In News:

A joint study conducted by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) and the Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation (KSCADC) has confirmed the effectiveness of geotubing-based offshore breakwaters in managing coastal erosion at Poonthura, Kerala. The installation not only mitigated shoreline erosion but also contributed to sustainable beach formation—highlighting the method's potential for broader coastal protection strategies.

What is Geotubing?

Geotubing involves the use of large geotextile tubes, filled with sand or slurry, which are strategically placed underwater to reduce wave energy and prevent shoreline erosion. At Poonthura, three vertical layers of 15-meter circumference geotubes were installed perpendicular to the coast, forming submerged breakwaters that trap sediment and promote natural sand deposition.

Materials and Construction

• Geotubes Composition:Constructed from high-performance woven geotextiles, typically made of polypropylene (PP) or polyester (PET).
• Material Properties:These fabrics are designed to be permeable, durable, and resistant to UV radiation, chemical exposure, and microbial degradation, making them well-suited for long-term marine use.

Key Functional Features

• Wave Energy Dissipation:Submerged geotubes act as barriers that absorb and deflect wave energy before it reaches the shoreline.
• Beach Nourishment Support:By slowing wave action, the geotubes encourage natural sand accumulation, supporting beach regeneration.

Advantages of Geotubing

• High Durability:Withstands tensile stress and harsh environmental conditions, including chemical and biological exposure.
• Environmentally Friendly:Geotubing is non-toxic and contributes to coastal and wetland restoration without polluting ecosystems.
• Cost-Effective:More economical than traditional concrete or steel structures and easier to install, particularly in remote or variable terrains.
• Customizable Design:Geotubes can be tailored in size and configuration to suit specific project requirements and geographical conditions.
• Multi-Functional Utility:Beyond coastal defense, geotubes are effective in flood management, riverbank stabilization, sludge dewatering, and landfill containment.

Broader Applications of Geotubing

• Coastal Protection:Used in breakwaters, seawalls, and dune reinforcement projects.
• River and Lake Management:Effective for stabilizing riverbanks and controlling sedimentation.
• Wastewater Treatment:Applied in industrial and municipal dewatering processes.
• Infrastructure Support:Utilized in the construction of roads, railways, ports, and reservoirs.
• Environmental Remediation:Useful for site isolation, pollution control, and ecosystem restoration.