GRI Test Method GM13* Test Methods, Test Properties and Testing Frequency for High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Smooth and Textured Geomembranes

Transcription

1 Geosynthetic Institute 475 Kedron Avenue Folsom, PA USA TEL (610) FAX (610) GEI GRI GSI GAI GCI GII GRI Test Method GM13* Revision 9: June 1, 2009 Revision schedule on pg. 11 Standard Specification for Test Methods, Test Properties and Testing Frequency for High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Smooth and Textured Geomembranes This specification was developed by the Geosynthetic Research Institute (GRI), with the cooperation of the member organizations for general use by the public. It is completely optional in this regard and can be superseded by other existing or new specifications on the subject matter in whole or in part. Neither GRI, the Geosynthetic Institute, nor any of its related institutes, warrant or indemnifies any materials produced according to this specification either at this time or in the future. 1. Scope 1.1 This specification covers high density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembranes with a formulated sheet density of g/ml, or higher, in the thickness range of 0.75 mm (30 mils) to 3.0 mm (120 mils). Both smooth and textured geomembrane surfaces are included. 1.2 This specification sets forth a set of minimum, physical, mechanical and chemical properties that must be met, or exceeded by the geomembrane being manufactured. In a few cases a range is specified. 1.3 In the context of quality systems and management, this specification represents manufacturing quality control (MQC). Note 1: Manufacturing quality control represents those actions taken by a manufacturer to ensure that the product represents the stated objective and properties set forth in this specification. 1.4 This standard specification is intended to ensure good quality and performance of HDPE geomembranes in general applications, but is possibly not adequate for the complete specification in a specific situation. Additional tests, or more restrictive *This GRI standard is developed by the Geosynthetic Research Institute through consultation and review by the member organizations. This specification will be reviewed at least every 2years, or on an asrequired basis. In this regard it is subject to change at any time. The most recent revision date is the effective version. Copyright 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2003, 2006 Geosynthetic Institute All rights reserved GM13 1 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

2 values for test indicated, may be necessary under conditions of a particular application. 2. Referenced Documents 2.1 ASTM Standards Note 2: For information on installation techniques, users of this standard are referred to the geosynthetics literature, which is abundant on the subject. D 792 Specific Gravity (Relative Density) and Density of Plastics by Displacement D 1004 Test Method for Initial Tear Resistance of Plastics Film and Sheeting D 1238 Test Method for Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer D 1505 Test Method for Density of Plastics by the DensityGradient Technique D 1603 Test Method for Carbon Black in Olefin Plastics D 3895 Test Method for Oxidative Induction Time of Polyolefins by Thermal Analysis D 4218 Test Method for Determination of Carbon Black Content in Polyethylene Compounds by the MuffleFurnace Technique D 4833 Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance of Geotextiles, Geomembranes and Related Products D 5199 Test Method for Measuring Nominal Thickness of Geotextiles and Geomembranes D 5397 Procedure to Perform a Single Point Notched Constant Tensile Load (SPNCTL) Test: Appendix D 5596 Test Method for Microscopic Evaluation of the Dispersion of Carbon Black in Polyolefin Geosynthetics D 5721 Practice for AirOven Aging of Polyolefin Geomembranes D 5885 Test method for Oxidative Induction Time of Polyolefin Geosynthetics by High Pressure Differential Scanning Calorimetry D 5994 Test Method for Measuring the Core Thickness of Textured Geomembranes D 6693 Test Method for Determining Tensile Properties of Nonreinforced Polyethylene and Nonreinforced Flexible Polypropylene Geomembranes D 7466 Test Method for Measuring the Asperity Height of Textured Geomembranes 2.2 GRI Standards GM10 GM 11 Specification for the Stress Crack Resistance of Geomembrane Sheet Accelerated Weathering of Geomembranes using a Fluorescent UVA Condensation Exposure Device GM13 2 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

3 2.3 U. S. Environmental Protection Agency Technical Guidance Document "Quality Control Assurance and Quality Control for Waste Containment Facilities," EPA/600/R93/182, September 1993, 305 pgs. 3. Definitions Manufacturing Quality Control (MQC) A planned system of inspections that is used to directly monitor and control the manufacture of a material which is factory originated. MQC is normally performed by the manufacturer of geosynthetic materials and is necessary to ensure minimum (or maximum) specified values in the manufactured product. MQC refers to measures taken by the manufacturer to determine compliance with the requirements for materials and workmanship as stated in certification documents and contract specifications. ref. EPA/600/R93/182 Manufacturing Quality Assurance (MQA) A planned system of activities that provides assurance that the materials were constructed as specified in the certification documents and contract specifications. MQA includes manufacturing facility inspections, verifications, audits and evaluation of the raw materials (resins and additives) and geosynthetic products to assess the quality of the manufactured materials. MQA refers to measures taken by the MQA organization to determine if the manufacturer is in compliance with the product certification and contract specifications for the project. ref. EPA/600/R93/182 Formulation, n The mixture of a unique combination of ingredients identified by type, properties and quantity. For HDPE polyethylene geomembranes, a formulation is defined as the exact percentages and types of resin(s), additives and carbon black. 4. Material Classification and Formulation 4.1 This specification covers high density polyethylene geomembranes with a formulated sheet density of g/ml, or higher. Density can be measured by ASTM D1505 or ASTM D792. If the latter, Method B is recommended. 4.2 The polyethylene resin from which the geomembrane is made will generally be in the density range of g/ml or higher, and have a melt index value per ASTM D1238 of less than 1.0 g/10 min. 4.3 The resin shall be virgin material with no more than 10% rework. If rework is used, it must be a similar HDPE as the parent material. 4.4 No post consumer resin (PCR) of any type shall be added to the formulation. GM13 3 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

