Filter rules for soil and geosynthetics

Abstract

Harmful effects caused by the water flow through various constructions (dams, embankments, etc.) are successfully solved by installing the various filter layers. The basic functions of filter layers are fast water evacuation with preventing the internal erosion and removal of small soil particles. These filter layers are usually made of coarse-grained materials (sand, gravel, stone aggregates), but in addition to the natural materials, the artificial geosynthetic materials are increasingly used. This paper presents the basic filter rules that need to be followed in order to perform a successful design of various filtration and drainage systems.