Overview
Articulating Block Mats form cable-reinforced concrete block mattresses that resist erosive forces. They are often constructed where a revetment is exposed to frontal attack by wave force. The AB fabric form consists of a series of compartments linked by an interwoven perimeter. Grout ducts interconnect the compartments, and high-strength revetment cables are installed between and through the compartments and grout ducts. Once filled, the AB Mats become a mattress of pillow-shaped, rectangular concrete blocks. The interwoven perimeters between the blocks serve as hinges to permit articulation. The cables remain embedded in the concrete blocks to link the blocks together and facilitate articulation.
Application
Articulating Block Mats are typically used to protect coastlines, canals, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, underwater pipelines, bridge piers, and other marine structures from propeller wash, ship wakes, wind waves, currents, and high velocity flows. They are also used in environmental construction for landfill caps, down chutes, and collector channels.
Key Strengths
- Excellent erosion control, especially where wave run-up and velocity flow are high
- Articulating block mats are easy to install and environment friendly