"I am doing some research on separation-in-plane during peel tests on PP geomembrane seams, but it is amazing how difficult it is to make SIP happen, when you want it to happen in the laboratory! If you come across some peel test SIP breaks in the field and can spare and send me some tested (SIP) specimens and adjacent untested seamed material for more detailed examination I would be most grateful. It would also be useful to know the welding parameters (speed, wedge temperature, nip roll pressure, and liner temperature) used to make such seams. If you could also give me an idea of the ranges of welding parameters used that do NOT result in SIP breaks, that too would help generate an understanding of this interesting phenomenon."

A new fast method for locating leaks in landfill caps uses a multi-channel IR analyzer (in conjunction with a GPS system) to monitor for methane, carbon dioxide, and non-methane hydrocarbons, several times per second A 15 acre landfill cap was surveyed on parallel tracks 5 ft apart in one day. https://www.geosynthetica.net/news/locating_leaks_in_landfills.asp

360 Abstracts from over 50 countries have been accepted for the Seventh International Conference on Geosynthetics in Nice France on 9/22/02 through 9/27/02. For more information on this conference: http://7icg-nice2002.com

Looking for a job in geosynthetics? Send us some details - experience, what you are looking for and where to: elizabeth@geosynthetica.net. We have been asked if we know available people. Your information will be held in the strictest of confidence.

Each issue of the newsletter, will be available on the IGS web site to download (http://igs.rmc.ca) The elctronic file of the newsletter will be in "pdf" format, which can be opened using the free software, Adobe Acrobat Reader. To download this software go to http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html

Eastman has developed several new high-quality, environmentally responsible specialty polymers, including Eastar Bio Copolyester 14766. Eastar Bio copolyester is a biodegradable traslucent polymer that can be blown or cast into a tough film, spun into fibers and netting, or injection-molded when combined with other materials. According to the company, the product fully degrades to CO2, H20, and biomass. Within 60 to 90 days in an active microbial environment, the polymer (in thin0film form) becomes invisible ot the unaided eye and ultimately biodegrades. Practical applications include limited service-life products such as yard and leaf bags and geotextiles. The company touts the light weight of Eastar bio copolyester bags, which hold up under wet conditions, as well as their dart and tear resistance, heat-sealability, and the product's soft texture. The thermoplastic resin contains no migratory plasticizers, fillers or additives and leaves no harmful residues. For more information visit: htpp://www.eastman.com

Results of liner leak location surveys

Andrew Russo has been named national sales and engineering manager for the company's Engineered Membranes Division, Peter has been promoted to national sales manager for Cooley Sign & Digital Products, Elise Varone has been named national accounts manager and Mary Varao has been named account manager.

IFAI's Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) is a unique consensus-building organization that promotes the technical and economic benefits of geosynthetics to the user community and, in turn, assists in building stronger civil infrastructures in a cost-efficient manner. Since its inception, GMA has focused on developing cost-effective, yet innovative ways to reach new and existing markets for geosynthetic materials and concepts. For more information, contact Danette Fettig: drfettig@ifai.com, website: http://www.ifai.com

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabric Industry, Cary, NC, has released 2000 Analysis: The Nonwovens Industry in North America, which provides a comprehensive, up-to-date look at the field of nonwovens. The report offers an overview of North American nonwovens' consumption (valued at $3.8 billion in 2000), a study of the roll-goods markets by end-use, information and long-life market, goetextiles, a look at the state and changing positions of nonwoven processes (needlepunch, spunlace, etc.), and a review of the year's top 10 roll-goods producers. INDA offers a discounted price to its members. For more information, contact INDA, P.O. Box 1288, Cary, NC 27512, 919-233-1210, website: http://www.inda.org