The role of geosynthetic materials and vegetation on slope erosional control: Results of scale model tests

Abstract

Geosynthetic materials for erosion control have the potential to significantly reduce the soil loss and to ensure the shallow stability of slopes. The paper presents the results of a scale model tests of a 2:3 (V:H) slope made from a very erodible soil, a sandy soil without and with 5 cm of topsoil, with and without vegetation, without and with different types of geosynthetics for erosional control. The slope models were subjected to heavy rainfall using a rainfall simulator. Results of the study show that the geosynthetics and vegetation generates a delay in the erosion process caused by the raindrops. Another result highlighted in this paper is the fact that the roots system improves the soil shear strength of the upper soil mass.