Gabion

Definition

A metal or wire cage filled with ballast or stone, used in large-scale retaining walls.

Purpose

Gabions are used to stabilize slopes and prevent erosion in construction projects. They provide a durable and flexible solution for retaining walls, riverbank stabilization, and road protection by dissipating energy from flowing water and providing structural integrity.

Examples of Use

• Riverbank Stabilization: Gabions are often placed along riverbanks to prevent erosion.
• Retaining Walls: Used in constructing retaining walls for highways and railways.
• Flood Control: Gabions help to manage floodwaters by reinforcing embankments.

Related Terms

• Retaining Wall: A structure designed to restrain soil to a slope that it would not naturally keep.
• Ballast: Material such as gravel or coarse stone used to form the bed of a railroad track or road.
• Erosion Control: Practices that prevent soil loss and water pollution.

Notes

Gabions are preferred in areas where aesthetics are important because they blend well with the natural environment. They are also relatively easy to install and can be customized to fit specific project needs.