This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: D4751 − 20a

Standard Test Methods for

Determining Apparent Opening Size of a Geotextile1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4751; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope D1776/D1776M Practice for Conditioning and Testing Tex-

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the tiles
apparent opening size (AOS) of a geotextile either by dry- D4354 Practice for Sampling of Geosynthetics and Rolled
sieving glass beads through a geotextile (Method A) or by Erosion Control Products (RECPs) for Testing
using a capillary porometer (Method B). D4439 Terminology for Geosynthetics
D6767 Test Method for Pore Size Characteristics of Geotex-
1.2 Method B will not be used in lieu of Method A unless tiles by Capillary Flow Test
the pre-qualification procedure specified in this standard is E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
followed. Sieves
1.3 These test methods show the values in both SI units and E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
inch-pound units. SI units is the technically correct name for Determine the Precision of a Test Method
the system of metric units known as the International System of
3. Terminology
Units. Inch-pound units is the technically correct name for the
customary units used in the United States. The values in 3.1 Definitions—For general geosynthetics terms used in
inch-pound units are provided for information only. this standard, refer to Terminology D4439.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the 3.2 Definitions:
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the 3.2.1 apparent opening size (AOS), O95, n—for a geotextile,
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- a property that indicates the approximate largest particle that
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- would effectively pass through the geotextile.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.2.1.1 Discussion—While the same “O95” symbol is used
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
both in these test methods for defining the AOS of a geotextile
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
as well as in Test Method D6767 for determining the pore size
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
of geotextiles by capillary flow, they are not necessarily
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
equivalent. The O95 values are defined in terms of their
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
respective test methods. Therefore, the AOS version of the O95
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
value that is determined with Method B may not be identical to
the O95 value determined per Test Method D6767.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:2 4. Summary of Test Methods
D1331 Test Methods for Surface and Interfacial Tension of 4.1 Glass Bead Dry-Sieving, Method A—A geotextile speci-
Solutions of Paints, Solvents, Solutions of Surface-Active men is placed in a sieve frame, and sized glass beads are placed
Agents, and Related Materials on the geotextile surface. The geotextile and frame are shaken
laterally so that the jarring motion will induce the beads to pass
through the test specimen. The procedure is repeated on the
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D35 on same specimen with various size glass beads until its apparent
Geosynthetics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D35.03 on Perme- opening size has been determined. This method is considered
ability and Filtration. the referee method in the case of inter-laboratory disputes
Current edition approved July 15, 2020. Published August 2020. Originally
approved in 1993. Last previous version approved in 2020 as D4751 – 20. DOI:
involving Method B.
10.1520/D4751-20A.
2
4.2 Capillary Porometer, Method B—A geotextile specimen
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
is subjected first to an air flow test, where the air flow rate and
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on pressure are measured. Then the same specimen is wetted with
the ASTM website. mineral oil and subjected to an increasing air pressure while

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
1
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a
measuring the resulting flow rate. The opening sizes are 6. Sampling
calculated from this data using standard capillary theory and
6.1 Sampling of Planar Geotextiles:
the specific algorithm defined in these test methods.
6.1.1 Lot Sample—For routine quality control testing, divide
4.2.1 The apparent opening size of a geotextile is defined in
the product into lots and take the lot sample as directed in
terms of the dry-sieving test method. This method includes a
Practice D4354, Section 7, Procedure B—Sampling for Manu-
procedure for correlating the porometer test data to the Method
facturer’s Quality Assurance Testing. For specification confor-
A results so that Method B is qualified to generate values
mance testing, sample as directed in Practice D4354, Section 8,
equivalent to the glass bead dry-sieving Method A.
Procedure C—Sampling for Purchaser’s Specification Confor-
mance Testing.
5. Significance and Use
6.1.2 Laboratory Sample—As a laboratory sample for ac-
5.1 Using a geotextile as a medium to retain soil particles ceptance testing, take a full-width swatch 1 m (1 yd) long from
necessitates compatibility between it and the adjacent soil. This the end of each roll of fabric in the lot sample, after first
test method is used to indicate the apparent opening size in a discarding a minimum of 1 m (1 yd) of fabric from the very
geotextile, which reflects the approximate largest opening outside of the roll.
dimension available for soil to pass through. 6.1.3 Test Specimens—Cut five specimens from each swatch
5.2 Test Methods D4751 for the determination of opening in the laboratory sample, with each specimen being cut to fit
size of geotextiles is acceptable for testing of commercial the appropriate specimen holder for Method A or the porometer
shipments of geotextiles. Current estimates of precision, be- sample holder for Method B. Cut the specimens from a single
tween laboratories, have been established. swatch spaced along a diagonal line on the swatch.

