Erosion Mitigation Using Grass, Riprap, Lime, and Enzymes

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research on soil erosion and its mitigation by different methods such as grass, riprap, lime, and enzymes. The goal was to evaluate these methods for their degree of efficacy using laboratory erosion testing. The paper begins with a review of existing knowledge on erosion mitigation methods. The erosion resistance of natural and improved soil was investigated in the erosion function apparatus (EFA), a laboratory device for measuring erosion resistance in the velocity range of 0.3 to 6.5 m/s. EFA testing was performed on grass-covered soils, riprap-covered soils, enzyme-treated soils, and lime-treated soils. The erodibility of the soils before and after treatment was compared. The results of the EFA tests were also compared with a few large-scale field tests available in the published literature. The advantages, limitations, and range of applications of each erosion mitigation method are provided.