Weed control solutions specified for French railway line

The northern stretch of the line between Moret/Veneux-les-Sablons and Lyon was originally laid in 1860.

Since the ballast’s last replacement in 1975, it had been contaminated by soil particles and required an urgent replacement.

The contaminated ballast was causing multiple problems. The growth of weeds was affecting the stability of the track and the use of herbicides to prevent them from growing was causing harm to a nearby protected water catchment area.

DuPont Typar SF geotextile was specified as an alternative weed control solution.

The ballast was removed by a multi-function track-replacement machine. DuPont Typar SF geotextile was then laid before the ballast, sleepers and rails were replaced.

DuPont Typar SF geotextile has been designed to possess mechanical resistance. It has been developed to have a high filtration and hydraulic performance and has been used in railway applications across the world.

Weed control with DuPont Plantex Gold

The bordering pathways were also treated by weed control material from DuPont.

The area, which is prone to the growth weeds, must be kept free of vegetation as there is a line where pedestrians and cars can cross the railway nearby.

To ensure their safety, a 600 metre visibility clearing must be kept clear. Thus, a lasting solution was required as other weed control methods, such as the application of herbicide treatment and trimming, involved too much maintenance.

DuPont Plantex Gold weed control material was installed on the subsoil.

The material has a non-woven structure of polypropylene strands that are thermally bonded. This forms a barrier to weeds but allows water to pass through.

The material can last for up to 25 years but, after it was installed on the track’s bordering pathways, it was covered with 2-3cm of sand to extend its lifespan further.

The material has been designed to eliminate the need for herbicides, making it beneficial for the environment.

Find out more about DuPont Typar SF geotextile and DuPont Plantex Gold weed control materials

Contact:

DuPont Protection Solutions,
BBSP1,
Bristol & Bath Science Park,
Dirac Crescent,
Emersons Green,
Bristol,
BS16 7FR

Tel: 08444 068 722

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