Shear properties of pipeline coatings with elastomeric adhesives are frequently measured in the laboratory. These measurements are expected to correlate with the ability of the coating to withstand the forces of soil burial and movemen., The theoretical basis of choosing the
parameters of the laboratory methods are given based on calculations of soil forces on pipeline coatings from an analytical model and from finite element analysis. Data obtained from two methodologies are given and discussed. The criteria used to evaluate pipeline coatings in various applications are also discussed.