Drainage applications of geosynthetics in India – untapped potential

Geosynthetics is used widely in the field of civil engineering for many years. It is one of the most significant construction material used in infrastructure, independent of geographic, climatic or technological differences. Geosynthetics offer multi-functional performance while providing most important economical advantages. There is no other construction material available in the entire construction industry like as Geosynthetics which offers such variety of sound solution to construction problems in civil engineering. Providing proper drainage system for structures such as earth retaining structures, pavements, canals, tunnel lining, landfill applications, Embankments, roofing applications etc. is of paramount importance. Locking of water inside the structure impose extra water pressure and earth pressure due to reduction in shear strength of soil. This reduces stability of structure and can even lead to catastrophic failure. Traditionally gravel or aggregate layer in combination with sand is provided behind the earth retaining structures, within earthen dams and as pavement edge drains. However, the aggregates used for filter and drainage layers is becoming scarce commodity in India and an alternate material is essential to replace the increasing need of aggregates for such infrastructure projects. Drainage composites (geocomposite) are special type of geosynthetics that enable rapid drainage of excess water while preventing soil particle migration (filtration). This paper presents different types of applications of Geosynthetics for Drainage in India. Three layer drainage composite was successfully adopted as an alternative to conventional gravel filter layers. Also these drainage composites can be successfully adopted as capillary cutoff in canals, roofing, tunnel lining and landfill applications.