Strips of HDPE or a similar polymer are welded at intervals and pulled open into cells, typically 75 to 200 mm deep. The cell walls confine the infill, making it stiffer and more resistant to rutting, erosion and sliding. Geocells are used for load support over soft soil, erosion protection on slopes and channels, and earth retaining walls.
Heard on the job
Stretch the geocell panels and stake them before the gravel comes in, or they'll fold up under the dozer.
Also heard as
- cellular confinement
- honeycomb
Related terms
Stabilization
Improving how soft ground or an aggregate base carries traffic by adding geogrids or geotextiles.
Geogrid
Polymer grid with large open apertures that interlocks with soil or aggregate to reinforce or stabilize it.
Subgrade
Native or prepared soil surface on which a pavement, aggregate base or liner system is built.