A New Generation of Expeditionary Earth-Filled Protective Barriers
Abstract
First there were sandbags, then came gabion baskets, and now a new element in field fortifications is emerging that could give sappers an enhanced, multifaceted capability for force protection. Since deploying to the Balkans more than 15 years ago, the Corps of Royal Engineers has become increasingly involved with the construction of static physical force protection in the form of blast walls, protective berms, sangars (fortified observation posts), and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) protective works. We also continue to assist with infrastructure construction such as building roads, culverts, and flood protection measures. DefenCell is a relatively new military innovation that will provide additional options when undertaking all of these tasks. It has been successfully used in Afghanistan by the British Army s 39 Engineer Regiment (Air Support) to construct protective berms and ground stabilization structures at several locations and at the Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal School in Britain to improve its EOD training area. DefenCell is a geotextile polymer structure that has great strength, not just because of the textile s properties, but because of the cellular form of each unit. The cells confine the fill material and give it such load-bearing strength that it can be driven on or even compacted with heavy rollers. This in turn enhances its ballistic protection properties and aids the stability of the structures. Walls of substantial heights can be achieved by field engineers, and DefenCell engineers can help in the design of even higher structures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA592593
Entities
People
- Matt A. Graves
Organizations
- United States Army Engineer School