Introduction
Non woven geotextiles are a relatively new product on the market, and as such, their uses are not widely known. This versatile material can be used in some ways, both in industrial and domestic settings. Here are seven ways you probably didn’t know you could use non-woven geotextiles:
1. As a filter fabric in concrete projects, to prevent the passage of fine particles
2. As a drainage layer behind retaining walls
3. As a separation layer between different types of soils
4. In agricultural applications, to increase crop yields
5. As part of an erosion control system
6. In landscaping applications, to prevent weed growth
7. In horticultural applications, to improve drainage and prevent root rot
1. As a filter fabric in concrete projects, to prevent the passage of fine particles:
Non-woven geotextiles can be used to filter out fine particles when pouring concrete. This is beneficial as it allows the concrete mix to maintain its desired characteristics – such as uniformity and strength – and protects the surrounding environment from any potential contamination. When the fabric is placed over the form, it acts as a filter fabric that prevents the passage of these fine particles. Non-woven geotextiles are preferred over conventional ones due to their lightweight composition, which makes them easier to install and more cost-effective. Furthermore, these fabrics are designed in such a way that they can retain the concrete mix without sagging or warping, thereby helping to ensure that the mix is served as intended. Non-woven geotextiles can also be combined with steel rods and other reinforcement materials, to improve overall strength and stability.
2. As a drainage layer behind retaining walls:
Non-woven geotextiles are often used in the construction of retaining walls, to allow for effective drainage and reduce hydrostatic pressures. This can prevent soil saturation and improve the stability of the retaining wall, as well as protect adjacent structures such as bridges and roadways from the structural strain of groundwater saturation. The non-woven geotextiles act as a drainage layer behind the retaining wall, allowing excess water to be collected and safely discharged. These fabrics are also highly permeable, meaning that water can easily be passed through them. In addition to this, the fabric’s drainage and filtration capabilities can become even more effective when bonded with a geotextile filter. This type of filter helps to filter out finer particles, reduces clogging and improves the overall efficiency of the drainage system. Non-woven geotextiles are also highly resistant to tears, punctures and abrasion, making them an ideal solution for retaining walls.
3. As a separation layer between different types of soils:
Non-woven geotextiles can be used as a separation layer between different types of soils, helping to isolate them from each other. This is important in the construction process, as it prevents contamination between the two soils and maintains the structural integrity of the area. Furthermore, a separation layer helps reduce the compaction of soil particles, improving the overall longevity of the soil and preventing problems such as erosion or structural damage over time. Non-woven geotextiles also help to ensure that water drainage is maintained, as they are highly permeable, allowing water to pass without causing any clogging or blockage. The fabric also helps to reduce soil migration, by preventing the movement of particles between the two layers of soil. This is critical in construction sites, as the two different types of soil will have different drainage and soil cohesion characteristics, which can cause issues if allowed to mix. Additionally, the fabric is highly visible, allowing for easy identification of the separation layer during the installation process.learn more(wikipedia)
4. In agricultural applications, to increase crop yields:
Non-woven geotextiles are widely used in agricultural applications, to maintain the quality of soils and improve crop yields. The fabric can be used to maintain the soil’s temperature, preserve organic materials, prevent soil erosion, and promote healthy root systems. This can significantly increase yields and allow farmers to achieve better results from their crops. The fabric also helps to protect plant roots from frost and drought by keeping the soil at an even temperature, and it helps to provide an effective drainage solution. This is beneficial as it prevents soil erosion and helps to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root systems to become weak and susceptible to disease. Furthermore, non-woven geotextiles can improve soil fertility by trapping beneficial nutrients and improving the aeration of the soil.
5. As part of an erosion control system:
Non-woven geotextiles can be used to protect the surface of slopes and streambeds from erosion. The fabric acts as a kind of armor, holding soil and sediment in place and protecting against the movement of water. The fabric also helps to reduce the flow of water, decreasing its speed and minimizing the amount of soil that is washed away. This is beneficial for construction sites, as well as reducing the amount of sediment pollution entering water sources. Non-woven geotextiles are also an effective solution for the installation of rip rap, as the fabric helps to hold the rip rap in place and keep it from washing away. The fabric is incredibly robust and highly resistant to tears, punctures and abrasion, making it an ideal choice for these applications. Additionally, the fabric can also be combined with other erosion control measures, such as gabions and vegetative methods, to ensure they provide as much protection as possible.
6. In landscaping applications, to prevent weed growth:
Non-woven geotextiles are fiercely resistant to weed growth, making them an ideal choice for a variety of landscaping applications. These fabrics can be laid down over soil and other surfaces, effectively preventing the growth of weeds by denying them access to sunlight. In addition to this, the fabric’s permeable structure helps to ensure good water drainage, while also helping to retain some moisture in the soil. Furthermore, these fabrics are incredibly durable and highly resistant to damage from environmental factors such as UV radiation, frost, and general wear and tear. This is important for landscaping applications, as more delicate fabrics such as paper or plastic can easily be damaged by these sources, despite providing effective protection from weeds. Non-woven geotextiles can also be combined with organic mulches, such as bark, to achieve an even more effective weed suppression system.
7. In horticultural applications, to improve drainage and prevent root rot:
Non-woven geotextiles are ideal for horticultural and agricultural applications, as they provide drainage protection and prevent root rot. These fabrics are highly waterproof, allowing them to form a protective barrier against any excess water that may occur in the soil. In addition, the fabric can breathe, which prevents the build-up of moisture and improves air circulation around the roots.