4 5. Physical, Mechanical and Chemical Property Requirements 5.1 The geomembrane shall conform to the test property requirements prescribed in Tables 1 and 2. Table 1 is for smooth HDPE geomembranes and Table 2 is for single and double sided textured HDPE geomembranes. Each of the tables are given in English and SI (metric) units. The conversion from English to SI (metric) is soft. Note 3: Note 4: The tensile strength properties in this specification were originally based on ASTM D 638 which uses a laboratory testing temperature of 23 C 2 C. Since ASTM Committee D35 on Geosynthetics adopted ASTM D 6693 (in place of D 638), this GRI Specification followed accordingly. The difference is that D 6693 uses a testing temperature of 21 C 2 C. The numeric values of strength and elongation were not changed in this specification. If a dispute arises in this regard, the original temperature of 23 C 2 C should be utilized for testing purposes. There are several tests often included in other HDPE specifications which are omitted from this standard because they are outdated, irrelevant or generate information that is not necessary to evaluate on a routine MQC basis. The following tests have been purposely omitted: Volatile Loss Dimensional Stability Coeff. of Linear Expansion Resistance to Soil Burial Low Temperature Impact ESCR Test (D 1693) Wide Width Tensile Water Vapor Transmission Water Absorption Ozone Resistance Modulus of Elasticity Hydrostatic Resistance Tensile Impact Field Seam Strength MultiAxial Burst Various Toxicity Tests Note 5: There are several tests which are included in this standard (that are not customarily required in other HDPE specifications) because they are relevant and important in the context of current manufacturing processes. The following tests have been purposely added: Oxidative Induction Time Oven Aging Ultraviolet Resistance Asperity Height of Textured Sheet (see Note 6) Note 6: The minimum average value of asperity height does not represent an expected value of interface shear strength. Shear strength GM13 4 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

5 associated with geomembranes is both sitespecific and productspecific and should be determined by direct shear testing using ASTM D5321/ASTM D6243 as prescribed. This testing should be included in the particular site s CQA conformance testing protocol for the geosynthetic materials involved, or formally waived by the Design Engineer, with concurrence from the Owner prior to the deployment of the geosynthetic materials. Note 7: There are other tests in this standard, focused on a particular property, which are updated to current standards. The following are in this category: Thickness of Textured Sheet Puncture Resistance Stress Crack Resistance Carbon Black Dispersion (In the viewing and subsequent quantitative interpretation of ASTM D 5596 only near spherical agglomerates shall be included in the assessment). Note 8: There is a GRI test currently included in this standard. Since this topic is not covered in ASTM standards, this is necessary. It is the following: UV Fluorescent Light Exposure 5.2 The values listed in the tables of this specification are to be interpreted according to the designated test method. In this respect they are neither minimum average roll values (MARV) nor maximum average roll values (MaxARV). 5.3 The properties of the HDPE geomembrane shall be tested at the minimum frequencies shown in Tables 1 and 2. If the specific manufacturer's quality control guide is more stringent and is certified accordingly, it must be followed in like manner. Note 9: This specification is focused on manufacturing quality control (MQC). Conformance testing and manufacturing quality assurance (MQA) testing are at the discretion of the purchaser and/or quality assurance engineer, respectively. 6. Workmanship and Appearance 6.1 Smooth geomembrane shall have good appearance qualities. It shall be free from such defects that would affect the specified properties of the geomembrane. GM13 5 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

6 6.2 Textured geomembrane shall generally have uniform texturing appearance. It shall be free from agglomerated texturing material and such defects that would affect the specified properties of the geomembrane. 6.3 General manufacturing procedures shall be performed in accordance with the manufacturer's internal quality control guide and/or documents. 7. MQC Sampling 7.1 Sampling shall be in accordance with the specific test methods listed in Tables 1 and 2. If no sampling protocol is stipulated in the particular test method, then test specimens shall be taken evenly spaced across the entire roll width. 7.2 The number of tests shall be in accordance with the appropriate test methods listed in Tables 1 and The average of the test results should be calculated per the particular standard cited and compared to the minimum value listed in these tables, hence the values listed are the minimum average values and are designated as "min. ave." 8. MQC Retest and Rejection 8.1 If the results of any test do not conform to the requirements of this specification, retesting to determine conformance or rejection should be done in accordance with the manufacturing protocol as set forth in the manufacturer's quality manual. 9. Packaging and Marketing 9.1 The geomembrane shall be rolled onto a substantial core or core segments and held firm by dedicated straps/slings, or other suitable means. The rolls must be adequate for safe transportation to the point of delivery, unless otherwise specified in the contract or order. 10. Certification 10.1 Upon request of the purchaser in the contract or order, a manufacturer's certification that the material was manufactured and tested in accordance with this specification, together with a report of the test results, shall be furnished at the time of shipment. GM13 6 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

