Designation: D 6364 99

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS

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Reprinted from the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. Copyright ASTM

Standard Test Method for

Determining the ShortTerm Compression Behavior of

Geosynthetics1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 6364; 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 (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

Geotextiles and Geomembranes2

1. Scope
1.1 The test method establishes the procedures for evaluation of the deformations of a geosynthetic or combination of
geosynthetics (that is, geocomposite (excluding geotextiles,
geomembranes and geosynthetic clay liners)) under short-term
compressive loading. This test method is strictly an index test
method to be used to verify the compressive strength consistency of a given manufactured geosynthetic(s). Results from
this test method should not be considered as an indication of
actual or long-term performance of the geosynthetic(s) in field
applications.
1.2 Since these geosynthetics may experience mutidirectional compressive loadings in the field, this test method
will not show actual field performance and should not be used
for this specific objective. The evaluator of the results should
also recognize that the determination of the short term single
plane compressive behavior of geosynthetics does not reflect
the installed performance of synthetic drainage systems and,
therefore, should not be used as the only method of product
specification or performance with respect to synthetic drainage
systems.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all the safety
concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate health and
safety practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 The values in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
Values in pound units are provided in parentheses for information.

3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 compressive deformation, [L], nthe decrease in
gage length produced in the test specimen by a compressive
load.
3.1.2 compressive strain, [nd], nthe ratio of compressive
deformation to the gage length of the test specimen.
3.1.3 gage length, [L], nin compression testing, the measured thickness of the test specimen under specified compressional force, expressed in units of length prior to compressive
loading.
(D 5199)
3.1.4 geocomposite, na product fabricated from any combination of geosynthetics with geotechnical materials or other
synthetics which is used in a geotechnical application.
3.1.5 geosynthetic, na planar product manufactured from
polymeric material used with foundation, soil, rock, earth, or
any other geotechnical engineering related material as an
integral part of a man-made project, structure or system.
(D 4439)
3.1.6 index test, na test procedure which may contain a
known bias but which may be used to establish an order for a
set of specimens with respect to the property of interest.
(D 4439)
3.1.7 yield point, nthe first point on the load - deformation
curve at which an increase in deformation occurs without a
corresponding increase in load.
3.1.7.1 DiscussionSome geosynthetics do not exhibit an
exact yield point. The tested geosynthetic may exhibit a less
steep slope at yield. In addition, it should be stated that the
yield point may also be the ultimate strength of the geosynthetic.
3.1.8 For definitions of terms relating to geotextiles, refer to
Terminology D 4439

2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D 4354 Practice for Sampling of Geosynthetics for Testing2
D 4439 Terminology for Geotextiles2
D 4716 Test Method for Determining the (In-Plane) Flow
Rate Per Unit Width and Hydraulic Transmissivity of a
Geosynthetic Using a Constant Head2
D 5199 Test Method for Measuring Nominal Thickness of

4. Summary of Test Method

4.1 Specimens are mounted between parallel plates in a load
frame. Compressive loads are applied at a constant rate of
crosshead movement. The deformations are recorded as a
function of load. The compressive stress and strain are evaluated and plotted. The compressive yield point is evaluated from
the stress/strain relationship for those materials that exhibit a
detectable compressive yield point.

1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D-35 on
Geosynthetics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D35.01 on Mechanical Properties.
Current edition approved Jan. 10, 1999. Published May 1999.
2
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.09.

D 6364
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The compression behavior test for geosynthetics is
intended to be an index test. It is anticipated that the results of
the compression behavior test will be used to evaluate product.
The results of the analyses may also be used to compare the
relative compressive yield points of materials that exhibit a
detectable compressive yield point. It is anticipated that this
test will be used for quality control testing to evaluate
uniformity and consistency within a lot or between lots where
sample geometry factors (for example, thickness) or materials
may have changed.

NOTE 3It is recommended that the minimum fixed plate width be

equal to the sample width plus twice the thickness of the test sample. This
should support the sample through the range of deformation and prevent
draping or flexing displacement.

