Textile Related to Earth: Geotextiles

Geotextiles

As its name suggests Geotextiles refer to textiles related to earth or soil. When any permeable material is used with rock, soil, or earth it is termed as Geotextiles. The basic function of this technology is to prevent soil erosion to strengthen heavy concrete structures. This technology has not yet gained much attention in India but is widely used in many countries for the construction of bridges, roads, and railway tracks to improve its strength. Many researchers have viewed that this technology is not newly developed but is in use from past thousands of years.

Formation of Geotextiles 

Geotextiles can be formed of synthetic fibers, natural fibers, or a combination of the two. In the past Geotextiles were made of natural plant fibers while today are usually formed of synthetic polymers such as polyester, polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA), and polyamides (PA). Geotextiles made from natural fibers are less durable as they decompose over time.

The choice of formation depends on the required properties and service life for which it is used. For example, natural fiber base Geotextiles is used for erosion control mats where durability is not a critical factor.

Natural  Fiber-Based Geotextiles

Natural fibers like Jute and coir have special applications. These different fibers degrade at different rates. Coir geotextiles degrade in 2 to 3 years while jute degrades in 1 to 2 years. Because of this property coir is used in situations where vegetation takes longer to establish, and jute is used in low rainfall areas as it can absorb more moisture. Also used for rural unpaved roads.

Advantages

1. Natural fiber-based geotextiles are environmentally friendly.

2. Its biodegradable nature has certain cost-effective applications in erosion control and re-vegetation.

3. It is helpful in the quick establishment of vegetation.

4. It also helps in dust control, sand dune formation, wind erosion control, and stabilization.

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