Extreme Marine Scour Protection

Marine Scour Protection

MARINE "SCOUR PROTECTION"

Armor submerged foundations against severe hydrodynamic forces

Scour, the removal of sediment from around the base of submerged structures, is the leading cause of marine infrastructure failure. BaseLok geogrid composites and marine mattress systems provide high-performance, flexible armoring solutions that conform to irregular seabed profiles and resists scour produced by wave action and current flow. These systems simplify underwater installation while providing superior hydraulic performance compared to traditional rock riprap.

How BaseLok^® Resists Coastal &
Waterway Scour

Traditional scour protection often relies on heavy rock riprap, which can be difficult to place accurately underwater, prone to differential settlement, and susceptible to displacement during storm events.

BaseLok offers a more engineered approach. Our marine mattress systems consist of a high-strength geogrid cage filled with stone. This creates a single, integrated unit that is far more resistant to hydraulic lift and drag than individual unconfined rocks. The mattress acts as a flexible, permeable filter and armor layer. When wave energy hits, the mattress dissipates the force through its internal structure, while the integrated filter fabric prevents the migration of underlying subgrade fines.

For bridge piers, abutments, and jetties, BaseLok Marine Mattresses provide a "shield" that prevents the formation of localized scour holes. The system's flexibility allows it to "settle" into any depressions, maintaining contact with the subgrade and ensuring continuous protection. This adaptability is critical in dynamic marine environments where the subgrade profile can change rapidly. By using BaseLok Marine Systems, engineers can design thinner, more effective armor layers that reduce material costs and environmental impact during construction.

Applicable Project Types

Bridge pier and abutment scour protection
Jetties, groins, and breakwater foundation armoring
Pipeline and subsea cable protection
Port and harbor berth stabilization
Culvert and outfall discharge protection

Engineered for harsh saltwater environments, BaseLok marine solutions provide long-term protection for critical infrastructure while helping reduce maintenance requirements and costly underwater repairs.