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Biobarrier®

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Biobarrier® is a non-woven geotextile engineered to control root growth in order to prevent encroachment toward structures. Biobarrier® consists of composite nodules injection-molded through Typar®, a spunbonded polypropylene fabric. The permanently attached nodules release a growth-control herbicide called trifluralin, which adsorbs in the soil. The patented slow-release process delivers a precise amount of trifluralin necessary to inhibit root growth.

Once released, the trifluralin degrades but is continuously replaced by new material, building and maintaining a root inhibition zone. Spaced 1.5in (3.8cm) apart the individual nodule zones overlap, creating a contiguous growth inhibition area. When roots enter the inhibition zone, root tip cells cannot divide, preventing growth in that direction. Trifluralin is not systemic; therefore, it is not taken into the plant. As a result, the root system is diverted away from the Biobarrier® protected structure without adversely affecting the desirable plants or trees. Root branches outside of the zone are not affected.

Trifluralin has been used over 40 years to prevent weed growth in agricultural application. It is nontoxic and has an EPA toxicity rating of class IV, making it, as manufacturer Reemay states, “slightly more toxic than sugar but less than salt”. Due to extremely low water solubility, it does not leach. And with high soil adsorption, it does not tend to migrate. In addition, the released chemical decomposes within a period of six months or less, and does not persist in the ground.

Biobarrier® fabric is placed between the root source and the structure. Typical applications include landscape beds, nursery potting, underground septic tanks and sewer lines, building foundations, electrical tower, and hazardous waste caps. It can also be used to prevent root intrusion into earth-filled structures and drain systems associated with dams, dikes and canals. The textile’s flexibility allows for custom installation. Its porosity allows for air, nutrients and water exchange in the soil.

Ranging in dimensions from 12in x 20ft to 58.5in x 100ft (30.5cm x 6m to 148.6cm x 30.5m) Biobarrier® can be installed in the soil vertically, horizontally or wrapped around various structures. Pegs are often necessary to suspend or secure the textile in place. Fabric should extend a minimum of 18in (45.7cm) beyond the structure area to be protected as roots can grow around the edges of fabric. For vertical applications, the top edge must be even with the soil surface. A minimum of 2in (5cm) soil overlay should also be maintained for horizontal applications. Retrofit applications where roots are already present require root pruning.

Manufacturer: BBA Nonwovens: Reemay, Inc.

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