5.3 Apparent opening test results obtained using Method A 6.2 Sampling of Circular-Knitted Sock Geotextiles:
may differ from test results obtained with Method B. It is the 6.2.1 For a lot sample for manufacturer’s quality control
intent of this test method to confirm the equivalency of the (MQC) testing, divide rolls of circular-knitted sock geotextile
Method B results before permitting the use of this alternative. fabric into lots and take the lot sample as directed in Practice
Laboratories electing the use of Method B must first determine D4354, Section 7, Procedure B—Sampling for Manufacturer’s
any bias that exists between the two methods and document a Quality Assurance Testing. For a lot sample for specification
reliable correlation in accordance with this test method. conformance testing, sample as directed in Practice D4354,
5.3.1 The correlation between the Method B results and the Section 8, Procedure C—Sampling for Purchaser’s Specifica-
Method A results must be established and meet the require- tion Conformance Testing.
ments of this test method for every different geotextile product 6.2.2 Laboratory Sample—To obtain a laboratory sample
type tested with Method B. Geotextiles from different manu- for MQC testing of the circular-knitted sock geotextile, follow
facturers or with different nominal unit weights are considered the procedure below:
different products. A minimum of three test results must be 6.2.2.1 Apply the knitted sock geotextile sample over the
compared with all three satisfying the established correlation. outside of the corresponding diameter of a 406-mm (16-in.)
length of perforated tubing or reasonable facsimile having the
NOTE 1—The correlation should be confirmed for a particular product same diameter as the pipe material for which the sock is
by comparing a minimum of three test results when there are changes in
the manufacturing of a specific pre-qualified geotextile. intended.
6.2.2.2 Tie a knot in each end of the fabric so as to fully
5.4 In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported encase the pipe in the fabric.
test results when using Test Methods D4751 for acceptance
6.2.2.3 Using the knot from one end of the fabric, suspend
testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the sup-
the geotextile-encased pipe vertically. Gently suspend a
plier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is
1.13-kg (2.5-lb) weight from the bottom to ensure intimate
a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statis-
contact with the perforated pipe. See Fig. 1a. Allow the
tical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias.
suspended pipe with weight to hang for 2 min.
As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test
specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are NOTE 2—Pipes with diameters larger than 75 to 150 mm (3 to 6 in.)
from a lot of material of the type in question. The test may require heavier weights to ensure intimate contact between the pipe
specimens should then be randomly assigned in equal numbers and sock material.
to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two 6.2.2.4 For Method A, using a flexible 203-mm (8-in.)
laboratories should be compared using Student’s t-test for diameter round template as a guide, trace a circle on the surface
unpaired data and an acceptable probability level chosen by the of the fabric using an indelible marker. See Fig. 1c. Remove
two parties before the testing is begun. If a bias is found, either the fabric from the pipe section by untying or cutting off the
its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the knots at one or both ends in the fabric. Cut the fabric tube in a
supplier must agree to interpret future test results in the light of lengthwise direction at a position opposing the drawn circle,
the known bias. taking care to not cut the fabric within the circle. If so desired,
5.4.1 In the event that the dispute involves test results the length of the specimen may be shortened by cutting the
produced with the capillary porometer, Method A is considered fabric in a crosswise direction, taking care not to cut the fabric
the referee method for Test Methods D4751. closer than 75 mm (3 in.) from the outside of the circle. The