6.3 Movable PlateThe movable plate shall be of sufficient

thickness and strength to preclude any bending during loading.
It shall be parallel to the fixed plate and attached to the
compression mechanism. A spherical loading block of the
suspended, self-aligning type is recommended. The dimensions
and shape of the movable plate shall depend on the specimen
dimensions and geometry. In general, both length and width of
the movable plate should each be at least 20 % greater than the
length and width of the specimens.

NOTE 1This is a one-dimensional test for compressive loading of a

geosynthetic(s) in one plane.

NOTE 4Where the sample exhibits excessive surface irregularities or

variation in thickness the plates may be modified to accommodate surface
irregularities and thickness variations. This can be achieved by the
insertion of a layer of hardening paste between the specimen and the
plates. The surface of the specimen may require covering with a flexible
film to inhibit the intrusion of the paste into the specimen. The hardened
paste when fully cured must be well adhered to the loading plates and have
compressive and shear strength properties at least a magnitude greater
than the specimen to be tested.

5.1.1 The compressive yield point of geosynthetics may be

evaluated from the stress/strain relationship. Many materials
exhibit compressive deformation but may not show a distinct
compressive yield point.
5.2 This test method can be used to evaluate the short-term
stress/strain behavior of geosynthetics under compressive
stress while loaded at a constant rate of deformation.
5.3 This test method may be used for acceptance testing of
commercial shipments of geosynthetics but caution is advised
because interlab testing is incomplete.
5.3.1 In the case of a dispute arising from differences in
reported test results when using this test method for acceptance
testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is
statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical
assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a
minimum, two parties should take a group of test specimens
from material shipped to the project. The test specimens should
then be randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory
for testing. The average results from the two laboratories
should be compared using the Students t-test for unpaired data
and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties
before the testing is begun. If bias is found, either its cause
must be found and corrected or the purchaser and supplier must
agree to interpret future test results in the light of the known
bias.

6.4 Variable Inclined Plates (Optional)Variable inclined

plates or set angled blocks should be used to test the specimen
under non-axial conditions. The test apparatus shall have one
fixed plate and one movable plate. Fig. 1 shows set angled
blocks with a movable base block with a roller system to allow
lateral movement of the block during deformation (see 6.4.1).
The base and top inclined plates can be adjustable angle plates.
The inclined plates or set angled blocks must meet the
requirements as stated in 6.3 of this test method. The base and
top inclined plates or blocks must have a matched set of angles
that differ by no more than 0.5 degrees. The incline plates or
blocks shall be roughened or ribbed to keep specimen from
sliding down the fixed plate or block during the test. The
samples should be marked in regards to plates or blocks to
check for slippage during the test. If mutual agreement is
obtained between the manufacturer and user, other facings to
the plates or blocks can be used. Allowable percent reduction
in strength based on the load angle should also be agreed upon.
NOTE 5The use of inclined plates or blocks may assist the manufacturer or user to evaluate the deformation of the geosynthetic(s) under
loading at various angles. The use of inclined plates may not reflect the
in-service performance of synthetic drainage systems.

6. Apparatus
6.1 Loading MechanismThe loading mechanism shall be
capable of applying compressive loads at a constant rate of
deformation of 10 % on the nominal thickness of the test
specimen per minute or 1 mm/min, whichever is greater. The
capacity of the load frame shall be at least two times greater
than the compressive yield point of or the maximum load
applied to the specimen.

