FLOODWAY EROSION CONTROL IN DEFENCE WITH CONCRETE CANVAS

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Australian Defence Force relies on its estate infrastructure for military training exercises, with critical defence operations carried out yearly at Northern Territory bases. Due to extreme weather events experienced in the region, damage to critical road and pavement infrastructure can occur at the training areas from floodwater velocity, resulting in excessive scouring and erosion.

Various road maintenance and improvement works were required to repair the damaged infrastructure, including the installation of concrete floodways, where a solution was required to protect it from erosion.

OUR SOLUTION

Concrete Canvas was selected as the most suitable solution to minimise erosion damage to existing concrete floodways. Each site required a tailored design using Concrete Canvas approved installation methods.

A total of 9100m² Concrete Canvas was installed on both the upstream and downstream side of the floodways. The local contractor was professional and meticulous in following the design methodology provided by Concrete Canvas ensuring the leading edges were attached to the concrete pavement using stainless steel flatbar that were fixed to the concrete. The trailing edges and the end of the floodway terminations were buried and grouted into place.

Working closely with the manufacturer around the correct installation in critical infrastructure applications provided the client with a level of confidence and assurance in the product, knowing that direct support was readily available. Concrete Canvas representatives were also present, providing technical support and promptly assisting with any queries during the installation process.

PRODUCT USED

Concrete Canvas® Geosynthetic Cementitious Composite Mat (GCCM)

• A flexible concrete impregnated fabric that hardens when hydrated to form a thin, durable, waterproof and fire resistant concrete layer
• Rapid installation as it can be laid at a rate of 200m²/hour by a three-person team where typical installation speeds are up to 10 times faster than conventional concrete solutions
• Easy to use with portable rolls available, reducing the need for plant onsite
• Lower project costs due to speed and ease of installation
• Eco-friendly solution with a low mass, lower carbon technology which uses up to 95% less material than conventional concrete