Application of geotextiles in the reinforcement of slopes: geocells.
When building slopes, there are different types of geosynthetic fabrics that can be applied to prevent erosion and collapse. In addition to strengthening the slopes, geosynthetic fabrics also promote the development of a vegetation cover. In this article, we will review the advantages offered, more specifically, by the slope strengthening geogrids.
APPLICATION OF GEOGRIDS IN SLOPE STRENGTHENING
Geogrids are a group of 3D high density polyethylene cells strengthened with polyester yarn. These are manufactured from HDPE strips arranged in several rows and joined together in a staggered manner along their length to form a cellular structure as they are stretched in a direction normal to their surface.
They play a very important role in slopes since they prevent erosion, therefore avoiding structural issues derived from the erosion of exposed soil.
WHAT TYPE OF GEOGRID IS THE MOST ADEQUATE FOR SLOPE STRENGTHENING?
DLT GEOGRID
DLT GEOGRID is a 3D mesh for floor stabilisation and strengthening. These geogrid structures are manufactured from black coal UV stabilised high density polyethylene. They are used to confine aggregate, stone, gravel or soil in order to increase the land’s load bearing capacity.
DLT Geogrid has several applications and it may be used in different areas, in addition to the following slope strengthening features:
- Decreased sediment run-off and slippage in motorway and road ditches and railways embankments.
- Also used as seed support in sloping grounds.
Click here for further information regarding this geomesh fabric.
DLT GEOGRID STEP
DLT GEOGRID STEP is an innovative, weld free geogrid for slopes. Thanks to its design, this geogrid is specifically suitable for slopes and embankments. One of its advantages is that, since it is installed by unrolling, each section runs in a staggered manner in the same direction as the slope. Therefore, this system allows for the coverage of larger areas with less joints between each section.
Although DLT GEOGRID STEP may be applied in different areas, it is mainly used for its slope strengthening features:
- Decreased sediment run-off and slippage in motorway and road ditches and railways embankments.
- Also used as seed support in sloping grounds.
- It will prevent the loss of fines and aggregate caused by rainfall and/or wind, therefore improving the regeneration of the vegetation cover.
Click here for further information regarding this geomesh fabric.
Whether using geomesh or geogrid fabrics, slope strengthening must be approached from a prevention point of view and not as a means of correcting existing issues, as this may result in additional erosion or collapse.