Index and performance testing of geotextiles

The tests referred to in the description of the functionalities are generally used in two different ways. Essentially, they are employed to generate data that can be utilised for product comparisons, specifications, quality control purposes, and as an indicator of how a product might survive during the installation process, and of its long term effectiveness. 

A common practice is to subject a geosynthetic product to a required test while it is in contact with the particular soil or granular material in which it is to be installed. Such tests are termed performance tests and are used to obtain a direct assessment of the geosynthetic properties under simulated geotechnical conditions of a site specific installation. Performance tests are not normally used in specifications rather, a geosynthetic should be 

Within the European Union (EU),the Construction Products Directive -89/106/EEC has resulted in minimum standard test requirements for any geotextile that is to be utilised for the possible functions described above. These are referred to as the CE marking requirements. All manufacturers of building and construction products in the EU are required to comply with the CE marking requirements and provide the appropriate test certificates. This became mandatory for geotextiles in October 2002. The CE mark is therefore seen as a guarantee that, for application of a particular functionaUty, the properties of a product will match those claimed by its manufacturer. 

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