7 ENGLISH UNITS Table 1(a) High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Geomembrane Smooth Properties Test Test Value Testing Frequency Method 30 mils 40 mils 50 mils 60 mils 80 mils 100 mils 120 mils (minimum) Thickness (min. ave.) D5199 nom. Nom. Nom. Nom. Nom. Nom. Nom. Per roll lowest individual of 10 values 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% Density mg/l (min.) D 1505/D g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc 200,000 lb Tensile Properties (1) (min. ave.) yield strength break strength yield elongation break elongation D 6693 Type IV 63 lb/in. 114 lb/in. 84 lb/in. 152 lb/in. 105 lb/in. 190 lb/in. 126 lb/in. 228 lb/in. 168 lb/in. 304 lb/in. 210 lb/in. 380 lb/in. 252 lb/in. 456 lb/in. Tear Resistance (min. ave.) D lb 28 lb 35 lb 42 lb 56 lb 70 lb 84 lb 45,000 lb Puncture Resistance (min. ave.) D lb 72 lb 90 lb 108 lb 144 lb 180 lb 216 lb 45,000 lb Stress Crack Resistance (2) D hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. per GRIGM10 (App.) Carbon Black Content (range) D 1603 (3) % % % % % % % 20,000 lb Carbon Black Dispersion D 5596 note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) 45,000 lb Oxidative Induction Time (OIT) (min. ave.) (5) 200,000 lb (a) Standard OIT D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT D 5885 Oven Aging at 85 C (5), (6) D 5721 (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days D 3895 D 5885 per each formulation UV Resistance (7) GM 11 (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 1600 hrs (9) D 5885 (1) Machine direction (MD) and cross machine direction (XMD) average values should be on the basis of 5 test specimens each direction. Yield elongation is calculated using a gage length of 1.3 inches Break elongation is calculated using a gage length of 2.0 in. (2) The yield stress used to calculate the applied load for the SPNCTL test should be the manufacturer s mean value via MQC testing. (3) Other methods such as D 4218 (muffle furnace) or microwave methods are acceptable if an appropriate correlation to D 1603 (tube furnace) can be established. (4) Carbon black dispersion (only near spherical agglomerates) for 10 different views: 9 in Categories 1 or 2 and 1 in Category 3 (5) The manufacturer has the option to select either one of the OIT methods listed to evaluate the antioxidant content in the geomembrane. (6) It is also recommended to evaluate samples at 30 and 60 days to compare with the 90 day response. (7) The condition of the test should be 20 hr. UV cycle at 75 C followed by 4 hr. condensation at 60 C. (8) Not recommended since the high temperature of the StdOIT test produces an unrealistic result for some of the antioxidants in the UV exposed samples. (9) UV resistance is based on percent retained value regardless of the original HPOIT value. 20,000 lb per each formulation GM13 7 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

8 Table 1(b) High Density Polyethylene (HPDE) Geomembrane Smooth SI (METRIC) UNITS Properties Test Test Value Testing Frequency Method 0.75 mm 1.00 mm 1.25 mm 1.50 mm 2.00 mm 2.50 mm 3.00 mm (minimum) Thickness mils (min. ave.) D5199 nom. (mil) nom. (mil) nom. (mil) nom. (mil) nom. (mil) nom. (mil) nom. (mil) per roll lowest individual of 10 values 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% 10% Density (min.) D 1505/D g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc 90,000 kg Tensile Properties (1) (min. ave.) yield strength break strength yield elongation break elongation D 6693 Type IV 11 kn/m 20kN/m 15 kn/m 27 kn/m 18 kn/m 33 kn/m 22 kn/m 40 kn/m 29 kn/m 53 kn/m 37 kn/m 67 kn/m 44 kn/m 80 kn/m Tear Resistance (min. ave.) D N 125 N 156 N 187 N 249 N 311 N 374 N 20,000 kg Puncture Resistance (min. ave.) D N 320 N 400 N 480 N 640 N 800 N 960 N 20,000 kg Stress Crack Resistance (2) D hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. per GRI GM10 (App.) Carbon Black Content % D 1603 (3) % % % % % % % 9,000 kg Carbon Black Dispersion D 5596 note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) note (4) 20,000 kg Oxidative Induction Time (OIT) (min. ave.) (5) (a) Standard OIT (b) High Pressure OIT D 3895 D ,000 kg Oven Aging at 85 C (5), (6) D 5721 (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days D 5885 UV Resistance (7) (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 1600 hrs (9) D 5885 N. R. (8) 9,000 kg per each formulation per each formulation (1) Machine direction (MD) and cross machine direction (XMD) average values should be on the basis of 5 test specimens each direction Yield elongation is calculated using a gage length of 33 mm Break elongation is calculated using a gage length of 50 mm (2) The yield stress used to calculate the applied load for the SPNCTL test should be the manufacturer s mean value via MQC testing. (3) Other methods such as D 4218 (muffle furnace) or microwave methods are acceptable if an appropriate correlation to D 1603 (tube furnace) can be established. (4) Carbon black dispersion (only near spherical agglomerates) for 10 different views: 9 in Categories 1 or 2 and 1 in Category 3 (5) The manufacturer has the option to select either one of the OIT methods listed to evaluate the antioxidant content in the geomembrane. (6) It is also recommended to evaluate samples at 30 and 60 days to compare with the 90 day response. (7) The condition of the test should be 20 hr. UV cycle at 75 C followed by 4 hr. condensation at 60 C. (8) Not recommended since the high temperature of the StdOIT test produces an unrealistic result for some of the antioxidants in the UV exposed samples. (9) UV resistance is based on percent retained value regardless of the original HPOIT value. GM13 8 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

9 ENGLISH UNITS Table 2(a) High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Geomembrane Textured Properties Thickness mils (min. ave.) lowest individual for 8 out of 10 values lowest individual for any of the 10 values Test Method D 5994 nom. (5%) 10% 15% Test Value Testing Frequency 30 mils 40 mils 50 mils 60 mils 80 mils 100 mils 120 mils (minimum) nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% Asperity Height mils (min. ave.) (1) D mil 10 mil 10 mil 10 mil 10 mil 10 mil 10 mil every 2 nd roll (2) Density (min. ave.) D 1505/D g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc 200,000 lb Tensile Properties (min. ave.) (3) D ,000 lb yield strength break strength yield elongation break elongation Type IV 63 lb/in. 45 lb/in. 84 lb/in. 60 lb/in. 105 lb/in. 75 lb/in. 126 lb/in. 90 lb/in. 168 lb/in. 120 lb/in. 210 lb/in. 150 lb/in. 252 lb/in. 180 lb/in. Tear Resistance (min. ave.) D lb 28 lb 35 lb 42 lb 56 lb 70 lb 84 lb 45,000 lb Puncture Resistance (min. ave.) D lb 60 lb 75 lb 90 lb 120 lb 150 lb 180 lb 45,000 lb Stress Crack Resistance (4) D hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. per GRI GM10 (App.) Carbon Black Content (range) D 1603 (5) % % % % % % % 20,000 lb Carbon Black Dispersion D 5596 note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) 45,000 lb Oxidative Induction Time (OIT) (min. ave.) (7) (a) Standard OIT (b) High Pressure OIT D 3895 D ,000 lb Oven Aging at 85 C (7), (8) D 5721 (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days D 5885 UV Resistance (9) GM11 (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 1600 hrs (11) D 5885 per roll GM13 9 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09 per each formulation per each formulation (1) Of 10 readings; 8 out of 10 must be 7 mils, and lowest individual reading must be 5 mils; also see Note 6. (2) Alternate the measurement side for double sided textured sheet (3) Machine direction (MD) and cross machine direction (XMD) average values should be on the basis of 5 test specimens each direction. Yield elongation is calculated using a gage length of 1.3 inches Break elongation is calculated using a gage length of 2.0 inches (4) PNCTL test is not appropriate for testing geomembranes with textured or irregular rough surfaces. Test should be conducted on smooth edges of textured rolls or on smooth sheets made from the same formulation as being used for the textured sheet materials. The yield stress used to calculate the applied load for the SPNCTL test should be the manufacturer s mean value via MQC testing. (5) Other methods such as D 4218 (muffle furnace) or microwave methods are acceptable if an appropriate correlation to D 1603 (tube furnace) can be established. (6) Carbon black dispersion (only near spherical agglomerates) for 10 different views: 9 in Categories 1 or 2 and 1 in Category 3 (7) The manufacturer has the option to select either one of the OIT methods listed to evaluate the antioxidant content in the geomembrane. (8) It is also recommended to evaluate samples at 30 and 60 days to compare with the 90 day response. (9) The condition of the test should be 20 hr. UV cycle at 75 C followed by 4 hr. condensation at 60 C. (10) Not recommended since the high temperature of the StdOIT test produces an unrealistic result for some of the antioxidants in the UV exposed samples. (11) UV resistance is based on percent retained value regardless of the original HPOIT value.

10 SI (METRIC UNITS) Properties Thickness mils (min. ave.) lowest individual for 8 out of 10 values lowest individual for any of the 10 values Table 2(b) High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Geomembrane Textured Test Method D 5994 nom. (5%) 10% 15% Test Value Testing Frequency 0.75 mm 1.00 mm 1.25 mm 1.50 mm 2.00 mm 2.50 mm 3.00 mm (minimum) nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% nom. (5%) 10% 15% Asperity Height mils (min. ave.) (1) D mm 0.25 mm 0.25 mm 0.25 mm 0.25 mm 0.25 mm 0.25 mm every 2 nd roll (2) Density (min. ave.) D 1505/D g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc g/cc 90,000 kg Tensile Properties (min. ave.) (3) D ,000 kg yield strength break strength yield elongation break elongation Type IV 11 kn/m 8 kn/m 15 kn/m 10 kn/m 18 kn/m 13 kn/m 22 kn/m 16 kn/m 29 kn/m 21 kn/m 37 kn/m 26 kn/m 44 kn/m 32 kn/m Tear Resistance (min. ave.) D N 125 N 156 N 187 N 249 N 311 N 374 N 20,000 kg Puncture Resistance (min. ave.) D N 267 N 333 N 400 N 534 N 667 N 800 N 20,000 kg Stress Crack Resistance (4) D hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. 300 hr. per GRI GM10 (App.) Carbon Black Content (range) D 1603 (5) % % % % % % % 9,000 kg Carbon Black Dispersion D 5596 note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) note (6) 20,000 kg Oxidative Induction Time (OIT) (min. ave.) (7) (a) Standard OIT (b) High Pressure OIT D 3895 D ,000 kg Oven Aging at 85 C (7), (8) D 5721 (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 90 days D 5885 UV Resistance (9) GM11 (a) Standard OIT (min. ave.) D 3895 (b) High Pressure OIT (min. ave.) % retained after 1600 hrs (11) D 5885 (1) Of 10 readings; 8 out of 10 must be 0.18 mm, and lowest individual reading must be 0.13 mm; also see Note 6. (2) Alternate the measurement side for double sided textured sheet (3) Machine direction (MD) and cross machine direction (XMD) average values should be on the basis of 5 test specimens each direction. Yield elongation is calculated using a gage length of 33 mm Break elongation is calculated using a gage length of 50 mm (4) The SPNCTL test is not appropriate for testing geomembranes with textured or irregular rough surfaces. Test should be conducted on smooth edges of textured rolls or on smooth sheets made from the same formulation as being used for the textured sheet materials. The yield stress used to calculate the applied load for the SPNCTL test should be the manufacturer s mean value via MQC testing. (5) Other methods such as D 4218 (muffle furnace) or microwave methods are acceptable if an appropriate correlation to D 1603 (tube furnace) can be established. (6) Carbon black dispersion (only near spherical agglomerates) for 10 different views: 9 in Categories 1 or 2 and 1 in Category 3 (7) The manufacturer has the option to select either one of the OIT methods listed to evaluate the antioxidant content in the geomembrane. (8) It is also recommended to evaluate samples at 30 and 60 days to compare with the 90 day response. (9) The condition of the test should be 20 hr. UV cycle at 75 C followed by 4 hr. condensation at 60 C. (10) Not recommended since the high temperature of the StdOIT test produces an unrealistic result for some of the antioxidants in the UV exposed samples. (11) UV resistance is based on percent retained value regardless of the original HPOIT value. per roll per each formulation per each formulation GM13 10 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

