Coir Bhoovasthra
Coir Bhoovasthra
Coir Bhoovasthra
Save Nature
Use Coir
Coir Board
(Ministry of MS&ME, Govt. of India)
Coir House, M.G.Road, Ernakulam, Cochin – 682016
Phone: 0484 2351807, 2351788, 2354397
Email: [email protected]
www.coirboard.gov.in
COIR BOARD
Ministry of MSME, Government of India
P.B No: 1752, “Coir House”, M.G.Road, Kochi – 682 016
Tel: +91-484-235807, 235788, 2383313. Fax: +91-484-2370034
Email: [email protected]
www.coirboard.nic.in, www.coiboard.gov.in
Project Assistance
Sumy Sebastian
C.K.Jayanand
Sunil Kumar. R
Satheesh Kumar.R
Cover Design:
V.R.George Roy
Printed at :
PrintExPress, Cochin
DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
The India International Coir Fair 2016 has been organized by Coir Board to demonstrate
DQGGLVVHPLQDWHWRSXEOLFWKHÀQGLQJVRI UHVHDUFKRQFRLUFRQGXFWHGDW&HQWUDO&RLUUHVHDUFK
,QVWLWXWH &&5, DQG &HQWUDO ,QVWLWXWH RI &RLU 7HFKQRORJ\ &,&7 DQG WKURXJK ,Q ²KRXVH
FROODERUDWLYH SURMHFWV ZLWK UHSXWHG RUJDQL]DWLRQV LQ ,QGLD 7KH WKHPH IRU WKH ,,&)
HQYLVDJHVVXVWDLQDEOHGHYHORSPHQWRI WKHJUDVVURRWZRUNHUVLQWKH&RLU,QGXVWU\DQGH[SDQGV
WR RYHUVHDV QLFKH PDUNHWV IRU FRLUFRLU SURGXFWV WKURXJK IXWXULVWLF WHFKQRORJLHV :H DUH
FXUUHQWO\IDFLQJGUDPDWLFHFRQRPLFDQGPDUNHWFKDQJHVVXUURXQGLQJRXUEXVLQHVVHQWHUSULVHV
In these circumstances, R&D becomes increasingly important in order to overcome this
XQSUHFHGHQWHG WUDQVLWLRQ VWDJH DQG WR VXFFHHG LQ H[SDQGLQJ JOREDOO\ 7KH DELOLW\ WR SUHGLFW
PDUNHWQHHGVVHOHFWDQGIRFXVRQUHVHDUFKWKHPHVNHHSUHOHYDQWGLYLVLRQVZRUNLQJWRJHWKHUDV
DWHDPDQGRSHUDWHZLWKÁH[LELOLW\DQGVSHHGLVLPSRUWDQW
5HFHQWO\ PXFK HPSKDVLV KDV EHHQ JLYHQ ZRUOGZLGH WR WKH XVH RI HFRIULHQGO\ IDEULFV WR
FRQWURO VRLO HURVLRQ &RLU ÀEUH KDV SURSHUWLHV OLNH GXUDELOLW\ VWUHQJWK DQG LV ELRGHJUDGDEOH
DQGWKHUHIRUHKDVDQHGJHRYHUV\QWKHWLFPDWHULDOVXVHGDVJHRWH[WLOHV7KURXJKWKLVERRNDQ
HIIRUWKDVEHHQPDGHWRSURYLGHLQIRUPDWLRQDERXWWKHDGYDQWDJHRI XVLQJFRLUJHRWH[WLOHVIRU
HQYLURQPHQWDODSSOLFDWLRQVVXFKDVUHLQIRUFHPHQWRI XQSDYHGUXUDOURDGVDQGHURVLRQFRQWURO
*UDWHIXODFNQRZOHGJHPHQWVDUHGXHWR6KUL&35DGKDNULVKQDQ&KDLUPDQ&RLU%RDUGIRUKLV
FRQWLQXHGJXLGDQFHDQGYDOXDEOHVXSSRUW,KRSHWKHLQIRUPDWLRQEHLQJGHOLYHUHGWKURXJKWKLV
ERRNZLOOEHKHOSIXOWRHQWUHSUHQHXUVUHVHDUFKHUVDQGIRUDOOLQWKHFRLULQGXVWU\
7KH&RLU%RDUGRUJDQL]HGWKHÀUVW´:RUNVKRSRQ&RLU*HRJULGV
*HR IDEULFV LQ &LYLO (QJLQHHULQJ 3UDFWLFHµ RQ VW 6HSWHPEHU
DW &RLPEDWRUH ZLWK WKH DFWLYH SDUWLFLSDWLRQ RI &RQWUDFWRUV DQG
(QJLQHHUV IURP *RYW GHSDUWPHQWV DV DQ HIIRUW WR PDNH DZDUHQHVV
RI WKHSRWHQWLDORI FRLUJHRWH[WLOHVLQJHRWHFKQLFDOÀHOGV&RLU%RDUG
P.K.Ravi FRQWLQXHG LWV HIIRUW LQ WKLV GLUHFWLRQ E\ RUJDQL]LQJ VHPLQDUV RQ JHR
WH[WLOHV LQ DVVRFLDWLRQ ZLWK WKH ,QWHUQDWLRQDO *HR WH[WLOHV 6RFLHW\
,QGLD DQG &RLU 7UDGH $VVRFLDWLRQ DW YDULRXV SODFHV RI ,QGLD VXFK
as New Delhi, Alappuzha, Bangalore, Dehradun, Shilliong, Kohima,
HWF7KHVHDFWLYLWLHVKDYHLQGHHGSURPRWHGWKHDSSOLFDWLRQRI FRLUJHR
WH[WLOHVDQGDIHZYROXQWDULO\FDPHIRUZDUGWRSDUWLFLSDWHLQDVVRFLDWLRQ
with the Coir Board in arranging demonstrations.
&RLU%RDUGKDVHVWDEOLVKHGD$670ODERUDWRU\IRUWHVWLQJWKHTXDOLW\
RI FRLUJHRWH[WLOHVZKLFKLVOLVWHGLQWKH$670,QWHUQDWLRQDO'LUHFWRU\
RI 7HVWLQJ /DERUDWRULHV ,W LV H[WHQGLQJ WKH IDFLOLWLHV RI WHVWLQJ WKH
TXDOLW\ RI FRLU JHR WH[WLOHV WR WKH XVHUV VXFK DV EUHDN ORDG E\ ZLGH
ZLGWKPHWKRG$26WKLFNQHVVPDVVSHUXQLWDUHDSHUPHDELOLW\DQG
PRGLÀHGGLUHFWVKHDU&%5DQGSXQFWXUHUHVLVWDQFH
7KH 1,7·6 LQ YDULRXV VWDWHV DUH 6WDWH /HYHO 7HFKQLFDO $JHQFLHV ZKR JRW WKH PDQGDWH RI
FDUU\LQJRXWUHVHDUFKDQGSRVWFRQVWUXFWLRQPRQLWRULQJRI WKHURDGVWREHFRQVWUXFWHGXQGHU
3UDGKDQ0DQWUL*UDPD6DGDN<RMDQD30*6<RI %KDUDW1LUPDQ6FKHPHRI *RYWRI ,QGLD
:LWKDYLHZWRSRSXODUL]HWKHXVHRI LQQRYDWLYHWHFKQLTXHVE\WKHXVHRI FRLUJHRWH[WLOHVIRU
VWUHQJWKHQLQJVRIWVRLOVXEJUDGHRI ORZYROXPHURDGVWKURXJKGHPRQVWUDWLRQVSURMHFWVWKH
1,7·6FDUULHGRXWDV\VWHPDWLFODEDQGÀHOGOHYHOVWXGLHVWRHVWDEOLVKWKHDSSOLFDWLRQRI FRLUJHR
WH[WLOHVRQSDUWLFXODUW\SHRI VRLOVDYDLODEOHLQWKHUHVSHFWLYHVWDWHVÀHOGDSSOLFDWLRQVRI FRLU
JHRWH[WLOHVLQWKHVRLODQGRYHUWKRVHFRQVWUXFWLRQRI UXUDOURDGVE\VHOHFWLQJWKHSDUWLFXODU
YDULHW\RI FRLUJHRWH[WLOHVPRVWVXLWDEOHIRUWKHVRLOWKXVJHQHUDWLQJFRQFUHWHUHVHDUFKGDWD
ZKLFKZLOOEHXOWLPDWHO\LQFRUSRUDWHGLQWKH3:'PDQXDOVE\WKHUHVSHFWLYHVWDWHVIRUWKHXVH
RI FRLUJHRWH[WLOHVLQFRQVWUXFWLRQRI URDGV
2QWKLVRFFDVLRQZHZRXOGOLNHWRH[SUHVVRXUVLQFHUHJUDWLWXGHDQGWKDQNVWR6KUL35$MLWKNXPDU
'LUHFWRU0NJDQG6KUL0.XPDUD5DMD6HFUHWDU\&RLU%RDUGIRUWKHLUNHHQLQWHUHVWDQG
PRWLYDWLRQEHKLQGWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQIRUSRSXODUL]DWLRQRI WKHWHFKQRORJ\IURPWKHODERUDWRU\
WRÀHOG7KHRYHUDOOJXLGDQFHRI 7$5DMHQGUD%DEX-RLQW'LUHFWRU5HVDQG'U$QLWD'DV
5DYHHQGUDQDWK'LUHFWRU5'7(DUHJUDWHIXOO\DFNQRZOHGJHG
/DVWEXWQRWWKHOHDVWZHDFNQRZOHGJHWKHFRRSHUDWLRQUHFHLYHGIURPDOODQGWKHSDLQVWDNLQJ
VHFUHWDULDODVVLVWDQFHLQFRPSLOLQJWKLVSXEOLFDWLRQE\SURYLGLQJGDWDDQGSKRWRJUDSKVRI HDFK
demonstration.
CONTENTS
Massage
Foreword
Preface
Sl Particulars Page
No No
1 Introduction 1
2 Geo synthetics 1
3 Geo textiles 2
4 Soil Erosion 3
5 History of Application of Geo textiles 3
5.1 The application vs. percentage of different major application areas 4
for geo textiles
5.2 )HDWXUHVDQGEHQH¿WVRI*HRWH[WLOHV 4
5.3 Rolled Erosion Control Products (RECP) 5
6 Functions of Geo textiles 6
6.1 Drainage 6
6.2 Filtration 6
6.3 Separation 6
6.4 Protection 7
7 Coir Bhoovastra (Coir Geo textiles) 7
8 Types of Coir Bhoovastra 9
8.1 Open Weave Coir Bhoovastra 9
8.1.1.Quality Parameters of Coir Geo textiles as per IS12503 10
(Part 2) 1988
Coir Mattings, Mourzouks and Carpets
8.2 Geo rolls and Vegetation Fascines 11
8.3 Non-woven Coir needled Felts. 12
8.4 Cocologs 13
8.5 Coir Fibre Beds (Cocobeds) 13
8.6 Coir Loop Fabric 14
8.6.1. Constructional Details of Coir Loop Fabrics 14
8.7 Coir Cell Geo Textiles 14
8.7.1. Major Mineral Mines in India 14
8.7.2. Impacts of mining 15
8.7.3. Application of Coir Cell Geo Textiles in the Waste 16
Dumping Yards of Mines
9 Bioremediation using Coir geo textiles 17
10 Qualities of Good Coir Bhoovastra 18
11 Major Application Areas of Coir Bhoovastra 18
12 Choice & Selection of Coir Bhoovastra Depends on 19
13 Advantages of Coir Bhoovastra 20
14 Demerits of Geo textiles from synthetic materials 20
15 Looms for Manufacturing Coir geo textiles 21
15.1 Coir Wooden Handloom 21
15.2 Anugraha 22
15.3 Jacquard Loom 24
16 Application of Geo textiles 24
16.1 Present Status 24
16.2 Separation 24
16.3 Filtration 25
16.4 Drainage (Transmissivity) 25
16.5 Reinforcement 26
17 Guidelines for Installation and Laying of Coir Geo textiles 26
17.1 For Soil Erosion Control 26
17.1.1 Site Assessment 26
17.1.2 Site Preparation 26
17.1.3 Vegetation & Seeding 27
17.1.4 Fixation 27
17.1.5 Laying 28
17.1.6 Monitoring 28
17.2 Reinforcement of Paved Roads 28
17.3.Cost Estimate for Reinforcement of Paved Roads 1 Km Long 37
and 4 M Wide with Coir Geo textiles
17.4. As Sub -base layer (Under lays) in Village / Rural Unpaved Roads. 38
1. Introduction
India has one of the largest road networks in the world, aggregating to about 33 lakh km at
present. However many of the existing roads are becoming structurally inadequate because
of the rapid growth in traffic volume and axle loading. At locations with adequate sub grade
bearing capacity/CBR value, a layer of suitable granular material can improve the bearing
capacity to carry the expected traffic load. But at sites with CBR less than 2%, problems
of shear failure and excessive rutting are often encountered. The ground improvement
alternatives such as excavation and replacement of unsuitable material, deep compaction,
chemical stabilization, pre loading and polymeric geo synthetics etc are often used at such
sites. The cost of these processes as well as virgin material involved is usually high and as
such they are yet to be commonly used in developing nations like India. In this context natural
fiber products hold promise for rural road construction over soft clay.
Geo textiles are proving to be cost effective alternative to traditional road construction method.
Studies have indicated that the biodegradability of coir can be used to advantage and the coir
based geo textiles have the potential of being used for rural road construction over soft clay.
In paved and unpaved road construction, geo synthetics reinforcement has been applied to
improve their overall strength and service life. The stabilization of pavements on soft ground
with geo textiles is primarily attributed to the basic functions of separation of base course layer
from sub grade soil, reinforcement of composite system etc. But these synthetic products are
non biodegradable and cause environment problems, whereas natural geo textiles like coir is
biodegradable.
2. Geo synthetics
Geo synthetics are synthesized polymeric or natural materials used to solve engineering
problem. The problem of rural roads on soft soil can be solved to some extent using geo
synthetics. Polymeric materials are polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, polyester etc. Natural
geo synthetics are produced from natural materials like coir, jute, sisal etc.
-1-
temperature and additionally, UV radiation in sunlight can cause serious degradation and
weakening of polymer bonds.
Geo textiles, Geo grids, Geo membranes and Geo composites (Geo nets) belong to the family
of geo synthetics.
Separation
Filtration
or
Geo nets Isolation
Geo synthetic highway applications can be split into two areas, which are unpaved and
paved roads .In paved and unpaved road construction, geo synthetic reinforcement has been
applied to improve their overall strength and service life. The stabilization of pavements on soft
ground with geo textiles or geo grid is primarily attributed to basic functions of separation of
base course layer from sub grade soil, reinforcement of composite system etc.
3. Geo textiles
The geo textiles role is to protect and promote vegetarian cover during its formative period
after which it degrades over a period of time and mixes with the soil providing for valuable
nutrients.
4. Soil Erosion
It is the gradual removal of the topsoil of earth’s crust over an extended period of time. This
leads to
-3-
with reed mat fascines for erosion protection in coastal works, Non woven geo textiles were
first used by Giroud as early as 1969 in earthen dam as a filter under erosion protection on
the upstream pace. In the same time, Wager started using both woven and non-woven geo
textiles in erosion protection in Sweden. Since then, plastic and steel nets and grids, used
automobile tyre casings, steel landing mats, Columbus fascine mats, reinforced plastic, rubber
membrane, wood, jute, coir and saw dust have also been used in reinforced soil structures.
