1.1 This test method covers a procedure for determining the internal shear resistance of a geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) or the interface shear resistance between the GCL and an adjacent material under a constant rate of deformation.

1.2 This test method is intended to indicate the performance of the selected specimen by attempting to model certain field conditions.

1.3 This test method is applicable to all GCLs. Remolded or undisturbed soil samples can be used in the test device. See Test Method D5321/D5321M for interface shear testing of non-GCL geosynthetics. See Guide D7702/D7702M for a summary of available information related to the evaluation of direct shear results obtained using this test method.

1.4 This test method is not suited for the development of exact stress-strain relationships within the test specimen due to the nonuniform distribution of shearing forces and displacement.

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.

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.