Overview
EN ISO 10318-2:2015 - Geosynthetics, Part 2: Symbols and pictograms (ISO 10318-2:2015) standardizes the property symbols, graphical symbols and pictograms used throughout EN and ISO geosynthetics standards. Published by CEN and identical to ISO 10318-2:2015, this part complements Part 1 (terms and definitions) and provides the symbolic language for technical data sheets, test reports, drawings and product labelling for geosynthetics (e.g., geotextiles, geogrids, geonets).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and intent
- Defines property symbols (with units and references) and graphical symbols/pictograms used in geosynthetic standards.
- Notes that specific symbol definitions not covered here are given in relevant test-method standards.
- Property symbols
- Physical: thickness (d, mm), width (b, m), length (l, m), mass per unit area (ρ, g/m²).
- Hydraulic: coefficient of permeability (k, m/s), permittivity (ψ = k/d), transmissivity (θ = k·d), flow capacity and velocity indices, characteristic opening size (O90, µm).
- Mechanical: tensile stress and strength symbols (σ, T), tensile modulus (J), seam/joint strength and efficiency (Jmax, ξ), puncture/load indicators and related units.
- Graphical symbols and pictograms
- Product-type icons and abbreviations (e.g., GTX = geotextile, GGR = geogrid, GNT = geonet, GCO = geocomposite).
- Functional pictograms for separation, barrier, filtration, drainage, reinforcement, protection, stress relief and surface erosion control.
- Application pictograms for infrastructure sectors (reservoirs, dams, canals, roads, railways, tunnels, waste containment, coastal systems, asphalt reinforcement, drainage systems).
- References
- Cross-references to ISO 10318-1 and applicable test standards (e.g., ISO 9863-1 for thickness determination).
Applications and users
EN ISO 10318-2:2015 is used by:
- Geotechnical and civil engineers specifying geosynthetics in designs (roads, rail, dams, retaining walls, landfills).
- Product manufacturers and technical documentation teams for consistent data sheets, labels and catalogues.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies for reporting measured properties using standardized symbols.
- Procurement specialists, contractors and regulators who rely on clear, standardized pictograms for selection and compliance.
Related standards
- ISO 10318-1 - Geosynthetics: Terms and definitions (complements Part 2).
- Test-method standards referenced for specific symbols (e.g., ISO 9863-1:2005 for thickness measurement).
Using EN ISO 10318-2:2015 ensures clear, consistent communication of geosynthetic properties across specifications, drawings and international supply chains.
