Determination of Thickness of Smooth Geomembranes

摘要

Tests were conducted to determine thickness of smooth, nonreinforced geomembranes using three methods: me- chanical (according to ASTM and European standards), ultrasonic, and magnetic methods. The mechanical method is the standard pro- cedure used for determining thickness of geomembranes. The ultra- sonic and magnetic methods are not commonly used for geomem- branes; however, they are used for testing other materials such as metals. Tests were conducted on 15 geomembranes representing five types of polymers (HDPE, LLDPE, PVC, PP, and EPDM). The results of the testing program indicated that the level of pressures applied affected the thickness measurements in mechanical tests.