11 Adoption and Revision Schedule for HDPE Specification per GRIGM13 Test Methods, Test Properties, Testing Frequency for High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Smooth and Textured Geomembranes Adopted: June 17, 1997 Revision 1: Revision 2: Revision 3: Revision 4: Revision 5: Revision 6: Revision 7: Revision 8: Revision 9: November 20, 1998; changed CB dispersion from allowing 2 views to be in Category 3 to requiring all 10 views to be in Category 1 or 2. Also reduced UV percent retained from 60% to. April 29, 1999: added to Note 5 after the listing of Carbon Black Dispersion the following: (In the viewing and subsequent quantitative interpretation of ASTM D5596 only near spherical agglomerates shall be included in the assessment) and to Note (4) in the property tables. June 28, 2000: added a new Section 5.2 that the numeric table values are neither MARV or MaxARV. They are to be interpreted per the the designated test method. December 13, 2000: added one Category 3 is allowed for carbon black dispersion. Also, unified terminology to strength and elongation. May 15, 2003: Increased minimum acceptable stress crack resistance time from 200 hrs to 300 hrs. June 23, 2003: Adopted ASTM D 6693, in place of ASTM D 638, for tensile strength testing. Also, added Note 2. February 20, 2006: Added Note 6 on Asperity Height clarification with respect to shear strength. Removed recommended warranty from specification. June 1, 2009: Replaced GRIGM12 test for asperity height of textured geomembranes with ASTM D GM13 11 of 11 Revision 9: 6/1/09

12 Geosynthetic Institute 475 Kedron Avenue Folsom, PA USA TEL (610) FAX (610) GEI GRI GSI GAI GCI GII Revision 5 2/1/11 Revision Schedule on pg. 9 GRI Test Method GM18* Standard Specification for Test Methods, Test Properties and Testing Frequencies for Flexible Polypropylene (fpp and fppr) Nonreinforced and Reinforced Geomembranes This specification was developed by the Geosynthetic Research Institute (GRI), with the cooperation of the member organizations for general use by the public. It is completely optional in this regard and can be superseded by other existing or new specifications on the subject matter in whole or in part. Neither GRI, the Geosynthetic Institute, nor any of its related institutes, warrant or indemnifies any materials produced according to this specification either at this time or in the future. 1. Scope 1.1 This specification covers flexible polypropylene geomembranes which are nonreinforced (fpp) in thicknesses of 30 mils (0.75 mm), 40 mils (1.02 mm), 60 mils (1.52 mm) and also scrim reinforced (f PPR) in thicknesses of 36 mils (0.91 mm ) and 45 mils (1.14 mm) and 60 mils (1.52 mm). 1.2 This specification sets forth a set of physical, mechanical and endurance properties that must be met or exceeded by the geomembrane being manufactured. 1.3 In the context of quality systems and management, this specification represents manufacturing quality control (MQC). Note 1: Manufacturing quality control represents those actions taken by a manufacturer to ensure that the product represents the stated objective and properties set forth in this specification. 1.4 This standard specification is intended to ensure good quality and performance of fpp and fppr geomembranes in general applications, but may not be adequate for the complete specification of a specific situation. Additional tests, or more *This Registered GRI standard is developed by the Geosynthetic Research Institute through consultation and review by the member organizations. This specification will be reviewed at least every twoyears, or on an asrequired basis. In this regard it is subject to change at any time. The most recent revision date is the effective version. Copyright 2009 Geosynthetic Institute All rights reserved GM18 1 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

13 restrictive values for the tests indicated, may be necessary under conditions of a particular application. 1.5 This specification does not cover installation considerations which are independent of the manufacturing of the geomembrane. 2. Referenced Documents 2.1 ASTM Standards Note 2: For information on installation techniques, users of this standard are referred to the geosynthetics literature, which is abundant on the subject. D 751 Test Methods for Coated Fabrics D 1004 Test Method for Tear Resistance (Graves Tear) of Plastic Film and Sheeting D 1603 Test Method for Carbon Black in Olefin Plastics D 2136 Test Method for Coated Fabrics Low Temperature Bend Test D 4218 Test Method for Determination of Carbon Black Content in Polyethylene Compounds by the MuffleFurnace Technique D 4439 Standard Terminology for Geosynthetics D 4833 Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance of Geotextiles, Geomembranes and Related Products D 4873 Guide for Identification, Storage and Handling of Geosynthetics D 5199 Test Method for Measuring Nominal Thickness of Geotextiles and Geomembranes D 5261 Test Method for Measuring Mass per Unit Area of Geotextiles D 5323 Practice for Determination of 2% Secant Modulus for Polyethylene Geomembranes D 5538 Standard Practice for Thermoplastic Elastomers Terminology and Abbreviations D 5617 Test Method for MultiAxial Tensile Test for Geosynthetics D 5884 Test Method for Determining the Tearing Strength of Internally Reinforced Geomembranes D 6636 Determination of Ply Adhesion Strength of Reinforced Geomembranes D 6693 Test Method for Determining Tensile Properties of Nonreinforced Polyethylene and Nonreinforced Flexible Polypropylene Geomembranes D 7004 Test Method for Garb Tensile Properties of Reinforced Geomembranes D 7238 Test Method for Effect of Exposure of Unreinforced Polyolefin Geomembrane Using Fluorescent UV Condensation Apparatus 2.2 GRI Standards GM 16 Test Method for Observation of Surface Cracking of Geomembranes GM18 2 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

