Protection of Earth Structures using Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mats (GCCM)

The use of Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mats (GCCM) in civil and geotechnical engineering has expanded considerably in recent years to provide erosion control solutions for a number of applications. Rather than replace existing erosion control geosynthetics such as Turf Reinforcement Mats (TRM’s) which improve the resistance of vegetation to erosion, GCCM's are used as an alternative to conventional concrete, such as poured, precast and sprayed solutions. This paper introduces the GCCM material and provides case histories of protection applications using it.

This paper considers the use of GCCM’s to protect Earth Structures. It focuses on the three main applications where GCCMs can be used: a) the provision of a robust facing element to prevent UV degradation, vandalism and animal damage of geosynthetic reinforced wrap faced structures, b) the provision of top of wall drainage to collect surface water and prevent saturation of the reinforced soil block and c) the provision for protection of sandbag constructed structures to prevent damage to these structures from floodwaters.