ASTM D5747/D5747M-21

Standard Practice for Tests to Evaluate the Chemical Resistance of Geomembranes to Liquids

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice is intended to provide a list of standard procedures for test programs investigating the chemical resistance of a geomembrane with a liquid waste, leachate, or chemical. This practice should be used in the absence of other specifications required for the particular situation being addressed.  
5.2 Chemical resistance, as used in this practice, is not a quantifiable term. This practice is intended to provide a basis of standardization for those wishing to compare or investigate the chemical resistance of a geomembrane. It should be recognized that chemical resistance is a user judgment evaluation and that this practice does not offer procedures for interpreting the results obtained from test procedures contained in this practice. As a practice, this does not produce a test result.
Note 1: This practice is for the chemical resistance assessment of geomembranes and is written in parallel to similar standard practices for geotextiles, geonets, geogrids, geopipes, and geosynthetic clay liners. Each standard is to be considered individually for the geosynthetic under investigation and collectively for all geosynthetics exposed to the potentially harsh chemical environment under consideration.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the testing of geomembranes for chemical resistance with liquid wastes, prepared chemical solutions, and leachates derived from solid wastes.  
1.2 This practice covers procedures for testing semi-crystalline, amorphous, elastomeric, and fabric-reinforced geomembranes.  
1.3 This practice is intended to be used in conjunction with Practice D5322 or D5496, or both. The scope of this practice is limited to testing and reporting procedures for unexposed and exposed geomembrane samples.  
1.4 Evaluation and interpretation of test data are beyond the scope of this practice.  
1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.  
1.6 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. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7.  
1.7 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 28-Feb-2021
• ICS: 59.080.70 - Geotextiles
• Technical Committee: D35 - Geosynthetics
• Drafting Committee: D35.02 - Endurance Properties

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D4439-24 - Standard Terminology for Geosynthetics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D883-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D883-23 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4437/D4437M-16(2023) - Standard Practice for Nondestructive Testing (NDT) for Determining the Integrity of Seams Used in Joining Flexible Polymeric Sheet Geomembranes
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D5322-23 - Standard Practice for Laboratory Immersion Procedures for Evaluating the Chemical Resistance of Geosynthetics to Liquids
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4833/D4833M-07(2020) - Standard Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance of Geomembranes and Related Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM D5397-20 - Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Stress Crack Resistance of Polyolefin Geomembranes Using Notched Constant Tensile Load Test
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM D883-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM D5397-19a - Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Stress Crack Resistance of Polyolefin Geomembranes Using Notched Constant Tensile Load Test
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19c - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM D5199-12(2019) - Standard Test Method for Measuring the Nominal Thickness of Geosynthetics
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19a - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C717-19 - Standard Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2019
• Refers: ASTM D5323-19 - Standard Practice for Determination of 2 % Secant Modulus for Polyethylene Geomembranes
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2019

Overview

ASTM D5747/D5747M-21 is an international standard issued by ASTM International that provides standardized procedures for evaluating the chemical resistance of geomembranes when exposed to liquids. This practice is essential for professionals working with liquid waste containment systems, geosynthetic barriers, and landfill liners, as it helps in assessing how geomembrane materials respond when in prolonged contact with leachates, chemical solutions, and other potentially aggressive liquids.

Chemical resistance, as defined in this standard, refers to the ability of a geomembrane to retain its physical and chemical properties under immersion or contact with foreign substances. ASTM D5747/D5747M-21 establishes test methodologies but does not prescribe interpretative guidance for results-these must be assessed by the user or an expert familiar with the application environment.

