Renewi, Turnhout: Vulcan Earth Anchors provide a stable infiltration ditch

At the Renewi site in Turnhout, soil erosion occurred along an infiltration ditch, causing the embankment to become unstable and partially subside. De Troef VZW engaged GreenMax to provide a sustainable solution. GreenMax carried out initial load calculations and a field test to determine the soil’s load-bearing capacity, after which 99 Vulcan AS‑20 earth anchors were carefully selected and installed. In combination with Eco Grid, the anchors immediately stabilise the embankment, while natural vegetation later provides additional reinforcement and increased biodiversity.

Soil erosion is a problem that is increasing worldwide. Due to extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall and storms, slopes, banks and embankments lose their stability. This affects the surrounding natural environment but can also put infrastructure at risk. In addition, it is aesthetically unattractive. It is therefore important to take timely measures to prevent soil erosion.

At the Renewi site in Turnhout, soil erosion occurred along an infiltration ditch, causing parts of the embankment to gradually weaken. The instability led to recurring maintenance issues and increased the risk of further subsidence. Local conditions, such as varying soil layers and fluctuating water levels, made the problem particularly challenging. This created a need for a sustainable and long-term solution to combat soil erosion.

After part of the embankment had actually subsided, De Troef VZW contacted GreenMax to jointly find a long-term solution. We started by carrying out initial load calculations to accurately map the forces acting on the embankment. In March, we conducted a practical field test on site. This allowed us to validate the suitability of the system and test the load-bearing capacity of the anchors under local soil conditions. Based on this, we selected suitable Vulcan Earth Anchors, 99 units of type AS-20, which now provide future-proof stabilisation of the embankment.

Vulcan Earth Anchors were applied in combination with Eco Grid. The anchors are driven through the mat and the embankment, after which they open underground. This allows them to anchor firmly into the soil. The Eco Grid simultaneously provides surface protection by preventing erosion and offers support for vegetation. Once the anchors are tensioned, they press the mat tightly against the embankment, ensuring optimal contact with the ground and immediately providing stability.

Where soil erosion previously occurred in an infiltration trench on the Renewi site in Turnhout, this is now a thing of the past. Through the openings in the Eco Grid, the anchors will gradually become fully overgrown by natural vegetation, making them virtually invisible. This not only contributes to a more attractive landscape, but also promotes local biodiversity. Moreover, the combination of robust anchoring and natural vegetation helps to keep the embankment stable and low-maintenance in the long term.