6.4.1 WarningThe deformation of the geosynthetics

within a testing apparatus may occur rapidly in a lateral
direction (or not in the direction of loading) which could
damage the testing apparatus. This is particularly true when the
geosynthetic is tested using inclined plates. The user of this test
method must be aware the testing apparatus ability to handle
a lateral movement of the geosynthetic or loading plate during
the performance of this test.
6.5 Load IndicatorUse a load-indicating mechanism that
has an accuracy of 61 % of the maximum indicated value of
the test (force).
6.6 Deformation IndicatorUse a deformation-indicating
mechanism that has an accuracy of 61.0 % of the maximum
indicated value of the test (deformation).
6.7 Micrometer Dial Gage, caliper or steel rule, suitable for

NOTE 2Some loading mechanisms, especially the older models, do

not have the capability of adjusting the rate of deformation to the specific
rate required. For these instruments, the user and producer should
establish mutually agreed upon testing rates. However, the rate of
deformation selected should not be greater than 10 % on the nominal
thickness of the test specimen per minute or 1 mm/min, whichever is
greater.

6.2 Fixed PlateThe fixed plate shall be larger than the

specimen to be tested. It shall also be flat, smooth and
completely and uniformly supported.
2

D 6364

FIG. 1 Example of Inclined Blocks

measuring dimensions of the specimens to 61 %.

thetic or be 120 mm (4.7 in.), whichever is greater. When

testing geosynthetics that have repeating patterns that are not
orthogonal to the length and width of the geosynthetic, use a
specimen size agreed upon by the purchaser and the supplier.
When the design of the geosynthetic is such that cutting in the
width direction would destroy its structural integrity; the full
width of the geosynthetic should be tested.

7. Sampling
7.1 Lot SampleDivide the product into lots and take the
lot sample as directed in Practice D 4354, only if it pertains to
geosynthetics listed in D 4354.
7.2 Laboratory SampleUnits in the laboratory sample
should be the same as the units in the lot sample for the lot to
be tested. Take a sample extending across the full width (that
is, cross-machine direction) of the geosynthetic production unit
of sufficient length (that is, machine direction) so that the
requirements of 7.3 can be met. Take a sample that will exclude
material from the outer wrap of a roll (if applicable) unless the
sample is taken at the production site, then the inner and outer
wrap material may be used. Geocomposites, which have
unbonded distinct materials (for example, sock wrapped geosynthetic drain), should be sampled as a complete unit and
maintained as a complete unit through the testing process.
7.3 Test SpecimensCut five specimens from each unit in
the laboratory sample with each specimen being at least 120
mm 3 120 mm (4.7 in. 3 4.7 in.) square. For geosynthetics
that have a repeating pattern of discrete support points (columns, cusps, nodes, etc.) that are symmetrical about orthogonal
axes, rectangular or square specimens are recommended. The
minimum specimen length and width shall include at least five
complete support points along each major axis of the geosyn-

8. Conditioning
8.1 Test the specimens in a laboratory with air maintained at
a temperature of 21 6 2C (70 6 4F) and a relative humidity
between 50 % 70 %.
8.2 If the user determines that the geosynthetic is to be
tested in the wet condition, saturate the specimen in water at
the temperature described in 8.1 for a minimum of 24 h prior
to testing.
NOTE 6Geosynthetics, which do not absorb measurable quantities of
water, should be saturated for a minimum of 3 h prior to testing.

9. Procedure
9.1 Measure the length, width and thickness of the specimen
to an accuracy of 61 %. For geosynthetics with a repeating
pattern of discrete support points, measure the spacing of the
repeating features in order to determine the number of support
points per square meter. Also, record the number of complete
support points in the specimens.
3

D 6364
9.1.1 The nominal thickness shall be determined using Test
Method D 5199 at 20kPa (2.9 lbf/in.2), since this is the
minimum pressure at which geocomposites remain flat.
9.2 The test specimen shall be placed on the bottom plate
and centered with respect to the axis of the loading mechanism.
The loading mechanism shall be moving at the required
constant speed at or before the point of contact with the
sample.
9.3 The rate of crosshead movement shall be 10 % on the
nominal thickness of the test specimen per minute or 1 6 0.1
mm (0.04 6 0.004 in.)/min, whichever is greater or as agreed
by the user and manufacturer.
9.4 Use crosshead movement as a measure of deformation.
If an automatic recorder is not used, measure the deformation
in increments no greater than 0.5 % of the original thickness of
the specimen. At each measurement, record the deformation
and the corresponding load.
9.5 Continue until a yield point is reached and/or until the
maximum acceptable deformation limit has been reached,
whichever occurs first.
9.6 The test specimen should then be unloaded and removed
from the loading mechanism.
9.7 Repeat the above procedures until five specimens are
tested.