Key Topics

• Scope of Practice: The standard outlines procedures for testing various types of geomembranes, including semi-crystalline, amorphous, elastomeric, and fabric-reinforced materials. It covers both unexposed and exposed samples.
• Testing Procedures: Emphasis is placed on standardized immersion testing. The practice is designed for use with related standards, particularly ASTM D5322 and D5496, which define immersion procedures.
• Physical and Chemical Property Monitoring: The practice specifies monitoring changes in properties such as weight, thickness, volatile loss, tensile properties, tear and puncture resistance, and visual observations after exposure.
• Material Groups: The standard distinguishes between four main geomembrane groups-nonreinforced polyolefins, nonreinforced PVC, nonreinforced elastomerics (such as EPDM and neoprene), and fabric-reinforced geomembranes-with tailored test programs for each.
• Limitations: Interpretation of test results is not within the scope; responsibility lies with the facility owner, designer, or a qualified expert.
• Safety Guidance: Users must observe safe handling of chemicals and environmental considerations as part of responsible material testing.

Applications

The procedures outlined in ASTM D5747/D5747M-21 are widely used in the following scenarios:

• Landfill Base Liners and Covers: To ensure that geomembranes employed in landfill bases, covers, or leachate ponds will withstand the chemical environments present.
• Wastewater and Industrial Waste Containment: For verifying the compatibility of geomembranes with chemicals present in industrial or municipal wastewater, hazardous waste, or by-products.
• Mining and Chemical Storage Facilities: In evaluating geomembrane integrity for heap leach pads, tailings storage, or chemical storage ponds.
• Regulatory Submissions and Quality Assurance: Supporting material selection and validation in project design and regulatory compliance.

By utilizing ASTM D5747/D5747M-21, professionals can compare the chemical resistance of different geomembrane products under standardized conditions, supporting informed material selection and risk assessment for critical containment applications.

Related Standards

Several ASTM and industry standards are referenced or used alongside ASTM D5747/D5747M-21:

• ASTM D5322: Practice for Laboratory Immersion Procedures for Evaluating Chemical Resistance of Geosynthetics to Liquids
• ASTM D5496: Practice for In-Field Immersion Testing of Geosynthetics
• ASTM D638, D882, D2240, D4833, D1004: Methods for testing physical properties such as tensile strength, hardness, puncture, and tear resistance
• EPA/600/2-88/052: EPA Method 9090 for lining waste containment facilities
• NSF Standard 54: Flexible Membrane Liners

These related standards ensure a comprehensive approach to material testing and allow for cross-comparison across different types of geosynthetic materials.

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Keywords: ASTM D5747, chemical resistance testing, geomembranes, geosynthetics, liquid waste containment, leachate compatibility, landfill liner standards, geosynthetic test procedures, ASTM standards for geomembranes

Standards Content (Sample)

