Geogrid — GeoTechnical Solutions

Geogrid is a planar polymeric reinforcement product with an open mesh structure of ribs or bars that interlocks with soil or aggregate. The primary function is reinforcement — taking tensile stress, distributing load and preventing deformation of soil and granular fill.

Geogrid types

Geogrids are manufactured in three principal forms with significantly different strength and stiffness characteristics:

• Extruded (punched and drawn) — HDPE or PP polymer sheets punched with apertures, then stretched in one or both directions. Stiff, integral knot strength. Used for sub-base stabilisation and slope reinforcement.
• Woven coated — high-tenacity polyester yarns woven and PVC- or polymer-coated. Highest tensile strength of any geogrid type. Used for retaining walls, steep slopes and bridge abutment reinforcement.
• Bonded / laid grids — strips of polymer welded or bonded at intersections. Used for general earth reinforcement applications.

Function in road construction

In UK highway construction, geogrids are typically placed at the base of the granular sub-base or between the sub-base and capping. The geogrid distributes traffic loading across a wider area of the underlying soil and prevents lateral movement of the aggregate.

Highways England DMRB CD 226 recognises that mechanical stabilisation with geogrid can reduce sub-base thickness by 30–50% on weak subgrades. The economic case is strongest where weak ground is widespread, transport distances for aggregate are long, or carbon footprint reduction is a project requirement.

Geogrid in retaining walls

In MSE (Mechanically Stabilised Earth) retaining wall construction, woven polyester geogrid forms the tensile reinforcement extending back into the retained soil. The grid layers are placed at vertical intervals of 0.3–1.0 m and tied to wall facing units — concrete blocks, gabions, or vegetated wraparound. The composite reinforced soil mass behaves as a rigid block resisting overturning and sliding.

Related ViaCon solutions

ViaCon supplies geogrids for sub-base stabilisation and MSE reinforced soil retaining walls. See our geotechnical solutions range. Related glossary entries: geotextile, ground reinforcement, retaining wall and soil stabilisation.

Frequently asked questions about geogrid

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