revetment

A revetment is a protective structure built to shield landforms and infrastructure from erosion by water or combination forces such as waves, currents, and runoff. It typically comprises a facing or embankment that dissipates energy and stabilizes a slope, with materials arranged to absorb impact and prevent material loss.

Revetments are commonly applied along coastlines, riverbanks, and man-made embankments for highways, railways, and flood-control facilities. They may also appear in historical fortifications where a protective facing is used to shield slopes or artillery positions. The choice of design depends on site conditions, expected energy levels, and the desired balance between protection, drainage, and sediment transport.

Common forms and materials include rock armour (riprap), concrete armor units, gabions (wire cages filled with rock), sheet-pile walls, and timber or concrete crib walls. Designs may feature a sloped surface, an armored belt at the toe, drainage provisions, and sometimes a stilling basin or a permeable layer to reduce uplift and scour. Perimeter protection and toe stabilization are critical to prevent undercutting and failure. Environmental and sediment dynamics are considered to minimize adverse ecological effects and to maintain shoreline or riverine processes where possible.

Maintenance and limitations are important considerations. Revetments can degrade through undercutting, block movement, or overtopping during storms. Regular inspection, repairs, and, if necessary, integration with other coastal or river stabilization measures are required to maintain performance.