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Beginners guide series: How can geosynthetics help in construction?
13 August 2024
David Fisher
Head of Geosynthetics Sales At Geoworks, our geosynthetics package includes products for a wide range of civil engineering and groundworks projects. Whether you want to reinforce permanent and adoptable roads, create compounds and haul roads, reinforce embankments and slopes, or create a sustainable urban drainage system, we have a solution for you. What are geosynthetics?Geogrids and geosynthetics are crucial components in modern civil engineering, offering innovative solutions for a variety of construction and environmental challenges. Geosynthetics use manmade materials to improve land or soil-based conditions. At Geoworks, we offer geosynthetics for six main functions: separation, protection, filtration, erosion control, reinforcement, and drainage. Each type of geosynthetic product is engineered to perform one or more of these functions, making them incredibly versatile and valuable in a wide range of applications. Our range of geosynthetics includes: GEOGRIDSPolymer mesh biaxial geogrids are used for reinforcement, whether that’s a haul road or permanent road, as well as working platforms and compounds. GEOTEXTILESThese are plastic fabrics or textiles that can be used for separation, filtration, and drainage. They can also be effective in reinforcing soil slopes. GEOCOMPOSITESThis product combines two geosynthetics, such as a geogrid and geotextile, to save you using two solutions and speed up your construction. GEOMEMBRANESManmade membranes are ideal for fluid or containment barriers, whether for an attenuation pond, waste management, or a barrier for invasive weeds. GEOCELLS AND GEOPAVINGThese 3D cellular confinement systems provide erosion control to stabilise and protect embankments and slopes as well as protecting tree roots. Certain geocells can also provide a solid base for cars or pathways. GEOMATSLightweight polypropylene and polyethylene mesh can provide temporary or permanent erosion control for any green areas in your construction project. HOW CAN GEOSYNTHETICS HELP IN CONSTRUCTION?Geosynthetics are a range of products that can be used singularly or combined across your project. If you’re looking for an alternative way to construct that offers time, cost and carbon saving, then a geosynthetic could be the solution you’re looking for. Each type of project can benefit from geosynthetics in a variety of ways, depending on the solution used and the size & individual needs of the project. At Geoworks, our team can work with you throughout the project lifecycle to help you maximise the benefits. Our Geosynthetics have benefitted projects in a range of markets such as: INFASTRUCTUREGeosynthetics can minimise carbon footprint as they help reduce the need for transported materials while creating a more durable and sustainable structure. HOUSINGWhen speed is of the essence in housing development, a geosynthetic can be installed quickly and easily but with reliability and durability. RAILThis market highlights where more than one geosynthetic solution can be specified across multiple rail applications. LANDFILLGeosynthetics can play a critical role in suppressing the vertical migration of liquids and gases while providing drainage solutions. What projects have used geosynthetics successfully?Geoworks geosynthetics are in use across the UK and work for every type of project. Our team has worked closely with specifiers, contractors, estimators and architects to provide the optimum solution: Laying the groundwork at Sneddon Law Community Wind Farm in East Ayrshire. We designed and supplied our SX3030 geogrid and Multitrack nonwoven geotextile to keep the project moving while providing a durable solution. Reducing carbon footprint at Norwich Recycling Centre. Ground conditions at the end of a wet winter required a solution that would minimise wastage. To enhance the ground strength for heavy goods vehicles without damage or degradation, a combination of the E’Grid 3030 and the E’Grid 4040l biaxial geogrids and multitrack1000 nonwoven geotextile was specified. Case Study - Norwich North Recycling Centre Value engineering solutions for Oak Grange Housing Development, Derby. Geogrids and geotextiles were used to resolve site-specific ground issues when creating their permanent adoptable road, providing separation, filtration, and strong reinforcement for stability. |
