Geosynthetics

Geosynthetics are planar polymeric materials used for a variety of geotechnical and environmental engineering applications. Additional info found at stsgeo.ru.

Reinforcement: Geosynthetics offer a bridging effect between soil and other materials with different properties. This prevents settlement or shifting of both in situ material as well as imported materials, keeping their integrity intact.

Reinforcement

Geosynthetic reinforcement must meet both strength requirements and soil interaction properties. For long term design strength, reinforcement must be at a strain level equal to or higher than the maximum soil strength (elastic + creep).

Additionally, it should intersect potential failure surfaces in the soil mass and provide a pullout capacity to withstand a critical slip circle. To do so, calculate Cds (direct sliding coefficient) and Ci (pullout coefficient).

Geogrids are becoming more and more common in slope reinforcement projects. These open-grid polymeric structures feature large apertures between individual ribs for improved drainage.

Geogrids are interconnected through laser or ultrasonically bonding methods to form an open grid structure. They're used in many construction applications like retaining walls, embankments and bridges as well as filling voids; for instance keeping soft soils from freezing or preventing concrete slabs from cracking during wintertime.

Filtration

Filtration is a technique in which liquids (such as water) are separated from solid matter. It's frequently employed in sewage treatment to separate waste from liquids and for water treatment to eliminate contaminants like salts and silts.

Geotextile filters are essential in drainage systems such as interceptor drains, "burrito" or "french" drains, recharge basins and relief wells. They're also employed in erosion control applications like wave protection for shoreline embankments or causeways; scour protection of small drainage structures and ditches; cut and fill slope protection for bridge piers and abutments.

Filtration occurs through the interaction between soil and geotextile material. Pore size and grain shape of the soil determine both how well a filter medium captures surface debris as well as its storage capacity for captured debris.

Drainage

Geosynthetics are planar products made of durable polymers that can be integrated with soil, rock, earth or other geotechnical engineering material to form part of man-made projects, structures or systems.

Geosynthetics can serve a number of functions, such as separation, reinforcement, filtration and drainage. Furthermore, they help protect the environment by reducing pollution and slowing down natural material decomposition.

Drainage in geosynthetics is often caused by a combination of pressure and shear forces. This can occur over an extended period, as well as under field conditions like those experienced when installing on steep slopes like landfill capping systems (figure 5).

Filtration often relies on geosynthetics made of conventional graded granular materials. These options tend to be cost-effective and easier to install in the field.

Liquid Containment

Liquid containment is a crucial element in geosynthetics. Geomembranes, clay liners and some geocomposites act as liquid or gas barriers that keep liquids out of the ground.

These barriers are essential for landfill lining and capping, reservoirs and canals, ornamental ponds and highway balancing ponds as well as in sewage and wastewater treatment facilities. Whether used for permanent soil separation or to allow drainage in a specific way, geosynthetics provide fluid containment without harming the surrounding environment.

One of the main reasons manufacturers take such care in producing geosynthetics is to ensure their products meet or exceed industry standards. Doing this helps guarantee they will withstand time and harsh environmental conditions.