ASTM D5321-92(1997) - 1.1.1997
 
1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for determining the shear resistance of a geosynthetic against soil, another geosynthetic, or a soil and geosynthetic in any combination.

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

1.2 The test method is applicable for all geosynthetics. Remolded or undisturbed soil samples can be used in the test device.

1.3 The test method is not suited for the development of exact stress-strain relationships within the test specimen due to the non-uniform distribution of shearing forces and displacement.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

 
2. Referenced Documents

D4439-25a

Standard Terminology for Geosynthetics (Includes all amendments and changes 9/30/2025).

D4354-26

Standard Practice for Sampling of Geosynthetics and Rolled Erosion Control Products (RECPs) for Testing

D3740-26

Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction

D1557-12(2021)

Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Modified Effort (56,000 ft-lbf/ft3 (2,700 kN-m/m3))

D3080-04

Standard Test Method for Direct Shear Test of Soils Under Consolidated Drained Conditions

D698-12(2021)

Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Standard Effort (12,400 ft-lbf/ft3 (600 kN-m/m3))

D6243-13

Standard Test Method for Determining the Internal and Interface Shear Resistance of Geosynthetic Clay Liner by the Direct Shear Method

D653-26a

Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids (Includes all amendments and changes 6/15/2026).

D2435-04

Standard Test Methods for One-Dimensional Consolidation Properties of Soils Using Incremental Loading