14 GM 23 Test Method for Observation of Surface Chalking of Geomembranes (draft) 2.3 Other References 3. Definitions U. S. Environmental Protection Agency Technical Guidance Document "Quality Control Assurance and Quality Control for Waste Containment Facilities," EPA/600/R93/182, September 1993, 305 pgs. Koerner, R. M., Hsuan, Y. G.and Koerner, G. R. (2008), Freshwater and Geosynthetics: A Perfect Marriage, Proc. 1 st Pan American Geosynthetics Conference, March 25, 2008, Cancun, Mexico, IFAI Publisher, Roseville, MN (on CD). Manufacturing Quality Control (MQC) A planned system of inspections that is used to directly monitor and control the manufacture of a material which is factory originated. MQC is normally performed by the manufacturer of geosynthetic materials and is necessary to ensure minimum (or maximum) specified values in the manufactured product. MQC refers to measures taken by the manufacturer to determine compliance with the requirements for materials and workmanship as stated in certification documents and contract specifications. ref. EPA/600/R93/182 Manufacturing Quality Assurance (MQA) A planned system of activities that provides assurance that the materials were constructed as specified in the certification documents and contract specifications. MQA includes manufacturing facility inspections, verifications, audits and evaluation of the raw materials (resins and additives) and geosynthetic products to assess the quality of the manufactured materials. MQA refers to measures taken by the MQA organization to determine if the manufacturer is in compliance with the product certification and contract specifications for the project. ref. EPA/600/R93/182 Formulation, n The mixture of a specific combination of ingredients identified by type, properties and quantity. For flexible polypropylene geomembranes a formulation is defined as the exact percentages and types of resin(s), additives, and carbon black or colorants. Note 3: The geomembrane focused upon in this standard specification shall be formulated from virgin flexible polypropylene, in amounts greater than 85% by weight of the total polymer content. The remaining 15% shall be comprised of compatible polymers and/or pigments, stabilizers, and colorants that are suitably compounded to satisfy the physical, mechanical and endurance requirements in the specification; see ASTM Practice D 5538 for definitions. The GM18 3 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

15 formulations shall not contain fillers (such as talc or calcium carbonate) postconsumer (PCR) plastics, or any other ingredients that could interfere with the longterm durability of the geomembrane. No more than 10% rework resin is allowed for the production of the geomembrane and, if used, it shall be fully compatible with the parent material. Flexible Polypropylene, n. [per ASTM D4439] a material having a 2% secant modulus of less than 300 MPa (40,000 lb/in. 2 ) as determined by ASTM D5323 produced by polymerization of propylene with or without other alpha olefin monomers. Rework, n Polymer which has been converted into a geosynthetic material and then ground into chips for reintroduction into the extruder without leaving the plant, e.g., edge trim, outofspec thickness material, etc. Chalking, n. Formation of powdery deposit on the surface of a coating that has been exposed to some form of degradation. It is commonly found on coatings that have been exposed outdoors to sun and rain. The powder is in fact the pigment and extender that remains after the binder has been destroyed by weathering. (BS 3900H6: ISO 4628/6) Note 4: In addition to the coatings referred to above, chalking is also found in geomembranes when exposed outdoors and in geomembranes when incubated in laboratory weatherometers. Minimum Average, n. Many index test methods, such as thickness, mass, puncture, tear, etc., require a number of test readings to be taken across an individual roll or panel immediately after it is manufactured and then averaged accordingly. The particular standard calls out this practice in de tail. For a full field project, however, m any rolls or panels are required and the minimum average is the minimum of all the specific average values of the individual rolls or panels. In this regard, minimum average is invariably lower than the average of the average values which has sometimes been reported in the past. 4. Material Classification and Formulation 4.1 This specification covers flexible polypropylene geomembranes which are nonreinforced (fpp) and scrim reinforced, hence the designation fppr. 4.2 The flexible polypropylene resin from which the geomembrane is made shall conform to the definition presented in Section The flexible polypropylene resin shall be virgin material with no more than 10% rework. If rework is used, it must be an approved formulation similar to the parent material. 4.4 No post consumer resin (PCR) of any type shall be added to the formulation. GM18 4 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

