Image
FOR RETAINING WALLS AND SOIL SLOPES Mechanically Stabilised Earth (MSE)
Mechanically Stabilised Earth (MSE) wall systems and Reinforced Soil Slope (RSS) systems are modular, soil retention systems that combine engineered backfill with reinforcing elements such as wire mesh, geogrids and/or welded steel and are finished with rock or vegetation. These systems offer a cost-effective, durable and visually appealing alternative to traditional retaining walls.
Whether you're stabilising a highway embankment, building a bridge abutment or managing a steep slope, MSE and RSS systems provide long-term structural stability with design flexibility.
WHAT ARE MSE AND RSS SYSTEMS AND HOW DO THEY WORK?
MSE walls are vertical or near-vertical retaining structures built with compacted engineered or site won fill and reinforcement materials such as wire mesh, geogrids, or welded mesh. MSE wall systems are finished with a facing system like gabions or rock filled sloping mesh.
RSS systems extend the same concept to sloped surfaces, typically with inclinations between 45 degrees and 70 degrees and are often finished with vegetation for a natural appearance. These systems rely on the interaction between the reinforcing materials and soil to resist sliding, overturning and settlement, allowing the structure to perform under static and seismic loads.
Related products
MECHANICALLY STABILISED EARTH WALL SYSTEMS
TYPES OF MSE AND RSS FOR CIVIL AND CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
We offer a range of reinforced soil structures to suit project goals, land form, environmental requirements and aesthetic preferences:
MSE Modular Gabion Wall Systems
Made from steel wire mesh baskets filled with stone provide a highly durable, rock-faced wall. Modular and flexible, perfect for sites with differential settlement or poor foundations. MSE gabion wall systems can be constructed at 90 degrees or stepped.
MSE Modular Wall Systems
Made with wire mesh and welded steel reinforcing mesh with an integrated tail, MSE wall systems provide a highly durable, rock-faced sloped wall up to 87 degrees. Ideal for roadsides, drainage channels and areas exposed to weathering.
RSS Modular Systems
Reinforced with wire mesh and steel bracing with an integrated tail and backed with biodegradable matting for a vegetated slope with erosion protection. RSS modular systems are perfect for environmentally sensitive areas and projects requiring green infrastructure and slopes up to 70 degrees.
KEY APPLICATIONS OF MSE & RSS SYSTEMS
MSE and RSS systems are widely used in infrastructure for roads, civic, mining, rail and landscape projects including:
- Bridge abutments and approach ramps
- Road and rail embankments
- Culverts, wing walls and headwalls
- Retaining walls in urban developments
- Rehabilitation of failing slopes
- Landfill bunds and waste containment structures
- Erosion-prone slopes in riverbanks and coastal areas
FUNCTIONS
Erosion & Sediment Control
The use of a geosynthetic to prevent soil or other particle movements on the surface slope. Acts to reduce soil erosion caused by wind forces, rainfall impact and surface water runoff. The use of geosynthetics in erosion control is to maintain soil cover either as a temporary measure offering protection from soil loss whilst vegetation is established or as a permanent control measure, typically on steeper slopes or high-water velocity situations.
Reinforcement
Geosynthetics provides additional strength to soils and aggregate. Used to reinforce steep slopes, and to stabilise road or rail construction over weak and variable soils. Enables embankments to be constructed over very soft foundations and to build slopes at steeper angles than would be possible with unreinforced soil. Geosynthetics (or geogrids) are also used to bridge over voids that may develop below load bearing granular layers (roads and railways) or below cover systems in landfill applications.
Retaining
Geosynthetic or geogrid acts to support soil laterally so that the structure can be retained at different levels on the two sides. Retain (holds back) any material (usually earth) and prevents it from sliding or eroding away. Gravity retaining and reinforced soil retaining walls are designed to resist the material pressure of the material that it is holding back.
BENEFITS OF MSE WALL SYSTEMS & REINFORCED SLOPES
High load capacity
Suitable for heavy-duty infrastructure with long-term stability.
Cost-effective
Lower construction and maintenance costs compared to concrete walls.
Versatile aesthetics
Choose from rock, gabion or vegetated finishes to suit your site.
Environmentally sound
Promotes vegetation growth and reduces the carbon footprint of concrete.
Quick installation
Modular components and simple construction techniques save time on site.
Adaptable to poor soil conditions
Performs well on soft ground or in seismic regions.
WHY CHOOSE GEOFABRICS FOR YOUR MSE & RSS MODULAR SYSTEMS?
With decades of expertise in geosynthetic engineering, Geofabrics Australasia offers modular wall systems backed by technical support, design guidance and nationwide distribution. Our range is tested for durability, load capacity and environmental resilience – ensuring long-term performance in even the most demanding conditions.
Request a Quote or Technical Advice Today
Whether you need a vertical, rock-faced or vegetated slope reinforced, we can tailor a solution to meet your project goals. Contact our expert team to discuss your project and find the best geogrid product for your needs.