Geocells have provided the construction industry with cutting-edge road reinforcement and soil stabilization solutions. It’s a three-dimensional physical structure composed of HDPE or high-density polyethylene. Construction workers lay it on the ground in predefined patterns and then fill them with soil, gravel, and other materials to prevent erosion, retain earth and stabilize steep slopes.
In recent years, countless innovations and developments in the geocell market have led to a rapid increase in the use of sustainable and greener cells for construction. Keep reading this helpful post to learn about the main properties of geocells.
Main Properties of Geocells
There are two categories of geocells: non-perforated and perforated geocells. They come in numerous specifications and varieties, but the earlier mentioned categories are the most common classifications used for geocells in the construction industry. Here’re some physical features and properties that make geocells worth large-scale use.
Protective Lining in Hydraulic Structures and Channels
Geocells provide durable support and protective lining for hydraulic structures and channels. The three-dimensional walls using geocells can prevent waterways from mixing with soil particles and leading to pollution. It also helps reduce the overall erosion that occurs at the bed and sides of channels.
They also serve durably as protective layers under gabions and riprap. Hence, it prolongs the lifespan and strengthens the foundation of a structure.
Stabilization and Protection of Steep Slopes
We established earlier that geocells provide protection against erosion and stabilize the slope surface. However, you must know that geocells create three-dimensional walls that prevent the soil particles on a steep slope from moving laterally. Hence, it reinforces roads and provides greater retention.
Further, it prevents the chances of landslides and completely stops them from occurring due to limited or no lateral movement of soil particles. They can improve the stabilization of existing steep slopes and surfaces by combining with other stabilization methods, including retaining walls, check dams, and gabions.
Environmentally-Friendly
A cellular confinement system is a highly environmentally friendly and widely accepted approach in the massive South African construction industry. It helps builders construct reinforced retaining wall systems and green slopes that have lower chances of experiencing a landslide.
It’s very easy to fill up cellular confinement systems such as geocells are quite easy to fill up with locally-sourced materials. These include dirt, gravel, concrete, and even plants! Ultimately, it reduces the carbon footprint and doesn’t impose a severe environmental hazard during construction projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still looking for more info? We’ve compiled a list of FAQs – check them out!
Can geocells help against soil erosion and stabilization?
The two main properties of geocells in the construction industry include soil erosion control and stabilization.
What’s the latest durable invention in the geocell category for road reinforcement?
Tough-cells have gained a lot of traction in the construction industry regarding geocells for road reinforcement and soil stabilization.
