Overview
ISO/TR 18228-1:2020 - Design using geosynthetics - Part 1: General is the introductory technical report in a multi‑part ISO/TR 18228 series that gives general design considerations for geosynthetics. It is written to support geotechnical and civil engineers in selecting, specifying and designing systems that use geosynthetic materials in contact with soils, fills and asphalt. The document frames the series’ limit‑state approach, references test methods and outlines regional design practice considerations.
Key Topics
- Scope & terminology: Definitions and symbols follow ISO 10318‑1 and ISO 10318‑2 to ensure consistent use of terms and notation across the series.
- Design fundamentals: Guidance on the role of site characterization (in‑situ and laboratory testing per ISO 14688, ISO 22476, ISO 17892, ISO 22282) and how geosynthetic functions relate to soil properties.
- Short‑term properties (survivability): Assessment of mechanical damage during transport/installation, weathering (UV, water, temperature - referenced to EN 12224, EN 12226, ISO 13438) and chemical resistance during construction.
- Mechanical performance: Short‑term tests such as tensile strength (ISO 10319), impact/penetration tests (EN 14574, ISO 12236, ISO 10722, ISO 13433) and compressive behaviour (ISO 25619‑1/2).
- Long‑term properties: Durability, mechanical damage over life, weathering and chemical resistance, plus long‑term mechanical and hydraulic behaviour. The report addresses design life, partial material factors and load factors consistent with a limit‑state format.
- External loadings: Consideration of live and permanent load effects on geosynthetic performance.
- Regional practice: Summaries of local design requirements and norms for Europe, USA, UK, Australia, Hong Kong, South Africa and others.
Applications
ISO/TR 18228-1:2020 is intended for:
- Geotechnical and civil engineers designing reinforced slopes, retaining structures, drainage layers, liners, and subgrade stabilisation using geosynthetics.
- Specifiers and consultants preparing contracts and technical specifications.
- Manufacturers and testing labs for product characterization, marking (ISO 10320) and quality assurance.
- Contractors and site engineers for handling, installation and survivability assessments.
Practical uses include product selection, risk assessment for installation damage, defining test requirements, and establishing design life and safety factors for projects using geotextiles, geomembranes, geogrids and related materials.
Related standards
- ISO 10318‑1 / ISO 10318‑2 (terms, symbols)
- ISO 10319, ISO 10320, ISO 13438, ISO 14688, ISO 17892, ISO 22476, ISO 22282
- EN 12224, EN 12226, EN 12447, EN 14574, ISO 12236, ISO 10722, ISO 13433, ISO 25619 series
ISO/TR 18228‑1:2020 provides the foundation for the rest of the ISO/TR 18228 series and is available from ISO national bodies and the ISO website.