The application of geo textiles to geo technical projects gained its momentum in 1970’s. One
of the earliest applications of geo textiles were in transportation engineering and in pavement
rehabilitation. It is estimated that 1400 million sq.metres of geo textiles are being used in the
world annually. Europe and North America markets each account for 40 % with the remaining
20 % attributed mainly to Japan. Natural fibre geo textiles (coir, jute, sisal, hemp, straw etc.)
account for less than 1 %.
5.1. The application vs. percentage of different major application areas for geo
textiles is furnished below.
-4-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
The soil erosion can be avoided with soil surface protection using a vegetation cover of
relatively shallow, fibrous root structure whereby the roots creep along the ground. Native
plants that occur naturally in a particular region, ecosystem and habitat without direct or
indirect human actions can achieve the vegetative cover. The vegetation plays an extremely
important role in controlling rainfall erosion by
1. Interception: Foliage and plant residues absorb rainfall energy and prevent soil detachment
by raindrop splash.
2. Restraint: Root systems physically bind or restrain soil particles while above ground
portion filter sediment out of run off.
3. Retardation: Stem and foliage increase surface roughness and slow velocity of run off.
4. Infiltration: Plants and their residues help to maintain porosity and permeability thereby
delaying onset of run off.
They are expected to serve mitigation of erosion both in the short term as well as long term
through the establishment and maintenance of vegetation cover.
-5-
The Rolled Erosion Control Products can be classified as
Geo textiles can collect a liquid or gas and convey it along its own plane thus providing fluid
transmission
6.2. Filtration
Geo textiles acts as filter when it allows liquid to pass normal to its own plane, while preventing
most soil particles from being carried away by the liquid current. It is one of the most widely
used geo textiles functions. A geo textile provides filtration function, which serves the same
role in soil structures, as were the various gradations off aggregates conventionally used.
6.3. Separation
The separation function refers to the separation of two dissimilar materials. The primary geo
textile responsibility is to prevent intermixing of the two different soil layers or dissimilar materials,
throughout the design life of the structure. Normally geo textiles provided for separation in road
pavement prevent intrusion/pumping of soil particles into the base/ sub base course. Geo
textiles are commonly used for this function when pavements are constructed over soft soils.
Roadway pavements are basically structures for taking the high contact pressure from the
vehicle tyres and reducing that pressure through the depth of the pavement to a level, which
can be handled by the underlying soil. Pressure dissipation occurs down through the various
layers of materials within the pavement. Over a period of time, especially in presence of water,
repeated vehicle load applications cause sub grade soils to migrate into the aggregate base
of the pavement section. Contamination of the aggregate base by the sub grade results in the
reduction of the effective base thickness to a value, which is less than what, was the design
-6-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
value. Reduction of the base thickness results in a decrease in the load carrying capability of
the aggregate base and leads to a reduction in the pavement life. Geo textiles prevent the sub
grade materials from migrating into the aggregate base, while maintaining the desired strength
over a much longer period and as a consequence the quality and the life of the pavement is
increased substantially.
6.4. Protection
Coir geo textiles (Coir Bhoovastra) are permeable fabrics capable to control soil erosion. It
protects the earth and promotes vegetation retaining precious top soil. It is available in woven
and non-woven forms.
Coir Bhoovastra is
-7-
Y Available in India in abundance at low price
Y Found to last for 4-6 years within the soil environment
Y eco friendly and bio degradable
Y Serves the purposes of Reinforcement, Separation, Filtration and Drainage – in road
construction
Y Low extensibility
Y Stiffness
Y Long hairs protruded from the yarn surface fibre shedding and processibility
Y High biodegradability to last for 4-6 years within the soil environment
Coir Bhoovastra (Coir Geo textiles) is a net fabric from coir fibre.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from
coir yarn in which the warp and weft strands are positioned at
a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1” square.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow at the
same time provides large number of “Check Dams” per square
meter of soil media. The nettings are normally produced on Coir handlooms out of 2-ply coir
yarn, i.e., 1-meter wide rolls of 50-meter length.
Coir Bhoovastra are permeable fabrics made from coir fibre extracted from coconut husk
either by natural retting or by mechanical process. Coir geo textiles are used for stabilisation
of soil through vegetation against erosion of landscape and soil slopes as well as protection
of banks of river, canal and lakes, road and railway embankment and reinforcement of mud
wall of stream, bunds, farm and fishponds against erosion and other applications involving
separation and filtration.
Compared to other natural fibres like cotton, jute etc, coir fibres of larger diameter and
curvature, possess rigidity to bending which helps to bridge gaps in soil materials in the case
of filters and separation functions. Also in the case of reclamations, coir fabrics require less
support than other fabrics
Coir geo textiles control the soil erosion by acting as a ground cover or mulch .The term mulch
refers to any material which would be decomposed fully or partially over a period of time and
serving as nutrient to the vegetation that is being nurtured. The mulch has a short-term role to
play and not a long-term role in stabilisation. As a ground cover, it reduces the flow velocity of
runoff water by forming check dams with the help of net structured strands of coir geo textiles
in firm contact with the soil, which absorb the impact of water flow and resist washing down
keeping the soil intact. Coir geo textiles provide support to the seeds sown and seedling
which could be otherwise easily washed away by water. The strands of the net reduce the
wind velocity at the soil surface thereby trap soil particles from being blown away. As a mulch,
coir geo textiles provide ideal environment for the seeds to germinate and healthy grow of
-8-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
seedling by regulation of soil humidity, temperature and manure and controlling weeds, by
protection from direct sunlight and rain.
Open Weave Coir Bhoovastra is a net fabric woven from coir yarn. Open Weave Coir
Bhoovastra is a good insulant, resistant to dampness and moths, biodegradable, absorb
moisture equal to its own weight and conserved moisture in soil which is sufficient for the
growth of vegetation. When the Open Weave Coir Bhoovastra eventually disintegrates, it
leaves only humus. There is no need for post-installation work.
Open Weave Coir Bhoovastra have been found to be an ideal geo textile for situations where
land is sloppy which may lead to riling and gulling. In such slopes, heavy rainfall causes loss of
soil. In the areas of scanty rainfall where soil is non- cohesive and prone to wind blowing, Open
Weave Coir Bhoovastra provides adequate protection .Coir bhoovastra finds applications in
erosion of cut slopes of railways, road, approaches of bridges, canal and drainage bank,
bank of river, ponds, lakes, hill slopes and terraces requiring surface stabilisation, reclamation
of mine spoil heaps and sand dune stabilisation.
The Open Weave Coir Bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and provides
a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds of better and growth
of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil after degradation. In areas
where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment, Open Weave Coir Bhoovastra
can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in comparison to other natural fibres.
-9-
In areas prone to soil erosion like slopes and
drainage areas open weave Coir Bhoovastra, holds
seed and soil intact even during heavy rainstorms.
It stays on the earth against the ravages of quick
flowing water, wind or wild vegetative growth. The
openings between the strands give the grass or
vegetation plenty of growing room.
8.1.1. Quality Parameters of Coir Geotextiles as per IS12503 (Part 2) 1988 Coir
Mattings, Mourzouks and Carpets
A matting of two-treadle weave in construction with the difference that the warp and weft
strands are positioned at a distance to get mesh effect.
Approximate
Type of warp Ends Type of weft Picks per Mass, kg/
Designation scorage of warp
yarn per dm yarn dm m2
yarn
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
Hand loom matting
H2M1 (MMA1) Anjengo 14 9 Vycome 8 0.650
H2M2 (MMB1) Beach 9 8 Beach 7 0.700
H2M3 (MMR1) Aratory 15 14 Aratory 14 0.875
H2M4 (MMA2) Anjengo 12 19 Aratory 11 1.400
H2M5 (MMV1) Vycome 13 9 Vycome 8 0.740
H2M6 (MMV2) Vycome 12 4.6 Vycome 4 0.400
H2M7(MMY1) Beypore - 4 Beypore 6 1.250
H2M8(MMA3) Anjengo 12 11 Aratory 7 0.700
H2M9 (MMA4) Anjengo 11 13 Aratory 7 0.900
H2M10 (MMA5) Anjengo 11 18 Anjengo 9 1.300
Permissible tolerances
-10-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Note:
MMA2 (H2M4) In this matting the warp threads are arranged in-group of three strands.
MMR1 (H2M3) In this matting, the warp and weft threads are arranged is pairs, each warp
strands are woven alternately with the adjacent strands.
MMA5 (H2M10) In this matting the warp strands are arranged in-group of 6 strands leaving
a gap of 1 cm between each group. After 6 such groups 4 jute strands are
provided to protect the warp after cutting. A gap of 1.5 cm is provided after
the jute strands of facilitate cutting of matting in strips of 20 cm width.
MMB1 (H2M2) In this matting extra warp strands are allowed to reinforce over a width of 2”
at both sides, when the width of matting is 36” and less. Above 36” width a
reinforcement of 4” width at the centre and sides of the matting is allowed.
These are mainly used for the stabilisation and revegetation of sites marked by steepness
or high exposure to waves and currents causing instability. Geo rolls or vegetation fascines
are construction modules characterised by a compact roll of coir web covered by exterior
-11-
coir mesh netting making it strong and flexible. Their
configuration and density help them to maintain
form without losing material and promote plant
growth as well as microbial activity. In areas where
there is a constant flow of water, they facilitate new
channel alignment. In standing water they initiate
sedimentation, facilitate vegetation and dissipate
induced wave energy. Geo rolls collect and hold
mineral and organic particles, provide a physically
stable substrate for root growth and gradually bio-degrade to leave a self sustaining erosion
control system. The interior of the geo rolls consist of 100% coir fibre webs cross-lapped or air
laid, followed by needle punching or stitch bonding. The fibre density is greater than or equal
to 1000 gsm and the width of 220 mm to 600 mm. The substrate is then rolled into desired
diameters.
-12-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
different density depending upon punching intensity, needle penetration and thickness. The
fibre is mechanically bonded (interlocked) to form a continuous length of sheet. No bonding
material is used in the manufacture. It can be manufactured in thickness from 10 mm to 20
mm with a density varying from 500 to 1500 g/sq.m. Coir needled felts are available in blanket
forms backed with nets made of jute, polypropylene and polythene also.
The felts have excellent moisture absorption and retention characteristics and form an ideal
medium for plant growth.
8.4. Cocologs
Cocologs are made from coir fibre bunches under pressed condition in tubular enclosures
of knotted coir yarn. They are having a shape similar to a wooden log.They vary in diameter,
length and weight. The diameter varies from 30 cm to 50 cm, weight from 60 kg to 180 kg,
usually produced with a length of 6 metre.
Charcoal is also used intermittently for filling the logs as additional manure for faster growth of
plants. Cocologs are mainly used for vulnerable streams, rivers or lake bank to protect scour.
The rolls are attached at the edges of the bank and secured by wooden stakes/ pegs. The
pegs may be used on alternate sides of the log.
For high embankment areas with variable water level, several Cocolog can be applied as a
stack.
Quality Tight Binding Loop chain Weft Tig-ht Bin- Lo- Picks/ Weight
Number chain chain ding op dm gm/m2
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10)
India is a mineral-rich country, with more than 20,000 mineral deposits. The country produces
about 90 minerals, which include four fuels, 10 metallic and 50 non-metallic, three atomic and
23 minor minerals. Most of the country’s mining activities are concentrated in the 11 statesviz.
Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil
Nadu, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal which accounts 92 per cent of the mines.
2,628 mines were reported in India during 2010-11.
-14-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Almost all of India’s minerals are located in regions that also hold most of its forests, tribal
population and major river systems. Forest land has constantly been getting diverted for the
purpose of mining and for other developmental projects. During 1980-2005, about 1,00,000
ha of land was diverted across India to make way for 1,200 mines. This diversion has destroyed
ecosystems as well as livelihoods.
Like the majority of human activities, mining operations produce waste materials. The soil
and rock which is removed to gain access to buried ore and the material (water, solids, and
gases) left behind after the ore has been processed to remove the valuable commodities,
are considered to be waste materials. The large volumes of waste produced during mining
operations are expensive to manage and are frequently cited as an obstacle in the environmental
sustainability of mining.
The type, amount and properties of mine waste produced at different mines vary depending on
the resource being mined, process technology used and geology at the mine site. While many
mine wastes are benign, mining companies manage their waste in order to deal with the large
volumes of waste produced and to prevent the release of contaminates into the environment.
Waste management plans are developed as part of the mine approval process and consist of
waste storage area selection and design, strategies to address problematic waste and long
term stabilization of waste as part of mine closure. Understanding and addressing potential
impacts at many of these sites are often complex involving multiple environmental media
spread over large areas.
-15-
Since climate is basically an average of the weather over a long period of time, vegetation
is important to climate. Plants also use carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, which slightly
offsets the amount of greenhouse gas being released in the atmosphere through the burning
of fossil fuels. Vegetation is necessary for normal weather and climate.
Soil is the mixture of minerals, organic matter, gases, liquids and myriad organisms that
together support plant life. Two general classes are topsoil and subsoil. Soil is a natural body
that performs four important functions: it is a medium for plant growth; it is a means of water
storage, supply and purification; it is a modifier of the atmosphere of Earth; and it is a habitat
for organisms all of which modify the soil.
Soil is considered to be the “skin of the earth” with interfaces between the lithosphere,
hydrosphere, atmosphere of Earth, and biosphere. Soil consists of a solid phase (minerals
and organic matter) as well as a porous phase that holds gases and water. Accordingly, soils
are often treated as a three state system.
As soil resources serve as a basis for food security, the international community advocates for
its sustainable and responsible use through different types of Soil Governance.
Soil formation is the combined effect of physical, chemical, biological and anthropogenic
processes working on soil parent material. Soil is said to be formed when organic matter has
accumulated and colloids are washed downward, leaving deposits of clay, humus, iron oxide,
carbonate and gypsum producing a distinct layer called the B horizon.
8.7.3. Application of Coir Cell Geo Textiles in the Waste Dumping Yards of Mines
The type, amount and properties of mine waste produced at different mines vary depending
on the resource and dumping sites hence the technology for the application of coir geo textiles
also varies. The application of coir geo textiles for the development of vegetation in the other
sites has top soil available. For the vegetation in the mines, it is essential to provide top soil or
-16-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
The potential of natural geo textiles lies in areas of short to medium term applications, with
high performance and a life span of 1.5 to 2 year. Coir fibre is coarse, rigid, and strong and
degrades slowly. The slow rate of degradation is attributed to the high lignin content of the
coir fibre. The high content of lignin in coir fibre, bestows the strength to the coir geo textiles,
which remains undisturbed and embedded in the soil till root fixation and establishment of the
vegetation.
Biodegradation of coir geo textiles is very slow process in comparison to the other natural
geo textiles like jute and sisal. The acidic phenolic materials leached out from the coir prevent
the indigenous micro flora from attacking it. Over the passage of time, biodegradation sets
with the enrichment of the phenolic precursors leached out into the soil environment. The
development of a consortia of micro organisms (bacteria, yeast, fungi and protozoa) lead to
the biodegradation of the coir geo textiles and adds to the nutrient status of the soil with a
marginal increase in nitrogen / potassium and phosphorous content of the soil.
