September 23rd, 2021

What is a turf reinforcement mat for erosion control?

TRMs or Turf Reinforcement Mats are synthetic-based mats that help prevent soil erosion or loss on steep slopes and drainage areas, while enhancing the vegetation which grows through them. As roots penetrate the mat, the root system becomes entangled within the TRM to further prevent soil loss and strengthen vegetation against major storm or high flow velocity events. Since water takes the path of least resistance, turf reinforcement mats serve as a shield for your exposed soil and seed, allowing stormwater to sheet flow over the mat while protecting everything beneath until it becomes established.

TRMs are rated by their ability to retain soil, enhance vegetation, and resist high velocities in channel or slope applications. They vary in width, length, and weave pattern to serve a wide array of applications by type. For critical applications, densely woven TRMs are utilized to provide a high tensile element to combat extreme water velocities. Earth percussion anchors and/or staples are required to properly fasten the TRM to the soil until vegetation takes hold. TRMs provide a green alternative involving enhanced vegetation by means of geosynthetics that is often more feasible and economical when seeking long-term stability to hard-armor concrete solutions.

Where Are Turf Reinforcement Mats Typically Used?

Turf Reinforcement Mats are typically used in applications that require protection against high velocity flows. They can also be effective in applications with limited access for installation. TRMs have been used effectively in both urban and rural areas such as:

• Steep Slopes
• Shorelines and Riverbanks
• Pipe inlets and outlets
• Agricultural Applications
• Irrigation and Stormwater Ponds
• Surficial Erosion of Slopes

What are the benefits of using turf reinforcement mats?

Installing TRMs is an excellent way to reduce or prevent erosion by means of natural vegetation. If a project has limited site access or budgetary constraints, TRMs tend to shine as the optimal solution. When designed, installed, and maintained properly, they are shown to be very effective in providing short-term protection against wave action and high velocity erosion as well as permanent support for vegetation on slopes. TRMs also provide permanent armoring for vegetated ditches, swales, or channels by reducing sheet rill channel drainage by 90%.

Effectiveness of a Turf Reinforcement Mat will depend largely upon:

• Type of TRM used.
• Surface preparation practices
• Mat installation practices
• Site Conditions/Weather events (pre/interim/post-construction)

What is the average lifespan of a turf reinforcement mat?

The longevity of a turf reinforcement mat will depend on site conditions, environmental events, and the quality of TRM chosen. When properly designed, installed, and maintained, field testing has shown that the design life of a TRM can be north of 75 years.

How are turf reinforcement mats manufactured?

Turf reinforcement mats are composed of various forms of polypropylene, such as netting, three-dimensional matrixes, weaves, mesh and more. Many TRMs are manufactured on engineered looms that string together various fibers and filaments to create intricate patterns. It is also common for low-velocity TRMs to insert biodegradable fibrous materials such as coconut or straw into the mat.

What is the difference between a turf reinforcement mat and an erosion blanket?

Although both technologies can be made of geosynthetic materials, erosion control blankets are typically manufactured to be biodegradable with a short life expectancy. On the other hand, TRMs are intended to be a permanent approach due to their composition of synthetic materials. TRMs are typically used in high velocity or critical slope applications, whereas Erosion Control Blankets are used as a temporary means to establish vegetation.

Erosion control blankets are typically biodegradable, open weave blankets manufactured from natural fibrous materials such as cotton, straw, wood, and coconut, held together by synthetic or biodegradable netting. Erosion control blankets, or erosion control mats, are designed to minimize soil loss and serve as a wicking barrier to protect unestablished vegetation. Learn more about Erosion Control Blankets here!

What is the difference between turf reinforcement mats and rip rap?

Rip rap is one of the most effective erosion prevention methods and is particularly desirable in areas where conditions prohibit the establishment of vegetation. Riprap protects and stabilizes slopes, channels, and streambanks, with high erosive power, slowing the runoff velocity by increasing surface roughness. However, at times, rip rap can be limited by budget and site access. Beyond aesthetics, turf reinforcement mats typically involve a lighter weight installation process; A small crew to deploy, fasten, and vegetate the TRM. It is common for the entire installation to be done without heavy machinery.

How do I know which turf reinforcement mat is best for my application?

The best TRM solution for your project will always start with a feasibility study of your site. Each application will need to be addressed uniquely. The TRM assignment will depend on many factors such as required design velocities and site geometry. Take time to choose the proper TRMs for your site to ensure you get the immediate erosion protection and long-term vegetation reinforcement needed for effective site stabilization.

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Contact your GEO Pro today to identify which turf reinforcement mat is best for your project needs. Contact Us Now