This study evaluates the long‐term durability of two commercial nonwoven geotextiles—polypropylene (PP) and polyester (PET)—subjected to natural weathering for up to 36 months. The materials were analyzed using mechanical tests (tensile strength, puncture resistance), thermal methods (TGA, DSC, and DMA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess degradation in their physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties. Results showed significantly higher degradation in the PP geotextile compared with PET, with up to 84% loss in tensile strength after 36 months. The PET geotextile retained more than 50% of its strength, not reaching the 50% degradation threshold within the study period. Thermal analyses confirmed changes in molecular structure, with PP showing a more pronounced loss of thermal stability. SEM images further supported these findings, revealing greater fiber damage in PP. The findings highlight the superior performance of PET geotextiles under long‐term environmental exposure, supporting their selection in applications requiring enhanced durability.
Valentin et al. (Thu,) studied this question.