No. Geogrid strength does not correlate to in-ground performance, which has been demonstrated in multiple studies (Watts et al., & Giroud & Han, ). The ability of the geogrid to interlock and confine the aggregate subjected to traffic loading is fundamental to deliver enhanced performance of the mechanically stabilized layer (MSL). This enhanced performance can only be measured through full-scale in-ground trafficking testing. Geogrid characteristics such as rib shape, aperture shape, polymer type and material structure configuration, rib thickness, in-plane stiffness, junction shape, geogrid-aggregate compatibility and many other factors are contributors to the amount of interlock and confinement achieved, and therefore, enhanced performance of the MSL.
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No, they don’t. Aperture shape and size are key parameters to allow interlock between the particles of the granular fill material and the geogrid. However, other geogrid properties such as the rib height, rib width, rib aspect ratio, rib material, geogrid in-plane stiffness, and relative location of the rib with respect to the center of mass of the granular fill particles are key to delivering improved performance of the mechanical stabilized layer (MSL). Having the right shape of rib is also fundamental to the performance of the system.
Geogrids must have a minimum tensile strength to make sure the product is not damaged during the installation and compaction of aggregate. However, no correlation has ever been shown to exist between tensile strength and the performance of geogrids used for roadbed applications. This has been demonstrated in multiple studies (Watts et al., & Giroud & Han, ).
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No, InterAx geogrids work differently than TriAx or BX geogrids because of InterAx’s unique structure, its wide range of aperture shapes and sizes, and the interactive outer layers. By having a geogrid structure with multiple aperture shapes and sizes, particles of different types of fill materials can interlock and interact more efficiently with InterAx. This geogrid/particle interaction is enhanced by InterAx’s interactive outer layers, which conform to the shape and angularity of the particles of the fill material. These characteristics enhance the load distribution onto the subgrade, mitigating subgrade deformation and early failure of the mechanically stabilized layer (MSL). Lastly, since different types of geogrids have different structures, material characteristics, and performance properties, geogrids are not interchangeable without revising the design.
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Biaxial geogrid was invented by Tensar in the late s. Biaxial geogrids have square or rectangular openings, called apertures. Different types of biaxial geogrids exist on the market, but for roadbed applications, testing has consistently shown that integral geogrids made by a process known as punched and drawn perform best. In , Tensar introduced multiaxial geogrids, known as TriAx. These geogrids have triangular apertures and ribs with a higher aspect ratio than biaxial geogrids. This geometry provides better interlock with the surrounding aggregate than biaxial geogrids, resulting in improved performance in stabilization applications. In , Tensar introduced InterAx geogrids. InterAx builds on the decades of knowledge and testing at Tensar to deliver a higher level of performance. Through thousands of hours and millions of dollars of research and development, we combined advanced materials science, a revolutionary new geometry, extensive performance validation testing, and an entirely new design approach to deliver better solutions that are more economical, longer lasting, more resilient, and more sustainable.
Geogrids are polymeric (plastic) construction materials used to confine and stabilize granular fill materials to increase their load distribution capabilities while reducing its potential to deform under load. Geogrids have openings called apertures, which allow for rock particles to strike through. This action is known as particle interlocking, and it allows for rock to become confined within the aperture.
Geotextiles are construction materials made from woven or non-woven polymeric (plastic) fibers. They can be used to provide filtration and separation, which restrains soil from mixing with adjacent materials due to dynamic forces. Geotextiles cannot confine granular fill materials, since there are no apertures to achieve particle interlocking.
Unless you are an expert in pavement design, it may be very difficult to evaluate all of the information that may be submitted to you – let alone find time to do so. Unscrupulous suppliers often try to take advantage of this fact by providing large quantities of information, even though it is not sufficient to show equivalency and may not even be relevant to the application. You can reduce the confusion by writing a project specific specification that includes the information outlined in the checklists we linked above – depending on the application (subgrade stabilization or designing a pavement).
Yes. There are different design methods and inputs for each design method. The allowable amount of permanent deformation also likely differs for both of these applications. They require different testing, and have significantly different failure criteria. Specifics on what to look for when comparing testing for subgrade stabilization and paved road design can be found in the FAQ below.
