Guide to Choosing Geotextile: Woven vs Non-Woven

Geotextile is a geosynthetic product that comes in two types: woven geotextile and non-woven geotextile. In general, geotextile is a polymer material used to add strength to a design. The polymers used in geotextile are polypropylene (PP) and polyester (PET). Each type has its own capabilities, and its use is matched to site conditions. When choosing geotextile, the best option depends on several factors: tensile strength, permeability, material type and application.

Tensile Strength

In general, the tensile strength of geotextile depends on its weight (gsm). The higher the weight, the higher the tensile strength. More specifically, woven geotextile provides greater tensile strength than non-woven geotextile, as a comparison of different geotextile types at the same weight shows. Woven PP geotextile (300 GSM) has a tensile strength of 66 / 62 kN/m, while non-woven PET Staple Fibre geotextile (300 GSM) has a tensile strength of 9.31 / 9.59 kN/m.

In certain cases, a specific geotextile can be used to suit the required design. For example, woven geotextile made from polyester (PET) can be used to obtain higher tensile strength. For non-woven geotextile, polypropylene can be used, or continuous filament polyester non-woven geotextile for the highest tensile strength. Regardless of the polymer used, woven geotextile has greater tensile strength than non-woven geotextile.

Permeability

In general, geotextile is a geosynthetic material that is not impermeable, so it allows water to pass through. Non-woven geotextile has higher permeability than woven geotextile. Woven geotextile is a woven product, so its pores let very little water through, whereas non-woven geotextile resembles a filter fabric that can absorb water and let it pass.

Material Type

In general, polypropylene has better chemical resistance than polyester. However, polyester is relatively cheaper than polypropylene. Polypropylene withstands heat better than polyester, while polyester has better crack resistance than polypropylene.

Choosing Geotextile by Application

Woven geotextile, which has higher tensile strength than non-woven geotextile, is generally used for projects that need reinforcement solutions. Non-woven geotextile is generally used for filtration.

1. Road reinforcement

Woven geotextile is used to reinforce granular soil. Non-woven geotextile is used to reinforce fine granular and cohesive soil.

2. Slope & wall reinforcement

Woven geotextile is used to achieve the required strength and avoid using many geotextile layers.

3. Separation

Woven geotextile and non-woven geotextile have almost the same separation capability.

4. Filtration & drainage

Non-woven geotextile provides filtration thanks to its good permeability.

PT. Petra Nusa Elshada supplies woven and non-woven geotextile made from PP and PET, with weights from 150 GSM to 600 GSM. PT. Petra Nusa Elshada geotextile comes in two types: local (TKDN, domestic content certified) and imported (non-TKDN). The geotextile products available comply with SNI and ASTM standards.

To determine the right geotextile for your project, or if you cannot find the specification you are looking for, please contact us via the following link: