ASTM D8265-21 PDF Download

ASTM D8265-21 standard provides guidelines for using electrical methods to locate leaks in geomembranes covered with liquid or earthen materials. The purpose of these practices is to ensure that leak location surveys are performed using high technical standards, resulting in effective liquid containment with no leaks in the geomembrane.

The standard highlights the importance of minimizing leakage in geomembranes, as leaks can cause environmental damage, erosion, product loss, and failure of the containment system. It identifies various causes of leaks, such as poor subgrade quality, material placement, accidents, workmanship issues, manufacturing defects, and construction damage.

The standard emphasizes the use of electrical leak location methods for detecting and locating leaks in order to facilitate repairs, ultimately achieving a zero-leak condition. It acknowledges that not all sites may be easily amenable to this method, but outlines preparation procedures to enable the implementation of electrical leak location at nearly any site. It also mentions that while ideal testing conditions may not always be achievable, the method can still be performed, and any site condition issues should be documented.

Additionally, the standard specifies the applicability of these practices to a wide range of geomembranes made from materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, bituminous material, and other electrically insulating materials. It emphasizes that electrical leak location should only be conducted by qualified and experienced personnel, with appropriate safety measures in place to protect the operators and other individuals at the site. The use of a current limiter not exceeding 290 mA is also recommended for direct current power sources used during the survey.