Geocells, also known as cellular confinement systems (CCS), are three-dimensional honeycomb structures providing reliable and affordable solutions for various operations. Geocells can do it all if you are looking for slope stabilization, load support, or soil erosion prevention.

What is a Geocell?

Geocells are made of high-density polyethene (HDPE). Their open cellular structure allows them to conform to any terrain you want them to fit. Geocells can be expanded during installation to form flexible walls with interconnected strips reinforcing tensile strength while preventing movement by holding everything intact through compression increases due to environmental factors like weathering.

Benefits/Applications of Geocells

The following are the key applications of using geocells:

  • Slope Protection and Stabilization

As mentioned above, geocells conform to the terrain, forming a three-dimensional wall that prevents the movement of soil particles. This further helps prevent landslides while keeping slopes stable. Moreover, geocells reduce the amount of material needed for slope stabilization, which saves you money and time. They are quick and easy to install without requiring heavy equipment for the purpose.

It is worth noting that steep slopes not only cause erosion but may also take place on flat surfaces like roads and parking lots. In such scenarios, geocells can create a textured surface to prevent material loss due to water or wind erosion.

  • Load Support on Weak Subgrade Soils

Geocells are also used to support static and dynamic loads on weak subgrade soils. The cells create a three-dimensional grid that distributes the load over a larger area, which helps prevent soil failure. In addition, the perforations in the strips allow water to flow through, which helps keep the soil moist and prevents it from becoming compacted. This results in increased soil stability.

In addition, geocells can effectively support heavy loads on weak soils. It helps cut costs by preventing expensive repairs or replacements incurred in failed subgrade soils.

  • Create Durable Infrastructure

Geocells are commonly used in civil engineering for pavement and road construction. This is because geocells offer flexibility while keeping the soil intact. Geocells distribute weight evenly, thus keeping runways from cracking and increasing their lifespan. That is why this technology has become prevalent in constructing runways because they can bear heavy loads without causing any damage.

  • Protective Linings of Hydraulic and Channel Structures

Geocells form a sturdy three-dimensional wall that keeps soil particles from entering the waterway and polluting them. They also help reduce the erosion of the channel bed and sides, thus extending the lifespan of structures and keeping them organized.

Geocells channel linings are less prone to clog, which leads to flooding. Smooth, non-perforated geocell walls keep dirt and debris away from building up while allowing a smooth flow of water, which removes any occurring buildup. 

Final Words

An environmentally friendly method of building retaining walls or green slopes is using cellular confinement systems. The geocells can be filled with locally sourced materials like dirt or gravel, plants, or concrete without requiring a significant amount of quarrying. Since buying locally made goods lowers your carbon footprint, it benefits the environment more.