This report presents the results of a study into the mechanical damage inflicted on geotextiles when such materials are installed in compacted backfills. This type of information is essential when designing geotextiles to act as separators or reinforcements to soils. A repeatable test method has been developed at the TRL that simulates the damage inflicted on geotextiles placed in compacted fill under conditions commonly found on construction sites. The report provides details of the method and the results of trials undertaken on five geotextiles and three types of soil. The severity of damage inflicted on a geotextile was dependent on the type of backfill and the intensity of the applied compactive effort. The damage reduced the tensile strength of the geotextiles, but the short term modulus was not substantially affected. (A)
Abstract