Measure all distances for deformation or strain calculations

from this point.
10.2.1 If there is a compressive yield point (as Point Y in
Fig. 2), read the load and measure the specimen deformation
(distance B-D). Calculate the residual thickness of the specimens at various fixed loads in addition to the yield point.
Follow this with a report that indicates the values of both yield
and residual thickness at various loads. These results can be
reported in a graph or table.
10.2.2 Calculate the compressive stress by dividing the load
at the compressive yield point by the initial horizontal crosssectional area of the specimen. For geosynthetics with a
repeating pattern of discrete support points, it maybe more
accurate to obtain the load per unit area by dividing the load by
the number of support points in the specimen and multiply by
the number of support points per square meter. Express the
result in kPa (PSF).
10.2.3 For inclined plates, the normal load should first be
calculated using the equation listed in Fig. 1.
N 5 P cos a

(1)

where:
N 5 normal load,
P 5 applied load, and
a 5 angle of plate(s), degrees.
10.3 The compressive stress with the corresponding compressive strain shall be plotted for each test.
10.4 The compressive yield point shall be reported as the
arithmetic mean and minimum of the five tests.

10. Calculation
10.1 If an automatic recorder was not used, construct a load
- deformation curve from the incremental values obtained in
accordance with 9.4.
10.2 In a typical load -deformation curve (Fig. 2) there is a
toe region, AC, that may not represent a property of the
material. It is an artifact caused by the alignment or seating of
the specimen. If such a circumstance arises, in order to obtain
correct values of such parameters as strain, yield point, etc.,
this artifact must be compensated for to give the corrected zero
point on the deformation axis. Using a straightedge, carefully
extend to the zero force line the steepest portion of the force
-deflection or force -strain curve. This establishes the zero
deformation or zero strain points (Point B in Fig. 2).

NOTE 7Not all geosynthetics exhibit a well-defined compressive

yield point. In such cases if a compressive stress value is needed for
comparative purposes, use a strain value agreed upon by the purchaser and
buyer. Such a value might be the point where there is a significant change
in the slope of the stress-strain curve, as shown by the two curves in Fig.
3.

11. Report
11.1 The report should include the following:

FIG. 2 Typical Load-Deformation Curve

D 6364

FIG. 3 Stress-Strain Curve

11.1.1 The description of the type of geosynthetic or geosynthetics tested,

11.1.2 The lot or production unit represented,
11.1.3 The dimensions and number of discrete support
points (if applicable) of the test specimens. If applicable, the
number of discrete support points per unit area of the geosynthetic,
11.1.4 The test data, including: initial thickness, crosssectional area, rate of deformation, and the deformations,
strains and corresponding stresses,
11.1.5 Angle of loading and description of roughened or
ribbed surface on inclined plates,
11.1.6 Test curves expressing the compressive load (stress)
as a function of the deformation,
11.1.7 The results of each specimen tested, plus the average
of the compressive yield point of the geosynthetic, if the
geosynthetic has a compressive yield point,
11.1.8 Date of test,

11.1.9 A statement of any unusual occurrences or departures

from the suggested procedures, and
11.1.10 Machine type and date of last certification.
12. Precision and Bias
12.1 The precision of the procedure in this test method is
being evaluated.
12.2 BiasThe value of the compressive yield point of
geosynthetics can be defined only in terms of a test method.
When this test method is the defining method, measurements of
the compressive yield point have no bias.
13. Keywords
13.1 compression; deformation; geocomposite; index test;
yield point

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