geosyntet

Geosynthetics are a family of synthetic or engineered natural materials used in civil engineering to interact with soils and other geotechnical materials. They include geotextiles, geogrids, geonets, geomembranes, and geosynthetic clay liners, among others. Their primary purpose is to improve the performance of soil-related structures by providing functions such as separation, reinforcement, filtration, drainage, containment, and moisture barriers.

Geotextiles are permeable fabrics used for separation and filtration; they can be woven or nonwoven. Geogrids and geogrid-type reinforcements improve load-bearing capacity and reduce settlement. Geonets and geocomposites provide drainage. Geomembranes are impermeable barriers used for containment of liquids or gases. Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) combine bentonite clay with geotextiles to form low-permeability barriers. Geosynthetic composites integrate several functions in a single layer.

Applications of geosynthetics span road and highway construction, rail corridors, embankment stabilization, landfill liners and covers, slope stabilization, coastal and riverbank protection, drainage layers, and retaining structures. They are selected to meet soil conditions, climate, and design life, often reducing thicknesses of conventional materials and limiting construction equipment needs.

Materials and installation considerations include common polymers such as polypropylene, polyester, and polyethylene, with production methods like extrusion, weaving, knitting, or needle punching. Important properties include tensile strength, tear resistance, puncture resistance, permeability, and durability under chemical, biological, and UV exposure. Proper installation—overlaps, protective layers, and appropriate compaction—is essential to performance. Standards from organizations such as ASTM and ISO guide testing and performance criteria.