What is geotextile fabric?
Geotextile fabric is a type of permeable textile material that is commonly used in civil engineering and construction projects. It is designed to perform various functions in soil stabilization, drainage, filtration, separation, and erosion control.
Geotextile fabrics are typically made from synthetic materials such as polypropylene, polyester, or polyethylene. These materials are resistant to decay and can withstand exposure to various environmental conditions.
The primary function of geotextile fabric is to act as a separator between different soil layers or materials. By placing geotextile fabric between two soil layers, it prevents the mixing of the materials while allowing water to pass through. This is particularly useful in road construction, where it helps to distribute loads and prevent the contamination of base materials.
Geotextile fabric also provides filtration capabilities by allowing water to flow through while retaining soil particles. This is beneficial in drainage systems, preventing clogging and maintaining the hydraulic performance of the system.
In erosion control applications, geotextile fabric can be used to stabilize soil on slopes or embankments. It helps to reduce soil erosion by absorbing the impact of rainfall and facilitating water runoff while preventing the loss of soil particles.
Overall, geotextile fabric offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for various geotechnical and civil engineering applications. It has become an essential component in many construction projects, providing improved performance and longevity to infrastructure systems.