Geocell is a three dimensional honeycomblike cellular structure, consisting of a regular open network of synthetic strips, linked by extrusion or adhesion or other methods.On site, the Geocell sections are fastened together, placed directly on the subsoil/subgrade surface and propped open in an accordion-like fashion with an external stretcher assembly (Fig.01). The sections expand to an area of several tens of meters and consist of hundreds of individual cells, depending on the section and cell size. They are then filled with various infill materials, such as soil, sand, aggregate or recycled materials and then compacted using vibratory compactors.

When the soil contained within Geocell is subjected to pressure, it causes lateral stresses on cell perimeter walls. The 3D zone of confinement reduces the lateral movement of soil particles while vertical loading on the contained infill results in high lateral stress and resistance on the cell-soil interface. This increases the shear strength of the confined soil, which creates a stiff mattress/slab to distribute the load over a wider area, reduces punching of soft soil, increases shear resistance and bearing capacity and decreases deformation. Confinement from adjacent cells provides additional resistance against the loaded cell through passive resistance, while lateral expansion of the infill is restricted by high hoop strength. Compaction is maintained by the confinement, resulting in long-term reinforcement (Fig.02).

In Railway embankment applications, Geocell improves the load support capacity of soft subgrades. It is often recommended for swampy conditions where the ground water is close to the surface. Geocell have been used for following applications:

(i) For "Pavement Load Support", by reinforcing the soil in the subgrade-base interface or within the base course (Fig.03).

(ii) For "Steep Soil Slope and Channel Protection", wherein three-dimensional lateral confinement of Geocellalong with anchoring techniques ensures the long-term stability of slopes using vegetated topsoil, aggregate or concrete surfacing (if exposed to severe mechanical and hydraulic pressures) (Fig.04).

(iii) For "Earth Retention", as Geocell can be used for constructing steep vertical mechanically stabilized earth structures (either gravity or reinforced walls) (Fig.05).