Geotextil Fabric - All you need to know

February 7, 2023

Geotextile fabric is a type of permeable material used in a wide range of construction and engineering applications, including civil engineering, environmental engineering, and infrastructure development. Its main function is to separate, filter, and reinforce different soil layers and enhance the overall performance of a project.

The material is usually made from synthetic fibers, such as polypropylene, and is produced in a range of weights, strengths, and permeabilities to meet specific project requirements. Geotextile fabric is also highly resistant to UV rays, chemical degradation, and biological decay, making it ideal for use in harsh environments.

What are the different types of geofabric and use cases for each?

Geofabric refers to a broad category of synthetic fabrics used in construction and engineering projects for separation, filtration, reinforcement, and drainage purposes. Here are some of the most common types of geofabric and their use cases:

Woven Geofabric: This type of geofabric is made from woven synthetic fibers and is characterized by its high strength and permeability. It is commonly used for reinforcement in road construction, retaining walls, and slopes.
Non-Woven Geofabric: Non-woven geofabric is made from heat-bonded fibers and is characterized by its soft texture and high permeability. It is commonly used for separation between soil and aggregate in road construction, as well as in landscaping applications.
Needle-Punched Geofabric: This type of geofabric is made from multiple layers of non-woven material that are needle-punched together. It is characterized by its high strength and stability and is commonly used for reinforcement in retaining walls and slopes, as well as for drainage in landfill sites.
Perforated Geofabric: Perforated geofabric is made from woven or non-woven material with small holes or perforations. It is commonly used for drainage applications, such as sports fields and golf courses, to allow water to drain away while retaining soil.
Composite Geofabric: Composite geofabric is made from a combination of woven and non-woven materials and is characterized by its high strength and durability. It is commonly used for reinforcement in road construction and in landscaping applications, where it helps to retain soil and prevent erosion.

Each type of geofabric has specific properties and characteristics that make it well suited for certain applications. When selecting a geofabric, it's important to consider the specific requirements of your project, such as soil type, water flow, and load-bearing capacity, to determine the best type of geofabric for your needs.

What does the GSM rating refer to?

GSM stands for "grams per square meter," and it is a standard measurement used to describe the weight of a fabric. This rating is used to compare the relative thickness and weight of different fabrics, and is an important factor in determining the suitability of a fabric for a particular application.

For example, a fabric with a GSM rating of 150 would be lighter and more flexible than a fabric with a GSM rating of 250.

In the case of geofabric, the GSM rating is an important factor in determining the fabric's strength and durability, as well as its ability to perform specific functions, such as reinforcement, filtration, or drainage. A geofabric with a higher GSM rating is generally considered to be stronger and more durable, while a lower GSM rating may indicate a more permeable or flexible fabric.

Does it matter what colour the geofabric is?

In most cases, the colour of the geo fab does not matter as it is typically buried underground and not visible. The primary concerns for selecting geofabric are its properties, such as strength, permeability, and UV resistance, rather than its colour.

However, in some applications, such as landscaping or erosion control, the colour of the geofabric may be visible and could be a factor in the selection process. In these cases, a neutral colour such as black or green, may be preferred to blend in with the surrounding environment.

Geotextile fabric is a versatile and essential material in modern construction and engineering projects. Whether you're looking to reinforce soil structures, prevent soil erosion, or promote better water management, geotextile fabric is an effective and efficient solution. If you're planning a construction project and want to ensure the best possible outcome, consider using geotextile fabric as part of your project design.