Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard developed by Committee D18 on Soil and Rock will help laboratories and producers determine the quality and proportions of fibers within hydraulically applied erosion control products (HECPs). The proposed standard (D7560, Test Method for Determination of Fiber Length Percentages in Hydraulically Applied Erosion Control Products) will provide a quality control measure that the HECP industry will use to ensure that the correct percentage of various fiber lengths is being produced.

HECPs are engineered and processed to specific length and width dimensions that help the hydraulic application preventing clogging of the pump, recirculation pipes, nozzles and tips. Correct percentages of fiber lengths within HECPs will allow for a properly layered, interlocking mulch that will hold seed, moisture and reduce erosion.

The standard would ensure that HECPs will require a specific range of fiber length percentages. This will help prevent installation problems, such as pumping issues, which could potentially harm important equipment.

In relation to creating more awareness for this developing standard, ASTM member Kevin Spittle says, “I would like to see more involvement from the regulatory agencies in our subcommittee. Their perspective would benefit all the various stakeholders in our subcommittee.”

The committee welcomes new members who wish to participate in the development of the proposed standard.

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.

ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock Next Meeting: Jan. 29-Feb. 1, 2017, January Committee Week, Norfolk, Va.
Technical Contact: Kevin Spittle, Spittle Consulting, tel +1.847.215.1144
ASTM Staff Contact: Robert Morgan, +1.610.832.9732