According to the tests conducted by German Bundesamt for Material Testing on natural fibres
over a prolonged period of time in highly fertile soil maintained at high humidity (90%) and
-17-
300C temperature revealed that coir retained 20% of its strength after 1 year whereas cotton
degrades totally in 6 weeks, and jute in 8 weeks, coir has retained 2 % strength even after
one year, and it takes 15 times longer than cotton and 7 times longer than jute to degrade. It
is reported that under the conditions of flooding water, it was found that coir was undamaged
even after 4000 hours while jute and cotton expanded in diameter like floating paper and then
broke apart. The above results showed that the coir has got a very stable physical structure
in comparison to other natural fibres. The life expectancy of the natural geo textiles depends
on the soil structure & composition; climate conditions, UV radiation aspects, rainfall at site,
temperatures and type of applications.
It should possess high modulus of elasticity, low elongation, satisfactory punching strength,
high absorption qualities, resistance to ultra violet, surface compatible with the needs and it
should be economical.
Coir Bhoovastra is an excellent medium for bio engineering applications in many parts of the
world in the form of meshes, netting, needle felt and pads, erosion control blankets, geo rolls,
vegetation fascines, geo cushions, geo beds, anti weeds blankets and so on. Coir Bhoovastra
is the answer to many of the environmental problems that man faces today
i) Shoreline stabilisation.
ii) Beautification of lakes and ponds.
iii) Plant and tree protection systems.
iv) Landscaping and Golf courses.
v) Sand dune stabilization.
vi) Ski slope and high altitude vegetation.
vii) Protection and re vegetation of waste dumps.
viii) Wasteland development.
ix) Reinforced soil retaining structures.
x) Road / Railway / River embankment.
xi) Mine site reclamation.
xii) Dams.
xiii) Bearing capacity improvement for high capacity traffic areas.
xiv) Cuttings and hill slide slopes.
xv) Irrigation works.
xvi) Dam wicks / Table drain outlets.
-18-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-19-
13. Advantages of Coir Bhoovastra
a. The high tensile strength of coir fibre protects steep surfaces from heavy flows and debris
movement. It can withstand considerable pedestrian movement and vehicular traffic
without deterioration.
b. Easy to install and hugs contour of the soil surface due to its heavy weight and ability to
absorb water.
c. Totally bio degradable, 100% natural and provided nutrients.
d. Water absorbent, thus acts as mulch on the surface and as a wick in the soil mantle.
e. Environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing and non polluting.
f. Provides excellent microclimate for plant establishment and healthy growth.
g. The thick and protruding fibres from the yarn render an extra protection against soil
erosion and provide roughness to the surface floor and hold the soil particles in place.
h. The intersecting strands move independently of one another in the coir geo textiles
thereby allaying fear of wild life entrapment.
i. The coir geo textiles give the grass plenty of room to grow and at the same time provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil media. Due to high resistance to
salt water action, the coir geo textiles remain virtually unaffected when used against wave
lap erosion.
j. During the manufacturing process of coir yarn, no chemicals are used.
k. Presence of pesticide residue in Coir Bhoovastra is below the toxicity limits of food
items.
l. Holds the seeds and saplings in place.
m. Allows sunlight to pass through.
2. Synthetics originate from hydrocarbons, which are obtained from non-renewable sources
such as petroleum and natural gas. These are fast depleting and need to be used
sparingly.
3. Synthetics need 100% shielding from the ultra violet rays to prevent release of toxic
gases into the environment leading to environmental pollution. The chemicals applied for
shielding are toxic and pollute the environment.
4. Application of synthetics prevents the percolation of water into the underground water
table.
-20-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
5. Non hygroscopic, they alter the microclimate around the plants thus discouraging healthy
vegetation.
6. Undergo slow attack of acid rain and UV light to produce poisonous chemicals.
8. Incineration or recycling also creates pollution due to release of harmful chemicals and
gases.
With the aid of loom, the process of weaving manufactures coir products. A coir handloom
consists of different parts such as chain beam, chain rest beam, heddle frame, pulley, sley,
reed, waist beam (front rest), tension beam (cloth beam), treadles, lamprod, shuttle, etc.
Pulley is meant for up and down movement of the heddle frames. The sley is used to bring the
weft to the fell of the cloth. The process of bringing the weft to the fell of cloth is called beating.
The reed determines the width of the fabric woven in the loom. Reed helps the uniform
distribution of warp yarns from heddles and positioning of the weft at appropriate places
during weaving. The space between the two iron strips is known as dent and the number of
dents determines the quality and density of the woven fabric. The dents should be uniform in
-21-
a reed. Two dents will be taken in excess for getting proper selvedge in the course of weaving.
For matting, 100’s reed means that 100 dents per yard (3 feet) and mats, 30’s reed denotes 30
dents per foot. Waist beam is a support for woven fabric and guides the fabric to the tension
beam. Tension beam is used for maintaining the tension of the tight warp. The warp ends are
tied to apron rod, which is connected to the tension beam by means of pieces of rope.
Treadles are meant for lowering and raising the heddle frames according to the design to be
woven. The process of tying the heddle frames to the treadle is known as “tie-up”. The shuttle
is the carrier of the weft. It is a boat shaped device made of wood having arrangement to hold
the quill inside it.
For perfect working of the heddle frames, the heddle frames are first tied to the lamprod and
then to the treadle.
15.2. Anugraha
Central Coir Research Institute, the research centre of Coir Board has developed a metallic
handloom named “ANUGRAHA” for weaving all varieties of coir geo textiles.
The operation of wooden coir handlooms requires exertion of a large force and therefore can
be operated mainly by males having sound physique. Anugraha loom has been so designed
that it can weave a coir fabric with a close weave of 6 mm to a fabric having a mesh size of 25
mm. A layman can operate and produce standard quality products without any drudgery. As
there is no power required to operate this loom, it can be installed in the remote village where
women can easily operate it as it has a simple pedal for treadling. The treadling and beating
is very easy in Anugraha loom and is operated by a 3 mm wire rope (motor cycle cable) and
beating simplified providing a bush bearing.
Anugraha is light weight, easy to shift from one place to another as it needs no foundation.
It needs less maintenance and occupies less space. It is easy to operate compared to
-22-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
2 One handloom requires one cubic meter of special Requires around 120 kg mild steel
quality wood viz., sal, maruthi, thembavu etc. A pair of
handloom requires cutting of a tree of 15 meter height
and 0.5 meter diametre.
3 Produces irregular number of wefts per unit length as Produces fixed number of
the gap is controlled manually wefts per unit length which can
be predetermined by a ratchet
mechanism provided in the machine
4 Winding is to be done by stopping the weaving Winding is carried out without
operation, as it is done manually stopping the weaving operation by
the ratchet mechanism
5 The release of yarn from the chain beam is done The yarn is released automatically
manually, stopping the weaving operation due to providing of a brake
mechanism which releases warp
yarn continuously from the chain
beam
6 Requires operation by two healthy persons It can be operated by only one
woman worker
7 For changing the heddle frame, a force of minimum 30 For changing the heddle frame the
kg is required to treadle by foot force required is only 1kg to treadle
by foot, which is easily done by
women workers
8 Space required is 2metre x 3metre The space required is 1metre x
2metre
9 It cannot be shifted without dismantling, due to its Due to its light weight, it can be
enormously heavy structure easily shifted from one place to
another
10 Production is 60 meters/day per 8 hours by two Production is 80 meters/day per 8
persons hours by one woman
-23-
The Anugraha loom is designed with a cover to protect the women during weaving. Women
get expertise to operate Anugraha Loom in 4 hours training. Panama matting, Ribbed Matting,
rod mat, rod inlaid mat and carpet mat can also be manufactured using Anugraha Loom with
minor arrangements.
It is the most improved type of mechanism that exists in the weaving. The mechanism facilitates
control of warp threads individually and provides a very large scope for producing complicated
designs. In ordinary and dobby looms, only a group of warp threads drawn through the heddle
frames depending upon the number of heddle frames used can be either raised or lowered
for every picks, whereas in Jacquard shedding mechanism each and every warp threads can
be individually controlled according to the will and pleasure of the weaver as per the design.
The design making capacity of the Jacquard machine is expressed in terms of the number
of hooks in the machine. In coir industry, the machine having 100-400 hooks is in practice. A
single treadle operates the machine.
The design to be woven is first drawn on a graph paper and is punched on pattern cards. The
size of the card depends upon the capacity of the Jacquard machine. In the Jacquard design,
draw the design in the ratio 2:1 for warp and weft for getting a square design and take a ratio
of 1:1 for producing a rectangle in the matting.
Y Lack of knowledge or know-how for adopting the new materials and techniques.
Y Absence of scientific literature with regard to the long term performance of pavements
constructed with coir geo textiles.
16.2. Separation
-24-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Y Eg. separating fine sub grade soil from the aggregates of the base course, the geo textiles
preserves the drainage and the strength characteristics of the aggregate material
16.3. Filtration
Y Defined as “the equilibrium geo textile-to-soil system that allows for adequate liquid flow
with limited soil loss
Y To perform this function the geo textile needs to satisfy two conflicting requirements: the
filter’s pore size must be small enough to retain fine soil particles while the geo textile
should permit relatively unimpeded flow of water into the drainage media.
Y This refers to the ability of thick nonwoven geo textile whose three-dimensional
structure provides an avenue for flow of water through the plane of the geo textile.
Y Here the geo textile promotes a lateral flow thereby dissipating the kinetic energy of
the capillary rise of ground water.
-25-
16.5. Reinforcement
This is the synergistic improvement in the total system strength created by the introduction
of a geo textile into a soil and developed primarily through the following three mechanisms:
1. Lateral restraint through interfacial friction between geo textile and soil/aggregate.
2. Forcing the potential bearing surface failure plane to develop at alternate higher shear
strength surface.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles after
laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
17.1.4. Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side
by overlapping of 15 cm while end to end overlapping
of two coir geo textiles is 20cm. The overlapping
edges are fixed on the ground with the help of either
15 cm long U-shaped nails or 22 cm long J shaped
hooks made of 3 mm iron or steel wire.
-27-
17.1.5. Laying
The top and bottom ends of the Coir Bhoovastra are fixed into slots about 30cm deep, dug
into the slope. The slots are filled with soil and tamped to pick up even with the soil surface.
The Coir Bhoovastra is pegged using U/J shaped or wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50-
75cm, along sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the Coir Bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the Coir Bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between Coir Bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During the first
few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy germination of the
seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth of vegetation. When
fully laid, the Coir Bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion and create permanent
greenery on the surface.
Care must be taken to protect the treated site from trampling by human and cattle till vegetation
comes up fully.
17.1.6. Monitoring
The other application is the paved road that also encompasses the unpaved application since
during construction of a paved road relatively few repetitions of trucks heavily loaded with
construction materials traverse the partially completed (unpaved) highway grade. This often
-28-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
leads the road to critical stage. Then, construction is completed with placement of an asphalt
surface course, thus the highway is paved and open to the public. The opened highway is
exposed to many repetitions from loaded truck traffic; however the intensity of sub grade
load is considerably less due to the greater stiffness of the surface course. Benefits of an
underlying geo synthetic during construction are apparent, but as time and greater numbers
of load cycles pass, the benefits are not as clear for the paved road (Barksdale et al. 1989).
Geo grids and geo textiles are the two types of geo synthetics most widely used in pavement
systems at aggregate sub grade interface to reinforce or stabilize pavements. Field evidences
suggest that both geo grid and geo textile could improve the performance of pavement
sections constructed on weak soil.
Several investigators have reported significant effects of pavement stabilization using geo
textiles reinforcement to improve the bearing capacity of sub grade soil. Steve et al. (2005)
conducted a field demonstration to study how the performance of highway pavements is
improved with geo textiles. In his research a field demonstration was conducted using a
21-m section along a Wisconsin highway (USH 45) near Antigo, Wisconsin, that incorporated
three test sub-sections. Three different geo synthetics including woven geo textiles and two
different types of geo grids had been used for stabilization. Observations made during and
after construction indicate that all sections provided adequate support for the construction
equipment and that no distress seems to be evident in any part of the highway. Large-scale
experiments conducted on working platforms of crushed rock (breaker run stone or Grade 2
gravel) overlying a simulated soft sub grade. The tests were intended to simulate conditions
during highway construction on soft sub grades where the working platform is used to limit
total deflections due to repetitive loads applied by construction traffic. Tests were conducted
with and without geo synthetics reinforcement to evaluate how the required thickness of the
working platform is affected by the presence of reinforcement. Working platforms reinforced
by geo synthetics accumulated deformation at a slower rate than unreinforced working
platforms, and in most cases deformation of the geo synthetics reinforced working platforms
nearly ceased after 200 loading cycles. As a result, total deflections were always smaller (about
a factor of two) for reinforced working platforms relative to unreinforced working platforms.
Hans and Andrew (2001) investigated the reinforcement function of geo synthetics for a
typical Minnesota low volume roadways. From the study it was observed that the addition of
a geo synthetics does provide reinforcement to the roadway as long as the geo synthetics
is stiffer than the sub grade material. The service life of a roadway may also be increased
with the addition of geo synthetics reinforcement. It was also observed that the deflection
response of roadway is governed by the Young’s modulus of the geo synthetics used. Since
the deflections were controlled by the Young’s modulus of the geo synthetics; the largest
modulus geo synthetics produced the largest increase in service life.
-29-
Schriver et al. (2002) conducted experimental study on geo grid reinforced lightweight
aggregate beds to determine their sub grade modulus and increase in the bearing capacity
ratio. From the study it was observed that the geo grid reinforcement placed at sub base/
aggregate interface effectively increases the service life of paved roads. Geo grid reinforcement
provides a more uniform load distribution and a deduction in maximum settlement more at the
asphalt aggregate and aggregate sub grade interface.
Ranadive (2003) investigated the performance of geo textiles reinforcement in soil other than
sand. In this study, model strip footing load tests were conducted on soil with and without
single and multi-layers of geo textiles at different depths below the footing. Testing was carried
out on Universal Testing Machine. From the study it was observed that bearing capacity
improved considerably for reinforced soil over unreinforced soil. It was observed that for a
single layer system, BCR (Bearing Capacity Ratio) for depth of layer below footing equal to
0.25B is maximum where B is the width of the footing and BCR decreases as the depth of
layer increases and for multilayer system, BCR for a constant d/B ratio and S/B ratio, (where
d is the depth of single reinforcing layer below footing and S is spacing between subsequent
geo textiles reinforcing layers when depth of top layer below footing was kept constant equal
to 0.25B). The BCR is maximum for N=4 but the percentage increase in BCR for N=4 over
BCR for N=3 is very low. Thus N=3 is recommended as optimum value.
Gitty and Ajitha (2008) conducted plate load test to study the variation of load carrying capacity
for both reinforced and unreinforced pavements. It was observed that the bearing capacity
improved by providing coir geo textiles as reinforcement and reported an increase in bearing
capacity by 1.83 times for reinforced pavement compared to unreinforced pavement.
Venkatappa and Dutta (2005) conducted monotonic and cyclic load test on Kaolinite with
geo textiles placed at the interface of the two soils. It was found bearing pressure of the soil
improved by about 33% when reinforced with coir geo textiles.