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.
Designation: D5747/D5747M − 21
Standard Practice for
Tests to Evaluate the Chemical Resistance of
Geomembranes to Liquids
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5747/D5747M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the testing of
C717 Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
geomembranes for chemical resistance with liquid wastes,
D412 Test Methods forVulcanized Rubber andThermoplas-
prepared chemical solutions, and leachates derived from solid
tic Elastomers—Tension
wastes.
D413 TestMethodsforRubberProperty—AdhesiontoFlex-
1.2 This practice covers procedures for testing semi-
ible Substrate
crystalline, amorphous, elastomeric, and fabric-reinforced
D624 Test Method for Tear Strength of Conventional Vul-
geomembranes.
canized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers
D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
1.3 This practice is intended to be used in conjunction with
D751 Test Methods for Coated Fabrics
Practice D5322 or D5496, or both.The scope of this practice is
D882 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic
limited to testing and reporting procedures for unexposed and
Sheeting
exposed geomembrane samples.
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
1.4 Evaluation and interpretation of test data are beyond the
D907 Terminology of Adhesives
scope of this practice. D1004 Test Method for Tear Resistance (Graves Tear) of
Plastic Film and Sheeting
1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
D1505 Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
Gradient Technique
each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to
D2124 Test Method forAnalysis of Components in Poly(Vi-
ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be
nyl Chloride) Compounds Using an Infrared Spectropho-
used independently of the other, and values from the two
tometric Technique (Withdrawn 2020)
systems shall not be combined.
D2240 Test Method for Rubber Property—Durometer Hard-
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the ness
D3417 Test Method for Enthalpies of Fusion and Crystalli-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- zation of Polymers by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
(DSC) (Withdrawn 2004)
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. D3418 Test Method for Transition Temperatures and En-
thalpies of Fusion and Crystallization of Polymers by
Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7.
Differential Scanning Calorimetry
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
D3895 Test Method for Oxidative-Induction Time of Poly-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
olefins by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
D4437/D4437M Practice for Nondestructive Testing (NDT)
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
for Determining the Integrity of Seams Used in Joining
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Flexible Polymeric Sheet Geomembranes
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
D4439 Terminology for Geosynthetics
1 2
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D35 on Geosyn- For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
thetics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D35.02 on Endurance contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Properties. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved March 1, 2021. Published March 2021. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2020 as D5747/D5747M – 20. The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
DOI: 10.1520/D5747_D5747M-21. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5747/D5747M − 21
D4545 Practice for Determining the Integrity of Factory temperature range characteristic of the plastic, and that in the
Seams Used in Joining Manufactured Flexible Sheet softened state can be shaped by flow into articles by molding
Geomembranes (Withdrawn 2008) or extrusion. (F1251)
D4833/D4833M Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
of Geomembranes and Related Products
3.3.1 chemical resistance, n—for geosynthetics, the extent
D5199 Test Method for Measuring the Nominal Thickness
to which a material or product retains its as-manufactured
of Geosynthetics
physical and chemical characteristics when subjected to im-
D5322 Practice for Laboratory Immersion Procedures for
mersion or contact with a foreign substance.
Evaluating the Chemical Resistance of Geosynthetics to
3.3.2 coupon, n—a portion of a material or laboratory
Liquids
sample from which multiple specimens can be taken for
D5323 Practice for Determination of 2 % Secant Modulus
testing.
for Polyethylene Geomembranes
3.3.2.1 Discussion—See Fig. 1 for the relationship between
D5397 Test Method for Evaluation of Stress Crack Resis-
sample, coupon, and specimen.
tance of Polyolefin Geomembranes Using Notched Con-
3.3.3 fabric-reinforced, adj—structurally reinforced mate-
stant Tensile Load Test
rial made by incorporating geotextile.
D5496 Practice for In-Field Immersion Testing of Geosyn-
thetics
3.3.4 flood coating, n—the process of placing a layer(s) of
D5885/D5885M Test Method for Oxidative Induction Time
adhesive or polymer on the edges of cut, fabric-reinforced
of Polyolefin Geosynthetics by High-Pressure Differential
geomembranes in order to prevent exposure of the fabric to an
Scanning Calorimetry
environment.
D8117 Test Method for Oxidative Induction Time of Poly-
3.3.5 plasticized, adj—having had a plasticizer added.
olefin Geosynthetics by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
3.3.6 semi-crystalline, n—a solid that contains a mixture of
E793 Test Method for Enthalpies of Fusion and Crystalliza-
both crystalline and amorphous regions.
tion by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
3.3.7 tensile set, n—represents residual deformation which
E794 Test Method for MeltingAnd CrystallizationTempera-
is partly permanent and partly recoverable after stretching and
tures By Thermal Analysis
retraction.
F1251 Terminology Relating to Polymeric Biomaterials in
Medical and Surgical Devices (Withdrawn 2012)
4. Summary of Practice
2.2 Government Standard:
EPA/600/2-88/052 Lining of Waste Containment and Other 4.1 This practice defines test methods and procedures for
Impoundment Facilities
evaluating the resistance of geomembranes to liquid exposure
2.3 NSF Standard: by monitoring physical and chemical properties of geomem-
NSF Standard 54 Flexible Membrane Liners brane coupons immersed in a test liquid. The physical condi-
tion of the geomembrane is monitored as a function of
2.4 FTMS Standard:
FTMS 101C Method 2031 Test Method for Preservation, cumulative exposure time by means of dimensional
measurements, and physical and chemical property tests.
Packaging, and Package Materials: Test Procedures
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of general terms used in this practice,
refer to Terminologies D883 and D4439.
3.2 Definitions:
3.2.1 elastomer, n—a macromolecular material that returns
rapidly to approximately the initial dimensions and shape after
substantial deformation by a weak stress and release of the
stress. (D907)
3.2.2 elastomeric, adj—having the characteristics of an
elastomer. (C717)
3.2.3 plasticizer, n—asubstanceincorporatedintoamaterial
to increase its workability, flexibility, or distensibility. (D883)
3.2.4 thermoplastic, n—a plastic that can be repeatedly
softened by heating and hardened by cooling through a
Available from National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5301 Shawnee
Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312, http://www.ntis.gov, PB-89-129670.
Available from NSF International, P.O. Box 130140, 789 N. Dixboro Rd.,Ann
Arbor, MI 48113-0140, http://www.nsf.org.
Available from IHS, 15 Inverness Way East, Englewood, CO 80112, http://
www.global.ihs.com. FIG. 1 Chemical Resistance of Geomembranes
D5747/D5747M − 21
5. Significance and Use 8.3 Cut the geomembrane coupons so that they are repre-
sentative of the geomembrane being evaluated. Discard cou-
5.1 This practice is intended to provide a list of standard
pons that contain scratches or other imperfections that might
procedures for test programs investigating the chemical resis-
affect the test results.
tance of a geomembrane with a liquid waste, leachate, or
chemical. This practice should be used in the absence of other
NOTE2—Sincerateofleachateabsorptionisafunctionofthicknessand
can have an impact on the test results, the geomembrane coupons should
specifications required for the particular situation being ad-
be as close in thickness as possible.
dressed.
8.4 Mix the selected coupons in a random fashion and then
5.2 Chemical resistance, as used in this practice, is not a
re-select coupons for the immersion and baseline testing.
quantifiableterm.Thispracticeisintendedtoprovideabasisof
standardization for those wishing to compare or investigate the 8.5 Cut individual test specimens for thickness, weight, and
chemicalresistanceofageomembrane.Itshouldberecognized volatile loss measurements. Specimens may be of any size for
that chemical resistance is a user judgment evaluation and that which accurate and repeatable measurements can be made. Cut
this practice does not offer procedures for interpreting the specimensfromsheetstockusingadietoensureconsistencyof
resultsobtainedfromtestprocedurescontainedinthispractice. dimensions.
As a practice, this does not produce a test result.
2 2
NOTE3—Circularspecimens7.98cm [3.14in. ]havebeenfoundtobe
satisfactory for thickness, weight, and volatile loss measurements. The
NOTE 1—This practice is for the chemical resistance assessment of
same individual specimen may be used for thickness, weight, and volatile
geomembranes and is written in parallel to similar standard practices for
loss measurements if desired.
geotextiles, geonets, geogrids, geopipes, and geosynthetic clay liners.
