Performance analysis of reinforced vegetative channel lining systems

Abstract Rolled Erosion Control Products (RECPs) have proven to be successful in reinforcing vegetative channel lining systems and improving their performance in Erosion and Sediment Transport Control (ESTC). Laboratory experiments and numerical simulation performed in the present study have provided a significant step towards: (1) identification of critical processes and effective mechanisms through which RECPs control and reduce erosion and sediment transport; (2) identification of influential index physical, mechanical and hydraulic properties of RECPs with respect to their ESTC performance; (3) investigation of the applicability of existing hydraulic models of turbulent shear flows over wavy, permeable and moveable boundaries to predict the kinematics and dynamics of flow in open-channels lined with RECPs; and (4) modification of the design approach for RECPs, in light of the new findings in this study.