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Geoceldas Funciones y aplicaciones principales
22 / March

Geogrids. Main features and applications

Geogrids. Main features and applications.

In the 21st century, one of the main challenges is to develop new construction methods that are respectful towards the environment. That is why geosynthetic fabrics, along with other material elements, can create significant synergies when it comes to the rational use and preservation of nature. In these regards, geogrids are one of many materials within the geosynthetics range that consist of a 3D cellular system. Their honeycomb shaped 3D structures are filled with earth, gravel or a top soil layer.

Geogrids can withstand both lengthwise and lateral confinement pressure, representing a huge quality improvement when compared to other stabilisation methods. This material has been designed to mitigate the negative effects of surface water and wind erosion, particularly when applied to embankments and slopes. This is achieved by the cell walls that allow for the draining of water and wind over the surface.  Furthermore, when filled with topsoil, geogrid cells will enable hydro-seeding while protecting any roots that may be formed.

This type of geosynthetic material is manufactured from polypropylene and polyethylene to be used for further ground load support. Therefore, it is intended to control surface erosion, since it can eliminate the effects caused by elements such as water and wind while stabilising the ground through its load supporting features and solving issues such as draining, cladding and reinforcement of canals.

Advantages of installing geogrids

  • With their multiple applications,  geogrids may be used for both retaining walls, embankments and composite structures.
  • And thanks to their composition, they can provide strong resistance to corrosion and extreme temperature fluctuations.
  • In addition, their honeycomb shape allows for the draining of water in both vertical and horizontal directions, in addition to maintaining the wind away from the surface, thereby preventing the effects of erosion.
  • They provide good resistance against chemicals, bacteria and tensile strength.
  • This is also a sustainable, environmentally friendly material.
  • Furthermore, geogrids are extremely easy to install and store, as it is supplied in a compressed, accordion-folded shape. In this manner, they also provide an improved handling and storage system.

Geogrid application

Below are the main geogrid applications

1. Slope erosion protection

In this case, geogrids can either retain rainwater or delay their flow along the slope. Therefore, they eliminate the appearance of rutting, one of the main causes behind the effects of erosion. On the other hand, their honeycomb shaped mesh structure facilitates water retention, thereby promoting root growth.

  •  Slopes in coastal areas. Our geogrids are fully compatibles with slopes exposed to the action of water, such as those located in coastal areas. Pebbles may be used as a filler in order to prevent wave erosion.
  • Slopes in reservoirs. By placing and refilling the geogrid with granular material, we can protect against erosion while preventing weed growth, in addition to providing an alternative, cost effective solution to the installation of gabions.

2. Installation on canal banks

During any canalisation building works, rockfill dams are often installed on canal banks as an anti erosion method. However, using geogrids can provide further advantages and solutions when compared to these traditional methods. With these geogrids, you can provide a flexible structure that retains concrete in steep gradient canal banks. In this case, the cells create small concrete blocks that can adjust to any surface irregularities without resulting in cracking.

3. Surface stabilisation.

With the installation of geogrids, we can efficiently reduce the amount and quality of aggregate required to stabilise low bearing capacity grounds. By using our geogrids you can prevent the aggregate from being shifted by applied loads. Since the cells comprising the material are connected to each other, any applied loads are distributed among wider areas. In this case, the potential savings in aggregate material and their transportation make geogrids a highly recommended option in terms of both value for money and efficiency.

4. Soil retention on slopes

Geogrid are designed for installation on steep gradient slopes. In most cases, the material used to fill the geogrids shall be readily available in the area where it is to be installed, i.e., topsoil, thereby providing the wall with a friendlier aspect while reducing external water flow.

For further information do not hesitate to contact us. You can also download our ebook “Polyethilene Geocells”: a practical guide for you to learn all the details about the innovative system of geocells and their applications in the reinforcement and stabilization of land to prevent erosion and increase its bearing capacity.

 

 

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