Indian Roads Congress also suggested in its Rural Road Manual (IRC: SP: 59-2002) the
use of coir geo textiles but no design methodology, construction guidelines and product
specifications are mentioned.
-30-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
mm metal to 1 inch thickness over the bitumen coated Open Weave CBV and the surface
rolled for consolidation.
The condition of Coir Bhoovastra should be assessed for any constructional / installation
damages before covering. Torn / damaged portions may be covered by pieces of coir geo
textiles and the extent of overlap will be such as to cover the damaged / torn portion fully plus
at least 75 mm beyond, on all sides.
Before laying coir geo textiles Finished Sub base Ready for Coir Geo textiles
laying
-31-
Field density testing Stiffness &modulus of elasticity determination
using Geogauge
Keep the rolls adjacent and find out the overlap Roll out first roll with one of edges as reference
that can be given
-32-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Fix the roll to the subgrade by using clamps with one metre spacing
-33-
Laying of sub base over coir geo textiles Placing of soil above geo textiles
LAYING OF GSB
-34-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
COMPACTION OF GSB
-35-
LAYING AND ROLLING OF AGGREGATE
Surfacing of road
-36-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
17.3. Cost Estimate for Reinforcement of Paved Roads 1 Km Long and 4 M Wide
with Coir Geo textiles
Sl.No. Particulars Cost (in Rs.)
1. Earthwork filling with conveners own gravelly earth cut and conveyed 9,85,760
with all leads and lifts including consolidation of 20 cm thick 1000x4x.2x
12322/10 cum
6. Supplying and stacking 36mm hard granite broken in standard heaps for 6,99,200
measurement 1000x4x0.1x1748/cum
7. Supplying and stacking of gravely earth for subbase in standard heaps 1, 50,220
140 cum@ 1073/cum
10. Supplying and stacking 12 mm hard blue granite broken stone in standard 1,73,600
heaps for measurement 1000x4x.02@2170/cum
11. Supplying and stacking 6 mm hard blue granite broken stone in standard 74,960
heaps for measurement
1000x4x.01@1874/cum
12. Providing 20 mm chipping carpet over the wbm surface with broken stone 3,04,000
after thoroughly cleaning the base , applying a priming coat of 7.5kg of
bitumen/10 Sq.mt and spreading the hot premix ,rolling to dense surface
spreading the seal coat (0.09cum of 6mm metal and bitumen ,again
rolling including the cost of bitumen, oils, and hire of brass brooms, etc
complete applying priming coat 1000x4 @1760/10 sq mt
Total 38,74,640
-37-
17.4. As Sub -base layer (Under lays) in Village / Rural Unpaved Roads.
An unpaved road haul loads across undeveloped terrain. Typically, such grades are
crossed with a minimum amount of preparation that allows for an efficient movement
of relatively few, but heavy, load repetitions. Rutting in the wheel paths is allowed but
typically desired to be four inches or less in depth. Regrading or leveling of the ruts can be
performed but is not typically, considered for an initial design of a layer of select granular
material, which is placed upon the sub grade as a surface course. The purpose of this
surface course is to transfer the surface load to the sub grade while spreading out the
load to the sub grade, which effectively reduces the intensity of pressure on the sub grade
(Steward et al. 1977).
A geo synthetic placed properly does improve an unpaved road. The most effective
location of the geo synthetic is below the select granular material and on the sub grade
surface (Das et al. 1998). In this location the geo synthetic provides separation, lateral
restraint of the upper granular course and a tensioned membrane effect when strained
extensively. Geo textiles separate a granular course from a fine-grained sub grade, due
to its relatively small apertures or apparent opening size (AOS). However, a geo grid also
provides separation due to its less than 100 percent open area and better lateral restraint
of upper granular particles. Due to interface friction and interlock with many individual ribs,
-38-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
a geo grid provides superior lateral restraint of the upper granular course, whereas the
geo textiles rely exclusively on interface friction for lateral restraint (Steward et al. 1977).
The tensioned membrane effect requires that the geo synthetic be extensively strained
(i.e., deeply rutted) for this mechanism to contribute a significant benefit.
The Coir Bhoovastra of low mesh can effectively be used for soil stabilization techniques
in road construction. The use of coir geo textiles varieties of 700g (H2M5, H2M2 & H2M8)
and 900g (H2M9) with 1/2 inch mesh as an interface between the sub grade and the sub
base increases the strength of the pavement and prevents intermingling of the soil and the
granular sub base which improves drainage.
The rural unpaved roads are leveled, clearing of all foreign materials including uprooting
of any vegetation if present. The area is leveled with earth and rolled for compaction to
set the optimum moisture content. To facilitate easy unrolling on the surface of the sub-
grade to be treated, the Coir Bhoovastra, in rolls of 1 to 2m width, is spread directly over
the leveled sub grade, ensuring that it should touch the sub grade surface at all points.
The edge of the Coir Bhoovastra should be folded back. The Coir Bhoovastra should be
folded back or cut and overlapped in the direction of the turn on application in curve.
The granular material is spread over Coir Bhoovastra (15 cm thick) to prevent puncture /
damage due to rolling of the upper sub base/ base layer and rolled with a light or medium
roller. The second layer of Coir Bhoovastra is laid again and sand is applied up to a
thickness of 15cm thick and rolled. In the case of clay sub-grades, a cushion layer of 10
cm thick sand is laid before spreading the Coir Bhoovastra or Coir Bhoovastra layers can
be increased to 3 or 4 depending on condition of the soil.
Under the weight of the base layer and the compactive effect, the sub-grade loses water
draining through the Coir Bhoovastra and gains in strength. Due to the inherent tensile
strength, the Coir Bhoovastra acts as a support membrane and reduces localized distress
on the road surface by redistributing traffic loads over a wider area of the road surface.
-39-
Once the Coir Bhoovastra is placed on the weak sub grade, the sub grade stiffens and
becomes stronger on consolidation within in a year or so under the action of the granular
sub base surcharge, self-weight of pavement, construction rolling and traffic loads.
The Coir Bhoovastra immensely helps in this rapid sub grade strengthening process in
combination with the drainage layer above it. With time, the sub grade becomes less and
less dependent on the fabric for its stability and therefore, the long-term durability aspect
of coir should not deter its use as geo textiles for various applications in road construction.
The condition of Coir Bhoovastra should be assessed for any constructional / installation
damages before covering. Torn / damaged portions may be covered by pieces of coir geo
textiles and the extent of overlap will be such as to cover the damaged / torn portion fully
plus at least 75 mm beyond, on all sides.
-40-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Before laying coir geo textiles Finished sub base ready for coir geo textiles
laying
Keep the rolls adjacent and find out the overlap Roll out first roll with one of edges as reference
that can be given
-41-
Laying of coir geo textiles
Fix the roll to the subgrade by using clamps with one metre spacing
-42-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Laying of Sub base over coir geo textiles Placing of soil above geo textiles
-43-
17.5.Reinforcement of Village Roads using Coir Geo textiles under PMGSY
The Coir Board supplied and met the cost of coir geo textiles. The collaborating institutes
conducted lab studies on application of coir geo textiles on particular type of soils
available in their respective states, field applications of coir geo textiles in the soil and
over those construction of rural roads by selecting and using the particular variety of coir
geo textile most suitable for the soil thus generating research data which will be ultimately
incorporated in the PWD manuals by the respective states.
The NIT, Trichy constructed 40.931 km(18 roads) of rural roads in 7 districts of Tamil Nadu,
a length of 13.80 km roads (6 roads) in 5 districts of Madhya Pradesh by MANIT, Bhopal,
a distance of 5 km roads(5 roads) in 2 districts by NIT, Calicut and a distance of 6.30 km
roads (6 roads) in 5 districts by College of Engineering, Thiruvanathapuram in the road
projects at a cost of Rs.354 lakhs using 1,79,200 m2 H2M5 , 1,05 ,500 m2 H2M6 and 61,300
m2 H2M9 coir geo textiles for a total length of 59.941km roads.
The cost of laying coir geo textiles(H2M6) for 4 meter wide road as per the IRC Guidelines
IRC SP 72:2007 was Rs 1.815 lakhs in the year 2009 as per the details furnished in the
table below.
-44-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Cost of laying of coir geo textiles geo textiles for 4m wide road would come to Rs
1.815 lakh
Functional performance can be evaluated by visual examination, Merlin test and bump
indicator.
Visual examination is done for Alligator Cracking, Block Cracking, Transverse Cracking,
Joint Reflection Cracking, Patching, Potholes, Corrugation and Shoving, Depression,
Rutting/ Permanent deformation, Stripping, Raveling and raveling. The details of visual
examination are explained in table below.
-45-
4. Joint Reflection Cracks in a flexible overlay of a rigid pavement. Allows moisture
Cracking infiltration.
5. Patching An area of pavement that has been replaced with new material
to repair the existing pavement.
6. Potholes Small, bowl shaped depressions in the pavement surface. It
causes serious vehicular damage and moisture infiltration
9. Rutting/ Permanent Surface depression along the wheel path. Ruts filled with water
deformation can cause vehicle hydroplaning, can be hazardous because
ruts tend to pull a vehicle towards the rut path as it is steered
across the rut.
10. Stripping The loss of bond between aggregates & asphalt binder. It causes
decrease in structural support, rutting, shoving/corrugations
raveling or cracking.
-46-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
The type and extent of distress developed at the surface were observed, based on visual
condition survey. The following parameters were taken for the study.
18.2.1. Rutting
Rutting is the longitudinal depression of the pavement along the wheel paths of the traffic.
Rut depth was measured in middle portion of each 25m subsection by placing 1.5m
straight edge across the rut.
18.2.2. Raveling
Raveling is the loss of aggregate particles from the surface. Percentage of raveled surface
was assessed visually.
18.2.3. Pothole
A pothole is a bowl-shaped hole through one or more layers of the flexible pavement
structure. The severity levels of potholes are given in the table below.
The following table gives the severity levels of cracking based on their width and nature.
Edge drop is the difference between the levels of pavement surface at edge and the
shoulder. This was measured by using a scale held vertically and a bar held horizontally
along the pavement surface.
-47-
18.2.6. Merlin Test for Roughness Measurement
Road surface roughness is an important measure of road condition. The Merlin road
roughness measurement machine was developed by the Transport Research Laboratory
for use in developing countries. Schematic sketch and photograph of Merlin are shown in
figures (a) and (b) below.
The Merlin consists of a metal frame with a wheel at front and handles and a foot at the
rear. The distance between the rear foot and the bottom of the wheel is 1.8 m. Attached
to the frame is a pivoted moveable arm which has a probe at one end which rests on the
road surface half way between the wheel and the rear foot. At the other end of the arm is a
pointer which moves over a prepared chart. The arm is pivoted close to the probe so that
-48-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
The Merlin is used to measure the roughness of a stretch of road by taking repeated
measurements at the intervals along the road. For each measurement the machine is
made to rest on the road with the wheel, the rear foot and probe in contact with the road
surface. The position of the pointer on the chart is recorded with a cross. Each new
measurement is taken by moving the Merlin forward to a new position on the road and
recording the corresponding new position of the pointer on the chart so that a histogram
distribution of crosses is gradually built up. Once two hundred measurements have been
made the position between the tenth and eleventh crosses, counting in from one end of
the distribution, is marked. The procedure is repeated for the other end of the distribution
and the spacing between the two marks, D is measured in millimeters.
For most road surface the road roughness can be determined using the equation,
Where IRI is the roughness in terms of the International Roughness Index (in m/km) and D
is measured from the Merlin chart (in mm).
Allowable IRI values for different types of pavements as per Sayers et al., 1986 are
presented in Fig. (c) below.
-49-
ROUGHNESS BY MERLIN
Skid resistance is the frictional force developed at the tyre pavement interface when a tyre
on being prevented from rotating skid along the pavement surface. Adequate skidding
resistance is essential for safe operation of vehicles from the point of acceleration,
deceleration, cornering and abrupt stopping. Functional performance/quality of any
pavement is affected in two ways. Reduction in surface evenness (roughness), Reduction
in skid resistance of the pavement with the passage of time and traffic (dependent on
climatic and environmental factors).
Skid resistance found out using British Portable Skid Resistance Tester (Portable Pendulum
Tester is shown in Fig. (d). This apparatus gives the frictional resistance between a rubber
slider (mounted on the end of a pendulum arm) and the road surface.
-50-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Allowable Skid Resistance values of different conditions as per (IRC: SP: 83–2008) are
-51-
Schematic sketch of Benkelman Beam is shown in fig.
Truck loaded with 12 tonne such that the rear axle load is 8170 kg equally distributed over
the two sets of dual wheels; the spacing between the tyre walls should be 30-40 mm; the
tyres is 10x20 ply inflated to a pressure of 5.60 kg/sq. cm. Schematic sketch of Benkelman
beam is shown in fig.
The rebound deflection value D at any point is given by D = 2(Do-Df) + 2K (Di-Df) . Where
Do is the Initial Dial gauge reading under and in between the gap of the back dual wheel
of Truck normally it is adjusted to zero. Di = Intermediate Dial gauge reading at a distance
2.7m after running of Truck. Df = Final Dial gauge reading at a distance 9m after running
of Truck. Moisture correction, Temperature correction and Leg correction are to be made
to the deflection.
The allowable limit of deflection having no need of any improvement works in the pavement
as per IRC 81 – 1997 is 0.45mm. There is no need of any upgradation when the deflection
is below 0.45mm as per overlay thickness design curve. Allowable limit of deflection
without any improvement works for different cumulative numbers of standard axial loads
is presented table below.
-52-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
7DEOH$OORZDEOHOLPLWRIGHÁHFWLRQZLWKRXWDQ\LPSURYHPHQWZRUNVIRUGLIIHUHQW
cumulative numbers of standard axial loads is presented
Deflection in
3 2 1.65 1.4 1.05 1 0.8 0.45
mm
Million standard
0.1 0.5 1 2 5 10 20 100
axial load
The bearing capacity of soil improves when reinforced with geo textiles and better
improvement is seen when two layers of geo textiles are provided at top and half the depth
from top of the sub grade
The strength of in situ (sub grade) soil was measured by using Dynamic Cone Penetrometer.
The DCP test is intended to measure the resistance offered by compacted granular/soil
layer due to penetration of a standard 20mm diameter cone driven by a 8kg hammer
dropped freely from a height of 575mm.The average penetration of the cone per blow is
reported as an index value and can be represented in many ways viz., DCP, DCP index
(DCPI), penetration index (PI), penetration rate (PR) etc. The DCP test was conducted on
each subsection of the roads.
Laboratory study
1. The CBR value of soil is found to increase with the inclusion of geo textiles.
2. The CBR value for reinforced soil under soaked condition is found to be lower than the
unreinforced soil for very soft soil.
-53-
3. There is considerable increase in the CBR value when the geo textiles is anchored to
the soil. There is an increase of more than 100% for geo textiles placed at the surface
and more than 25% increase when the geo textiles is placed at the mid height of the
sub grade to that of unreinforced soil.
4. The CBR value of soil with anchored geo textiles is observed to vary from 17% to
100% for unsoaked condition and 4% to 75% for soaked condition with respect to that
without anchorage.
Field Study
1. By visual examination the coir geo textiles reinforced roads are better in performance
compared to unreinforced roads.
3. IRI values as well as skid resistance seem to reduce with time but they are all within
the allowable limits.
