Q1: What's the difference between geotextile and geomembrane?
A: Think of it this way: geotextiles let water through but hold soil (filtration/separation), while geomembranes stop water completely (barrier/containment) .
- Geotextiles: Permeability 1×10⁻³ to 1×10⁻⁴ cm/s, used for drainage, separation, protection
- Geomembranes: Permeability as low as 1×10⁻¹³ cm/s, used for ponds, landfills, containment
Q2: How long do geosynthetics last?
A: In normal environments, quality geosynthetics last 50+ years. In harsh conditions, enhanced grades can reach 70 years . However, lifespan depends on:
- UV exposure (cover with soil promptly)
- Chemical environment (select resistant grades)
- Installation quality (avoid punctures)
Q3: How do I choose between woven and nonwoven geotextile?
A: It's about function :
|
Type
|
Best For | Key Property |
|
Woven
|
Reinforcement, load distribution | High tensile strength (≥50kN/m) |
|
Nonwoven
|
Filtration, separation, drainage | Permeability (≥0.1cm/s), 65-85% porosity |
Q4: What thickness geomembrane do I need?
A: Common guidelines:
- Ponds/irrigation canals: 0.5-1.0mm
- Landfill liners: 1.5-2.0mm
- High-risk containment (chemicals, mining): 2.0mm+
Q5: Can geogrid really replace stone replacement?
A: Yes—and it often saves 50-60% on material costs. As shown in our Indonesia case study, 30kN geogrid with 50cm fill outperformed 5m stone replacement while costing 63% less and finishing 55% faster.
Q6: What are the critical installation rules?
A: Five golden rules :
- Clear the base of sharp objects
- Lap seams minimum 15cm (geogrid) or 30cm (geotextile)
- Weld geomembrane seams (don't just glue)
- Cover promptly to prevent UV damage
- Test backfill—no sharp rocks
Q7: How do I verify product quality?
A: Three steps:
- Request batch test reports (CBR puncture, tensile, permeability)
- Check certifications (ISO, GAI-LAP, ASTM/EN standards)
- Visit similar project references
Industry data shows 30% of composite geomembranes fail to meet permeability standards —don't skip verification.
Q8: What's better: HDPE or PVC geomembrane?
A: For most applications, HDPE wins on durability:
- HDPE: Better chemical resistance, UV resistance, high-temp performance
- PVC: More flexible, lower cost, but plasticizers migrate over time
In desert environments (70℃+), HDPE is the only choice .
Q9: Do I need to wrap drainage pipes with geotextile?
A: Yes—always. Without geotextile wrap, fine particles enter the pipe and clog the system. The geotextile acts as a filter, letting water in but keeping soil out .
Q10: How do I choose the right supplier?
A: Look beyond price. Evaluate:
- Technical capability: Can they help with spec selection?
- Quality system: Do they have certified labs?
- Project experience: Have they done similar projects?
- Service support: Can they provide on-site guidance?
A scoring model from industry experts weights these factors:
- Core: 25%
- Mechanical strength: 20%
- Environmental resistance: 20%
- Technical service: 20%
- Market reputation: 15%
Need more specific answers? Contact our technical team with your project details, and we'll help you find the right solution.