Reference date: May 2026 | Based on AASHTO M 288, ASTM standards, and industry practice
Overview
Woven geotextiles are used in infrastructure projects for separation, stabilization, and erosion control. AASHTO M 288 provides classification criteria based on application stress levels. This document summarizes technical specifications and classification guidelines for woven geotextiles.
1. AASHTO M 288 Classification Guide
AASHTO M 288 classifies woven geotextile applications by stress level. The following classes are commonly referenced:
Class 1 (High Stress)
Applications: Permanent erosion control, heavy-load road stabilization, steep slopes. Typical tensile strength: ≥ 36 kN/m (wide-width).
Class 2 (Moderate Stress)
Applications: Subsurface drainage, silt fence reinforcement, unpaved roads. Typical tensile strength: ≥ 22 kN/m (wide-width).
Class 3 (Low Stress)
Applications: Separation layers, light-traffic landscaping, farm paths. Typical tensile strength: ≥ 18 kN/m (wide-width).
2. Key Technical Specifications
The following table summarizes typical technical specifications for woven geotextiles:
| Property | Test Method | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grab tensile strength | ASTM D4632 | ≥ 1,350 N | ≥ 1,100 N | ≥ 900 N |
| Wide-width tensile | ASTM D4595 / ISO 10319 | ≥ 36 kN/m | ≥ 22 kN/m | ≥ 18 kN/m |
| CBR puncture | ASTM D6241 | ≥ 2.4 kN | ≥ 1.8 kN | ≥ 1.5 kN |
| UV resistance (500h) | ASTM D4355 | ≥ 70% tensile retention | ||
| Apparent opening size (AOS) | ASTM D4751 | 0.15 – 0.43 mm | ||
3. Additional Performance Considerations
Long-term performance: Woven geotextiles are subject to creep under sustained loading. Long-term design strength should consider reduction factors for creep, installation damage, and environmental degradation per FHWA guidelines.
Interface friction: The friction angle between geotextile and soil affects slope stability. Direct shear testing (ASTM D5321) is used to determine interface friction parameters.
Permittivity and flow rate: For drainage and filtration applications, permittivity (ASTM D4491) and flow rate are specified to ensure adequate hydraulic performance.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between AASHTO M 288 Class 1, 2, and 3?
A: Classes are based on application stress level. Class 1 is for high-stress applications such as permanent erosion control and heavy-load road stabilization. Class 2 is for moderate stress. Class 3 is for low-stress separation applications.
Q: What test methods are used for geotextile tensile strength?
A: Two common methods are grab tensile (ASTM D4632) and wide-width tensile (ASTM D4595 / ISO 10319). AASHTO M 288 uses wide-width tensile for classification.
Q: What documentation should buyers request?
A: Mill Test Reports (MTRs) provide batch-specific test data. For public projects, NTPEP listings or project-specific qualification documentation may be required.
5. Information to Prepare[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object] Before Ordering
To receive an accurate quotation, the following information is typically requested:
- Application: separation, stabilization, erosion control, or reinforcement
- Required AASHTO M 288 class or tensile strength range
- Roll width and roll length
- UV stabilization requirement (expected outdoor exposure duration)
- Estimated quantity (square meters, rolls, or tons)
- Destination port and preferred trade term
- Required documentation (test reports, NTPEP, etc.)
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References
- AASHTO M 288-21. Geotextile Specification for Highway Applications. AASHTO, 2021.
- ASTM D4595. Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Geotextiles by the Wide-Width Strip Method. ASTM International.
- ASTM D4632. Standard Test Method for Grab Breaking Load and Elongation of Geotextiles. ASTM International.
- ASTM D6241. Standard Test Method for Static Puncture Strength of Geotextiles. ASTM International.
- ASTM D4355. Standard Test Method for Deterioration of Geotextiles by Exposure to Light, Moisture and Heat. ASTM International.
- FHWA-HRT-17-111. Geosynthetic Design and Construction Guidelines. Federal Highway Administration, 2017.
Article ID: GEO-TECH-002 | Last updated: May 2026