What Is Geotextile Felt and Where Is It Used?

Geotextile felts are permeable textile products made from synthetic fibers such as polypropylene or polyester and are frequently used in engineering projects for applications including soil stabilization, drainage, filtration, and erosion control. These multifunctional materials provide highly important advantages in terms of structural durability and environmental sustainability. They are materials commonly used in the fields of construction and environmental engineering. Generally produced by combining natural or synthetic fibers, geotextile felts form a durable and flexible textile material. The main purpose of this material is to control permeability between soil, water, and other construction materials, prevent erosion, and increase the strength of the ground.

What Is Geotextile Felt Used For?

Felts are generally divided into two main types: nonwoven and woven. Nonwoven felts are produced by bonding fibers together using thermal, chemical, or mechanical methods, while woven felts are manufactured using traditional weaving techniques.

Areas of Use for Geotextile Felt

Use in Erosion Control

Erosion is a major problem, especially in land development projects. Geotextile felts offer an excellent solution for erosion control. They help keep the soil in place by reducing the erosive effect of water on the ground. Also known as erosion control mats, these products are used in various applications such as steep slopes, riverbanks, and areas exposed to wind erosion.

Effectiveness in Drainage Systems

Felts allow water to pass through the soil, preventing excessive water accumulation and thereby supporting healthy plant root growth. This is especially vital in agricultural areas and urban drainage systems.

Stabilization and Reinforcement

Soil reinforcement is an integral part of modern construction projects. Geotextile felts increase the durability and load-bearing capacity of the ground by separating and distributing subsurface soil layers. This method is commonly used in projects such as road construction, foundations, and slope stabilization.

Sustainable Advantages of Geotextile Felts

The use of environmentally friendly materials is a growing trend in today’s construction industry. Geotextile felts stand out in this category due to their recyclability and low carbon footprint. In addition, they contribute to a sustainable future by helping to preserve natural resources.

Energy Efficiency

The production process of geotextile felts consumes significantly less energy compared to traditional construction materials. This greatly reduces the overall carbon footprint of a project.

Long Service Life

Since these felts are made from durable materials, they offer long-term use. This reduces the frequency of material replacement and, consequently, the amount of waste generated.

What Should the Thickness of Geotextile Felt Be?

The required thickness of geotextile felt depends on the type of application and the specific needs of the project. Different thicknesses provide different mechanical and physical properties, so selecting the correct thickness is critical to the success of the project.

Geotextile Felt Thicknesses According to Applications

Geotextiles are synthetic materials used in many fields such as soil improvement, drainage, erosion control, sealing, and landscaping. The thicknesses of geotextile felts vary depending on the application in which they are used. Choosing the correct thickness is vital to the success of a project, as it affects the material’s durability, permeability, and other mechanical properties.

Erosion Control and Stabilization

For erosion control and soil stabilization projects, geotextile felts in the range of 100–400 g/m² are generally used. However, thicker felts may be required depending on the slope of the surface, soil type, and erosion risk. In erosion control applications on sloped surfaces, the thickness of the geotextile is critical for protecting the soil and preventing erosion. In such cases, a medium-thickness geotextile felt is usually the most effective solution. For applications such as high-traffic roads or heavy structures, thicker felts are typically preferred to increase the load-bearing capacity of the soil and reduce ground deformation. Thicker felts provide higher tensile strength and greater resistance to deformation.

Drainage Systems

In drainage systems, thinner felts are preferred to allow water to flow freely. Generally, geotextile felts with a weight of 200–300 g/m² may be sufficient. However, soil structure and drainage requirements play a role in determining the correct thickness. In drainage applications, thickness is important because it affects the felt’s ability to direct water effectively and provide filtration. Very thin felts allow rapid drainage, while excessively thick ones may cause water accumulation.

Asphalt Pavements and Road Construction

Geotextile felts used in road construction and asphalt pavements generally require high durability. For such applications, geotextile felts weighing 300–600 g/m² or more are recommended. In applications requiring sealing, such as waste storage facilities, thick geotextile felts are used to prevent the leakage of liquids and gases. When combined with high-density polyethylene (HDPE), these felts provide maximum effectiveness in sealing applications.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the correct geotextile felt thickness depends on the specific requirements of the project, local soil conditions, and the engineering standards to be applied. For this reason, it is important to consult a geotechnical engineer or a geotextile specialist before starting a project. Experts will help determine the most suitable type and thickness of felt for your project by conducting the necessary tests and evaluating the conditions.

How much does geotextile felt cost

Geotextile felt prices may vary depending on several factors. Prices generally differ based on the following elements:

Quality: Felts can have different quality levels. Higher-quality felts are usually more expensive.
Material: Felts may be made from different materials. The choice of material can affect the price.
Dimensions: The size and thickness of the felt can influence the price. Larger or thicker felts are generally more costly.
Brand and Manufacturer: Products from different brands and manufacturers may be sold at different prices. Well-known brands are often priced higher.
Seller: Different sellers may offer different prices for the same product. Comparing multiple sellers can help you find a better price.
Quantity: Purchasing in larger quantities may allow you to benefit from bulk discounts.

For this reason, it is important to compare geotextile felt prices and contact different suppliers to find the best offer that meets your specific requirements. Additionally, comparing prices from both local and online stores can give you a clearer idea of the market.