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
2
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a

FIG. 1 Specimen Cutting Templates for Circular-Knitted Sock Geotextiles

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
3
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a
result will be a planar specimen of more or less rectangular METHOD A—DRY-SIEVING WITH GLASS BEADS
shape with a circle drawn approximately in its center.
6.2.2.5 For Method B test specimens, affix an adhesive- 7. Specimen Preparation
backed foil to the fabric which has a 25-mm (1-in.) or 50-mm 7.1 Weigh the Method A test specimens and then submerge
(2-in.) diameter hole die cut from the center, and a sufficient them in distilled water for 1 h at the standard atmosphere for
outside diameter to exceed the outside diameter of the porom- testing. Bring the specimens to moisture equilibrium in the
eter sample holder. This foil must be rigid enough to preserve atmosphere for testing geosynthetics. Equilibrium is consid-
the geometry of the material produced by this technique. The ered to have been reached when the change in the mass of the
five foil-taped porometer specimens are then cut with the specimen in successive weight measurements made at intervals
porometer specimen die, positioning the 25-mm (1-in.) or of not less than 2 h does not exceed 0.1 g.
50-mm (2-in.) opening in the center.
7.2 The drying process may be accelerated with the use of a
6.3 Lot Sample for Specification Conformance Testing— fan. The specimens shall not be dried in an oven or by exposing
Sample as directed in Practice D4354, Section 8, Procedure them to elevated temperatures above the standard laboratory
C—Sampling for Purchaser’s Specification Conformance Test- atmosphere for geosynthetic testing.
ing.
NOTE 3—It is recognized that in practice, geosynthetic materials are
6.3.1 Laboratory Sample—To obtain a laboratory sample of frequently not weighed to determine when moisture equilibrium has been
the circular-knitted geotextile fabric for acceptance testing of reached. While such a method cannot be accepted in cases of dispute, it
each lot of pipe, follow this procedure: may be sufficient in routine testing to expose the material to the standard
atmosphere for testing geosynthetics for a reasonable period of time
6.3.1.1 Select a 3-m (10-ft) section on each lot of the before the specimens are tested. A time of at least 24 h has been found
sock-covered pipe to be tested. acceptable in most cases. However, certain fibers may contain more
6.3.2 Using a length of string, twine, or cord, secure the moisture upon receipt than after conditioning. When this is known, a
fabric to the pipe at each end of the 3-m (10-ft) pipe section preconditioning cycle as described in Practice D1776/D1776M may be
agreed upon by the contractual parties.
that was chosen in 6.3.1.1 in order to prevent the sock fabric
from contracting lengthwise when the sock-covered pipe
8. Apparatus
sample is removed from the roll or pipe section. Remove the
3-m (10-ft) sock-covered pipe section from the roll or pipe 8.1 Mechanical Sieve Shaker—A mechanical sieve shaker,
section by cutting the pipe at each end of the 3-m (10-ft) which imparts lateral and vertical motion to the sieve, causing
sample, outside of the ties. the particles thereon to bounce and turn so as to present
6.3.3 Test Specimens—With the fabric still secured to the different orientations to the sieving surface, should be used.
pipe sample, using a flexible 203-mm (8-in.) diameter round The sieve shaker should be a constant frequency device
template for Method A, draw five 203-mm (8-in.) diameter utilizing a tapping arm to impart the proper motion to the glass
circles at various locations around the circumference of each beads.3
laboratory sample, equally spaced along its length, and not NOTE 4—Care should be given to the cork or rubber contact point on
closer than 100 mm (4 in.) from either end of the pipe sample. shakers when the vertical motion comes from an arm striking the cork or
For Method B, affix adhesive-backed foil to the fabric which rubber. Excessive wear on the cork or rubber could affect the motion
has a 25-mm (1-in.) or 50-mm (2-in.) diameter hole die cut imparted to the glass beads and, therefore, the test result.
from the center, and a sufficient outside diameter to exceed the 8.2 Pan, Cover, and 200-mm (8-in.) Diameter Sieves.
outside diameter of the porometer sample holder. This foil
8.3 Spherical Glass Beads in size fractions in accordance
must be rigid enough to preserve the geometry of the material
with Table 1. It is only necessary to have on hand the bead size
produced by this technique. The five foil-taped porometer
fractions necessary for the range of geotextiles for which
specimens are then cut with the porometer specimen die, testing is anticipated. The sizing of all beads shall be verified
positioning the 25-mm (1-in.) or 50-mm (2-in.) opening in the prior to each use by sieving on the pairs of sieves shown in
center. Table 1. Prepare at least 50 g of each size fraction to be used
6.3.3.1 Remove the ties from the laboratory sample and prior to beginning the test. Bead sizes to be used in this test
remove the fabric from the pipe. method are shown in Table 1.
6.3.3.2 When securing specimens by wedging between two
8.4 Balance, having a capacity adequate for the mass of
sieve frames, cut the laboratory sample in a crosswise direction
samples anticipated and accurate to 60.05 g.
to create five specimens, taking care not to make these cuts
closer than 75 mm (3 in.) from the outside of the circle.
Continue to prepare the specimens by cutting the fabric in a
3
lengthwise direction at a position opposing the circle. Care The sole source of supply of the apparatus known to the committee at this time
is W.S. Tyler, Inc., 8200 Tyler Blvd., Mentor, OH 44060. If you are aware of
must be taken not to cut through the circle. The result will be
alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM International
the creation of five planar fabric specimens of more or less a Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
rectangular shape with a circle drawn at its center. responsible technical committee,1 which you may attend.

