Abstract: Geosynthetics are widely used in hydraulic projects in Guangzhou city. In this article, experiences and understandings in the application of geosynthetics to hydraulic projects in Guangzhou are discussed. Geotextiles are widely used for anti-filtration design in hydraulic engineering, but attentions should be paid to the invalid drainage when geotextiles are clogged by slurry during construction. Geotextiles can also be applied to localised treatment of soft soil foundation, but the settlement is generally large and occurs over a long period. Moreover, geotextiles can be placed between erosion-resistant facility, such as anti-scour trench, and foundation soil to protect the soil from erosion damage. Soil filling geotextile bags are widely used in cofferdam and emergency projects, but rarely in embankment projects due to worries about their quality and durability. Furthermore, an example of EPS(expanded polystyrene sheet) used in soft soil treatment in a sluice connecting embankment is introduced, and the importance of surface protection and anti-floating calculation is pointed out. The applications of ecological retaining wall and ecological bags to river revetment projects in Guangzhou are also introduced. But worries about the quality and durability of ecological bags affect the popularization of eco-bag technology.

Key words: geosynthetics, soil filling geotextile bags, expanded polystyrene sheet, reinforced retaining wall, hydraulic projects, Guangzhou