20.1 Determine the breaking force and elongation in accordance with ASTM D5035, Section 9.5, Cut Strip test, except that the specimen size shall be 102 mm by 152 mm (4 in. by 6 in.). Cut strip test specimens representative of bulk material.

20.2 Perform testing using a loading rate of 300 ± 10 mm/min (12 ± 0.5 in./min) and initial grip separation (gage length) of 76 mm (3 in.).

Note 10: ASTM D 5035 is considered an index test only. Results generated in accordance with this test may not correlate with tensile tests employing larger test specimens, such as ASTM D4595, or test specimens that have been soaked in water.

Note 11: Erosion control blanket products are typically constructed from several component materials, including fibers, yarns, weaving, stitching and loose fill materials.

As any or each of the components may contribute to material tensile properties, it is mandatory to select tensile test specimens representative of the various components and their function within the bulk product. To this end, stitching(s) and other strength contribution components must be centered within the clamping mechanism prior to testing. Each tensile determination should be performed using the maximum number of strength contribution components allowable within the tested region. Care must be taken to ensure that each specimen tested is the same in terms of material construction and configuration, i.e., includes the same number of ribs, yarns, stitching, or other strength contribution component.

Note 12: Laboratory experience has shown that RECP materials are very sensitive to gripping procedures used during measurement of tensile properties. Great care must be taken to ensure uniform distribution of stress during tensile loading. Careful examination of material behavior during the test should be carried out to identify specimens exhibiting preferential or localized loading. If noted, these specimens should be discarded from the test population and additional specimens evaluated.