Earthwork
Geotextile
A permeable synthetic fabric used in geotechnical applications to separate, filter, reinforce, or drain soil layers.
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In the Field
Geotextile is commonly placed between the subgrade and aggregate base to prevent the fine-grained soil from migrating up into the base (pumping). It extends pavement life significantly in poor soil conditions.
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Rule of Thumb
Use non-woven geotextile for separation and filtration under aggregate base. Woven geotextile is used for reinforcement applications. Don't substitute one for the other without engineer approval.