Strength Test. In the 1970s these tests were available to the geotextile industry.

However, since then industry experts have recognized that these tests are obsolete and currently prefer the Static (CBR) Puncture test GMA member companies are no longer publishing these tests on their QA, QC, or geotextile technical data. GMA is calling on all specifiers to bring their specifications into line with industry standards as described in the open letter to specifiers (see below). 

An open letter to specifiers of geosynthetics

Dear Specifier,

     In an attempt to keep those in the engineering and specifications community up-to-date on relevant changes in our ever evolving industry, we would like you to be aware that the general use of "cookie-cutter" type geosynthetic specifications is not a good practice. The test methods our members use on their geosynthetics are constantly revised or removed from accepted practice. The enclosed information summarizes some recent changes in the testing standards used for geosynthetics.

     Neither Mullen Burst Strength ASTM D3786 nor Puncture Strength ASTM D4833 is recognized by ASTM Committee D35 on geosynthetics as an acceptable geotextile test method. Also, AASHTO M288 has recently (M288-05) replaced ASTM D4833 with the Static (CBR) Puncture ASTM D6241.

     Starting in 2010, ASTM D4833 and D3786 will no longer be published by any of our members on their QA, QC or other geotextile technical data. Also, Geosynthetics magazine will highlight the geotextile specs for ASTM D4833 and note that they will be replaced by Static (CBR) Puncture ASTM D6241 in subsequent issues.

     Under the auspices of ASTM, within Committee D35, geosynthetic test methods and specifications are currently being developed, and will continue to be developed, to replace irrelevant textile index test methods. Our members provide leadership in the development of testing standards for Committee D35. 

     Please refer to the ASTM website and the GSI website for the most current version of the test methods that you are specifying. For example, the industry still occasionally sees defunct specifications from federal and state organizations that refer to test methods such as ASTM D1682-59T (1975), "Standard Methods of Test for Breaking Load and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (withdrawn 1991)" and the like. Additionally, if you are not specifying ASTM or GSI test method standards, check with the specific author of the standard you are specifying for the most current version. And check with GMA-member geosynthetic manufacturers through their websites, published data, or product management personnel to confirm that the product you have specified is currently being manufactured.

    Signed / (select) GMA members: 
    ACE Geosynthetics                                                                 SKAPS
    Belton Industries Inc.                                                               TechFab India Industries Ltd.
    Fiberweb                                                                                 TenCate Geosynthetics 
    GSE Lining Technologies Inc.                                                   Thrace-LINQ
    Propex Inc.                                                                             GEOSISTEMAS PAVCO S.A.

More progress on coal ash waste site regulation--GMA worked with Rep. Heath Shuler's office to develop a letter that was signed by three members urging a mandate for liners for coal-ash containment. The letter was sent to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson Nov. 20. The letter, signed by Rep. Henry Brown (R-S.C.), Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.), and Rep. Heath Shuler (D-N.C.) essentially states the position of the Geosynthetics Materials Association (GMA) to use "geocomposite liners at CCW (coal combustion waste) disposal sites." GMA Managing Director Andrew Aho wrote to GMA members: "We are pleased to report significant progress in our efforts to require EPA regulation of coal-ash waste sites, regulations that when in place will benefit ALL of our member companies."

GMA Members to Visit Washington, DC for support on Managing Coal Ash Sites

GMA members will visit Washington, D.C. on September 16 to meet with key congressional offices to seek their support for GMA's position on managing coal ash sites.  GMA members are nearly all active participates in the solid waste disposal and containment industry.  GMA like congress to require the US EPA to extend the existing solid waste regulation to cover the disposal of coal ash. DOWNLOAD: GMA WHITE PAPER ON COAL ASH CONTAINMENT