Selecting coir geotextiles for slope protection
Coir geotextiles can cover exposed soil and support vegetation establishment as part of an erosion-control design. Selecting a mat requires more than choosing the heaviest GSM. Match the product to the site, installation method and project specification.
1. Define the problem on the site
Record slope angle and length, soil condition, expected rainfall, runoff paths and the area to be treated. Identify whether the issue is surface erosion or a deeper stability problem. Surface matting does not establish the stability of a slope or replace drainage and geotechnical design.
Provide a site plan or photographs with your enquiry. Flag concentrated water flows, outlets and areas exposed to inundation so the project designer can select an appropriate system.
2. Compare GSM together with mesh opening
CoEarth accepts enquiries for 400, 500, 600, 700, 800 and 900 GSM, plus custom specifications. GSM is mass per unit area. Two products of similar mass can have different openings, yarns and mechanical properties. Do not assign a slope rating to a GSM value alone.
Ask for the proposed product's mesh opening, construction, nominal mass and tolerance. Compare these with the soil retention, vegetation and installation requirements specified for your project.
3. Plan roll coverage and installation
Measure the treatment area and ask the designer to allow for overlaps, edges, anchorage and offcuts. State your preferred roll width and length in the quotation request. CoEarth's current roll dimensions must be confirmed for the proposed supply.
Prepare the ground and install in accordance with the approved project method, maintaining contact between the mat and the soil. Anchorage, trenching, overlaps and fixing patterns depend on the site and product. Use the designer's installation details rather than a universal fixing spacing.
4. Coordinate drainage and vegetation
Consider how water reaches and leaves the treated area. Specify the seed or planting plan and its maintenance needs with the landscape or erosion-control designer. Natural fibre products change over time, so the design should account for vegetation establishment and the intended service conditions.
5. Review product evidence before ordering
Request a data sheet for the proposed grade, the required test methods and reports that identify the product tested. Check units, test direction and acceptance values. A report for another construction or GSM is not automatically evidence for the selected product.
Quotation checklist
- Destination country, port, delivery terms and required date.
- GSM, mesh opening, roll width and length, and total area.
- Slope details, soil, runoff conditions and vegetation plan.
- Required tests, packaging, markings and documentation.
- Sample request and approval requirements.
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Further reading
The Coir Board's geotextile overview describes the general use of coir geotextiles for soil protection and vegetation. This reference does not certify or endorse CoEarth's products.