Geocells are a kind of three-dimensional reticulated cellular structure formed by welding high-strength HDPE sheet materials through high-strength welding. Generally, they are welded by ultrasonic needle welding. Due to the requirements of engineering projects, some are perforated on the diaphragms.
(I) Flexible and Variable Forms
Geocells possess the characteristic of being freely stretchable and retractable. They can be folded up during transportation, which greatly reduces the transportation volume. During construction, they can be stretched into a reticulated shape, and the operation is simple and flexible. This unique form makes geocells extremely convenient in both transportation and construction processes. Whether it is on a narrow construction site or in the case of long-distance transportation, they can carry out operations efficiently. For example, in the construction of mountain roads in some areas with inconvenient transportation, the foldable feature of geocells makes transportation more convenient and reduces transportation costs and construction difficulties.
(II) Adaptability to Diverse Environments
Geocells are lightweight, which facilitates handling and installation. Meanwhile, they have the characteristic of being resistant to wear and can withstand long-term use and friction from various external forces. Their chemical properties are stable, resistant to light-oxygen aging, acid and alkali, and are applicable to different soil conditions such as in various soils and deserts. Whether in acidic soil or alkaline soil, geocells can maintain good performance and will not corrode or be damaged due to the chemical properties of the soil. According to statistics, in the engineering construction in desert areas, the use of geocells can effectively improve the stability of the roadbed and reduce the erosion of the roadbed by wind and sand.
(III) Strong Load-bearing and Dispersion Functions
Geocells have relatively high lateral restraint and anti-slip properties and can effectively prevent the deformation of the roadbed. When bearing loads, they can evenly disperse the loads into the surrounding soil, avoiding roadbed settlement and damage caused by excessive local pressure. For example, in the construction of expressways, the use of geocells can enhance the load-bearing capacity of the roadbed, reduce cracks and potholes on the road surface, and improve the service life of the road. Data shows that in the sections where geocells are used, the load-bearing capacity of the roadbed can be increased by more than 30%.
(IV) Meeting Different Engineering Requirements
Geocells can meet different engineering needs by changing geometric dimensions such as height and welding spacing. In actual engineering projects, engineers can choose appropriate geocell specifications according to specific engineering requirements to achieve the best engineering effects. For example, in some projects that require a relatively high load-bearing capacity, geocells with a larger height and a smaller welding spacing can be chosen; while in some projects with limited construction space, geocells with a smaller height and a larger welding spacing can be selected. This flexibility enables geocells to be widely used in various engineering projects.
