Geotextiles have begun to play a significant role in efforts to stabilize underground utilities and protect pipelines from expensive and environmentally disastrous failure. Engineering underground support is a unique challenge, as every underground environment is different and can further change over time. Tectonic movement can cause vertical stress. Soils can shift and the amount of groundwater can change. Horizontal stresses change over time, especially for buried pipelines that move underneath roadways and rail lines. Corrosive elements and alkalinity can impact pipeline materials.
Various engineered geotextiles have roles in both stabilizing the bed and in providing a structural and pressure barrier over the pipeline. Traditional methods of preparing beds for pipelines included hauling sand in and providing a layer or bed of sand; the pipeline was somewhat insulated from permanent ground deformation, vertical and horizontal stresses, and groundwater incursions. Over time, the sand-based bed has proven ineffective against the stresses on the pipeline. In addition, the movement of great quantities of sand to a new construction site has proven very expensive. High strength geotextiles reinforcement has proven to provide stability to the bed needed for pipeline safety.
With underground utilities running under roads and rails, and in areas where soil deformation is common, forms of protection over the top of the pipelines have proven to provide some safety. Geotextiles are remarkably strong for their weight and allow for movement. Heavier and more brittle forms of protection, such as concrete alone, are prone to shatter with movement and horizontal stress.
Mechanical punctures, abrasion, and chemical impacts that destroy pipeline materials are also challenges to the integrity of pipelines that are common from their underground environment. Geotextiles can filter groundwater and sand and move it away from vulnerable areas; the materials provide lightweight but strong protection against mechanical insults to the pipeline.
Geotextiles can be used in both new pipeline development projects and to stabilize and reinforce older projects that are showing signs of mechanical stress. We would be pleased to discuss your needs, and how we can contribute to your project. Please contact us for more information.
