Geotextile impact tests

Question: We would like to perform an impact test on a geotextile as described in Koerner (2012), Chapter 2.3.3 Mechanical Properties - Impact Test and Chapter 2.5.5 Impact (Tear) Resistance. I came across the Geosynthetics Research Institute (GRI) GS2 test standard for pendulum impact strength testing of geosynthetics. My questions are about the test rig you are using. Have you purchased this device? Did you build it?

A: Nice to hear from you and I hope this email finds you well. Yes, we built the instrument and used the following two American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) impactors.

ASTM D1922 Standard Test Method for Spreading Tear Resistance of Plastic Film and Thin Film by the Pendulum Method

ASTM D5942 Standard Test Method for Determining Charpy Impact Strength of Plastics

Both Elmendorf and non-woven geo-textile fabric Charpy have modifications with tips and holders. One can buy used equipment on eBay for a reasonable price. For a guide to using these devices, see the well written work by Monteleone (1986).

You should also note that most crash tests are now done using a falling weight device rather than the pendulum style device you mentioned. I would recommend that you also review the following standards for details on your experimental design.