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Geotextile is a synthetic material with a non-woven structure. It is made from polyester or polypropylene fibers. In this article, we will explore the purpose of geotextile, its types, applications, and advantages.
Types of Geotextile
As we have mentioned, geotextile is made from polymer fibers that are bonded together using different methods. This results in one of the following materials:
- Non-woven geotextile. This is created using a needle-punching machine or through high-temperature bonding. In the first case, the fibers are connected through multiple punctures, giving the fabric good filtration properties.
- Woven geotextile. A strong material woven in a similar manner to regular fabric. The fibers are interlaced to form a durable textile that is highly resistant to tearing.
- Knitted textile. The fibers are bound by a single thread. If this main thread unravels, the entire material falls apart, which is why it is not very popular.
Properties of Geotextile
This material is valued for its tensile strength, elasticity, and resistance to extreme temperatures (ranging from -60°C to +100°C). Additionally, it offers the following advantages:
- Lightweight rolls. Easy to transport, for example, in a truck bed, and simple to handle during installation.
- Ease of use. The rolls can be easily cut on-site with a hand or chain saw.
- Water resistance. The fabric doesn’t rot and maintains its strength in all weather conditions. The rolls also don’t absorb water and become heavier when wet.
- Resistance to biological threats. The fabric is not affected by fungi or mold, and it’s not vulnerable to rodents or insects.
You can purchase various types of geotextile (trans. from Latv “ģeotekstils”) on the website, which offers up to 3,000 different technical fabrics, as well as services for sewing filter bags.
What Is Geotextile Used For?
Primarily, geotextile acts as a separation layer between other materials. For example, it prevents soil from mixing with gravel during roadwork or protects waterproof membranes from mechanical damage. Here are other common uses of geotextile:
- Weed protection for walkways and lawn installation in parks and gardens. The fabric restrains root growth, reducing time and money spent on landscape maintenance.
- Green roof construction. The barrier properties of geotextile fibers prevent roots from damaging building structures.
- Erosion control. Thanks to its filtration properties, geotextile effectively channels excess water away, preventing soil erosion. At the same time, it retains moisture, preventing soil from drying out and losing fertility.
- Slope and embankment stabilization, foundation protection. The fibers direct excess moisture away from vertical surfaces, prolonging their lifespan and preventing them from collapsing.
- Construction of football stadiums and artificial sand beaches. The fabric is tear-resistant and stretches well, distributing the load evenly across the surface. The reinforcing layer formed doesn’t sag or form holes, even under heavy mechanical pressure.
- Drainage system installation. Geotextile prevents pipes from clogging with silt and speeds up the drainage process.
Geotextile is widely used in construction, agriculture, and landscaping. Depending on its density, it serves as either a covering or reinforcing layer. It resists mold and fungus, is heat-resistant, and moisture-proof, making it highly valued for both domestic and industrial applications.