It was reported that the coir geo textiles reinforced roads are structurally strong compared
to unreinforced roads and it remains stable.
&RVW 3HUIRUPDQFH%HQHÀWV
-54-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
19.1. Cost of Laying with Single Layer of Coir Geo textiles for 1 Km Long and 8 M
Wide Unpaved Road
A. H2M6
Total 4,73,000
B.H2M5/H2M2
Total 6,82,000
C. H2M8
Total 7,15,000
-55-
19.2. Cost Estimate for Reinforcement of Unpaved Roads 1 Km Long and 4 M Wide
with Single Layer of Coir Geo textiles and Two Layer of Earthwork Filling
1. Earthwork filling with conveners own gravelly earth cut and conveyed 9,85,760
with all leads and lifts including consolidation of 20 cm thick 1000x4x0.2x
12322/10 cum
2. Cost of geo textiles (H2M6) for 4 m wide 1 km long road (considering 1,81,500
overlapping in both directions and side wrapping)- 1100x5@ Rs 33 per
sq meter
-56-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
1. IS 158 68 2008- Natural fibre Geo textiles (Jute Geo textile and Coir Bhoovastra) -
Methods
4. IS 15872:2009: Guidelines for Application of Coir Geo textiles (Coir Woven Bhoovastra)
for Rain Water Erosion Control in Roads, Railway Embankments and Hill Slopes
21.1. IS 15868 (Part 1 to 6): 2008: Methods of Test for Natural Fiber Geo textiles (Jute
Geo textiles & Coir Bhoovastra)
The use of natural fiber geo textiles has been recognized in erosion control in embankment
construction for roads and railways, dam engineering, canals etc and in road pavements.
Their increasing importance is due to their versatility based on their specific properties.
For applications, it is desired that the geo textiles maintain integrity during the course of
its life and do not tear, split and deteriorate under constructional or post- constructional
stresses.
Scope
This standard (Part 1) explains a method to determine the mass per unit area of all natural
fiber geo textiles for identification purposes and for use in technical data sheets.
Principle
The mass per unit area is calculated by weighing small square or circular specimens
-57-
of known dimensions. The mass per unit area of an ECB is determined by weighing test
specimens of known dimensions cut from various locations over the full width of the
laboratory sample.
The measured weight is then used to calculate the mass per unit area of the specimen,
and these values are averaged to obtain the mean mass per unit area of the laboratory
sample
Scope
This standard (Part 2) prescribes a method for the determination of the thickness of geo
textiles at specified pressures and defines at which pressure the normal thickness is
determined.
The distance between a reference plate on which the specimen rests and a parallel
presser-foot applying the given pressure to the specimen is defined as the thickness of
the geo textiles.
The thickness determined when applying a pressure of 2±0.01 kPa to the specimen
Principle
The thickness of a number of specimens of geo textiles are measured as the distance
between the reference plate on which the specimen rests and a parallel circular presser-
foot exerting pressure on an area of defined size within a larger area of geo textiles. The
result of the test is given as the average of the results obtained at each specified pressure.
Scope
This standard (part 3) prescribes method for determination of the percentage of swell in
water of geo textiles.
Principle
This test is used to calculate the percentage of swell of all natural fiber geo textiles in
water. This method determines the percentage swell in thickness of the sample after it has
been immersed in water for 24 hours.
-58-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Scope
This standard (part 4) prescribes the method for determination of the water absorption
capacity of geo textiles
Principle
This test is used to calculate the water absorption capacity of all natural fiber geo textiles.
Scope
This standard (part 5) details a procedure for the determination of the smouldering
resistance of degradable rolled erosion control products.
Principle
6LJQLÀFDQFHDQGXVH
This is of great concern since degradable erosion control materials are susceptible to
flammability caused by cigarettes. This test method serves to provide an index reading of
relative smoulder resistance.
21.1.6. Part 6 Determination of Mesh size of coir geo textiles by overhead projector
method.
Scope
This standard (Part 6) specifies method to determine the mesh size by projecting the geo
textiles through an overhead projector (OHP).This method is suitable for mesh having
large opening sizes.
Principle
A sample of known dimension (20cmx 20cm) is placed on the OHP. The dimension of the
projected meshes in both directions is also noted. The projected mesh size is measured
in both directions .By the ratio proportion method the mesh size of the sample can be
determined.
-59-
,67H[WLOHV2SHQ:HDYH&RLU%KRRYDVWUD6SHFLÀFDWLRQV
Plants and Grass for Soil Conservation using Coir Geo textiles
-60-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Marking
Unless otherwise agreed to between the buyer and the seller, the rolls shall be marked
with an indelible ink with the following information.
a) Roll No
b) Grade
c) Length, in m
d) Indication of the source of manufacture
e) Month and year of packing
f) Gross mass
g) No of pieces packed in the package; and
h) Any other information as required by the law in force
21.3. IS 15871: 2009: Guidelines for Use of Coir Geo textiles (Coir Bhoovastra) in
unpaved Roads)
Scope
This standard prescribes the guidelines of coir woven bhoovastra suitable for application in
unpaved roads including the selection of coir woven bhoovastra and installation methods.
-61-
Coir Woven Bhoovastra
Open structure coir woven bhoovastra made out of coir threads in which each warp thread
gets interlaced alternatively over and under by successive weft thread.
Application
In order to perform beneficially in road stabilisation applications the coir woven bhoovastra
must not only be properly designed, it must be properly installed and must be cleared of
sharp objects, which could puncture the geo textiles. Coir bhoovastra damaged during
placement or installed in a highly wrinkled condition will not perform. Coir woven bhoovastra
shall maintain integrity during the course of its life. The aggregate overlay must be placed
to its full design depth and it must be applied in a manner that will not cause damage to
the coir woven bhoovastra from the movement of construction equipment.
Functions
The main functions of the coir bhoovastra in unpaved road application are separation,
filtration, drainage and reinforcement.
Separation
This is the principle function of coir woven bhoovastra when placed beneath the aggregate
layer of an unpaved road. The coir woven bhoovastra prevents intermixing of aggregate
and underlying sub grade soil. In the absence of geo textiles there is loss of aggregate
thickness and intermixing of finer grained material reduces load bearing capacity. A
stone is forced down by compaction or the passage of construction, the coir woven
bhoovastra act to spread the load and tends to cause the whole layer to act together in
the manner of a flexible beam. This separation and confinement plus additional strength
gained by frictional interlock between the aggregate and coir woven bhoovastra, helps to
maintain the reduced stress on the sub grade, thereby increasing load bearing capacity
of structural section.
Filtration/ Drainage
The coir woven bhoovastra may also function as a filtration and drainage capacity in the
presence of wet or saturated soils. Under dynamic high load pore pressure create soil
slurry that pumps upward against the fabric. The coir woven bhoovastra acts as a filter,
screens out fines from contaminating the aggregate layer, while allowing water to drain
freely through the aggregate or through the plain of the coir woven bhoovastra.
Reinforcement
The two principal mechanisms of the coir woven bhoovastra is to confine and restrain
-62-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
movements of the granular, structural layer and the so called membrane effect whereby a
fabric that develops high tensile strength under load can induce a vertical stress upward.
This aids the granular layer to support vehicular loading while reducing the magnitude of
stress imposed upon sub grade. Coir woven bhoovastra will ensure that no intermixing
takes place at this level and the effective depth of the pavement remains intact. The coir
woven bhoovastra is useful for soft sub grades with CBR<3.
Installation
The three basic steps involved in installation of coir woven bhoovastra are
The area over which the coir woven bhoovastra is to be placed must be cleared of sharp
objects, tree stamps or large stones that could puncture the coir woven bhoovastra. The
area should be excavated, stripping away soft soil or unsuitable base materials then
compacted to design grade.
The coir woven bhoovastra is unrolled on to the prepared sub grade in the direction that
aggregate will be placed. The coir woven bhoovastra sections must be overlapped side
to side and end to end around 0.5 m. The edges of coir woven bhoovastra should slope
towards drainage ditches or other drain systems that parallel the roadway. Granular
material can now be back dumped on the coir woven bhoovastra beginning on firm
ground just in front of the coir woven bhoovastra edge.
The choice of the coir woven bhoovastra basically depends on the type of pavement to
be protected.
21.4. IS 15872:2009 : Guidelines for Application of Coir Geo textiles (Coir Woven
Bhoovastra) for Rain Water Erosion Control in Roads, Railway Embankments and
Hill Slopes
Scope
This standard prescribes the code for the guidelines for woven coir bhoovastra suitable
-63-
for application in slopes of road and railway embankments and also in hill slopes including
the selection of woven coir bhoovastra and installation methods.
Materials
The open structure coir woven bhoovastra made out of coir threads in which each warp
thread gets interlaced alternatively over and under by successive weft thread.
The exposed soil surface road and railway embankments and hill slopes by impact of rain
drops and surface wind which cause surface run off particles. These impacts detach the
soil particles and carry away by the surface runoff. These articles carry seeds and soil
nutrients. Natural growth of vegetation on slope is thus hindered.
Coir woven hoovastra are permeable coir fabrics made from coir fibre extracted from
natural coir fibre. Coir woven bhoovastra control the soil erosion by acting as a ground
cover. As a ground cover, it reduces the flow velocity of runoff water by forming check
dams with the help of net structured strands of Coir woven bhoovastra in firm contact with
the soil, which absorb the impact of water flow and resist washing down keeping the soil
intact.
The choices of coir woven bhoovastra basically depend on the type of soil to be protected.
It requires to be ensured primarily that the slope to be protected from rain water erosion is
geo technically stable. It also required considering the extreme rainfall in limited time span
at that location as the intensity of rainfall is more important than the average rainfall. It is
recommended that the choice of coir woven bhoovastra shall be 400/700 where intensity
of rainfall is severe irrespective of type of soil and slope is <1:1.
Installation Method
The stages of laying of woven coir woven bhoovastra on slopes for rain water erosion
control are as under.
The slope shall be made free from undulations, soil slurry, mud and sharp projections and
compacted with additional earth where necessary.
Anchoring trenches shall be excavated at the top and toe of the slope along the slope
downward, caring to see that it touches the soil surface at all points.
-64-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
The selected coir woven bhoovastra shall be unrolled across the top trench and along the
slope downward caring to see that it touches the soil surface at all points.
Overlap shall be minimum 150 mm at sides and ends. The coir woven bhoovastra at
the higher level on the slope shall be placed over level. Side overlaps of a coir woven
bhoovastra piece shall be placed over its next piece on one side and under the next piece
on the other.
The coir bhoovastra shall be fixed in position with the help of steel staples of 220 mm
length (usually of 11gauges) or by split bamboo pegs. Stapling shall b e done normally
at an interval of 500-750 mm both in longitudinal and transverse directions. Special care
shall be taken to staple the coir woven bhoovastra within the anchoring trenches (300 mm
depth and 150 mm width) both at the bottom and at the sides.
The anchoring trenches shall b e filled up with brick/bats/ soil for preventing displacement
of the coir woven bhoovastra. Special care shall be taken that the overlaps are not
displaced during installation.
Care should be taken to prevent any damage of geo textiles due to puncture/tear and
other operational stresses.
Seeds of vegetations (grass/legumes etc) shall be spread or saplings are then planted
at suitable intervals through the opening of the coir woven bhoovastra.In special
circumstances, a second dose of seeds may be spread with dibbling of locally available
grass.
Installation shall be completed preferably before the monsoon to take advantage of the
rains for quick germination of seeds.
Monitoring
Close monitoring should be carried out for at least one season cycle.
The treated area shall be kept out of bounds for cattle and other grazing animals till the
time of maturity of vegetation.
The damage and displacement of coir woven bhoovastra shall be noted for corrective
action. Torn portions of the coir woven bhoovastra shall be covered with new pieces of coir
woven bhoovastra of identical specifications duly stapled at all sides.
Advice shall be sought from specialist to find out cause of unsatisfactory growth of
-65-
vegetation. Withered plants shall be replaced. Species of vegetation needs to be selected
carefully considering the local soil and climatic conditions.
22. Equipments and Procedure for Measuring Quality Parameters of Geo textiles
-66-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Y The smaller the hole, greater is the resistance of the geo textiles to damage.
0RGLÀHGGLUHFWVKHDUWHVWDSSDUDWXV
Y The force, which causes a shear failure along the junction, is the shear load. The
coefficient of internal friction is also calculated
-67-
22.5. CBR push through test apparatus
Y It is related to filtration.
Y The water flows through the geo textiles into crushed stones, pipes or some other
drainage system.
Y It is important that the fabric allows for this flow to occur without any obstruction.
-68-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Y It is related to filtration.
Y The water flows through the geotextile into crushed stones, pipes or some other drain-
age system.
Y It is important that the fabric allows for this flow to occur without any obstruction.
Y Covers determination of the water permittivity of geo textiles under varying normal
compressive stresses.
4¨+$ where
Q=rate of flow
¨+ = head loss
hf = final head
-69-
A = cross sectional area of specimen
Ԧ 5W4/:+where
Ԧ = hydraulic transmissivity
H = Difference in head
Y Tensile strength of geo textiles is the maximum resistance to deformation when sub-
jected to tension by an external force.
-70-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Y The greater width of the specimen specified in wide width test method minimizes
the contraction effect and provides a close relationship to expected geo textiles
behaviour in the field and a standard comparison can be arrived.
22.11. Trapezoidal tearing strength
To measure the tearing strength of geo textiles.
It is the value for estimating the relative tear resistance of different geo textiles or different
directions of the same fabric.
Y Geo textiles can be cut or punctured during field installations, which can create a
possible condition by which strength is controlled by tearing resistance.
22.12. Grab tensile strength
Y It measures the ability of the geotextiles to distribute concentrated loading.
Y Specimen size is 200 x 100 mm.
Y It is widely used by manufacturers as a quality control tool.
Y It can be used for relative comparison between geo textiles of the same type.
/RQJWHUPÁRZSHUPHDELOLW\WHVWDSSDUDWXVÀOWUDWLRQWHVW
Y To evaluate the clogging resistance of geo textiles.
Y In addition to the opening size and permeability of the geo textiles, the hydraulic
behaviour of combined soil-geo textiles influence the filtration ability of geo textiles
in the long-term flow situation.
Y Measures long term flow rates
-71-
Y Evaluates the long-term filtration behaviour and clogging potential of soil-geo tex-
tiles system
Y This is to ensure long-term filtration process and the flow rate of soil geo textiles
system is measured at a constant head.
Y The tests for permittivity and transmissivity help in comparing one-geo textiles to
another.
Y The flow rate of the soil-geo textiles system decreases as the pores of the geo tex-
tiles get clogged.
Y Soil-geo textiles permeability test is suggested to determine the long-term flow ca-
pability of geo textiles.
Y The clogging is highly soil dependent for which two types of testing viz. filtration test
and gradient ratio test are employed.
/RQJWHUPÁRZSHUPHDELOLW\WHVWDSSDUDWXVJUDGLHQWUDWLRWHVW
Y It gives a direct measure of geo textiles clogging potential.
Y The gradient ratio is defined as the ratio of hydraulic gradient through the geo tex-
tiles plus 25.4 mm of the soil to that of the hydraulic gradient through the adjacent
50.8 mm of the soil.
Y It is determined after 24 hours of flow of water.