Each standard is to be considered individually for the geosynthetic under
9. Conditioning
investigation and collectively for all geosynthetics exposed to the poten-
tially harsh chemical environment under consideration.
9.1 Conditioning—Condition samples at 21 6 2 °C [70 6
4 °F] and a relative humidity between 50 and 70 % for not less
6. Apparatus
than 40 h prior to weighing or baseline testing and immersion,
6.1 Analytical Balance, capable of weighing to an accuracy
or combination thereof.
of 0.001 g.
10. Procedure
6.2 Dead Weight Micrometer(s), meeting the requirements
10.1 Immerse the geomembrane in the test solution as
of Test Method D638, D751,or D5199, or combination
specified in Practice D5322 or D5496, or both.
thereof, capable of measuring thicknesses to an accuracy of
0.0025 mm [0.0001 in.].
10.2 Immerse a sufficient number of coupons to perform the
required testing for each of the immersion periods.
6.3 Air Circulating Oven,capableofmaintainingatempera-
ture of 105 6 2 °C.
10.3 Immerse additional pieces of geomembrane for weight
changes, thickness changes, and volatile loss for each immer-
6.4 All other required equipment is specified in the refer-
sion period. Record the weight of the specimens to an accuracy
encedtestmethodstandards.Refertotheappropriatestandards
of at least 0.1 % of the specimen’s weight. Record the
for a description of the apparatus necessary to perform those
thickness of the specimens to an accuracy of 0.0025 mm
tests.
[0.0001 in.].
7. Hazards
10.4 Remove a sufficient number of coupons at the pre-
7.1 Warning—The solutions used in this practice may
scribed test period for the required testing. Rinse each coupon
contain hazardous chemicals.Appropriate precautions must be
with deionized water and blot dry with water-absorbent,
taken when handling hazardous waste, chemicals, and the
lint-free paper towels to remove any visible liquid or solid
immersion solutions. Protective equipment suitable for the
residue on the coupon surface. Allow elevated temperature
chemicals being used must be worn by all personnel handling
coupons to cool to room temperature in a sample of immersion
or exposed to the chemicals. Particular care should be taken
fluid. Store coupons in an airtight container or bag with as little
when opening storage vessels at elevated temperatures due to
air as possible when not being used or tested in order to
theincreasedvolatilityoforganicsandtheincreasedactivityof
minimize moisture or volatile loss, or both. Keep cut speci-
acids and bases. Care must also be taken to prevent the spilling
mens in an airtight container between tests.
of hazardous materials and provisions must be made to clean
10.5 The tests to be performed on the geomembrane are
up any accidental spills which do occur.
listed in Sections 11–20 for each of the four types of
geomembranes addressed by this practice. The tests consist of
8. Sampling
required testing to be done on the geomembrane and recom-
8.1 Determine the number and dimensions of the test
mended testing to be performed at the discretion of the user.
specimens according to the requirements of the dimensional
Conduct recommended tests whenever possible, as this data
measurements and physical/chemical property tests to be
willaidintheinterpretationofthefinaltestresults.Allthetests
performed, the duration of the immersion, and the number of
should be completed on the unexposed geomembrane as well
test intervals.
as on the exposed material after each test period. Test twice as
8.2 Sample in accordance with the respective test methods many specimens as listed below on the unexposed material in
selected. order to increase precision of baseline data.
D5747/D5747M − 21
10.6 Testing (except the extractables test) of the material in each direction. Report tear resistance in N/mm thickness (or
exposed to the leachate must be done within 24 h of removal pounds per inch thickness).
from the test solution.
12.4 Puncture Resistance—Use Test Method D4833/
D4833M to test ten specimens. Report puncture resistance in
11. Required Testing, All Geomembranes
N/mm thickness (or pounds per inch thickness).
11.1 Weight Change—After each period, remove three pre-
12.5 2 % Secant Modulus—Use Practice D5323 to test five
weighed pieces of geomembrane from the liquid, quickly blot
specimens in each direction.
dry with water-absorbent, lint-free paper towels any visible
liquid or solid residue on the specimen surface, and weigh to
NOTE 6—Secant modulus is subject to more variables than the other
properties due to operator interpretation of the linear portion of the
the nearest 0.001 g. Calculate the percent weight change to the
stress/strain curve. Since variability is high, changes in secant modulus
nearest 0.1 %.
should be considered with less importance than the other tensile proper-
NOTE4—Extracareshouldbetakentocompletelydrytexturedsurfaces ties.
to avoid an apparent increase in weight caused by residual surface
12.6 Hardness—Use Test Method D2240, Type D
