Geosynthetics have been used in civil and environmental applications for many decades. Primarily functions include separation, filtration, drainage, reinforcement, protection and sealing. The decades have been witness to the most significant advances in geosynthetic design, manufacturing and installation techniques.
Beyond the basic awareness of the available products, the marked increased use of geosynthetics as a whole appears to have been driven by the many advantages geosynthetics have over traditional construction methods and materials. Advantages include the direct material cost savings, airspace savings for landfills, the reduction of excavation volumes, faster installation rates, improved performance as well as the possibility of steeper slope applications. However, with the technical advances, greater care must be used to ensure the correct product is selected and just as importantly, that the product is properly installed. Poor selection or installation can have the effect of negating the economic and technical benefits.