Innovations in Geotextiles and Subdrainage for Infrastructure Projects

The implementation of efficient subdrainage systems is fundamental in infrastructure projects to ensure the durability and functionality of structures such as pavements and retaining walls. In this context, geotextiles and perforated pipe systems are key materials, offering advanced solutions for groundwater management and soil moisture control. This blog looks at some of the innovations in geotextiles, perforated pipes, geocomposites for drainage and integral drainage systems that are transforming infrastructure construction and maintenance.

Geotextiles: Filters and High Performance Drainage:

Geotextiles are versatile materials commonly used for filtration and separation in underdrainage systems. For example, in the construction of longitudinal filters for road projects, geotextiles are used to line excavations that are then filled with granular filter material, facilitating water capture and redirection without eroding the soil.

According to their apparent opening size and permeability, geotextiles ensure effective water control, preventing clogging of the drainage medium and prolonging the useful life of the structures.

Perforated Pipes: Flexibility and Drainage Efficiency

Perforated pipes are another key component in modern subdrainage systems. Manufactured in high-density polyethylene and with a corrugated design, these pipes offer flexibility to adapt to the terrain in road projects, retaining walls and other infrastructure where high compressive and impact resistance is required. The pipe DrainPipeThe water flow system, for example, comes in 4" and 6" diameters and is manufactured to high strength standards to withstand the weight and pressure of the surrounding soil, while maintaining efficient water flow through its perforations.

In addition, the corrugated design allows the pipe to be presented in coils, which facilitates transportation and installation. This pipe is resistant to chemical products and has a large open area in its perforations, improving its capacity to capture water.

Pipe with Filter: Integral Solution for Subdrainage and Filtration

Filter piping, also known as Filter DrainPipecombines a perforated pipe with a filtering non-woven geotextile liner. This design is ideal for capturing groundwater without the risk of internal erosion, as the geotextile filters fine particles from the soil, preventing clogging of the pipe. The geotextile layer acts as a filter that completely surrounds the pipe, ensuring a long service life and maintaining its efficiency under high load conditions.

Geodrains: Support and Filtration in a Compact Solution

The geodren, like the model PermaDrainoffers a combination of a draining medium and a filtering medium in a single material. The three-dimensional geonet provides high compressive strength, maintaining its thickness and drainage capacity even under high loads. These geonets are used in longitudinal and transverse subdrainage applications, adapting to pavement and reinforced soil retaining wall projects.

The model PermaDrain in tubular format is especially useful in longitudinal subdrainage systems where the geotextile is required to completely envelop the perforated subdrainage pipe, providing an autonomous and efficient system for groundwater collection and evacuation. In addition, these geodrains are resistant to aggressive chemical environments, ensuring durability in various environments.

Practical Applications: Infrastructure Success Stories

These materials have been successfully applied in road projects such as the Carmen del Atrato - Quibdó highway, Colombia, where geodrenes support dynamic loads without deforming, maintaining a durable structure and avoiding capillary rise that could affect pavement performance.

In conclusion, advances in geotextiles, perforated pipes, geocomposites and subdrainage systems offer sustainable and efficient solutions for groundwater management in infrastructure projects. These materials not only improve the durability of constructions, but also facilitate their maintenance, contributing to a more resilient infrastructure adapted to the demands of the terrain and climate.