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Performance is not based on index properties of the geogrid, measured in a lab. It is determined empirically, using full-scale in-ground trafficking testing. Request a copy of the design inputs and the design method which were used as the basis of equivalency. Also ask for the full-scale testing, with the specific product being submitted (not another “similar product”), and documentation from an independent authority verifying that the testing and calibration were performed properly. Once you have this information, you will be able to compare performance related sections and evaluate equivalency.
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Performance is not based on index properties of the geogrid, measured in a lab. It is determined empirically, using full-scale in-ground trafficking testing. Require a copy of the third-party testing on which the supplier is basing its claim of equivalency. This testing should include Accelerated Pavement Testing (APT), performed on paved sections, following the procedures defined by NCHRP report 512. There should be multiple sections tested over different subgrade conditions and different pavement section thicknesses. Require a third-party review, by pavement design experts, verifying that the design values and methodology used are supported by testing for that product, and follow the guidance of AASHTO in R50-09 (“Geosynthetic Reinforcement of the Aggregate Base Course of Flexible Pavement Structures”). Also require third-party field validation testing, following AASHTO T221-90 (), to demonstrate that the results obtained in the field support the assumptions used in the design methodology, and that deformations are in line with predictions.
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Imagine spending thousands on a construction project, only to have it fail because you used the wrong geotextile. It happens more often than you'd think. Geotextiles are the unsung heroes of modern construction - these engineered fabrics work silently beneath roads, landfills, and landscapes to provide stability, drainage, and protection. But with so many options available, selecting the wrong type can lead to costly mistakes.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision. Whether you're a civil engineer specifying materials for a major infrastructure project or a homeowner installing a backyard drainage system, this guide will help you navigate the complex world of geotextiles with confidence.
Before you even look at product specifications, you need to clearly define what you're trying to achieve. Let's break down the four primary functions of geotextiles:
When you need to strengthen weak soils:
Road and railway construction over soft ground
Retaining wall backfill
Steep slope stabilization
Foundation support for heavy structures
Real-world example: The construction of Highway 407 in Toronto used high-strength woven geotextiles to stabilize the soft clay subsoil, preventing costly settling and maintenance issues.
When water management is crucial:
French drain systems
Landfill leachate collection
Behind retaining walls
Sports field drainage
Pro tip: A golf course in Florida reduced its irrigation needs by 30% after installing a properly specified non-woven geotextile in its drainage system.
When you need to keep materials apart:
Between subgrade and aggregate in road construction
Under paved parking lots
Beneath railroad ballast
Common mistake: Using landscape fabric (too lightweight) under a driveway instead of proper separation geotextile leads to premature failure.
For protecting vulnerable surfaces:
Shoreline protection
Hillside stabilization
Temporary construction site protection
How they're made: Polypropylene or polyester yarns are woven together in a tight grid pattern, similar to how clothing fabric is made but much stronger.
Best for:
High-load situations (roads with heavy truck traffic)
Projects requiring dimensional stability
Long-term applications (20+ year lifespan)
Technical considerations:
Typical tensile strength: 50-100 kN/m
Elongation at break: <15%
Puncture resistance: 500- N
Limitations:
Limited permeability (not ideal for drainage)
Can be stiff and harder to install on uneven surfaces
Manufacturing process: Synthetic fibers are needle-punched or heat-bonded to create a felt-like material with random fiber orientation.
Ideal applications:
Drainage systems
Landfill liners and caps
Erosion control blankets
Under slab vapor barriers
Performance characteristics:
Permeability: 0.1-10 cm/sec
Filtration efficiency: 90-95%
UV resistance options available
Installation tip: Always install with the smoother side up for better aggregate interlock.
1. Composite Geotextiles
Combine woven and non-woven layers for both strength and filtration. Perfect for:
Critical drainage applications
High-stress filtration needs
Complex soil conditions
2. Geogrids
While technically different from geotextiles, these open grid structures provide exceptional reinforcement for:
Steep slope stabilization
Retaining wall construction
Very soft soil conditions
3. Biodegradable Options
Made from natural fibers like coir or jute for temporary erosion control in environmentally sensitive areas.
Understanding these technical terms will help you make better purchasing decisions:
Mass per Unit Area (GSM)
Lightweight: 100-200 g/m² (landscaping)
Medium: 200-400 g/m² (drainage, roads)
Heavy: 400-800 g/m² (landfills, railways)
Thickness
Affects flow rates and cushioning
Measured under specific pressures (e.g., 2 kPa)
Porosity
Percentage of void space (typically 60-90% for non-wovens)
Critical for long-term drainage performance
Tensile Strength
Measured in kN/m (kilonewtons per meter)
Woven: 20-100+ kN/m
Non-woven: 5-30 kN/m
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Puncture Resistance
Measured in Newtons (N)
Important for installation over rocky soils
Tear Resistance
Prevents damage during installation
Measured by trapezoidal or tongue tear tests
Permeability
Vertical flow rate (cm/sec)
Must exceed soil permeability
Apparent Opening Size (AOS)
Filtering capability (O90 or O95 values)
Smaller numbers mean finer filtration
Flow Rate
Under specific gradients (important for drainage design)
All geotextiles degrade in sunlight
UV-stabilized versions maintain:
50% strength after 6 months exposure
70% after 500 hours (ASTM D)
pH range compatibility
Resistance to:
Acids/alkalis
Hydrocarbons
Biological degradation
Cold climates: Must remain flexible at low temps
Hot climates: Resistance to thermal degradation
Common installation mistakes that cost thousands:
Inadequate overlap
Minimum 12" for most applications
24-36" for soft subgrades
Poor anchoring
Use staples every 3-5 feet
Trenches for edge protection
Damage during placement
Avoid dragging
Limit equipment traffic
Wrong side up
Smoother side typically faces up
Pro tip: Always conduct a site inspection after heavy rain to check for proper drainage function.
Price ranges (per square yard):
Economy non-woven: 0.15−0.15−0.30
Premium non-woven: 0.40−0.40−0.80
Woven geotextiles: 0.50−0.50−2.00
Specialty composites: 1.50−1.50−5.00
When to invest in premium products:
Critical infrastructure projects
Harsh environmental conditions
Long design life requirements
Cost-saving strategies:
Bulk purchasing (pallet discounts)
Local suppliers (save on shipping)
Proper specification (avoid over-engineering)
Success story 1: A municipal highway department reduced road maintenance costs by 40% after switching to a properly specified woven geotextile in their pavement rehabilitation program.
Success story 2: A coastal resort prevented $2 million in erosion damage by installing a combination of woven and non-woven geotextiles in their shoreline stabilization project.
Failure analysis: A commercial parking lot failed within 18 months because the contractor used a lightweight landscape fabric instead of proper separation geotextile beneath the aggregate base.
Reliable sources:
Manufacturer direct
Pros: Best pricing, technical support
Cons: Minimum order quantities
Distributors
Pros: Local inventory, smaller quantities
Cons: Higher per-unit cost
Online retailers
Pros: Convenience
Cons: Quality verification challenges
Red flags to watch for:
Unusually low prices
Vague product specifications
No test data available
Poor packaging/labeling
Emerging trends to watch:
Smart geotextiles with embedded sensors
Sustainable/biodegradable options
Improved recycling processes
Nanotechnology enhancements
Define primary function (reinforcement, filtration, etc.)
Assess site conditions (soil, water, loads)
Select material type (woven, non-woven, composite)
Specify key parameters (strength, permeability)
Consider environmental factors (UV, chemicals)
Plan installation carefully
Choose reputable supplier
Verify quality (request test reports)
Final thought: The few extra dollars spent on proper geotextile specification and installation can save thousands in future repair costs. When in doubt, consult with a geotechnical engineer or experienced supplier.
Our team of geotextile specialists is available to:
Review your project specifications
Provide free sample materials
Recommend cost-effective solutions
Connect you with local installers
Contact us today for personalized assistance with your next project!