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D5747/D5747M − 20 D5747/D5747M − 21
Standard Practice for
Tests to Evaluate the Chemical Resistance of
Geomembranes to Liquids
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5747/D5747M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the testing of geomembranes for chemical resistance with liquid wastes, prepared chemical
solutions, and leachates derived from solid wastes.
1.2 This practice covers procedures for testing semi-crystalline, amorphous, elastomeric, and fabric-reinforced geomembranes.
1.3 This practice is intended to be used in conjunction with Practice D5322 or D5496, or both. The scope of this practice is limited
to testing and reporting procedures for unexposed and exposed geomembrane samples.
1.4 Evaluation and interpretation of test data are beyond the scope of this practice.
1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used
independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.
1.6 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. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7.
1.7 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C717 Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants
D412 Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers—Tension
D413 Test Methods for Rubber Property—Adhesion to Flexible Substrate
D624 Test Method for Tear Strength of Conventional Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers
D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
D751 Test Methods for Coated Fabrics
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D35 on Geosynthetics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D35.02 on Endurance Properties.
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2020March 1, 2021. Published January 2020March 2021. Originally approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 20132020 as
D5747/D5747M – 08 (2013).D5747/D5747M – 20. DOI: 10.1520/D5747_D5747M-20.10.1520/D5747_D5747M-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5747/D5747M − 21
D882 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
D907 Terminology of Adhesives
D1004 Test Method for Tear Resistance (Graves Tear) of Plastic Film and Sheeting
D1505 Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-Gradient Technique
D2124 Test Method for Analysis of Components in Poly(Vinyl Chloride) Compounds Using an Infrared Spectrophotometric
Technique (Withdrawn 2020)
D2240 Test Method for Rubber Property—Durometer Hardness
D3417 Test Method for Enthalpies of Fusion and Crystallization of Polymers by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)
(Withdrawn 2004)
D3418 Test Method for Transition Temperatures and Enthalpies of Fusion and Crystallization of Polymers by Differential
Scanning Calorimetry
D3895 Test Method for Oxidative-Induction Time of Polyolefins by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
D4437/D4437M Practice for Nondestructive Testing (NDT) for Determining the Integrity of Seams Used in Joining Flexible
Polymeric Sheet Geomembranes
D4439 Terminology for Geosynthetics
D4545 Practice for Determining the Integrity of Factory Seams Used in Joining Manufactured Flexible Sheet Geomembranes
(Withdrawn 2008)
D4833/D4833M Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance of Geomembranes and Related Products
D5199 Test Method for Measuring the Nominal Thickness of Geosynthetics
D5322 Practice for Laboratory Immersion Procedures for Evaluating the Chemical Resistance of Geosynthetics to Liquids
D5323 Practice for Determination of 2 % Secant Modulus for Polyethylene Geomembranes
D5397 Test Method for Evaluation of Stress Crack Resistance of Polyolefin Geomembranes Using Notched Constant Tensile
Load Test
D5496 Practice for In-Field Immersion Testing of Geosynthetics
D5885/D5885M Test Method for Oxidative Induction Time of Polyolefin Geosynthetics by High-Pressure Differential Scanning
Calorimetry
D8117 Test Method for Oxidative Induction Time of Polyolefin Geosynthetics by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
E793 Test Method for Enthalpies of Fusion and Crystallization by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
E794 Test Method for Melting And Crystallization Temperatures By Thermal Analysis
F1251 Terminology Relating to Polymeric Biomaterials in Medical and Surgical Devices (Withdrawn 2012)
2.2 Government Standard:
EPA/600/2-88/052 Lining of Waste Containment and Other Impoundment Facilities
2.3 NSF Standard:
NSF Standard 54 Flexible Membrane Liners
2.4 FTMS Standard:
FTMS 101C Method 2031 Test Method for Preservation, Packaging, and Package Materials: Test Procedures
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of general terms used in this practice, refer to Terminologies D883 and D4439.
3.2 Definitions:
3.2.1 elastomer, n—a macromolecular material that returns rapidly to approximately the initial dimensions and shape after
substantial deformation by a weak stress and release of the stress. (D907)
