Metal Protective Nets: The Robust Choice
Metal netting commonly used in slope engineering includes galvanized wire mesh and steel wire rope mesh. Galvanized wire mesh typically features a wire diameter of 2–4 mm and a mesh aperture of 50–150 mm, making it suitable for the geotechnical reinforcement of slopes with moderate gradients. Steel wire rope mesh is woven from 3–8 mm steel cables; with a tensile strength ranging from 10 to 50 kN, it is highly effective at intercepting falling rocks. During construction, particular attention must be paid to ensuring a reliable connection between the metal netting and the anchor bolts; the recommended thickness for the accompanying shotcrete layer is 80–120 mm.
Synthetic Material Nets: The Lightweight Solution
High-strength polyester fiber netting weighs only one-fifth as much as metal netting and exhibits strong corrosion resistance, making it ideal for use in humid environments. Three-dimensional geomatting promotes vegetation growth, thereby creating an ecological protective layer. Fiberglass mesh, when used in conjunction with shotcrete, helps prevent surface spalling. When selecting these materials, key parameters to consider include UV resistance and elongation at break.
III. Solutions for Specialized Scenarios
For steep, rocky slopes, an active protective netting system combined with deep-seated anchoring is recommended. For soil slopes, biaxial geogrids are the preferred choice, provided that their nodal strength exceeds 1 kN. For temporary engineering projects, recyclable polypropylene (PP) netting offers a viable option that not only reduces costs but also meets environmental protection standards. Regardless of the specific material type chosen, the degree of contact and adhesion between the netting and the slope substrate directly determines the ultimate effectiveness of the protective system.