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1.1 This test method is used to determine the shear strength between two layers of segmental concrete block units used in construction of reinforced soil retaining walls. The test is carried out under conditions determined by the user that reproduce the facing system at full scale. The results of a series of tests are used to define a relationship between shear strength developed between segmental concrete units and normal load.

1.2 This is a performance test used to determine properties for design of retaining wall systems utilizing segmental concrete units and soil reinforcing geosynthetics, either geotextiles or geogrids. The test is performed on a full-scale construction of the facing system and may be run in a laboratory or the field.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are regarded as the standard. The values stated in inch-pound units are provided for information only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 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.

5.1 The shear strength between segmental concrete units (with and without geosynthetic reinforcement) is used in design of reinforced soil retaining walls.

5.2 This test is used to determine the shear strength for the design of the facing stability of segmental retaining walls. Performing a series of these shear tests at varying normal loads permits development of a relationship between shear strength and normal load. This relationship may be linear, bilinear, or some other complex mathematical expression.

5.3 This shear strength test is meant to be a performance test (laboratory or field); therefore, it should be conducted using full-scale system components. The conditions for the test are selected by the user and are not for routine testing.

5.4 As a performance test on full-scale system components, it accounts for some of the variables in construction procedures and materials tolerance normally present for these types of retaining wall systems.