Engineered Percussion Anchor and Turf Reinforcement Mat Systems for Vegetated Slope Stabilization, Erosion Control, and Revegetation Solutions

The best solution for a project is often a combination of more than one best management practice or product. When it comes to slope reinforcement and soil retention, an engineered vegetated system using earth percussion anchors and turf reinforcement mats (TRMs) couples key engineering principles with specifically designed products to deliver a comprehensive, trusted solution.
This is a NON-BRANDED presentation.

Full Abstract: There are many different options to consider when it comes to dealing with the challenges associated with slope reinforcement and soil retention. This presentation illustrates the benefits of choosing an engineered vegetated system solution that uses earth percussion anchors and turf reinforcement mats (TRMs) as an effective alternative to traditional hard armor.

Hard armor requires heavy equipment to install. Often over excavation is required to create properly shaped hydraulic conveyances and then the slopes still must be backfilled with rip rap or concrete, which also must be hauled to the job site. These activities are associated with high labor and fuel costs as well as increased emissions. These hard armor designs are also susceptible to undermining and structural failure. While hard armor may still be needed in some applications, an engineered vegetated system solution can serve as an effective complement to hard armor.

An engineered vegetated system solution that uses a combination of earth percussion anchors and TRMs reduces or eliminates the need for hard armor while also significantly mitigating failure risks. The system promotes and enhances vegetation establishment making it a sustainable option that reduces flow velocities, which increases sedimentation. Vegetated solutions offer improved water infiltration and filtration characteristics. They allow for cleaner, cooler water discharges and are a safer, softer solution to hard armor and rip rap. In addition to all these performance features, a vegetated solution offers enhanced aesthetics for any project.

This presentation covers the components typically used in an engineered vegetated system solution. Percussion anchor assembly components and how the anchor, wire rope and bearing plate work to secure the soil and the TRM are evaluated. How TRMs work, their components, performance differences, and proper installation techniques are explained. Incorporating twist pins for additional anchoring of the TRM to the soil to ensure good contact throughout the installation is assessed . Third-party research results quantifying pull-out strength performance differences are included.
This is a NON-BRANDED presentation.