SCS AGRABLOCK
SCS AGRABLOCK is a versatile interlocking paving grid which can be used to recreate the natural surfaces of gravel or grass whilst providing the structural integrity necessary for trafficking. It is also highly suitable for gravel retention on bridge abutments.
The combination of the natural aesthetics associated with gravel and/or grass and the high porosity of SCS Agrablock makes the product a natural contender for many Sustainable Urban Drainage (SUDS) schemes. The use of SCS Agrablock together with traditional hardstandings allows storm-water management schemes presents the ability to manage storm-water at source.
The Product
Available throughout the UK and made from recycled high density polyethylene, SCS AGRABLOCK is a modular unit which works in conjunction with adjacent units to form an exceptionally durable, permanently porous, high load bearing paving structure which, when correctly installed, presents either grass or aggregate in completed form - thereby constituting a highly aesthetic and permanently porous wearing surface.
Advantages and Applications
SCS Agrablock is highly suitable for providing paved areas where the recreation of the natural appearance of grass or gravel is important whilst addressing the trafficking requirements. Applications are extensive and typically include:
- access roads;
- emergency access lanes:
- car parks;
- pedestrian areas;
- on verges;
- vehicle hardstandings; and
- footpaths.
Increasingly, however, SCS Agrablock is being used alongside more traditional forms of paving for three main reasons.
SCS Agrablock is also highly suitable for gravel retention, for example within the slopes of bridge abutments. Recent trials of various gravel retention systems have found That SCS AGRABLOCK is superior to many products by virtue of its integrated interlocking system, its simplicity of design, aesthetics and ease of handling: this minimises manual handling and optimises production outputs.
Product Data
| PRODUCT DATA | AGRABLOCK |
| NOMINAL SIZE | 500 x 500 x 40 mm |
| COVERAGE RATE | 4 blocks / m2 |
| UNIT WEIGHT | 1.2 kg |
| INFILTRATION RATE | > 5000 mm/hour |
| RUN OFF COEFFICIENT RANGE | 0.05 - 0.25 |
| INFILL SURFACE AREA | > 90% |
| COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH (FILLED) | 1830 KN / m2 |
| The above data indicates typical values – comprehensive independent physical test data on the structural and hydraulic properties of the system is available on request. | |
SCS Agrablock is made from recycled high density polyethylene and has been designed to present a number of key properties which combine to ensure its excellent performance in application:
- strong interlocking modular design ensures fast installation;
- lightweight design;
- high structural integrity from a high strength modular design of 500mm x 500mm x 40mm;
- cell dimensions designed for optimal gravel retention and grading and for grass growth;
- very high porosity ensuring excellent drainage characteristics;
The Principle of SUDS
SUDS are physical structures built to receive surface water runoff, being located as close as possible to where the rainwater falls, providing the options of infiltration and attenuation stormwater source control solutions. Additionally they provide treatment for surface water using the natural processes of sedimentation, filtration, absorption and biological degradation.
Recent research shows that typically up to 80% of sediment; 60% of phosphorous and; 80% of nitrogen can be removed from rainwater through porous paving, together with substantial levels of heavy metals and hydrocarbons. This natural treatment provides the ideal opportunity for rainwater conservation and re-use for a variety of non-potable applications e.g. toilet/urinal flushing, irrigation, laundry, process water, vehicle washing, refrigeration, coolant use, etc.
Such source control principles and techniques, also called Best Management Practices (BMPs). are already forming part of planning controls in some areas and will become increasingly incorporated within new development projects.