Resistance and durability of high strength geotextile bags for hydraulic works

Abstract

There is a need to build hydraulic works for riverside protection in case of flood as well as a mitigation project for high scour in places where rock material is very expensive or does not exist, therefore hard armour rock, rip rap or even concrete are unattractive alternatives. In several countries of the world, geotextile bags of high resistance have been used to achieve a valid and economical alternative. Themes related to stability of structures with bags that are very important have been dimensioned by some researchers, but there is still no information on how to relate the mechanical characteristics of the components of the bags with their manufacturing and also its service behaviour. This research offers details to be able to know the mechanical characteristics of thread types, geotextile and seaming according to the infill material type to be used to have an equivalent of a rock with the use of high resistance geotextile bags. This is also oriented to know its durability before abrasion, impact and UV radiation. Tests carried out in our laboratories are included as well as those carried out by other researchers both oriented to a methodology that provides an appropriate dimensioning of this type of structures. Some experiences where this methodology was used will be also included as well as the appropriate references.