H2 - H1
Gradient Ratio = ----------
(H3 - H2) /2
Where H1, H2, H3 are the piezometric heads corresponding to piezometers1, 2 and 3
22.15. Thickness gauge
Y Measures the thickness of geo textiles.
Y Thickness is one of the basic physical prop-
erties used to control the quality of many geo
textiles.
-72-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Parameter Herring
Panama
Saloon 2 Shaft (2x2) Bone Ribbed
(2x2)
Matting
Slack 20
(Anjengo)
27 26 28 28
Warp
(Aratory) (Aratory) (Anjengo) (Anjengo)
Tight 10
(Anjengo)
16 16 10 14 24
Weft
(Vycome) (Vycome) (Vycome) (Vycome) (Vycome)
-73-
24. Tested Quality Parameters of Latex coated Coir Needled Felt backed with
SODVWLFÀOP
Wide Width Direction Break Load Break Break Break Break Break
Tensile Test (kN/m) Strain Load Strain Load Strain
(Dry) (%) (kN/m) (%) (kN/m) (%)
warp 1.61 15 2.13 22 2.27 38
weft 0.64 23.32 1.13 28 1.72 22.64
Wide Width warp 1.38 39.08 1.0 36 0.97 32
Tensile Test weft 0.917 19.32 1.22 22 0.86 18.67
(Wet)
7HVWHG4XDOLW\3DUDPHWHUVRI&RLU1HHGOHG)HOWEDFNHGZLWKSODVWLFÀOP
Light weight Non- Medium weight Heavy weight Non-
Parameters woven coir geo Non-woven coir woven coir geo
textiles fabric geo textiles fabric textiles fabric
-74-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Wide width Direction Break Break Break Break Break Load Break
tensile test Load Strain Load Strain (kN/m) Strain
(Dry) (kN/m) (%) (kN/m) (%) (%)
warp 0.5 32 0.61 37.06 0.72 36.93
Wide Width Tensile Warp 4.23 7.66 8.52 12.90 9.00 16.56
Test
Wet (kN/m) Weft 3.36 8.18 8.74 4.94 4.94 7.29
-75-
Runnage Weft 166 156 163 326 306
(m/kg) 233
Ends/dm 4 8 9 10 9 13
Picks/dm 4 7 8 8 8 9
Peak load Warp 8.89 12.57 12.55 19.0 12.70 20.38
Dry (kN/m)
Weft 6.02 11.14 11.14 11.45 8.65 9.70
Warp 11.75
Wide Width Tensile Test
Dry (kN/m)
Weft 7.2
Warp 9.66
Wide Width Tensile Test
Wet (kN/m) Weft 4.81
.5 0.32
Scorage Warp 11
Weft 12
-76-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
29. Tested Quality Parameters of Coir Needled Felt With Hessian and HDPE
Backing
Coir Needled
Coir Needled Felt-
Parameters Coir Needled Felt Felt-HDPE
Hessian Backing
Backing
Mass /unit area (gm/m2) 850.0 1031.67 879.10
Thickness at 2kPa(mm) 11.54 12.28 11.49
Puncture Resistance (mm) - 4.66 2.33
AOS (mm) 2.35 0.78 0.43
Bursting Strength (kg/cm2) 26.08 28.74 26.36
Puncture Resistance (kgf) 10.80 76.10 65.20
0.5 kg/cm2 0.31 0.20 0.20
2
1 kg/cm 0.44 0.43 0.38
Shear Stress (kg/cm2)
2
1.5 kg/cm 0.77 1.04 0.68
2
2 kg/cm 1.03 1.49 0.93
Permeability (lit/m3/min) 10388.28 9335.87 6670.90
-77-
30. Tested Quality Parameters of Coir Needled Felt
Mass (gm/m2)
Parameters
800 gm/m2 900 gm/m2 1000 gm/m2
Mass /unit area (gm/m2) 816 835 987
Thickness at 2kPa(mm) 10.12 10.29 12.69
Puncture Resistance (mm) 0 0 0
AOS (mm) 3.70 - 1.65
2
Bursting Strength (kg/cm ) 18.60 20.86 21.43
Puncture Resistance (kgf) 8.10 3.0 5.0
2
0.5 kg/cm 0.29 0.47 0.50
2
Shear Stress 1 kg/cm 0.43 0.67 0.72
(kg/cm2) 1.5 kg/cm2 0.66 0.85 0.94
2
2 kg/cm 0.91 1.05 1.21
3
Permeability (lit/m /min) 10080 9480 8640
31. Patents Granted for Application and Manufacture of Coir Geo textiles
Sl. No. Name of Technology for Patent Patent Application No. & Date Patent No.
1. An Erosion Control Blanket (Case A) by 588/MAS/2000 dated 28th July 208689
Christy Fernandez and U.S. Sarma 2000
2. An Erosion Control Blanket from Coir Fibres 842/MAS/2000 dated 5th
(Case F) by Christy Fernandez and U. S. October 2000
Sarma
3. An Erosion Control Blanket (Case G) by 843/MAS/2000 dated 5th 223500
Christy Fernandez and U. S. Sarma October 2000
4. A Readymade Lawn by Christy Fernandez, 664/MAS/2001 dated 13th 223515
U. S. Sarma and K. P. Somanathan Nair August, 2001
5. An improved mild steel handloom, T. A. 548/CHE/2003 dated 2nd July 222486
Rajendra Babu and U. S. Sarma 2003
The Indian Roads Congress, New Delhi granted accreditation to usage of coir geo textiles
in erosion control of soil from roads and highways embankments/railway embankment/
canal embankment/reinforcement of roads and mudwall under new materials and
techniques in the year 2011.
-78-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-79-
33. Protection of road embankment using coir geo textiles
Site assessment
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil is
tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the coir
-80-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Fixation
Laying
-81-
sq.metre after the coir Bhoovastra is in place. Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with
the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure that no aggregate stays between coir
bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom sides. Once or twice sprinkling of water
is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During the first few days, the moisture
levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy germination of the seeds. The treated
slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir
bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion and create permanent greenery on
the surface.
Monitoring
Close monitoring should be carried out for at least two-season cycle. Displacement of
Coir Bhoovastra, if any, is to be noted and watched without disturbing it initially. Fresh Coir
Bhoovastra pieces duly stapled on all sides should be applied to overlap torn portions.
Care must be taken to protect the treated site from trampling by human and cattle till
vegetation comes up fully.
34. Reinforcement of rain water harvesting pond and stream embankment using coir
geo textiles
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
-82-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir boovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface. The nettings are normally
produced on coir handlooms out of 2-ply coir yarn, with a width 1-2meter and 50-meter
length.
It is an ideal geo textile for situations where land is sloppy which may lead to rilling and
gulling. In such slopes, heavy rainfall causes loss of soil. In the areas of scanty rainfall
where soil is non cohesive and prone to wind blowing, open weave coir bhoovastra
provides adequate protection. There is no need for post installation work.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres.
-83-
35.Protection of hills slope embankment using coir geo textiles
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir Bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface. The nettings are normally
produced on coir handlooms out of 2-ply coir yarn, with a width 1-2meter and 50-meter
length.
-84-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
It is ideal geo textiles for situations where land is sloppy which may lead to rilling and
gulling. In such slopes, heavy rainfall causes loss of soil. In the areas of scanty rainfall
where soil is non cohesive and prone to wind blowing, open weave coir bhoovastra
provides adequate protection. There is no need for post installation work.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres.
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end to
end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on the
ground with the help of either 15 cm long U-shaped nails or 22 cm long J shaped hooks
made of 3 mm iron or steel wire.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. The U
shaped nails or J shaped hooks should be driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along sides
and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. Wooden pegs may also be used for
fixing the coir geo textiles. The hooks must be at the same level with the ground for smooth
water flow over the joint to the next fabric.
-85-
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
-86-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
-87-
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
3URWHFWLRQRIFKURPLWHVPLQHÀHOGVXVLQJFRLUJHRWH[WLOHV
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
-88-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres.
-89-
Guidelines for installation of coir geo textiles
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study
of the site like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of
damage, rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well
as the seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
-90-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir Bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
-91-
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
-92-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
-93-
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres.
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
-94-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
Trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo First
seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
textiles after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
Laying of coir needled felt and Stabilized clay embankment, NH Byepass, Kozhikode
-95-
Coir needled felt
Coir needled felts are available in blanket forms backed with nets made of jute,
polypropylene and polythene also. The coir non woven blankets are composed of 100%
coir fibre randomly needle punched to the desired degree of compaction.
The coir bhoovastra of low mesh can effectively be used for soil stabilization techniques
in road construction. The use of coir geo textiles varieties of 700g (H2M5, H2M2 & H2M8)
and 900g (H2M9) with 1/2 inch mesh as an interface between the sub grade and the sub
base increases the strength of the pavement and prevents intermingling of the soil and
the granular sub base which improves drainage. The soil condition and its structure may
be assessed before laying of coir geo textiles for better result.
The rural unpaved roads are leveled, clearing of all foreign materials including uprooting
of any vegetation if present. The area is leveled with earth and rolled for compaction to
set the optimum moisture content. To facilitate easy unrolling on the surface of the sub
grade to be treated, the coir bhoovastra, in rolls of 1 to 2m width, is spread directly over
the leveled sub grade, ensuring that it should touch the sub grade surface at all points.
The edge of the coir bhoovastra should be folded back. The coir bhoovastra should be
-96-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
folded back or cut and overlapped in the direction of the turn on application in curve. The
granular material is spread over coir bhoovastra (15 cm thick) to prevent puncture / damage
due to rolling of the upper sub base/ base layer and rolled with a light or medium roller.
The second layer of coir bhoovastra is layed again and sand is applied up to a thickness
of 15cm thick and rolled.Under the weight of the base layer and the compactive effect,
the sub grade loses water draining through the coir bhoovastra and gains in strength.
Due to the inherent tensile strength, the coir bhoovastra acts as a support membrane and
reduces localized distress on the road surface by redistributing traffic loads over a wider
area of the road surface.
Once the coir bhoovastra is placed on the weak sub grade, the sub grade stiffens and
becomes stronger on consolidation within in a year or so under the action of the granular
sub base surcharge, self-weight of pavement, construction rolling and traffic loads.
The Coir Bhoovastra immensely helps in this rapid sub grade strengthening process in
combination with the drainage layer above it. With time, the sub grade becomes less and
less dependent on the fabric for its stability and therefore, the long-term durability aspect
of coir should not deter its use as geo textiles for various applications in road construction.
The condition of coir bhoovastra should be assessed for any constructional / installation
damages before covering. Torn / damaged portions may be covered by pieces of coir geo
textiles and the extent of overlap will be such as to cover the damaged / torn portion fully
plus at least 75 mm beyond, on all sides.
In the case of clay sub grades, a cushion layer of 10 cm thick sand is laid before spreading.
The coir bhoovastra or coir bhoovastra layers can be increased to 3 or 4 depending on
condition of the soil.
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. coir choovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
-97-
Protection of railway embankment, Konkan railway
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
-98-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
The top and bottom ends of the coir bhoovastra are fixed into slots about 30cm deep,
dug into the slope. The slots are filled with soil and tamped to pick up even with the soil
surface. The Coir Bhoovastra is pegged using wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50-
75cm, along sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
-99-
Vegetation & seeding
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
Reinforcement of mudwall,Monkompu,Kuttanadu
-100-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
-101-
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
The top and bottom ends of the coir bhoovastra are fixed into slots about 30cm deep,
dug into the slope. The slots are filled with soil and tamped to pick up even with the soil
surface. The coir bhoovastra is pegged using wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50-
75cm, along sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
-102-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Laying of CGT over exposed rocky patches Spreading of coir pith over CGT
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
-103-
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
The top and bottom ends of the coir bhoovastra are fixed into slots about 30cm deep,
dug into the slope. The slots are filled with soil and tamped to pick up even with the soil
surface. The coir bhoovastra is pegged using wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50-
-104-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir Bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
Eroded bank and Geo textiles laid on leveled bank of reservoir, Protection of Kakkayam
Kakkayam reservoir bank
-105-
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
-106-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
The top and bottom ends of the coir bhoovastra are fixed into slots about 30cm deep,
dug into the slope. The slots are filled with soil and tamped to pick up even with the soil
surface. The coir bhoovastra is pegged using wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50-
75cm, along sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
-107-
Laying of coir geo textiles and planting of grass on laid coir geo textiles on Periyar river bank
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
-108-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
The top and bottom ends of the coir bhoovastra are fixed into slots about 30cm deep,
dug into the slope. The slots are filled with soil and tamped to pick up even with the soil
surface. The Coir bhoovastra is pegged using wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50-
75cm, along sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
-109-
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
46. Prevention of soil erosion due to runoff on the banks of river using cocolog
Cocolog laid on the banks of Pampa river for preventing soil erosion
-110-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Cocologs are made from coir fibre bunches under pressed condition in tubular enclosures
of knotted coir yarn. They are having a shape similar to a wooden log. They vary in diameter,
length and weight. The diameter varies from 30 cm to 50 cm, weight from 60 kg to 180 kg,
usually produced with a length of 6 metre. Charcoal is also used intermittently for filling
the logs as additional manure for faster growth of plants. Cocologs are mainly used for
vulnerable rivers to protect scour. The rolls are attached at the edges of the bank and
secured by wooden stakes/ pegs. The pegs may be used on alternate sides of the log.
For high embankment areas with variable water level, several cocolog can be applied
as a stack. Relatively steep stream banks can be covered with pre planted cocobeds.
Sediments will be collected and held in cocobeds, which helps in plant growth and purifies
water to a certain extent.
47. Erosion control of soil and water conservation for vegetable crop on steep slope
laid with coir geo textiles
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
Leveled steep slope Leveled slope laid with coir geo textiles
-111-
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: slope assessment, nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage,
rainfall patterns etc., and thereby choose the right kind of coir bhoovastra as well as the
seed or saplings for the vegetation cover.
Site preparation:
The slope area is demarcated. The surface is leveled. The slope is prepared and the soil
is tamped to the desired shape by rounding of the tips ensuring uniform contact of the
coir geo textiles with soil over the entire area to guide the run off to flow over the net. The
ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural budges
can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the prepared slope needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs.
The sides, top and bottom of coir geo textiles are anchored into the trenches of 30 cm
deep and 15 cm width, free from mud / soil slurry at the sides and the bottom. Wooden
pegs may be used for fixing the coir geo textiles driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm; along
sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm. The hooks must be at the same
-112-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the next fabric
Laying
The erosion control blanket is to be laid in a direction of the water flow starting from the
top to the bottom. The rolls are to be rolled down the slope and are cut at the end .The
coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo textiles
should overlap 15cm or be stitched together.
The top and bottom ends of the coir bhoovastra are fixed into slots about 30cm deep,
dug into the slope. The slots are filled with soil and tamped to pick up even with the soil
surface. The coir bhoovastra is pegged using wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50-
75cm, along sides and overlapping sections at a distance of 30-50 cm.
Second seeding of grass is done 10g per sq.metre after the coir bhoovastra is in place.
Finally, the coir bhoovastra is flushed with the soil surface. Care should be taken to ensure
that no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom
sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During
the first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy
germination of the seeds. The treated slope is irrigated as required to promote the growth
of vegetation. When fully laid, the coir bhoovastra will protect the slope against soil erosion
and create permanent greenery on the surface.