16 4.5 For reinforced flexible polypropylene, the fabric reinforcement (also called the scrim ) shall be present so as to give the desired specification values to be presented in the next section. Note 5: Fabric scrims are sometimes 1000 denier in either a 9 9 weftinserted or a basket pattern (i.e., 9 or 10 yarns per inch of width in both machine and crossmachine directions). They are usually made from high tenacity polyester resin. Other patterns and polymers are also possible. Reinforced geomembranes are sometimes referred to as supported geomembranes. 5. Physical, Mechanical and Endurance Property Requirements 5.1 The geomembrane shall conform to the test property requirements prescribed in Tables 1(a) and 1(b). Table 1(a) is in U. S. Standard units and Table 1(b) is in SI (metric) units. The conversion from U. S. Standard to SI (metric) units is soft. It is to be understood that the table refers to the latest revision of the referenced test methods and practices. Note 6: Note 7: The tensile strength properties of unreinforced fpp geomembranes in this specification were originally based on ASTM D 638 which uses a laboratory testing temperature of 23 C 2 C. Since ASTM Committee D35 on Geosynthetics adopted ASTM D 6693 (in place of D 638), this GRI Specification follows accordingly. The difference is that D 6693 uses a testing temperature of 21 C 2 C. The numeric values of strength and elongation were not changed in this specification. If a dispute arises in this regard, the original temperature of 23 C 2 C should be utilized for testing purposes. There are several tests that could have been included in this specification which are omitted because it is felt that they are outdated, irrelevant, or generate information that is not necessary to evaluate on a routine MQC basis. The following tests have been purposely omitted: Volatile Loss Water Absorption Dimensional Stability Ozone Resistance Coeff. of Linear Expansion Modulus of Elasticity Resistance to Soil Burial Hydrostatic Resistance Low Temperature Impact Tensile Impact Wide Width Tensile Field Seam Strength Water Vapor Transmission Mullen Burst Carbon Black Dispersion Various Toxicity Tests Oxidative Induction Time (Standard and High Pressure) GM18 5 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

17 Note 8: There are several tests which are included in this standard because they are relevant and important in the context of current manufacturing processes. The following incubation methods and subsequent test methods have been purposely added: Ultraviolet Resistance by UV Fluorescent Method MultiAxial Burst Note 9: There are other tests in this standard, focused on a particular property, which are updated to current standards. The following are in this category: Tensile Strength Properties Mass per Unit Area Thickness Tear Resistance Puncture Resistance Ply Adhesion Note 10: There are several GRI tests currently included in this standard. Since these topics are not covered in ASTM standards, this is necessary. They are the following: Surface Cracking Surface Chalking (draft) 5.2 Details of the endurancerelated procedure, i.e., the UV Fluorescent Method per ASTM D7238 (mod. to 70 C) incubation procedure, are as follows: This simulated weathering exposure device uses UV fluorescent tubes at 0.78 (W/(m 2 nm) with 340 nm wavelength bulbs (UVA340) and measures the change in properties of the removed test specimens. The cycle cam is set to provide 24 hour cycles as follows: 20 hours UV cycle at 70 C followed by 4 hour condensation at 60 C. This procedure requires an initial and unexposed determination of the asreceived properties, i.e., before incubation. The nonreinforced specimens are evaluated for their retained strength and elongation behavior. The reinforced specimens are evaluated for their cracking and chalking behavior. Note 11: Earlier versions of this specification had the endurance criteria (oven aging and UV weathering) based on reduction of oxidative inductive time (OIT) from the as received value. This was subsequently found to be not fully reliable so this reinstated specification is now based completely on UV weathering using the fluorescent tube method (ASTM D 7238). The 20,000 light hour exposure time is admittedly long, however, is felt to be in keeping GM18 6 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

18 with both nonexposed and exposed applications of fpp and fppr geomembranes. Note 12: At an irradiance level of 0.78 W /(m 2 nm) and at 340 nm wavelength, the radiant exposure (RE) of a successful geomembrane passing 20,000 light hours is as follows: RE = ,000 (60 60) (1/1000) = 56,160 kj/(m 2 nm) at 340 nm Note 13: Earlier versions of this specification had the endurance criteria based on black versus other colors. This version does not distinguish on the basis of color and all colors must meet the criteria given. 5.3 As noted in the adoption and revision schedule included on Page 10, this specification was suspended in 2004 and then withdrawn in During this time and up to its reinstatement in 2009 considerable research on the durability criterion has been undertaken by the institute. T his effort resulted in the 20,000 light hour requirement per ASTM D7238 at 70 C; see Koerner, et al. (2008). Related research activities are given in the following notes: Note 14: There have been field reports that imposed tensile stresses have caused premature failures in both fpp and fppr geomembranes. At the institute we have evaluated two types of such stresses (wide width and over rollers) and not found issues in products that passed 20,000 light hours of incubation. That said, further research might still be considered. Note 15: There have been field reports that abrupt corn ers in the products during factory folding have caused premature failures in both fpp and fppr geomembranes. At the institute we have evaluated 90, 180, and corner (or dead) folds in numerous aggressive solutions at 50 C for 1000 hours and not found issues in products that passed 20,000 light hours of incubation. That said, further research might still be considered. Note 16: There have been field re ports that chlorine and chloride compounds (even in minute quantities) have caused premature failures in both fpp and fppr geomembranes. At the institute we have evaluated a number of chemical solutions (tap water, 1% sulfuric acid, 10 M calcium chloride, 10% Igepal, 10 M lime 10% hydrogen peroxide and 10% bleach solution) at 50 C for 1000 hours and not found issues in products that passed 20,000 light hours of incubation. That said, further research might still be considered. GM18 7 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

