Geocells

Geocells are engineered for protection and stabilization applications. They are often used to help improve the performance of standard construction materials and erosion-control treatments.

Geocell products are three-dimensional, expandable panels made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyester or another polymer material. When expanded during installation, the interconnected strips form the walls of a flexible, three-dimensional cellular structure into which specified infill materials are placed and compacted. This creates a free-draining system that holds infill materials in place and prevents mass movements by providing confinement through tensile reinforcement. Cellular confinement systems improve the structural and functional behavior of soils and aggregate infill materials.

Geocell products were developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The primary geocell applications include:

• protection and stabilization of steep slope surfaces
• protective linings of channels and hydraulic structures
• static and dynamic load support on weak subgrade soils
• multi-layered earth-retaining and water-retaining gravity structures

Infill selection is primarily governed by the nature and intensity of anticipated working stresses, the availability and cost of candidate materials, and in some instances the aesthetic requirements for a fully vegetated appearance. Basic geocell infill types are aggregates, vegetated topsoil, and concrete.