The plant species are selected on the basis of suitability to the climatic conditions of the
site. If the slopes are entirely raw and infertile and if the soil happens to be slightly acidic,
calcium ammonium nitrate is applied @50 kg per 1000 sq.metre in solution.
The seeds after germination should take up deep rooting system. After preparing the
soil surface, the seeds have to be applied on the surface by hand broadcasting or by
hydraulic means and the coir bhoovastra to be laid over the seeds almost immediately.
First seeding of grass is done at 10g per sq.metre or alternative planting such as root slips
may also be done. For quick coverage, rooted slips of grasses and cuttings of shrubs and
trees may be planted through the open spaces between the strands of coir geo textiles
after laying. Surface is leveled again by compacting the loose soil.
-113-
48. Coir geo-rolls for high velocity stream bank protection
Cocologs are made from coir fibre bunches under pressed condition in tubular enclosures
of knotted coir yarn. They are having a shape similar to a wooden log. They vary in
diameter, length and weight. The diameter varies from 30 cm to 50 cm, weight from 60 kg
to 180 kg, usually produced with a length of 6 metre. Charcoal is also used intermittently
for filling the logs as additional manure for faster growth of plants. Cocologs are mainly
used for vulnerable streams or lake bank to protect scour. The rolls are attached at the
edges of the bank and secured by wooden stakes/ pegs. The pegs may be used on
alternate sides of the log. Relatively steep stream banks can be covered with pre planted
cocobeds. Sediments will be collected and held in cocobeds, which helps in plant growth
and purifies water to a certain extent.
Planting of grass on laid geo roll Stream bank protected with geo rolls
-114-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Coir needled felts are available in blanket forms backed with nets made of jute,
polypropylene and polythene also. The coir non-woven blankets are composed of 100%
coir fibre randomly needle punched to the desired degree of compaction.
-115-
Coir netting
Coir geo textiles are permeable fabric capable to control soil erosion. It protects the earth
and promotes vegetation retaining precious topsoil. Coir bhoovastra is made from coir
fibre/yarn extracted from coconut husk either by natural retting or by mechanical process.
It is a woven fabric of two treadle in construction made from coir yarn in which the warp
and weft strands are positioned at a distance to get a mesh (net) effect of ¼”, ½” and 1”.
The netting (mesh) gives the grass plenty of room to grow, at the same time it provides
large number of “Check Dams” per square meter of soil surface.
The open weave coir bhoovastra initially holds the ground for seeds and seedling and
provides a mechanical support against water erosion helps the germination of seeds for
better and growth of the plants conserving moisture and adds organic matter to the soil
after degradation. In areas where vegetation is poor or takes longer time for establishment,
open weave coir bhoovastra can hold the soil together for a longer period of time in
comparison to other natural fibres
Site assessment
The first step in the application of coir bhoovastra is to make a detailed study of the site
like: nature and consistency of the soil cover, the extent of damage, rainfall patterns etc
The ground has to be made free of protruding stones, earth masses etc, but natural
budges can be left as it is. Before applying any seedling, the site needs to be relatively
free of weeds, stones, root stumps and gullies etc.
Fixation
The open mesh coir geo textiles are laid side by side by overlapping of 15 cm while end
to end overlapping of two coir geo textiles is 20 cm. The overlapping edges are fixed on
the ground with the help of 15cm wooden pegs driven at intervals of 50 – 75 cm. The
hooks must be at the same level with the ground for smooth water flow over the joint to the
next fabric
Laying
The coir bhoovastra should be laid loosely and evenly without stitch. Adjoining coir geo
textiles should overlap 15cm or be stitched together. Care should be taken to ensure that
no aggregate stays between coir bhoovastra and the base soil either at the bottom sides.
Once or twice sprinkling of water is recommended if the weather is hot and dry. During the
first few days, the moisture levels are to be properly monitored to facilitate easy growth of
the plants.
-116-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-117-
References:
1. "Retted (white) Coir Fibre Nettings-the Ideal Choice as Geo textiles for Soil Erosion
Control by K.George Joseph and U.S.Sarma, paper presented and published
in the proceedings ofthe IECA’s 28th Annual Conference, Tennesee, USA held on
25-28,February ,1997 pg. 67-76.
3. “Versatile Coir Geo textiles”’ A.C.Jose and U.S.Sarma, Poster presentation in the Annual
Conference of International E rosion Control Association, 2007 at Reno, Nevada.
4. “Application of a Coir Geo textile Reinforced Mud wall in an Area below Sea level at
Kuttanad, Kerala”’U.S.Sarma and A.C.Jose, accepted for presentation in the Annual
Conference of International Erosion Control Association, 2008 at Orlando, Fluoridate
18-22.
5. “Coir Geo textiles and its Applications”, by U.S.Sarma, paper in the 2nd International
Workshop on Geo textiles Organized by the Committee for International Geo textiles
Society (India) held at New Delhi on 11-12 January, 1994.
7. “Eco-friendly & Versatile Coir Geo textiles”’ by U.S. Sarma, Geo syntheticAsia’97,Vol.I,26-29
Nov.1997 ,Bangalore,India,Eds,C.V.J.Varma,G.V.Rao and A.R.G.Rao,Publishers,Oxford
and IBH publishing Co. Pvt .Ltd,New Delhi, SessionVI,P.49,1997.
9. “Versatile Coir Geo textiles”, paper presented at the International Seminar on “Geo
synthetics in India-Present and future”’ by U.S.Sarma at New Delhi from 8th to 10th
November 2006.
10. “Applications of Geo synthetics –Use on Roads Sub grades”’ by U.S.Sarma, paper
presented at the Workshop on Applications of Geo synthetics-Present and Future “,at
Ahmedabad from 20-21st September 2007.
11. “Use of Coir Bhoovastra in Civil Engineering Applications”, by G.V.Rao, paper presented
at the National Seminar on Coir Bhoovastra organized by Coir Board at New Delhi, on
-118-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
21March 2003.
13. “An Overview of Projects using Coir Bhoovastra undertaken by Coir Board”, by
M.Kumaraswamy Pillai, paper presented at the National Seminar on Coir Bhoovastra
organized by Coir Board at New Delhi, on 21March 2003.
14. “Erosion Control with Coir Geo textiles “by Dr.K.Balan, paper presented in the Seminar
on Coir Geo textiles organized by Coir Board at Alleppey ,on 28 January 1997
15. “Potential Use of Indian Coir Geo textiles “ by Shri.C.R.Devarajan , paper presented in
the Seminar on Coir Geo textiles organized by Coir Board at Alleppey ,on 28 January
1997
16. “Coir geo textiles for Twenty first Century “ by Shri.Manavalan , paper presented in the
Seminar on Coir Geo textiles organized by Coir Board at Alleppey ,on 28 January 1997
17. “An Overview of the Prospects of Coir Geo textiles “ by M.Kumaraswamy Pillai, paper
presented in the Seminar on Coir Geo textiles organized by Coir Board at Alleppey ,on
28 January 1997
20. “Coir Netting for Erosion Treatment and Sacrificial Landslide Correction” by Shri
T.K.Natarajan,Shri.P.J.Rao and A.V.S.R.Murthy , paper presented in the Workshop on
Geo grids and Geo fabrics in Civil Engineering Practice organized by Coir Board at
Coimbatore ,on 21st September 1988.
21. “A Role for Coir fibre Geo fabrics in Soil Stabilization and Erosion Control” by Shri.
Cammack, paper presented in the Workshop on Geo grids and Geo fabrics in Civil
Engineering Practice organized by Coir Board at Coimbatore ,on 21st September 1988.
22. “Coir Netting Technique for Controlling Erosion of Soils in Hillside Slopes of Nilgiris” by
A.Venkatarangaraju, R.Narayanan, N.Venkatarama and S.Ambethkar, paper presented
in the Workshop on Geo grids and Geo fabrics in Civil Engineering Practice organized
by Coir Board at Coimabtore, on 21st September 1988.
-119-
23. “Utilization Potential for Coir Fabrics as Geo textile Material” by Shri.Henner Schurholz,
paper presented in the Workshop on Geo grids and Geo fabrics in Civil Engineering
Practice” organized by Coir Board at Coimbatore ,on 21st September 1988.
24. “Coir based Products in Civil and Soil Biotechnical Engineering –Development
Imperatives” by G.Venkatappa Rao
25. “Testing and Application of Coir based Geo textiles” by G.V.Rao and R.K.Dutta
27. “Coir Geo textiles: Emerging Trends”by G.Venkattappa Rao and K.Balan
29. IS 158 68 2008(Part 1-6) - Natural fibre Geo textiles (Jute Geo textile and Coir
Bhoovastra) – Methods
31. IS 15871:2009 Use of Coir Geo textiles (Coir Bhoovastra) in Unpaved Roads-
Guidelines
33. ”Indian Coir a reference book”’ Edited by P.K.Ravi and published by Coir Board
34. Ajitha, B., Jayadeep, T., 1997. . “Interfacial frictional properties of geo textiles and
biomats”,in: Proceedings of Indian Geotechnical Conference, Vadodara, India, Vol.1,
pp. 287-290.
35. Anderson, P., Killeavy, M., 1989. “Geo textiles and geo grids-cost effective alternate
materials for pavement design and construction” In: Geosynthetics’89, San Diego,USA,
vol. 2, 353-364
36. Babu, K.K., Beena, K.S., Raji, A.K., 2008.”Design of Coir Geo textiles reinforced Road
using IRC method”. Highway Research Journal, Special Issue
37. Cancelli, A., Montanelli, F., 1999. “In-ground test for geo synthetic reinforced flexible
paved roads”. Proceedings of Geo synthetics ’99, Vol. 2, Boston, USA, pp. 863-879.
38. Chauhan, M.S., Mittal, S., Mohanty, B., 2008. Performance evaluation of silty sand sub
grade reinforced with fly ash and fibre, Geo textiles and Geo membranes 26 (5), 429-
435.
-120-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
39. Datye. K. R, Gore. V. N., (1994) “Application of natural geo textiles and related products”
Geo textiles and Geo membrane 13,371-388
40. Fannin, R.J., Sigurdsson, O., 1996 “Field observations on stabilization of unpaved roads
with geo textiles” Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, ASCE. 26(7): 544-553.
41. Giroud, J.P, Noiray, L, 1981. “Geo textile reinforced unpaved road design” Journal of
Geotechnical Engineering ASCE 107 (9), 1233–1254.
42. IRC: 81-1997 Guidelines for Strengthening of Flexible Road Pavements using Benkelman
Beam Deflection technique.
43. IRC: SP 72 – 2007 Guidelines for the design of flexible pavements for Low volume Rural
Roads.
44. I S: 2720(Part 16) – 1979, Methods of Test for Soils: Determination of California Bearing
Ratio.
45. IS 2720 (Part 5)-1985, Methods of Test for Soils: Determination of Atterberg Limits.
46. IS 2720 (Part 8)- 1983, Methods of Test for Soils: Determination of Water Content – Dry
Density Relation using Heavy Compaction.
47. IS: 15868 (Parts 1 to 6) – 2010. Methods of test natural fibre geo textiles (Jute geo
textile and Coir bhoovastra)
48. Khanna,S.K, Justo. C.E.G, “Highway Engineering”, published by New Chand and
Bros., Roorkee, Eighth Edition, 2009.
50. Perkins, S.W., 1999a. Geo synthetic reinforcement of flexible pavements: laboratory
based pavement test sections.Final Report FHWA/MT-99-001/8138, State of Montana
Department of Transportation, MT, USA, 140 p.
52. Rao. G. V, Balan. K, (2000) “Coir Geo textiles Emerging trends”. The Kerala State Coir
Corporation LTD (publishers) Alappuzha, Kerala.
53. Rawal, A., Anandjiwala, R., 2007. Comparative study between needle punched
nonwoven geo textile structures made from flax and polyester fibres, Geo textiles and
Geo membranes 25 (1), 61-65.
54. Sankariah, B., Narahari, R., 1988.” Bearing capacity of reinforced sand beds” In:Proc.
-121-
on First Indian Geo textiles Conference on Reinforced soil and geo textiles,Bombay,
India, pp. C11-C13.
55. Sarsby, R.W., 2007. Use of ’Limited Life Geo textiles’ (LLGs) for basal reinforcement of
embankments built on soft clay. Geo textiles and Geo membranes 25 (4-5), 302-310.
56. Senthil, K.P., Pandiammal, D.S., 2011. Effect of needle punched nonwoven coir and
jute geo textiles on CBR strength of soft sub grade, ARPN Journal of Engineering and
Applied Sciences, Vol. 6, no. 11, November 2011.
57. Som, N., Sahu, R.B., 1999. Bearing capacity of a geo textile-reinforced unpaved road
as a function of deformation - a model study. Geo synthetics International 6 (1), 1-17.
58. Subaida, E.A., Chandrakaran, S., Sankar, N., 2008.“Experimental investigations on tensile
and pullout behaviour of woven coir geo textiles”. Geo textiles and Geomembranes27,
pp.
59. Constructional Details of Coir and Coir Products, published by the Coir Board.
61. Evaluation of coir matting as a barricade material for stowing in mines- a feasibility
study, published by the Coir Board.
62. Papers of Intensive Training on Application of Coir Bhoovastra at CCRI on 12-18 Feb
2001
63. Proceedings of the Workshop on Coir Geo textiles and geo fabrics in Civil Engineering
Practice.
