Erosional control mats help protect the soil from water erosion. The material offers a stable base for plant life and simultaneously degrades, creating a naturally protected slope. The blankets also hydrate the soil and prevent damage from water. The following sections will help you decide which kind of erosion control mat is best for your landscape and needs.
Long-term ECBs
The purpose of ECBs is to prevent soil erosion. They are designed to last 12 months or less and are made from synthetic or natural netting materials. Many are biodegradable, and ECBs such as American Excelsior Curlex have biodegradable materials that promote grass growth. ECBs also prevent water and wind erosion and have a swell factor that makes them less expensive than other erosion control solutions.
ECBs are generally effective at establishing vegetation and are commonly used on athletic fields and other flat areas. ECBs can also be a temporary cover for small bare areas before work begins.
While ECBs are for short-term use, you should use turf reinforcement mats in areas where severe scour is likely. ECBs are ineffective for large-scale projects expected to last a long time, and they must be placed on relatively flat slopes with no steeper than 1:1. They can also create gullies.
Erosion-control blankets protect against soil erosion. These mats are made from a blend of biodegradable polypropylene or organic mulch, and ECBs are biodegradable and designed to protect emerging seedlings and promote vegetation growth. Many ECBs also act as a mulching layer. There are several benefits of ECBs in the field of erosion control.
Erosion control blankets provide immediate cover and protection from soil erosion. These mats also help establish permanent vegetation, thereby protecting soil from eroding. These mats also moderate soil temperature and moisture and protect seed-eaters. The primary advantage of using erosion control blankets is that they are completely biodegradable, making them perfect for sensitive areas.
TriNet Turf Reinforcement Mats
American Excelsior is introducing a new line of TRMs, called the TriNet Turf Reinforcement Mats. These innovative products have three nets to provide permanent erosion control on slopes and swales. These products are non-degradable, long-lasting, and feature high-performance capabilities. This new product series will help protect the soil from erosion in a field where high shear stresses are critical. A turf reinforcement mat is a permanent erosion control blanket that provides long-term protection from soil erosion.
An excellent soil erosion control alternative, turf reinforcement mats can solve many problems with conventional hard armor solutions. For instance, they offer long-term erosion protection, while conventional products may not provide an immediate result. Furthermore, their maximum effectiveness may not be reached for six to twelve months. Engineers relied on hard armor in the past, but their short-term limitations make them unsuitable for many applications.
Treatment-1 degradable soil stabilization blanket
An effective erosion control method is applying a degradable soil stabilization blanket from Global Road Technology. This blanket is layered on disturbed slopes and in stormwater conveyance channels. This product helps retain soil, reduce runoff, and improve thermal consistency when properly applied. It can also be used to mitigate stormwater runoff, as it improves the germination and stability of the soil—however, some factors to consider before applying a soil stabilization blanket to your project.
There are several types of degradable soil stabilization blankets on the market today. Jute mesh, a kind of fabric that provides good coverage, is an example. However, other products must meet specific requirements or be approved by a Plan-Approving Authority. Following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential when installing any erosion control blanket, and it should not cover more than 30% of the soil surface.
Another type of erosion control blanket is a permanent version that will not degrade. These types are typically made of biodegradable or photo-degradable polypropylene. Biodegradable blankets are suitable for heavy-duty applications and provide long-term protection from erosion. They may also contain biodegradable materials, which promote the growth of plants. Permanent blankets are usually much more rigid and durable than their degradable counterparts, and they are most effective for stabilizing soil and bolstering a slope.
Another erosion control blanket type is a biodegradable soil stabilization blanket (BSP). These biodegradable, open-weave soil stabilization blankets are designed to keep water from eroding the ground and shifting vegetation. They wick heavy amounts of stormwater and create an ideal seeding and soil conservation environment. Moreover, they don’t harm the environment; they decompose naturally and become part of the soil structure.
