SIST EN ISO 13437:2019 PDF

Overview

EN ISO 13437:2019 (ISO 13437:2019) - Geosynthetics - Installing and retrieving samples in the field for durability assessment - specifies a standardized method for on-site installation and retrieval of geosynthetic samples. The procedure applies to all geosynthetic products (not only geotextiles) and is intended to assess degradation mechanisms, installation damage and the in-service condition of geosynthetics used in civil and geotechnical structures.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and principle
  • Method for installing “testing samples” during construction and for retrieving “retrieval samples” from in-service installations.
  • Compare properties of retrieved (used) material with control specimens taken from delivered material before installation.
• Sampling strategy
  • Number and location of samples depend on structure size, environmental variability and consequences of potential failure.
  • Typical retrieval schedule (unless otherwise agreed): first retrieval immediately after construction, second after 10 years, then every 20 years, with a final retrieval at end of service life.
• Preparation and handling
  • Control specimens are taken at delivery, sized to match field samples and stored under controlled conditions (recommended storage ~0 °C to 20 °C and 50–65% RH).
  • Specimens should follow ISO 9862 for sampling and preparation.
• Field retrieval procedure
  • Excavation may begin mechanically but must be completed manually to avoid damage; soil/medium samples in contact with the geosynthetic must be collected for laboratory analysis.
  • Photograph site, record visual condition (holes, tears, root penetration, water), label and document sample location and history.
  • Define repair procedures for holes left in the geosynthetic; retrieval operations must consider impacts on structural stability and hydraulic function.
• Testing and reporting
  • Test retrieved and control specimens as soon as practicable. Report identification, origin, installation date, exact location (drawing) and retrieval schedule.

Applications

• Durability assessment and lifecycle monitoring of liners, drainage layers, reinforcement membranes, and other geosynthetic components.
• Investigation of suspected installation damage or degradation (chemical, biological, mechanical).
• Quality assurance/quality control during construction and long-term asset management for embankments, landfills, retaining walls, canals and pavements.

Who should use this standard

• Geotechnical and civil engineers, contractors and site supervisors
• Owners/operators of infrastructure and environmental containment systems
• Materials testing laboratories and inspection agencies
• Design professionals specifying long-term performance of geosynthetics

Related standards

• ISO 9862 - Geosynthetics: Sampling and preparation of test specimens
• ISO 10318-1 - Geosynthetics: Terms and definitions

Keywords: ISO 13437:2019, EN ISO 13437, geosynthetics sampling, durability assessment, field retrieval, control specimens, installation damage, geotextiles.