64. Quality Year, Coir 1993-94 – Colloquium on quality for coir exports 4th January 1994
65. Proceeding of the Seminar on Coir Geo textiles at Dehradun on 22nd May 1996
66. Proceedings of the Seminar on Coir Geo textiles held at Alappuzha on 28th January
1997
67. Study on Coir Geo textiles, Mar Athanasius College of Engineering, Kothamangalam
-122-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-123-
Case Studies on application of Coir Bhoovastra in India by Coir
Board
Type of Coir
Sl.No Type of Application Coir Bhoovastra Applied Site Year Bhoovastra used &
Area Laid
1. Erosion control on Hill slide slopes of Hindustan- 1972 ½ inch coir netting
hill slides through Tibet National Highway – down & 278.7 m2
revegetaion hill near Idgah grounds in
Simla. (Coir Board & CRRI,
New Delhi)
2. Erosion control on Railway embankment slopes 1973 ½ inch coir netting &
railway embankments near bridge No.154 Pathankot 1200m2
through revegetation to Jammu Railway Link, 70 km
from Pathankot. (Coir Board &
CRRI, New Delhi)
3 Erosion control of Road Dolman - Nainital – Almora 1987 1 inch coir netting &
embankment through Road, U.P. (Coir Board & CRRI, 500 m2
revegetation New Delhi)
4 Erosion control of soil Coonoor – Kundha Road 1988 1 inch coir netting
slopes of highways (Nilgiris Hills), Tamil Nadu. & 3300 m2
through revegetation (Coir Board & Highways
Research Station, Chennai)
5. Erosion control of soil Nagapatinam – Gudallore – 1988 1 inch coir netting &
slopes of highways Mysore Road, (Nilgiris), Tamil 630 m2
through revegetation Nadu)
6. Erosion control of Road Meerapur – Davel Road, 1988 1 inch coir netting &
embankment through Muzaffar Nagar UP (Coir Board 750 m2
revegetation & CRRI, New Delhi)
7. Erosion control of Road Lambidhar Mines, Dehradun 1988 1 inch coir netting &
embankment through Dist., U.P (Coir Board & CRRI, 1500 m2
revegetation New Delhi)
8. Erosion control of Canal Muvattupuzha Valley Irrigation 1994 H2M6 & 1000 m2
embankment through Canal Project, Kerala. (Coir
revegetation Board)
9. Erosion control of Canal Kabani Canal, Mysore (Coir 1994 H2M6 & 22/90th mile
embankment through Board & Irrigation Department to 23/90th mile
revegetation Karnataka)
10. Stabilization of road NH-17 Byepass Coir Board 1994 Non woven coir
& Sree Dhanya Construction blanket (1000gsm
Co.Thiruvananthapuram ) & Ch. 20870 to
28127
11. Erosion control of Road Elite Gardenia, Muthuvara, 1995 H2M5 & 640 m2
slopes through re Trichur, Kerala. (Coir Board)
vegetation
12. Erosion control of Road Muvattupuzha, Kerala (Coir 1995 H2M5 & 800 m2
embankment through Board)
revegetation
-124-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
13. Erosion control on Upputhodu, Idukki, Kerala, 1996 H2M6 & 500 m2
Hill slides through (Coir Board)
revegetation
14. Erosion control of Cheruthoni, Idukki, Kerala (Coir 1997 H2M5 & 1240 m2
Eroded land slopes Board)
through revegetation
15. Stabilisation of Mud wall Rice Research Station, 1998 M2BR3 & 150 m2
of bunds Moncompu, Kerala (Coir Board
& KAU)
16. Erosion control on Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh 1998 H2M5 & 4000 m2 &
Hill slides through (Coir Board & BRO) Cocolog (200 Nos.)
revegetaion
17. Erosion control in Kakkayam Hydro – electric 1998 H2M5& 3000 m2
reservoir Project, KSEB, Kerala (Coir
Board & KSEB)
18. Erosion control of slope Gangtok, Sikkim (Coir Board & 1998 H2M5 & 2000 m2
of road BRO)
19. Erosion control on Kudal, Konkan Railway, 1998 H2M8 & 1530 m2
Railway embankments Maharastra (Coir Board &
Konkan Railway)
20. Erosion control of River Chowara, Aluva, Kerala.(Coir 1999 H2M5 & 1200 m2
embankment of Periyar Board)
21. Stabilization of fish pond Mancompu (Coir Board and 1999 MzBV3 & 200 m2
Kuttanadu Vikasana Samithi)
22. Erosion control of soil Soil Conservation Research 2000 H2M6 /H2M5 / H2M8&
and water conservation Station, Konni, Kerala (Coir 7000 m2
at varying slopes Board & KAU)
23. Regeneration of Soil Conservation Research 2000 H2M8 / Coco log &
exposed rocky patches Station, Konni, Kerala (Coir 200 m2
Board & KAU)
24. Template planting Soil Conservation Research 2000 Rubberised coir &
and as soil mulch for Station, Konni, Kerala (Coir 250 m2
cultivation of different Board & KAU) Coir needled felt &
crops (Pineapple, 1000 m2
Brinjal, Ladiesfinger)
25. Erosion control of Road Bidadi Industrial Area, 2000 H2M6 & 2350 m2
embankments through Karnataka (Coir Board &
revegetation Karnataka Industrial Area
Development Board(KIADB))
26. Erosion control of River Vellamathara, Kuttanad, Kerala 2000 M2BR3 & 150 m2
Embankment of lake (Coir Board)
27. Erosion control of Bridge Railway overbridge, 2001 H2 M5 & 1800 m2
embankment through Nedumbasseri, Cochin
revegetation International Airport, Kerala
(Coir Board)
-125-
28. Erosion control of Road Kohima, Nagaland (Coir Board 2001 H2M8 & 6000 m2
embankments through & BRO)
revegetation
29. Erosion control of Road Campus of Indian Institute 2002 H2M6/ H2M5
embankments through of Management, Kozhikode,
revegetation a stretch of 5 km road (Coir
Board)
30. Stabilisation of River Soil Conservation Research 2002 Cocolog & 180
bank of Pampa Station, Tiruvalla (Coir Board running meter
& KAU)
31 Erosion control of Forest Research Institute, 2003 H2M6 & 800 m2
Embankment through Tapovan, Gwalior, Madhya
revegetation Pradesh (Coir Board)
32 Erosion control of Road NH 53 at 23.10 km from Silchar, 2003 H2M6 & 4000 m2 H2M8
embankment through Assam (Coir Board & BRO) & 2625 m2
revegetation
33. Erosion control of Road NH – 39 Kohima – Maran 2003 H2M8 & 2625 m2 &
embankment through Road at 180.30 km, Kohima, Cocolog (30 Nos.) of
revegetation Nagaland (Coir Board & BRO) 30 cm diameter and
5 metre long.
34. Stabilization of landslide Khandikhal village near 2004 H2M6& 2000 m2
through revegetation Kempty water falls
,Uttarachal(Coir Board and
Central Soil And Water
Conservation Research and
Training Institute(CSWCRTI)
35. Stabilisaiton of Bhubaneswer, Orissa 2004 H2M6 & 100 m2
embankment of road
36. Soil stabilisation of Rural Thaneermukkam, Cherthala, 2005 H2M5 &1200 m2
unpaved Road Kerala. (Coir Board and
CUSAT)
37. Erosion control of Road 2nd phase at IIM (K), (Coir 2005 H2M6/ H2M5
embankments through Board)
revegetation
38. Construction of Kuttiyadi Augmentation 2005 Coir needled felt
pavement road Scheme, KSEB, Kozhilkode, (1000 gm / m2) and
Kerala (Coir Board & KSEB) 1000 m2
39. Stabilization of rain Kurichi, Coimbatore (Coir 2006 H2M5 & 250 m2
harvesting pond / Road Board and Govt. of Tamil Nadu)
side
40 Erosion control of Road 3rd phase at IIM (K) (Coir 2006 H2M6/ H2M5
embankments through Board)
revegetation
41. Stabilization of rain Tanjavoor (Coir Board and 2007 H2M5 & 900 m2
harvesting pond Tamil Nadu Co-Operative
Coir Marketing Federation
(TANCOFED)
-126-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
42. Stabilization of rain Madurai, (Coir Board & 2007 H2M5 & 350 m2
harvesting pond TANCOFED
43. Stabilization of rain Kanchipuram, (Coir Board and 2007 H2M5 & 1200 m2
harvesting pond TANCOFED
44. Stabilization of rain Yanepoya Medical College, 2007 H2M6 & 2000 m2
harvesting pond Mangalore
45. Stabilisaitn of Hill slope Shillong, Meghalaya 2007 H2M6 & 50 m2
(Coir Board & BRO)
46. Stabilization of rain Thozhuthur, Kumbakonam, 2008 H2M5 & 200 m2
harvesting pond Tamil Nadu with Indian Waste
Land Development Project,
DRDA, Cuddallore
47. Erosion control of Road Kohima, Nagaland (Coir Board 2008 H2M8 & 5100 m2
embankments through & BRO)
revegetation
48. Stabilization of rain Thozhuthur, Kumbakonam, 2008 H2M5 & 1000 m2
harvesting pond Tamil Nadu with Indian Waste
Land Development Project,
DRDA, Cuddallore
49. Stabilization of the Madhuvanan, Sree Sathya Sai 2008 H2M5 & 1200 m2
Embankment Trust, Thiruvananthapuram
(Coir Board)
50. Stabilization of slip Padijarethara,Kerala(Coir Coir needle felt
prone embankment of board & Centre for Water (1000gsm ,length
clay Resources Development & 36Km and width
Management(CWRDM)) 4.5m)
51. Stabilization of mining Orissa Mining Corporation, 2008 H2M8& 6000 m2
dump Kaliapani (Coir Board and
Aspinwall)
52. Drainage medium Bangalore (Coir Board and 2008 Coir Needled felt
for soft ground Indian Institute of Science,
improvement and as Bangalore)
random reinforcing
material
53. Stabilization of Campus of College 2008 H2M9& 100 m2
embankment of Engineering,
Thiruvananthapuram
(Coir Board )
Stabilization of unpaved Mangalabharathy - SN Kadavu 2008 H2M8 &100 m length
road Road, Alappuzha, Kerala,Coir
54 Board & CoE ,
Thiruvanathapuram
55. Stabilization of unpaved Kannali Palam, Haripad(Coir 2009 H2M5 & 150 m2
road Board )
-127-
56. Stabilization of rain Ramanatham Water Shed, 2009 H2M5 & 1700 m2
harvesting pond Thozhuthoor, DRDA,
Cuddallore
(Coir Board )
57. Stabilization of unpaved Chammuruthy – Njakkad Road, 2009 H2M5 & 150 m2
road Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram
Coir Board & CoE ,
Thiruvanathapuram
58. Stabilization of mud wall Rajagiri College of 2009 M2BR3 & 150 m2 &
Engineering, Kalamassery Cocolog 3 Nos.
(Coir Board )
59. Stabilization of mud wall Arattupppuzha, Haripad, 2009 H2M5 & 600 m2
Alappuzha, Kerala (Coir Board)
60 Stabilization of stream Arattupppuzha, Haripad, 2009 H2M5 & 250 m2
and embankment Alappuzha, Kerala(Coir Board )
protection
61 Stabilization of unpaved Chirakkad- Kumbakkad 2009 H2M6 &100 m length
road road(Varkala),
Thiruvanathapuram, Kerala
Coir Board & CoE ,
Thiruvanathapuram
62 Stabilization of water Forest Research Institute, 2009 H2M8 & 300m2
harvesting pond Gwalior
63 Stabilization of village Karuvatta,Alappuzha, 2009 H2M5 &150 m2
road Coir Board & College of
Engineering ,
Thiruvanathapuram
64 Stabilization of road 27 th Mile, Kallar, Coir Board & 2010 H2M6 &150 m2
embankment College of Engineering ,
Thiruvanathapuram
65 Slope Stabilization of Mrs.Radha.S.Pillai, 2010 H2M5
river embankment Moonukulangara House, & 600 m2
Parappuram.P.O, Kanjoor,
Ernakulam (dist).
66 Stabilization of unpaved Puthusserikadavu-Kakkatikara H2M5 &
village road under in Ernakulam Dist. ,Coir Board 2011 222m
PMGSY & CoE ,
Thiruvanathapuram
67 Stabilization of unpaved Kozhinada-Murukkampuzha 2011 Non woven (Coir
road under PMGSY road, Thiruvanathapuram, needled felt) &100 m
Kerala Coir Board & CoE , length
Thiruvanathapuram
68 Stabilization of unpaved Karikuzhi- Chikidampara in H2M5 &
village road under Trivandrum Dist.,Coir Board & 2011 470m
PMGSY CoE ,
Thiruvanathapuram
-128-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-129-
82 Stabilization of unpaved Kolumam-Kallapuram Road- 2014
village road under Navalodai Colony, Tiruppur 1000 m
PMGSY District, Tamil Nadu, Coir Board H2M5, H2M6 &
&NIT, Trichy
83 Stabilization of unpaved Sugar mill road- Kalliyapuram 2014
1800 m
village road under road, Tiruppur District, Tamil
H2M5, H2M6 &
PMGSY Nadu, Coir Board &NIT, Trichy
84 Stabilization of unpaved Erisinampatty- Thirumurthi 2014
village road under Settlement, Tiruppur District, 2850 m
PMGSY Tamil Nadu, Coir Board &NIT, H2M5, H2M6 &
Trichy
85 Stabilization of unpaved Udumalpet-Chinnar road- 2014
village road under Etthikalmedu Attumalai
PMGSY Settlement , Tiruppur District, 2800 m H2M5, H2M6 &
Tamil Nadu, Coir Board &NIT,
Trichy
86 Stabilization of unpaved Elayamuthur-Poochimedu 2014
village road under Road-Athithura, Tiruppur
960 m H2M5, H2M6 &
PMGSY District, Tamil Nadu, Coir Board
&NIT, Trichy
87 Stabilization of unpaved Elayamuthur- Poonikattuthurai 2014
village road under road, Tiruppur District, Tamil 2150 m H2M5, H2M6 &
PMGSY Nadu, Coir Board &NIT, Trichy
88 Stabilization of unpaved Kamuthi – Sayalkudi road 2014
village road under -Perumal Thalaivanendal,
PMGSY Ramanathapuram District, 2210 m H2M5, H2M6 &
Tamil Nadu, Coir Board &NIT,
Trichy
89 Stabilization of unpaved Kakkundu- Chavalappara,
H2M5 &
village road under Kozhikodu District ,Kerala, Coir 2014
250 m
PMGSY Board &NIT, Calicut
90 Stabilization of unpaved Vazhikkadavau- Perumbuzha, 2014
H2M5 &
village road under Kozhikodu District ,Kerala, Coir
500 m
PMGSY Board &NIT, Calicut
Stabilization of unpaved Korothumukku- Vannathipoyil,
H2M5 &
village road under Kozhikodu District ,Kerala, Coir 2014
400 m
91 PMGSY Board &NIT, Calicut
Stabilization of unpaved Thanjavur – Sayalkudi
92 village road under road- Malatar road,
PMGSY Ramanathapuram District, 2015 915 m H2M5, H2M6 &
Tamil Nadu, Coir Board &NIT,
Trichy
93 Stabilization of unpaved Chithirangudi- Ponthampuli
village road under road, Ramanathapuram
2015 1755 m H2M5, H2M6 &
PMGSY District, Tamil Nadu, Coir Board
&NIT, Trichy
-130-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-131-
Case Studies for Stabilisation of Road,
Hill and River Embankments using Coir
Bhoovastra by Coir Board
LAKKUR, TAMIL NADU
-132-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-133-
Planting Template and as a Mulch Protection of Irrigation Canal Embankment,
Muvattupuza
-134-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-135-
Protection of Kabani Canal Embankment, Mysore
-136-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-137-
Stabilization of Fish Pond, Mancompu
-138-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
STABILIZATION OF POND
-139-
STABILISATION OF HILL SLOPES
Laying of coir geo textile and Placing of soil above geo textile in Kozhinada
Placing of coir geo textile and surfacing of road Mangalabharathy SN Kadavu road in Haripad
Placing of coir geo textile and surfacing of Chirakkad- Kumbakkad road (Varkala)
-141-
During Construction After Construction
After Construction
-142-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
Kumbarivila-Kollantemukku Road
After Construction
-143-
Puthusserikadavu-Kakkatikara Road
H2M8 Coir Geo textile Ready for Sub base Finished Road
Thiruvilaiyattam-Neelaveli- Kodavilgam Road, Nagapattinam District
Proposed PMGSY Road Finished Subbase Ready for Coir Geo textile laying
-144-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
H2M6 Coir Geo textile Ready for Sub base textile Laying of Sub base over H2M6 Coir Geo textile
-145-
Compacting Sub base with Road Roller Finished Road
Aeirakanni Road, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu
-146-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-147-
Protection of Dam Against Siltation , Kakkayam Reservoir in Kerala
-148-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-149-
Reinforcement of Stream Embankment, Vellamathara, Kuttanadu
-150-
Coir Bhoovasthra- an Eco friendly , Bio degradable Material for Soil Conservation and Rural Road
-151-