Comparative Analysis of Biodegradation Resistance in Natural Geotextile Fibers

Abstract

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the behavior of natural geotextile fibers - Syagrus coronata, Typha domingensis, and Eleocharis sp., under environmental stressors over a period of 120 days. A total of 24 samples, measuring 7 cm in length, were selected for field exposure, comprising geotextile fibers derived from the cited species. Most samples underwent treatment with waterproofing resin at two concentrations: 0.324 mg/mL for a single layer (concentration A) and 0.648 mg/mL for a double layer (concentration B). Control samples were left untreated. Fracture analysis was conducted using digital processing of scanning electron microscopy images. The results revealed variable resistance to degradation, influenced by different treatments and exposure durations. Notably, Typha domingensis fibers treated with concentration B resin exhibited reduced cracking, attributable to their unique morphological and structural characteristics and their interaction with the protective resin, Eleocharis sp. fibers treated with a double layer (concentration B) demonstrated superior resistance to degradation compared to concentration A. On the other hand, no significant difference between treatments was observed in Syagrus coronata fibers, which nonetheless exhibited inherent resistance to degradation even without treatment. Typha domingensis fibers demonstrated superior physical performance compared to other fibers, which can be attributed to their inherent morphological and structural characteristics as well as their intrinsic composition. These findings underscore the importance of additives and protective treatments in enhancing the durability and resistance of geotextiles.