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
4
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a
TABLE 1 Glass Bead Sizes greater than 2.3 mm (0.091 in.). A geotextile of this thickness or greater
Bead Size Range (especially nonwovens) may trap beads within the layers of the fabric,
Bead Size DesignationA which may pass through the specimen when testing with a different bead
Passing Retained
size, thus creating an error in the test results. In the case of the thicker
Sieve Sieve Sieve geotextiles, a different specimen may be used for each bead size; however,
mm mm mm
NumberB NumberB Number it should be noted in the report that different specimens were used.
2.0 10 1.70 12 1.7 12
1.4 14 1.18 16 1.18 16 9.4 Start with the smallest diameter glass beads that will be
1.00 18 0.850 20 0.850 20 tested. Place 50 g of one size glass beads on the center of the
0.710 25 0.600 30 0.600 30
geotextile.
0.500 35 0.425 40 0.425 40
0.355 45 0.300 50 0.300 50 9.5 Place cover and pan on sieve frame and place in shaker.
0.250 60 0.212 70 0.212 70
0.180 80 0.150 100 0.150 100
Shake sieves for 10 min.
0.125 120 0.106 140 0.106 140 9.6 Place the glass beads still on the surface of the specimen
0.090 170 0.075 200 0.075 200
A
in a pan and weigh. Include beads that fall off as a result of
The designated bead size is the “retained on” size of the sieve pair used to size
the beads. For example, beads designated No. 40 are beads that pass the No. 35
turning the specimen over and tapping the rims of the sieves.
sieve and are retained on the No. 40 sieve. These beads are typically sold as
35-40 beads.
NOTE 7—This step provides information concerning the amount of
B
See Specification E11. glass beads trapped within the geotextile and the amount of any beads lost
during testing.
9.7 Weigh the glass beads that pass through the specimen,
and record data. (See Fig. 2 for a sample worksheet which can
8.5 Static Elimination, to prevent the accumulation of static be used to record the desired data.)
electricity when the beads are shaken on the surface of the
geotextile. Commercially available devices or anti-static sprays 9.8 Repeat 9.3 – 9.7 using the next larger bead size fraction.
are acceptable. Repeat the trial using successively larger bead size fractions
until the weight of beads passing through the specimen is 5 %
8.6 Pan, for collecting sieved beads. or less. Perform the trials such that the percent passing
8.7 Flexible Rubber Template, either a square-shaped, flex- decreases from a value greater than 5 % to a value less than or
ible rubber template with a 203-mm (8-in.) diameter hole cut in equal to 5 %.
it, or a 203-mm (8-in.) diameter template, constructed from a 9.9 Repeat 9.2 – 9.8 for all five specimens.
durable, yet flexible material such as rubber or neoprene. This
template is used to trace the 203-mm (8-in.) diameter circles on 10. Calculations for Method A
the geotextile fabric for mounting into the sieves described in 10.1 Record calculations and percent beads passing (see
8.2. (See Fig. 1.) Fig. 2).
9. Procedure 10.2 For each specimen, plot the values of percent passing
(ordinate) versus bead size, mm (abscissa) percent passing
9.1 Run the test at the atmosphere for testing geotextiles in (ordinate) versus bead size, mm (abscissa) on semi-log graph.
such a manner that static electricity is prevented from affecting Draw a straight line connecting the two data points represent-
test results. If standard atmosphere cannot be maintained and ing the bead sizes that are immediately on either side of the
static electricity is noticed, two methods are available that will 5 % passing ordinate. The particle size in millimetres (ab-
prevent static electricity: scissa) at the intersection of the straight line plotted and the
9.1.1 Install static-eliminating devices equally spaced about 5 % passing ordinate is the AOS of the specimen in
the circumference of sieve and one on center of cover, or millimetres, that is, the theoretical bead size that would result
9.1.2 Apply commercially available anti-static spray uni- in exactly 5 % passing the specimen.
formly to the geotextile.
10.3 Determine the sample AOS, in millimetres, by averag-
9.2 Secure the geotextile in such a way that it is taut, ing the five AOS values obtained by the graphic interpolation
without wrinkles or bulges. The geotextile must not be in 10.2.
stretched or deformed such that it changes or distorts the
openings in the fabric. Two systems may be used to secure the 10.4 Optional—When requested, determine the sample
geotextiles sample: AOS, expressed in terms of sieve number, as the number of the
9.2.1 Wedge between two sieve frames. U.S. Sieve (see the sieve number column under Bead Size
9.2.2 Secure with the perimeter seal device inside the sieve Designation in Table 1) having nominal opening, in
frame. millimetres, equal to or next larger than the AOS, in
millimetres, obtained in 10.2.
NOTE 5—For knitted sock geotextiles, some manipulation of the
specimens may be necessary to ensure that the marked-out circle is fitted 11. Report
to the sieve frame properly.
11.1 Report that the specimens were tested as directed in
9.3 Prior to use, sieve the glass beads in the laboratory to Test Methods D4751, Method A. Describe the material or
verify size of beads. product sampled and the method of sampling used.
NOTE 6—All size glass beads are sieved through a single specimen of 11.1.1 For report formats that do not incorporate the phrase
geotextile unless the geotextile has an average thickness equal to or in 11.1 on the same page as the reported test values (that the

