TURF REINFORCEMENT MAT (TRM)
The Purpose of Turf Reinforcement Mats
Turf Reinforcement Mats (TRMs) represent a significant advancement in erosion control and land stabilization technologies, offering a robust solution for reinforcing vegetation in areas prone to erosion and heavy water flow. Unlike standard erosion control products that primarily focus on temporary protection, TRMs are designed for long-term, permanent vegetation reinforcement. They are engineered to provide a high-strength matrix that supports root growth and enhances the mechanical strength of the vegetation, making them an ideal choice for protecting embankments, riverbanks, steep slopes, and areas experiencing high-velocity water flow.
TRMs serve a dual purpose: they prevent soil erosion and promote sustainable vegetation. Their structure allows for the establishment and growth of grass or other vegetation through the mat, while providing sufficient protection against the shear stress of flowing water and the erosive forces of wind and rain. The result is a vegetated, reinforced surface that is far more resistant to erosion than bare soil or even ordinary vegetated areas.
Turf Reinforcement Mats
PS42 w/ Green Poly (67% GREEN Poly / 33% Straw)
PC42 w/ Green Poly (67% GREEN Poly / 33% Coconut)
P42 Green (100% GREEN Poly)
8′ Standard Roll (75 square yards per roll)
16′ Standard Roll (150 square yards per roll)
* Functional longevity is approximate and dependent on environmental extremes and site spec.
Composition and Types of TRMs
Turf Reinforcement Mats are made from a variety of materials, including synthetic fibers, natural fibers, or a combination of both, woven into a three-dimensional structure. There are several types of TRMs, categorized based on their material composition and longevity:
- Polymeric TRMs: Made from UV-stabilized polypropylene or other synthetic materials, these mats are designed for longevity and durability in harsh environmental conditions.
- Organic TRMs: Constructed from natural fibers like coir (coconut fiber) or straw, these are biodegradable options that eventually decompose, leaving a fully natural vegetated area.
- Composite TRMs: Combining synthetic and organic materials, composite TRMs offer the initial rapid vegetation support of organic materials and the long-term durability of synthetics.
Installation and Applications
The installation of TRMs is a critical process that requires proper soil preparation, seeding, and secure anchoring of the mats to the soil. TRMs are commonly used in:
- Waterways and Channels: To protect against erosion from flowing water while promoting vegetation.
- Slopes and Embankments: To stabilize soil and support vegetation on steep grades where erosion risk is high.
- Shoreline and Riparian Areas: To reinforce vegetation along shorelines and riverbanks, protecting against wave and current erosion.
- Stormwater Management Areas: In detention basins and swales to prevent erosion and promote infiltration.
Benefits of Turf Reinforcement Mats
The use of TRMs offers a range of environmental and practical benefits:
- Enhanced Erosion Control: TRMs provide superior protection against soil erosion compared to traditional methods.
- Vegetation Support: They promote the establishment of vegetation, contributing to habitat creation and biodiversity.
- Durability: TRMs are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, providing long-term erosion control solutions.
- Sustainability: By reinforcing vegetation, TRMs contribute to the stability and sustainability of landscapes, reducing the need for hard engineering solutions.
Turf Reinforcement Mats are an essential tool in modern erosion control and land management practices. By integrating TRMs into erosion control projects, engineers and environmental managers can achieve effective, durable, and environmentally friendly solutions that support vegetation, protect soil, and manage water flow in vulnerable areas.
