Types of Geotextiles

Textiles are materials both synthetic and natural that consist of interlacing fibers. Textiles come in various designs made using different materials and as such have a wide range of applications.

What is Geotextile?

Geotextiles are a variety of textiles that are designed to enhance soil properties. Geotextile can be designed using both natural and synthetic materials that are permeable. They are available in various designs and can be used for a wide range of applications.

Geotextile Types

There are four main categories of this type of textile. The various types of geotextile include the following

1. Woven Geotextiles

This version of geotextile is designed using interwoven fibers that create a dimensionally stable and sturdy textile. The fibers used are generally composed of polypropylene strips.

Advantages

• This variation of geotextile has enhanced textile strength coupled with increased stability.
• The materials have a superior to tears and abrasions which increases their durability
• Its low permeability can be advantageous when it comes to water-regulating applications
• The material is designed to be resistant to corrosion.
• Its uniform structure produces consistent results.

Limitations

• The material cannot be regularly cleaned
• The material is vulnerable at right angles at which it can easily crack.
• It has low permeability which leads to the accumulation of water
• It costs more to purchase this type of geotextile
• The materials have a limited load capacity and are suited for limited application designs.

Applications

• Roadworks
• Railways
• Landfills
• Pipe trenches and duct banks
• Green areas, recreational facilities, and agricultural lands
• Drainage structures
• Coastal works
• Levees and flood control structures
• Sediment control
• Environmental Remediation

2. Non-woven Geotextiles

This variation is designed by bonding synthetic fibers using various techniques. Methods used include mechanical processes, chemical, thermal as well as a combination of any of these methods.

Advantages

• The material is permeable making it suitable for drainage and filtration systems
• With its enhanced elongation features you can use it on irregular surfaces and it resists punctures
• The material is lightweight making it easy to transport and install
• This material can resist ultraviolet radiation, biodegradation, and chemicals making it durable
• The material is highly versatile e and can utilized in a broad range of applications

Disadvantages

• This variation has a lower load capacity making it unsuitable for industrial and heavy-duty application
• They are less durable than their woven counterparts and are likely to break down faster.
• The permeable material lacks dimensional stability and is therefore not suitable for applications involving stabilization and reinforcement.
• Using this type of geotextile can be more expensive for some of your applications.

Applications

• Road Construction
• Railways
• Landfills
• Drainage Systems
• Erosion Control
• Agriculture
• Environmental Remediation

3. Polyspun Geotextiles

This type of geotextile is designed by spinning polyester fibers. This variation is typically used for applications involving separations.

Advantages

• The material is permeable which makes it advantageous for applications involving separation and drainage.
• They can be used as barriers and are typically utilized as weed barriers
• This material is relatively cheap.

Disadvantages

• This variation has a very limited load capacity and can only be used for small-scale operations
• The material is not very durable and will likely experience a breakdown after a short period
• You cannot use this material for applications that require reinforcement.

Applications

• Landfills
• Erosion control
• Drainage systems
• Agricultural land
• Environmental Remediation
• Road construction

4. Spunbond Geotextiles

This variation of geotextile is created using a spinning and melting process that allows it to be mass-produced. The formation process is referred to as spun bonding and is a continuous process.

Advantages

• This variation of non-woven geotextiles offers enhanced textile strength.
• The material is resistant to tears and punctures
• It is breathable and as such you can utilize it for drainage or separation application
• This material is cheaper to produce.

Disadvantages

• The material does not perform well under compression forces
• It is not suitable for reinforcement applications
• This material also has limited durability compared to their woven alternatives

Applications

• Weed barriers
• Drainage fabrics
• Civil engineering projects
• Environmental remediation projects

Conclusion

The four types of geosynthetic materials have their benefits and limitations which makes them suitable for select applications. It is therefore advisable for you to consider all your application requirements before deciding on the most appropriate type for you.