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
5
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a

FIG. 2 Sample Worksheet

specimens were tested in accordance with Method A), use the METHOD B—CAPILLARY POROMETRY
following test method designation: ASTM D4751(A). Where
12. Apparatus
the acronym “AOS” is used in a report of the Method A results,
use the acronym “AOS-A.” 12.1 Clean Gas Pressure Source, with regulation (filtered
air).
11.2 Report the following information:
11.2.1 Results in written form indicating the bead size 12.2 Pressure Sensor—Pressure measurements may be ob-
ranges used in millimetres. tained with a digital pressure transducer, a U-tube manometer,
11.2.2 If requested, plots of bead size versus percentage or an inclined manometer covering the necessary pressure
beads passing for each specimen will be provided (as described range for the pore sizes under study and the wetting fluid used.
in Section 10). The pressure sensor sensitivity shall be dictated by the range of
11.2.3 The average determined from five specimens as the pressures associated with the openings sizes. The bubble point
apparent opening size (AOS = A) in millimetres. pressure should be measured with an accuracy of 65 Pa.
11.2.4 Type of sieve shaker used. 12.2.1 Pressure sensor(s) must be installed immediately
11.2.5 When requested, express the AOS in terms of sieve upstream (for example, within 12.5 mm) of the sample holder.
number. The AOS expressed this way shall be the number of 12.3 Closed Specimen Holder:
the U.S. Standard Sieve (see Specification E11) having nomi- 12.3.1 Specimen holder that fully confines the perimeter of
nal openings, in millimetres, next larger than or equal to the the specimen to prevent any lateral pressure losses.
AOS, in millimetres. 12.3.2 The specimen flow area shall be 25 mm (1 in.) or
11.2.6 Any deviation from the described test method. 50 mm (2 in.) in diameter.

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
6
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a
12.3.3 The filter holder should be checked for leaks by 13.4 Reduce gas pressure and remove the geotextile from
placing an impermeable membrane in the holder and increasing the holder.
the pressure to the maximum capacity of the pressure sensor, 13.5 Completely wet the geotextile by submerging it in the
and holding it for a period of 1 min. The flow rate measured wetting liquid for a period of 1 h. Air bubbles should not be
during this period must be zero, indicating a leak-free seal. entrained in the wetting fluid and there should not be any air
12.4 Metal Punch, used to cut a suitable size geotextile from bubbles trapped in the test specimens. Shorter soaking periods
the test sample to fit the test specimen holder. may be used with comparative testing that demonstrates no
12.5 Flow Rate Measurement Sensors—The porometer effect on the test results.
should be equipped with sensors to measure the flow rate that 13.6 Increase the pressure to the pressure required to obtain
have the capacity to achieve the flow rates necessary to derive the O90 values. Specimens may be re-soaked with mineral oil
the desired pore size distribution. The maximum flow rate and re-tested if necessary.
measurement required will depend on the opening diameter 13.7 Reduce and shut off the air pressure, remove the
and the dry air flow rate that corresponds to the smallest geotextile specimen, and clean the holder for the next test.
opening that can be determined on the geotextile type under
