| dc.description.abstract | This thesis presents a study made on erosion control blankets with respect to their
aging and longevity. Erosion control blankets have been relied upon increasingly in
recent times replacing the old and traditional methods for protecting areas from erosion
by storm water and other factors. But what can be an estimated duration for which a
given set of blankets can be functional in channel erosion control. This research is done
with the ultimate aim of understanding whether these erosion control blankets can stay in
place and be conducive to some vegetation growth, which is said to be the most reliable
measure for long-lasting erosion control.
Seven erosion control blankets, consisting of natural, synthetic and composite
types, were put to actual use for erosion control for 3 years in a field. After 3 years these
used materials were cut from the field for conducting the tests. Unused blankets of the
same brands were obtained. Index tests were conducted on both used and unused
material specimens to measure the erosion control properties. All materials experienced
a significant amount of strength loss after use. The natural materials show 80% strength
loss, while the composite and synthetic materials were tested to have around 50%
strength losses after being put to use for 3 years. Thus it can be observed that the
composite and synthetic materials have a decent amount of life where erosion control is
concerned. Other tests also proved that composite materials can be relied upon for
erosion control to a reasonable extent, and the research goal was achieved. | en |
