Context

SoluForm's above and below water concrete-filled bagwork was used to created a durable, robust and environmentally-friendly structure to address riverbank erosion from continuous scour.

Challenge

The site posed a major challenge due to the difficulty in accessing the watercourse, as the collapsed riverbank made it hazardous.

A solution was required that could be applied both below and above the waterline to restore the riverbank and safeguard it against future erosion and scouring, without the need to dewater the river, as well as not affecting the ecology of the water.

Solution

The riverbank had been eroded by heavy rain and high water levels and required restoration. SoluForm’s underwater 32N bagwork, which includes a biodegradable liner, was selected to tackle this. The bagwork was placed below the waterline and secured with specially designed U-shaped rebar pins, allowing water to permeate the liners and hydrate the concrete. This technique prevents any cement particles from escaping and affecting the river's ecology.

Above the water, the 32N bagwork with a water-soluble liner dissolves within 5-10 seconds upon contact with water, offering a quick solution for hand-placed bagwork alongside the underwater bagwork.

Outcome

Overall, the project was finished in 8 days, using 11 pallets of both underwater and above water bagwork, totalling 16m3. There was no need to completely dewater the area for the installation, as the natural water was used to hydrate the mix and solidify the concrete. This enabled an experienced team to hand-place the bagwork efficiently and cost-effectively.

The solution gave the client confidence in a durable, robust and environmentally-friendly structure, ensuring the long-term stability of the scour protection.