Month: July 2025

When it comes to erosion control on steep slopes, EnviroStraw’s EnviroMatrix® in combination with EnviroBond isn’t just up for the challenge – it’s backed by science.

A recent independent modelling extension by soil science specialists at Landloch has confirmed that the Australian-designed and Australian-manufactured duo performs effectively on slopes up to 66.6% (1.5H:1V) – the upper limit recommended by NSW Roads and Maritime for Bonded Fibre Matrix hydromulches. These findings position EnviroStraw’s hydromulch solution as one of the most robust options for commercial stabilisation projects in Australia.

Putting EnviroMatrix® + EnviroBond to the test

Landloch originally assessed the surface stabilising performance of EnviroMatrix® + EnviroBond under high-intensity rainfall and overland flow back in 2015. The latest addendum extends this modelling to steeper gradients and wider construction conditions, using the WEPP (Water Erosion Prediction Project) simulation model. Simulations considered:

• Rainfall intensities of 80, 100, and 130 mm/hour – the upper end of what’s recorded in major cities like Cairns and Brisbane.
• Batter gradients up to 66.6%.
• Three levels of surface preparation: well-constructed (0.2m flow concentration), moderate (1.0m), and poor (5.0m).

The results? EnviroMatrix® + EnviroBond maintained stability across a wide range of conditions, even under intense rainfall. Unsurprisingly, performance was strongest on well-prepared surfaces – reinforcing the importance of good earthworks practices – but even in less-than-ideal scenarios, the products still offered significant erosion resistance.

Why this matters for commercial sites

For commercial construction, mining, and infrastructure projects, slope length and gradient often dictate the feasibility of stabilisation solutions. This report provides reassuring data that EnviroStraw’s hydromulch products can be trusted across real-world Australian conditions on varying slope degrees.

Whether you’re dealing with roadside batters, disturbed landscapes, or construction earthworks, EnviroMatrix® + EnviroBond offer:

• Proven performance on steep gradients
• Resilience under high-intensity rainfall
• Effective erosion control even in challenging build conditions
• Native seed friendly

Proudly Australian-made

In an industry flooded with imported alternatives, EnviroMatrix® and EnviroBond stand apart. Both are designed, developed, and manufactured in Australia – tailored for Australian environments and compliance standards. This local advantage not only ensures quality and consistency, but also supports rapid supply and reduced environmental freight impact.

The verdict

Landloch’s independent testing confirms what many in the field already know: EnviroStraw’s EnviroMatrix® + EnviroBond combination is a powerful solution for slope stabilisation.

If you’re managing a commercial site and need a high-performance, scientifically-backed approach to erosion control, you’ve just found it.

Soil scientists and contractors working in erosion control know that not all hydromulch and tackifier products perform equally under stress.

When it comes to choosing the right solution for slope stabilisation, two metrics matter most: erosion resistance and infiltration performance. That’s why recent independent C-factor testing of EnviroStraw’s BFM and EnviroBond® formulations offer critical reassurance—both products exceed expectations across a range of high-intensity rainfall conditions.

What is the C-factor and why does it matter?

The Cover Factor (C-factor), as defined by the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), quantifies how well a surface treatment protects soil from erosion. A lower C-factor means less soil loss compared to a bare soil baseline—so the lower the better.

EnviroStraw’s BFM and EnviroBond® were each independently tested by Landloch Pty Ltd using rigorous rainfall simulations designed to replicate real-world storm intensities on gradients up to 30%. The results speak for themselves.

BFM: Consistent performance with exceptionally low C-factors

EnviroStraw’s BFM, a premium bonded fibre matrix hydromulch, achieved C-factor values as low as 0.006 for 100% surface cover—among the best in its class. Even at 95% coverage, the C-factor was just 0.008, indicating minimal soil loss under aggressive slope and rainfall scenarios.

Key insights:

• Slope gradients tested: up to 40%
• Rainfall intensities: up to 150 mm/h
• Stable slope lengths: over 500 m for well-constructed 20% gradients
• Comparison: Outperformed other common hydromulches
  (C-factors ~0.017–0.018)

EnviroBond®: Powerful binding and water management

EnviroBond®—a hydrocolloid binder designed for use on exposed batters—also demonstrated strong erosion control, with C-factors averaging just 0.013 across all tests. This included performance under simulated 1-in-5 and 1-in-20 year storm events, with no measurable soil loss even at the steepest gradient and highest rainfall intensity.

But erosion control wasn’t the only strength. EnviroBond® also improved infiltration rates by over 44%, allowing water to absorb into the soil faster and reducing runoff volume. This dual benefit helps rehabilitate soil structure while reducing the risk of rill formation.

Key results:

• C-factor range: 0.004–0.023 (avg. 0.013)
• Infiltration rate increase: From 54.1 mm/h (bare soil) to 78.1 mm/h (treated)
• Plot gradients: 10%, 20%, and 30%
• Rainfall intensities: Up to 200 mm/h

What this means for contractors and engineers

If you’re designing for batters, embankments or disturbed commercial sites, both BFM and EnviroBond® offer scientifically validated, field-ready solutions. Their tested resistance to erosion—paired with their infiltration advantages—means fewer call-backs, better site outcomes, and stronger project reputations.

And because both products are Australian-made and backed by soil science, they meet the needs of contractors who want reliable performance and local supply.

Want to know more?

If you’re looking for support on product selection or tailored advice on stabilising your next site, get in touch. Our team of soil scientists and field technicians are ready to help you find the right solution for your unique conditions.