Geotextiles

Geotextiles are permeable fabrics used in civil engineering to separate, filter, reinforce, protect and drain within soil structures. Ashelby International supplies geotextiles from 100 to 1000 GSM in polypropylene and polyester.

The functional requirement determines the construction. Separation and filtration applications -- preventing aggregate from migrating into subgrade while allowing water through -- are typically served at 100 to 300 GSM. Reinforcement applications, where the fabric carries tensile load to stabilise embankments and retaining structures, require heavier constructions from 300 GSM upward, extending to 1000 GSM for demanding installations.

Polypropylene is the most widely used polymer, offering good chemical resistance across the pH range found in most soils at favourable cost. Polyester provides higher tensile strength and better creep resistance under sustained load, which matters in long-term reinforcement, though it is more susceptible in highly alkaline conditions such as fresh concrete or lime-stabilised soil. UV resistance is significant during installation: geotextiles degrade under prolonged sunlight, so exposure before covering should be minimised regardless of specification.

Typical applications include road construction, soil stabilisation, drainage systems and erosion control. These installations are normally governed by project specifications and national standards covering tensile strength, permittivity, apparent opening size and puncture resistance. Send the project specification with your enquiry so we can confirm the required properties before quoting.