test. The minimum sensitivity, that is, the detection threshold, 13.8 Plot the fluid-wet air flow rate versus pressure on the
is dictated by the flow rate that corresponds to the onset of flow same plot made for the dry air flow versus pressure data in
at the bubble point. For some geotextiles, this value may be as accordance with 13.3.
low as 0.1 L/min.
14. Calculation of the O95 Opening Size Value
12.5.1 A series of floating ball-type flow meters placed in a
parallel arrangement to cover the ranges of flow rates is 14.1 The calculation of opening size is based on the
acceptable, provided the minimum and maximum flow rate following equation:
measurements can be obtained with an accuracy of 5 % or less O 5 C⁄P (1)
of the measured value.
12.5.2 Digital flow meters are preferred for measurement of where:
flow rates. Two or more digital flow meters of different O = opening size in microns, µm,
capacities and sensitivities may be necessary to cover both the C = correlation factor determined per Annex A1, and
minimum detection value and the maximum dry specimen P = pressure in Pascals (N/m2) obtained during the wet test
value. The accuracy of digital flow meters shall be 0.25 % of at the flow rate that is 1 %, 2 %, or 5 % of the dry flow
the maximum reading. rate at the same pressure.
12.6 In-Line Fluid Trap, for porometers which have the 14.2 Determine the Method B test result in terms of the
flow rate sensors downstream from the test specimen to protect designated sieve size in millimetres by taking the O99, O98, or
the flow meters from being contaminated by the exhausted O95 result per 14.1 and assigning the next larger designated
fluid. sieve size in millimetres from the right-most column in Table
1.
12.7 Appropriate Fittings, Hose, Connectors, Piping, to
assemble apparatus. 15. Correlating Test Method B to Test Method A
12.8 Balance, with a precision of 0.001 g. 15.1 This procedure must be performed on each different
12.9 Wetting Fluid—The standard wetting fluid for this test geotextile product prior to reporting the AOS. Geotextiles from
method is USP/FCC White Mineral Oil Heavy. different manufacturers and of different unit weights are
12.9.1 Measure the surface tension of the mineral oil in considered different products. A minimum three test results
accordance with Test Methods D1331 for the first bottle must be compared, with all three results satisfying the estab-
obtained from each different reagent grade supplier. The lished correlation.
surface tension should be measured with an accuracy of 15.2 Each test result comparison consists of five (5) Method
60.5 dynes ⁄cm and reported for 20 °C. This value shall be A and five (5) Method B test specimens. Obtain the specimens
used in the calculation of the opening size. adjacent to each other approximately as shown in Fig. 3.
13. Procedure 15.3 Determine the apparent opening size using Method A
and the plotting method, with the test result in terms of a
13.1 Place a dry geotextile sample disk in the specimen
designated sieve size in millimetres.
holder.
13.2 Place the specimen holder in the porometer, secure the
holder, and apply gas pressure. The maximum pressure for the
dry test must exceed the highest pressure that will subsequently
be measured during the wet test.
13.3 For devices where the data is acquired by a computer,
the pressure and flow rate data shall be recorded with an
acquisition rate sufficient to capture the requisite values. Plot
the air flow rate versus pressure. FIG. 3 Pre-Qualification Specimen Cutting Pattern

