TCS TechCell is a cellular confinement system manufactured from HDPE strips welded to form a honeycomb structure. Once expanded and filled with gravel, soil, or concrete, it creates a stable 3D mattress that distributes loads, prevents soil movement, and allows for vegetation or formal surfacing above.
Widely Used For
- Tree root protection (no-dig compliant with BS5837:2012 and APN 12)
- Basal reinforcement under trafficked areas
- Slope stabilisation and erosion control
- Channel lining and protection
- Retaining wall construction
The permeable design allows water, air and nutrients to move freely, making it especially effective in environmentally sensitive applications.
Key Features & Benefits
- Multi-purpose use: load support, slope stabilisation, erosion protection, tree root preservation, and retaining walls
- No-dig root protection: complies with TPO guidelines, spreads trafficking loads without compacting roots
- Flexible installation: adapts to uneven ground and can be cut to size
- Permeable system: supports drainage and vegetation growth
- Durable construction: textured, perforated HDPE resists degradation and ensures long-term performance
Available Sizes
- GC75 Panel – 2.59m x 6.5m (75mm depth)
- GC100 Panel – 2.59m x 6.5m (100mm depth)
- GC150 Panel – 2.59m x 6.5m (150mm depth)
- GC200 Panel – 2.59m x 6.5m (200mm depth)
Typical Applications
- Tree root protection with permeable gravel finish
- Driveways, paths, car parks and working platforms
- Embankments, riverbanks, and slope faces
- Channels requiring armouring with gravel, soil, or concrete
- Gravity retaining structures with vegetated front faces
Technical Specifications
- Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- Panel size: 2.59m x 6.5m (expanded)
- Depth options: 75mm, 100mm, 150mm, 200mm
- Finish: Textured and perforated for drainage
- Installation: Pinned in place; infilled with gravel, soil, or concrete as per application
FAQs
Can TechCell be used for tree root protection?
Yes, TechCell provides a no-dig solution that meets BS5837:2012 and APN 12 guidance. It spreads vehicle loads, protects roots, and maintains permeability.
What infill materials should be used?
Typically clean angular stone (4–40mm) for root protection and load support. Topsoil can be used for slope applications; concrete or stone for channel protection.
Does the surface above TechCell need to be permeable?
For root protection, yes. Options include porous asphalt, permeable block paving, gravel, or grass-filled pavers.
How is TechCell installed on site?
Panels are expanded, pinned in place, and stapled at joints. They are then filled with the specified aggregate or soil. A geotextile separator is recommended below.
What panel depth should I choose?
-
- 75mm – light duty, pedestrian or small vehicle areas
- 100mm – general driveways, paths, light traffic
- 150mm – car parks, moderate traffic, slope reinforcement
- 200mm – heavy duty loads, retaining walls, demanding channels
