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Coastal Protection

Due to the destructive power of waves, tides and currents, often combined with the requirements for a solution sensitive to the natural environment, few locations present more construction challenges than the coast.

The TensarTech Marine wall system incorporates substantial concrete facing units capable of withstanding direct attack by waves. The face units may, if necessary, be pre-cast on site, with the starter lengths of geogrid cast into the rear face of the units. Once installation is underway, the main length of geogrid may then be connected simply to the starter using a full strength bodkin joint.



River training walls are typically built using TensarTech Modular Block Wall Systems. By incorporating precast concrete modular (segmental) facing blocks, the system may be installed without the need for propping or crane lifts. The geogrids are securely attached to the face using a high efficiency polymer connector.

For further erosion protection in areas particularly prone to occasional high velocity flows or wave run-up, Tensar VMax TRM is a permanent layer which is cost-effective and non-biodegradable and helps natural vegetation to prevent soil erosion.

Whatever your project, we can help

For many years, Tensar Technology has proven to be perfect for many coastal and waterways projects, including causeways, sea walls, flood bunds, slip repairs, canal restoration and river training walls. A full range of case studies and brochures is available for review. Tensar can offer Engineers flexible, reliable and environmentally sound alternatives to reinforced concrete for both river and coastal defences. Tensartech Wall Systems consist of geogrid reinforced soil structures with a choice of faces suited to a project's location.

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Coastal and river defences against erosion? Tensar has the solution

The TensarTech Marine wall system incorporates substantial concrete facing units capable of withstanding direct attack by waves. 

Compared with more traditional reinforced concrete structures, TensarTech Wall Systems offer you a wide range of benefits:

  • No propping: the unique modular block system can be built simply, without requiring propping and, in many cases, without the need for crane lifts
  • No on-site concrete curing time: the dry jointed precast facings units require no curing and are well suited to inter-tidal working. Additionally, this reduces the pollution risk from concrete contamination of watercourses

  • Easy installation: typically, no specialist skills are needed for installation
  • Reduce environmental impact: by using reclaimed or site-won material as fill, CO2 emissions from construction can be diminished
  • Cuts construction costs: with easy, rapid construction, as well as the use of site-won materials, costs and time can be cut by up to 50%
  • Little to no maintenance: Tensar systems have a design life of up to 120 years, with minimal maintenance required

In cases where soil erosion could be a problem, Tensar RollMax range can be the perfect choice:

  • Natural erosion protection: this stabilises the surface while vegetation becomes established, then enhances and reinforces the root system in the long-term
  • Additional products can be found in the Tensar Erosion Control & Systems brochure
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