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
7
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a
15.4 Determine the AOS test result with Method B in terms 16.3 Report the following information:
of designated sieve size in millimetres. 16.3.1 The individual test specimen AOS-B values in terms
15.5 Repeat the above procedure on a minimum of three of designated bead size in millimetres.
separate samples. 16.3.2 The average sample opening size determined from
the average of the AOS-B values for the five specimens.
15.6 Compare the two test results, that is, the AOS values in 16.3.3 The AOS-B test result for the sample in terms of the
terms of designated sieve size in millimetres. designated sieve number, if requested.
15.6.1 All three Method B test results must be identical to 16.3.4 When requested, the supporting correlation data
the test results for Method A. obtained in accordance with Section 15 shall be provided for
15.6.2 In the event that a Method B test result differs from the product under test.
the Method A result, the source of the bias shall be investigated 16.3.5 Manufacturer and model of the porometer used.
with a second set of five tests on the failing pre-qualification 16.3.6 The manufacturer and measured surface tension of
sample. The average of the ten test specimen results shall be the wetting fluid used.
compared. If this resolves the bias between the two methods, 16.3.7 The conversion factor, C.
the number of test specimens required to test this particular 16.3.8 Any deviation from the described test method.
product shall be increased from five to ten.
15.6.3 This correlation must be confirmed when there are
17. Precision and Bias
any changes in the manufacture of the product such as the
denier of the fibers, the proportion of fibers of different denier, 17.1 Precision:
or any other aspect of the manufacturing process. 17.1.1 Interlaboratory Test Program—An interlaboratory
15.6.4 If the source of the bias remains undetermined, the study of this test method using Method A was performed in
material shall not be tested with Method B. 1999. Three sets (five test specimen each) which were ran-
15.6.5 A controlled list of the geotextile materials that are domly drawn from each of four materials, two woven and two
pre-qualified for performing AOS must be posted and visible nonwoven, were tested for apparent opening size in each of
near the porometer. five laboratories. The design of the experiment, similar to that
of Practice E691, and a within-between analysis of the data are
16. Report given in an ASTM Research Report.4
16.1 Report that the specimens were tested as directed in 17.1.2 Test Result—The precision information is given in
Test Methods D4751, Method B. Describe the material or Table 2. The precision values are for the apparent opening size
product sampled and the method of sampling used. test results using Method A and are in terms of coefficients of
variation, CV%.
16.2 For report formats that do not incorporate the phrase in
16.1 on the same page as the reported test values (that the 17.2 Bias—The procedure in Test Methods D4751 for
specimens were tested in accordance with Method B), use the measuring the apparent opening size of geotextiles has no bias
following test method designation: ASTM D4751(B). Where because the value of the apparent opening size can be defined
the acronym “AOS” is used in a report of the Method B results, only in terms of this test method.
use the acronym “AOS-B.” 17.3 The requirements set forth by this standard for estab-
lishing the correlation between the Method A and Method B
TABLE 2 Precision results do not allow for any bias between the two methods. The
Slit Film,
Mono- Needle- Heat- use of Method B is not permitted whenever a bias exists with
Statistic filament, Punched, Bonded,
Woven
Woven Nonwoven Nonwoven
Method A.
Average AOS, mm 0.179 0.142 0.182 0.137
Within-Laboratory Repeatability 8.3 3.4 4.0 5.9 18. Keywords
Limit, CV%Sr
Between-Laboratory 13.9 8.6 22.7 10.8 18.1 apparent opening size; capillary porometer; geotextile;
Reproducibility Limit, CV%SR glass beads; sieve
95 % Confidence Limit Within- 23.4 9.4 11.7 16.5
Laboratory Repeatability,
CV%r
95 % Confidence Limit Between- 39.1 24.2 63.4 30.2
4
Laboratory Reproducibility, Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
CV%R be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D35-1006. Contact ASTM Customer
Service at [email protected].

