Effective coastal protection with innovative geosynthetic solutions

Coastal areas are exposed to erosion, storm surges, and rising sea levels, requiring durable and sustainable protection measures. Novura offers high-performance geosynthetics, including Secutex® filter nonwovens, Secumat® erosion control mats, and Bentofix® geosynthetic clay liners, to stabilise shorelines, reinforce flood defences, and prevent soil loss. Discover how advanced geosynthetic solutions enhance coastal resilience and long-term protection.

The hydraulic engineering sector was actually one of the earliest adopters of geosynthetics. One of the earliest and often quoted projects designed with geosynthetics is the Valcros Dam in France (1970). More than a decade before that, practitioners in the US and Europe used geotextiles for coastal protection works. A common application in coastal works is to use a geotextile, such as Novura Secutex® H, as a separation, filtration and erosion control layer. Geotextile underlay, topped with either sand/soil or stone, prevents wash out of the sediments below. This ensures that even if a hard storm affects the layer above, the geotextile prevents further erosion. Sand-filled nonwoven geotextile bags, containers or tubes
(e.g., Secutex® Soft Rock) provide scour protection for wave-exposed structures. They protect port walls. They create artificial reefs and stabilize beaches. Of note, these highly durable bags, containers and tubes can be filled with site soils, making them efficient and cost-effective.

Whatever the application, nearly every coastal protection application must have a robustness. Seaside environments are challenging. Loads are frequent and fluctuating. There is considerable moisture to soften soils. Swift changes in weather and wave forces can occur and stress different points of a construction. Novura’s decades of manufacturing experience and design, supply, and installation of geosynthetics give a detailed understanding of the challenges in hydraulic applications. Our materials are designed to survive the difficult environments and provide long-term protection of coastal infrastructures.