Geotextile Specifications Made Simple

Geotextiles are currently specified in many different ways. Engineers specify geotextiles by brand name, mass, type, and/or any mix of properties including strength, puncture resistance, “G” Rating, EOS, and hydraulic properties. However, in Australia, no unified method exists of specifying geotextiles in a simple manner. Some specifications are unnecessarily biased against certain types of geotextiles, particularly wovens. Each State road authority has its’ own method. This causes unnecessary confusion and complexity to engineers, manufacturers and contractors alike. This paper presents a case for adopting a simple, unified method of specifying geotextiles. Current Australian specifications are reviewed against worlds best practice.