The general term geosynthetics encompasses the subfamilies of geotextiles, geogrids, geocells, geocomposites, and geomembranes. Various construction practices incorporate geosynthetics to take advantage of their properties and ease of installation. Geosynthetics have six primary functions: filtration, drainage, separation, reinforcement, fluid barrier, and protection. The TYPE_ of geosynthetic used on a particular project will depend on its intended primary function in the installation, and thus its critical properties.
The Department maintains an approved list for geotextiles, geocomposites, and geomembranes. Geotextiles are broken down into five application categories: bedding, separation, drainage, slope protection and stabilization. Geocomposites are broken down into four application categories: structural drains, integral abutment drains, vertical drains and edge drains.
Section 737 Geosynthetics was created to provide the material requirements for geosynthetic used in highway construction. Section 737 Geosynthetics was originally issued via EI 08-005. The current issuance revises portions of the Section.