19 5.4 The various properties of the fpp and fppr geomembranes shall be tested at the minimum frequencies shown in Table 1. If the specific manufacturer's quality control guide is more stringent and is certified accordingly, it must be followed in like manner. Note 17: This specification is focused on manufacturing quality control (MQC). Conformance testing and manufacturing quality assurance (MQA) testing are at the discretion of the purchaser and/or quality assurance engineer, respectively. 6. Workmanship and Appearance 6.1 Smooth fpp geomembrane shall have good and uniform appearance qualities. It shall be free from such defects that would affect the specified properties of the geomembrane. 6.2 Scrim reinforced fppr geomembrane shall generally have a uniform undulating appearance. It shall be free from irregular yarns, yarns that are bunched together, yarns crossing over one another, and such defects that would affect the specified properties of the geomembrane. 6.3 For fppr geomembranes there is to be no exposed scrim except for roll ends. A in. (10 6 mm) edge encapsulation on each side is required. 6.4 General manufacturing procedures shall be performed in accordance with the manufacturer's internal quality control guide and/or documents. 7. MQC Sampling 7.1 Sampling shall be in accordance with the specific test methods listed in Table 1. If no sampling protocol is stipulated in the particular test method, then test specimens shall be taken evenly spaced across the entire roll width. 7.2 The number of tests shall be in accordance with the appropriate test methods listed in Table The average of the test results should be calculated per the particular standard cited and compared to the minimum value listed in these tables. For the entire lot, or complete field project, of rolls or panels the values listed are the minimum average values and are designated as "min. ave." (See Section 3 for definition) 8. MQC Retest and Rejection 8.1 If the results of any test do not conform to the requirements of this specification, retesting to determine acceptance or rejection should be done in accordance with the manufacturing protocol as set forth in the manufacturer's quality manual. GM18 8 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

20 9. Packaging and Marking 9.1 The geomembrane shall be rolled onto a substantial core or core segments and held firm by dedicated straps/slings, or other suitable means. The rolls must be adequate for safe transportation to the point of delivery, unless otherwise specified in the contract or order. 9.2 The geomembrane can also be folded in an accordion manner and placed on a wooden pallet. The entire package is to be protected by a cardboard enclosure and the entire assembly banded together with plastic strapping. 9.3 Identify the product per ASTM D4873, which also includes information on storage and handling. Note 18: It is considered to be good practice to archive samples of the final geomembrane. At the least, the manufacturer and owner should retain samples along with the cut sheets of original physical, mechanical, and endurance testing values. The samples should be stored in a sealed ziplocked polyethylene bag and properly labeled and dated. 10. Certification 10.1 Upon request of the purchaser in the contract or order, a manufacturer's certification that the material was manufactured and tested in accordance with this specification, together with a report of the test results, shall be furnished at the time of shipment. Note 19: The authentication and certification of the test methods, procedures, and resulting values of any or all properties in Table 1 should be communicated between th e parties involved. This can be between any, or all, of the following; manufacturer, specifier, purchaser, owner, and/or regulator. Note 20: The authentication that the precise formulation of the material shipped to the job site is the same as that originally tested should be communicated between the parties involved. By precise formulation is meant the type and amount of resin(s), as well as the types and amounts of all additives; recall Note 3. GM18 9 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

21 Adoption and Revision Schedule for fpp Specification per GRIGM18 Test Properties, Testing Frequency and Recommended Warrant for Flexible Polypropylene (fpp and fppr) Nonreinforced and Reinforced Geomembranes Adopted: February 18, 2002 Revision 1: Revision 2: June 23, 2003: Adopted ASTM D 6693, in place of ASTM D 638 for tensile strength testing. Also added Note 5. August 12, 2003: S.I. conversion errors in mass corrected Suspended: May 3, 2004 Withdrawn: January 22, 2007 Revision 3: Revision 4: Revision 5: March 20, 2009: Changed endurance criteria from OIT testing to percent strength and elongation retained (for nonreinforced fpp) and no cracking or chalking (for reinforced fppr) after 20,000 light hours of UVfluorescent exposure per ASTM D 7238 at 70 C. Numerous notes have been added as well as editorial corrections. Also, removed recommended warranty from the specification. June 18, 2009: Corrected calculation for radiant exposure (RE). February 1, 2011: Added 60 mil (1.52 mm) fpp and fppr to the specification. GM18 10 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11

22 Table 1(a) Flexible Polypropylene Nonreinforced (fpp) and Reinforced (fppr) Geomembranes U. S. Standard Units Property Test Method ASTM or GRI fpp 30 mils fpp 40 mils fpp 60 mil fppr 36 mils fppr 45 mils fppr 60 mil Testing Frequency (minimum) Mass per Unit Area lb/ft 2 (min. ave.) D ,000 lb Thickness mils (min. ave.) lowest individual specimen mils, nominal 10% Tensile Strength dumbbell (1) lb/in. (min. ave.) grab (1) lb (min. ave.) Tensile Elongation dumbbell (1,2) % (min. ave.) grab (1) % (min. ave.) D D6693IV D per roll 15,000 lb 15,000 lb D6693IV D751A ,000 lb 15,000 lb Multiaxial Elongation % D formulation Tear Resistance nonreinforced (1) lb (min. ave.) reinforced (1) lb (min. ave.) D1004 D ,000 lb 15,000 lb Puncture Resistance lb (min. ave.) D ,000 lb Ply Adhesion lb (min. ave.) D ,00 lb Low Temperature Flexibility F D2136 (3) formulation Carbon Black Content (4) % D ,000 lb Ultraviolet Light Resistance (5,6) (a) % strength retained after 20,000 hrs. or (b) % elongation retained after 20,000 hrs and (c) Surface Cracking Observation after 20,000 light hrs. (d) Surface Chalking (or Powdering) after 20,000 light hrs. 70 C D6693IV D6693IV GM16 GM none minor none minor (1) Test methods modified to 20 in./min. for unreinforced and 12 in./min. for reinforced (2) Calculation based on a 2.0 in. gage length (3) Using 1/8 in. mandrel for 4hours. (4) Applicable only to black geomembranes. Also D1603 is an acceptable method to determine carbon black content. (5) The conditions of the UV Fluorescent exposure method should be 20 hr. UV cycle at 75 C followed by 4 hr. condensation at 60 C. (6) See Section 5.2 for fppr geomembranes. per formulation GM18 11 of 12 Rev. 5 2/1/11