Geomembrane Puncture Resistance Test: Standard Procedure and Results

Test Purpose

Puncture resistance measures a geomembrane's ability to withstand concentrated point loads from sharp stones in the subgrade. This property is critical for landfill liners, reservoir ponds and any application where the liner contacts angular gravel.

ASTM D5514 Procedure

A circular specimen is clamped between two metal plates. A defined probe (standard diameter) is lowered at a constant rate onto the specimen, which rests on a specified clay or soil layer underneath. The force at puncture is recorded.

Key Test Parameters

• Probe diameter and shape
• Subgrade material and compaction level
• Test temperature (typically 23C or 40C for high-temperature service)
• Crosshead speed

Higher-density HDPE geomembranes generally show better puncture resistance than thinner LLDPE films. For projects over angular rock, a geotextile cushion layer is recommended regardless of test results.

Related: non-woven geotextile cushion layer specifications.