The construction of open channels is used to control large volumes or water. In order to minimise erosion and scouring, channel lining material may include rocks, concrete and or turf. In recent times geotextiles have been developed as a cost effective solution to lining channels. Geotextiles are currently being used as matting to prevent and control erosion in open channels. However determining velocity of the water requires the use of Manning’s equation and Manning’s coefficient of roughness or ‘n’ values. There have been few studies into determining the ‘n’ values for geotextiles. Existing studies have analysed the shear forces acting between the geotextile and the soil surface. The standard testing procedure issued by ASTM international, ASTM D 6460 outlines the construction and dimensional requirements for the testing of channel linings on a large scale. This has resulted in assumed values based on velocity and permissible shear force.
Submitted in the fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Bachelor of Engineering (Civil Engineering), University of the Sunshine Coast, 2013.