ISO 10319 describes an index test method for the determination of the tensile properties of geosynthetics (polymeric, glass, and metallic), using a wide-width strip. It is applicable to most geosynthetics, including woven geotextiles, nonwoven geotextiles, geocomposites, knitted geotextiles, geonets, geomats, and metallic products. It is also applicable to geogrids and similar open-structure geotextiles, but specimen dimensions might need to be altered. It is not applicable to polymeric or bituminous geosynthetic barriers, while it is applicable to clay geosynthetic barriers.

ISO 10319 specifies a tensile test method that covers the measurement of load elongation characteristics and includes procedures for the calculation of secant stiffness, maximum load per unit width and strain at maximum load. Singular points on the load-extension curve are also indicated.

The main feature of this method of determining the tensile strength of fabrics is the width of the specimen. For the basic test, the specimen width (200mm) is greater than the length (100mm), as some geotextiles have a tendency to contract, at an angle to the force direction under tensile loading. The extra width reduces the "neck down" effect, providing a relationship closer to expected product behavior in this area. 

A mechanical measuring system should be used only when the risk of damage at specimen break does not exist. Alternatively, a mechanical specimen grip must be replaced with hydraulic specimen grip if high forces are used.