3.2.2 elastomeric, adj—having the characteristics of an elastomer. (C717)
3.2.3 plasticizer, n—a substance incorporated into a material to increase its workability, flexibility, or distensibility. (D883)
3.2.4 thermoplastic, n—a plastic that repeatedly can be repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling through a
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Available from National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5301 Shawnee Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312, http://www.ntis.gov, PB-89-129670.
Available from NSF International, P.O. Box 130140, 789 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48113-0140, http://www.nsf.org.
Available from IHS, 15 Inverness Way East, Englewood, CO 80112, http://www.global.ihs.com.
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temperature range characteristic of the plastic, and that in the softened state can be shaped by flow into articles by molding or
extrusion. (F1251)
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.3.1 chemical resistance, n—for geosynthetics, the extent to which a material or product retains its as-manufactured physical and
chemical characteristics when subjected to immersion or contact with a foreign substance.
3.3.2 coupon, n—a portion of a material or laboratory sample from which multiple specimens can be taken for testing.
3.3.2.1 Discussion—
See Fig. 1 for the relationship between sample, coupon, and specimen.
3.3.3 fabric-reinforced, adj—structurally reinforced material made by incorporating geotextile.
3.3.4 flood coating, n—the process of placing a layer(s) of adhesive or polymer on the edges of cut, fabric-reinforced
geomembranes in order to prevent exposure of the fabric to an environment.
3.3.5 plasticized, adj—having had a plasticizer added.
3.3.6 semi-crystalline, n—a solid that contains a mixture of both crystalline and amorphous regions.
3.3.7 tensile set, n—represents residual deformation which is partly permanent and partly recoverable after stretching and
retraction.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice defines test methods and procedures for evaluating the resistance of geomembranes to liquid exposure by
monitoring physical and chemical properties of geomembrane coupons immersed in a test liquid. The physical condition of the
geomembrane is monitored as a function of cumulative exposure time by means of dimensional measurements, and physical and
chemical property tests.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This practice is intended to provide a list of standard procedures for test programs investigating the chemical resistance of a
FIG. 1 Chemical Resistance of Geomembranes
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geomembrane with a liquid waste, leachate, or chemical. This practice should be used in the absence of other specifications
required for the particular situation being addressed.
5.2 Chemical resistance, as used in this practice, is not a quantifiable term. This practice is intended to provide a basis of
standardization for those wishing to compare or investigate the chemical resistance of a geomembrane. It should be recognized that
chemical resistance is a user judgment evaluation and that this practice does not offer procedures for interpreting the results
obtained from test procedures contained in this practice. As a practice, this does not produce a test result.
NOTE 1—This practice is for the chemical resistance assessment of geomembranes and is written in parallel to similar standard practices for geotextiles,
geonets, geogrids, geopipes, and geosynthetic clay liners. Each standard is to be considered individually for the geosynthetic under investigation and
collectively for all geosynthetics exposed to the potentially harsh chemical environment under consideration.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Analytical Balance, capable of weighing to an accuracy of 0.001 g.
6.2 Dead Weight Micrometer(s), meeting the requirements of Test Method D638, D751, or D5199, or combination thereof, capable
of measuring thicknesses to an accuracy of 0.0025 mm [0.0001 in.].
6.3 Air Circulating Oven, capable of maintaining a temperature of 105 6 2 °C.
6.4 All other required equipment is specified in the referenced test method standards. Refer to the appropriate standards for a
description of the apparatus necessary to perform those tests.
7. Hazards
7.1 Warning—The solutions used in this practice may contain hazardous chemicals. Appropriate precautions must be taken when
handling hazardous waste, chemicals, and the immersion solutions. Protective equipment suitable for the chemicals being used
must be worn by all personnel handling or exposed to the chemicals. Particular care should be taken when opening storage vessels
at elevated temperatures due to the increased volatility of organics and the increased activity of acids and bases. Care must also
be taken to prevent the spilling of hazardous materials and provisions must be made to clean up any accidental spills which do
