Geotextiles are permeable fabrics that are used extensively to a very positive effect in various civil engineering and environmental applications. They are designed to perform specific functions, such as filtration, separation, reinforcement, and drainage. Geotextiles are classified into different types based on their manufacturing process, structure, and intended application. Here are some common types of geotextiles:
1. Woven Geotextiles: These geotextiles are made by weaving individual yarns together to form a fabric. Woven geotextiles are characterized by their high strength and stiffness. They are commonly used for applications requiring high load-bearing capacity, such as soil reinforcement, embankment stabilization, and erosion control.
2. Non-woven Geotextiles: Non-woven geotextiles are manufactured by bonding or felting fibers together without weaving. They are typically made from synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyester. Non-woven geotextiles are known for their excellent filtration and separation properties. They are used in applications such as drainage systems, filtration of fine soil particles, and protection against soil erosion.
3. Knitted Geotextiles: Knitted geotextiles are produced by interlocking loops of yarns together. They have a more open structure compared to woven geotextiles, providing enhanced filtration and drainage capabilities. Knitted geotextiles are commonly used in applications such as shoreline protection, slope stabilization, and soil reinforcement.
4. Composite Geotextiles: Composite geotextiles are a combination of different geotextile types. They are created by bonding or stitching together multiple layers of geotextiles, often with other materials like geomembranes or geogrids. Composite geotextiles are used to provide multiple functions simultaneously, such as filtration, separation, and reinforcement.
5. Coloured: Used extensively in contaminated ground areas to enable dissimilar materials including contaminated areas to be clearly identified, The use of a brightly colored woven or non-woven geotextile is used to mark these areas. These are often Red or Orange in color.
6. Geogrids: While not strictly classified as geotextiles, geogrids are often included in discussions about geotextile materials. Geogrids are made of high-strength polymers or metals and have a grid-like structure. They are primarily used for soil reinforcement applications, such as retaining walls, road stabilization, and load distribution over weak soils.
These are some of the main types of geotextiles available, each designed to fulfill specific engineering requirements. The selection of the appropriate geotextile type depends on factors like the intended application, soil conditions, required properties, and project specifications.
Stratec are ideally suited to provide a solution to your requirement having had nearly 50 years of involvement in the geotextile and geogrid markets
