Geotextile is a type of fabric that may be processed synthetically or naturally. The fabric has tiny pores on them that allow filtering and drainage. It also provides a cover for the soil and prevents damage and soil erosion. Geotextiles are sometimes used to drain the soil properly. Thus, it is important to research it thoroughly before using it. Proper Geotextile testing is conducted before releasing the fabrics in the market.
Constituents of Geotextile Fabric
The main constituent is polyester or polypropylene, and the fibres used in manufacturing are either natural or synthetic fibres. Natural fibres are usually made from wood, paper, or wool. But they are not long-lasting and are only in use because they are biodegradable. They are spread over soil to prevent soil erosion until any kind of vegetation takes over. While synthetic fibres cannot be disposed of easily, they have a longer lifespan and hence, is the more popular form of geotextile.
Comparison between the types of geotextile
There are mainly two types of geotextile fabrics: woven and non-woven, that undergo all kinds of textile testing.
Woven fabrics are made by weaving many different fabrics together which results in a strong and withstanding fabric.
Non-woven fabric has fibres of different sizes which are entangled around each other with the help of a needle.
Woven geotextiles are less permeable which does not facilitate the process of filtering and drainage much because of their sturdiness.
On the other hand, non-woven fabrics are extremely permeable.
Woven fabrics are comparatively more long-lasting than non-woven ones, and are usually used in parking lots and in the construction of roads.
Origin
R. J. Berrett is believed to be the person who made the first geotextile fabric in the 1950s, but the usage of this particular fabric actually dates back to the time of the beginning of Egyptian Civilization.
Archaeologists have found the remnants of geotextile fabrics in the form of grass mats and linen. They used to be made by natural fibres only in order to stabilize roads and pathways.
Uses
Geotextiles have found many applications in construction in the present day. The most popular is separation (where a new soil layer is separated from the old one), stabilization (strengthens the layer of soil underneath by gradual seeping of water beneath), reinforcement (provides support and strength), waterproofing (blockage of water by applying asphalt suspension), filtration and drainage. Metslab can be your go-to place in case you want good quality textile testing.
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