The committee of ASTM International, a globally recognised leader in the development and delivery of voluntary consensus standards, has released a new international standard that supports geosynthetic cementitious composite mats (GCCM), a new family of materials that can help control erosion, protect slopes and berms, and line ditches and culverts.

The new standard (D8173) identifies proper layout, installation, and hydration procedures for GCCM. It also describes equipment for designers, inspectors, and installers as well as provides a checklist for contractors to use before installations.

ASTM International member John Paulson of Dison Contracting and Supply, LLC., said, “This standard provides details on fastening, overlapping, attachments, anchoring, and other topics critical to good GCCM installation. The new standard will help minimise or eliminate common mistakes that may be made by a first-time installer.”

According to Paulson, as GCCM is unique to geosynthetics and erosion control applications, the committee hopes to develop more standards related to testing, installation, and classification. (GK)