INSTALATION DAMAGE

TRI performs installation damage testing services to characterize the construction damage imparted to a geosynthetic as a function of installation. TRI has adopted a convenient method for applying installation damage to geosynthetics that allows for exhumation of the test samples while avoiding unintended damage. The method was developed and reported by Watts and Brady (1994) of the Transport Research Laboratory in the United Kingdom. TRI uses this procedure as modified to generally conform to ASTM D 5818 requirements.

The following construction quality control measurements are followed during exposure:

Sieve analyses, as well as Proctor density and Atterburg limits analyses, as applicable, are performed on each soil/aggregate.

Lift thickness measurements are made after soil/aggregate compaction.

Moisture and density measurements are made on each lift using a nuclear density gage to confirm that densities >90% of modified Proctor (per ASTM D 1557) were being achieved.

Each geosynthetic is exposed to soils/aggregates chosen by the client from a range of available TRI maintained stockpiles having different gradations and representing fine grain sands to large angular gravels. Detailed particle size distribution curves and pictures are available for review.

Relevant Standards

ISO/TR 10722

Procedure for Simulating Damage During Installation

ISO 13437

Method for Installing and Extracting Samples in Soil, and Testing Specimens in the Laboratory

ASTM D 5818

Obtaining Installation Damage Samples)

Installation Damage
Connection and Pullout