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
8
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 D4751 − 20a
ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. DEVELOPING THE CORRELATION CONSTANT C

A1.1 The correlation constant is shown below, and shall be A1.3 Using an iterative procedure, determine the constant
determined empirically by performing a series of tests on “C” that best fits the plotted data.
coupled sets of test results for a minimum of five different
O 5 C⁄P (A1.1)
geotextile samples spanning the range of opening sizes to be
tested. where:
A1.2 Plot the Method A AOS test results as the average bead O = opening size in microns, µm,
C = correlation factor determined per Annex A1, and
size in microns obtained with the plotting method on the Y-axis
P = pressure in Pascals (N/m2) obtained during the wet test.
versus the average O95 pressure in Pascals on the X-axis.
These two values are based on the averages for five test
specimens obtained per 15.2.

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. PROCEDURE—CLEANING AOS BEADS

X1.1 Collect the glass beads (spheres) in a container. lot of the floating matter such as fuzz, lint, etc., can be decanted
off. Rinse three times.
X1.2 Pass the beads through a sieve with a large enough
opening that all of the beads will pass, such as a No. 20. This X1.8 Use isopropyl alcohol to rinse glass beads in setup.
step is to remove any large impurities (fuzz, lint, etc.). This helps drive off water and any remaining finishes.
X1.3 Place these pre-sieved beads in a separate container X1.9 After the alcohol has settled, remove the coffee filter
marked “Pre-Sieved Beads.” with glass beads, and place into a container labeled “Cleaned
X1.4 Place a coffee filter in a No. 4 sieve. Beads.”

X1.5 Over a sink, wet the coffee filter using a spray bottle X1.10 Repeat X1.4 – X1.9 until all beads have been
with de-ionized water. cleaned.

X1.6 Pour a layer of glass beads approximately 6 mm X1.11 Place the container(s) of cleaned beads in an oven at
(1⁄4 in.) thick onto the filter. 110 6 5 °C and allow them to dry overnight.

X1.7 Use deionized water to rinse the glass beads on the X1.12 After the beads have cooled, separate them into their
filter, then decant water. The glass beads will typically sink. A respective designated sieve sizes per 8.3.

ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or [email protected] (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org). Permission rights to photocopy the standard may also be secured from the Copyright Clearance Center, 222
Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, Tel: (978) 646-2600; http://www.copyright.com/

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Sun Nov 15 12:18:52 EST 2020
9
Downloaded/printed by
Silverio Prota (Silverio Prota) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.