EVALUATION OF GEOTEXTILES FOR DRAINAGE AND REINFORCEMENT APPLICATIONS

A number of geotextiles are marketed in Australia for use as separators, filters, reinforcement layers, and drainage blankets. Properties which are considered relevant for engineering applications are related to the strength, puncture resistance, flow properties, and opening size of the fabric. Other relevant properties include its resistance to heat, uv light and chemical attack. Tests were carried out to determine the relevant properties of a range of fabrics which are on the market. The performance of both woven and non woven geotextiles are discussed. In addition, guidelines have been given so that suitable fabrics can be chosen for a given application, emphasis being given to drainage and reinforcement applications. The number of covering abstract for the conference is TRIS No. 393385. (Author/TRRL)