occur.
8. Sampling
8.1 Determine the number and dimensions of the test specimens according to the requirements of the dimensional measurements
and physical/chemical property tests to be performed, the duration of the immersion, and the number of test intervals.
8.2 Sample in accordance with the respective test methods selected.
8.3 Cut the geomembrane coupons so that they are representative of the geomembrane being evaluated. Discard coupons that
contain scratches or other imperfections that might affect the test results.
NOTE 2—Since rate of leachate absorption is a function of thickness and can have an impact on the test results, the geomembrane coupons should be as
close in thickness as possible.
8.4 Mix the selected coupons in a random fashion and then re-select coupons for the immersion and baseline testing.
8.5 Cut individual test specimens for thickness, weight, and volatile loss measurements. Specimens may be of any size for which
accurate and repeatable measurements can be made. Cut specimens from sheet stock using a die to ensure consistency of
dimensions.
2 2
NOTE 3—Circular specimens 7.98 cm [3.14 in. ] have been found to be satisfactory for thickness, weight, and volatile loss measurements. The same
individual specimen may be used for thickness, weight, and volatile loss measurements if desired.
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9. Conditioning
9.1 Conditioning—Condition samples at 21 6 2 °C [70 6 4 °F] and a relative humidity between 50 and 70 % for not less than
40 h prior to weighing or baseline testing and immersion, or combination thereof.
10. Procedure
10.1 Immerse the geomembrane in the test solution as specified in Practice D5322 or D5496, or both.
10.2 Immerse a sufficient number of coupons to perform the required testing for each of the immersion periods.
10.3 Immerse additional pieces of geomembrane for weight changes, thickness changes, and volatile loss for each immersion
period. Record the weight of the specimens to an accuracy of at least 0.1 % of the specimen’s weight. Record the thickness of the
specimens to an accuracy of 0.0025 mm [0.0001 in.].
10.4 Remove a sufficient number of coupons at the prescribed test period for the required testing. Rinse each coupon with
deionized water and blot dry with water-absorbent, lint-free paper towels to remove any visible liquid or solid residue on the
coupon surface. Allow elevated temperature coupons to cool to room temperature in a sample of immersion fluid. Store coupons
in an airtight container or bag with as little air as possible when not being used or tested in order to minimize moisture or volatile
loss, or both. Keep cut specimens in an airtight container between tests.
10.5 The tests to be performed on the geomembrane are listed in Sections 11 – 20 for each of the four types of geomembranes
addressed by this practice. The tests consist of required testing to be done on the geomembrane and recommended testing to be
performed at the discretion of the user. Conduct recommended tests whenever possible, as this data will aid in the interpretation
of the final test results. All the tests should be completed on the unexposed geomembrane as well as on the exposed material after
each test period. Test twice as many specimens as listed below on the unexposed material in order to increase precision of baseline
data.
10.6 Testing (except the extractables test) of the material exposed to the leachate must be done within 24 h of removal from the
test solution.
11. Required Testing, All Geomembranes
11.1 Weight Change—After each period, remove three pre-weighed pieces of geomembrane from the liquid, quickly blot dry with
water-absorbent, lint-free paper towels any visible liquid or solid residue on the specimen surface, and weigh to the nearest 0.001
g. Calculate the percent weight change to the nearest 0.1 %.
NOTE 4—Extra care should be taken to completely dry textured surfaces to avoid an apparent increase in weight caused by residual surface moisture.
11.2 Dimension Changes—Measure thickness as directed in Test Method D751, D638, or D5199 to the nearest 0.0025 mm [0.0001
in.] at three locations near the center of the pieces of geomembrane used for weight changes before and after immersion. Measure
length and width (machine and transverse directions) at two locations on the sheets of geomembrane used for the physical testing
before and after immersion. Calculate percent changes to the nearest 0.1 %.
11.3 Volatile Loss—Dry the pieces of geomembrane from the weight changes at 105 6 2 °C for 24 h and then weigh to the nearest
0.001 g. Calculate the percent volatiles to the nearest 0.1 %.
11.4 Visual Observations—Describe the samples before and after immersion. Visual appearance can help in the interpretation of
the data and may explain anomalous test results. Appearance items to be considered may include change from orig
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