EP4103786A1

EP4103786A1 - Protective device and slope stabilization

Info

Publication number: EP4103786A1
Application number: EP21705115.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Manuel EICHER; Martina PRAMBAUER
Original assignee: Naue GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Naue GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2020-02-13
Filing date: 2021-02-04
Publication date: 2022-12-21
Also published as: CA3170641A1; CN115315558A; DE102020103812A1; AU2021218877A1; WO2021160517A1; ZA202208990B; US20230340749A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a protective device (34a-b), in particular an erosion protection device and/or a drainage device, preferably a geotextile, comprising a mat element (10a-b) which is at least designed to be flatly spread out over a surface (12a-b) to be protected and which is at least mostly made of a composite (14a-b), in particular a three-dimensional fleece-like composite, in particular a tangled fleece-like composite, comprising a plurality of fibers (16a-b). According to the invention, the fibers (16a-b) are designed as biodegradable plastic fibers.

Description

Protective device and slope securing

State of the art

The invention relates to a protective device according to the preamble of claim 1, an embankment protection device according to claim 26, a use of the protective device according to claim 27, a method for producing the protective device according to the preamble of claim 28 and a method for assembling the protective device claim 32.

A protective device with a mat element, which is provided at least to be spread flat over a surface to be protected, and which is at least largely formed from a fleece-like composite with a large number of fibers, has already been proposed.

The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a device of the generic type with advantageous protective properties which, in particular, is particularly environmentally friendly at the same time. According to the invention, the object is achieved by the features of patent claims 1, 26, 27, 28 and 32, while advantageous configurations and developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.

Advantages of the invention

The invention is based on a protective device, in particular an erosion protection device and / or a drainage device, preferably a geotextile, with a mat element, which is provided at least to be spread flat over a surface to be protected, and which is formed at least for the most part from an, in particular three-dimensional, fleece-like, in particular tangled fleece-like, composite with a large number of fibers.

It is proposed that the fibers are designed as biodegradable plastic fibers. In this way, advantageous protective properties in particular can be achieved with high environmental compatibility at the same time. Advantageously, the protective device weathers free of environmentally harmful and / or alien residues, in particular free of plastic residues, in particular macro, micro and / or nanoplastic residues, which are not biodegradable even on large time scales, and / or free of (heavy) metallic ones Residues. As a result, good environmental compatibility can advantageously be achieved, whereby particularly good suitability for use in ecologically sensitive regions can advantageously be achieved. In addition, a high level of biocompatibility can advantageously be achieved, in particular with the vegetation and / or fauna surrounding the protective device. For example, damage to living beings that incorporate fibers of the protective device and / or an accumulation of microplastics in the food chain can advantageously be kept low. Advantageously, the mat element made from biodegradable plastic fibers has a longer service life than erosion protection mats made from biodegradable natural materials such as coconut fibers, reed fibers, jute fibers or the like under the same weathering conditions. As a result, erosion protection can advantageously be guaranteed over a period of years (instead of months) while still guaranteeing a high level of environmental compatibility. Advantageously, the mat element made from biodegradable plastic fibers has a comparable service life and / or a comparable durability (tear resistance, etc.) as currently used erosion protection mats made of polypropylene (PP), which forms microplastic and nanoplastic particles when weathered. In particular, it is conceivable that the mat element has further components, in particular fibers, in particular that the composite has further components Components, in particular fibers, are added, but preferably the mat element is predominantly and preferably completely formed from the biodegradable plastic fibers.

The protective device is provided in particular for protection, in particular erosion protection, of sloping terrain, in particular for embankment and / or slope protection, for example in civil engineering, hydraulic engineering and / or road construction and / or preferably in the context of geotechnical safety structures. In particular, the protective device is intended for use in the context of biological engineering construction measures. Alternatively or additionally, the protective device is provided for draining a surface, for example a floor, in particular a floor of a building, or a roof, in particular a flat roof of a building. In this case, the mat element forms a drainage mat. Alternatively or additionally, the protective device can be provided for use in agriculture, for example for protecting fruits. For example, in strawberry cultivation, the protective device can be placed under the strawberries that ripen on the plant as an alternative to wood wool or the like, so that they do not come into contact with the ground.

Alternatively or additionally, the protective device is provided to facilitate and / or enable a new and / or re-greening of a site, in particular a sloping site. In particular, the protective device, preferably at least the biodegradable plastic fibers of the protective device, is provided for, in particular depending on a configuration of the plastic fibers (thickness, length, shape, number, etc.) and / or on a configuration of the composite (fiber density , Type and / or degree of intertwining of the fibers, etc.), a predetermined period of time, for example after one, two, three or more vegetation periods, to have completely disappeared, in particular rotted. For example, a protective device provided for the rapid re-greening of a site with a fertile top soil layer has a comparatively fast rot Mat element, which is already almost completely decomposed, in particular after one or two growth periods. Alternatively, for example, a protective device provided for a terrain with barren, sterile, for example stony or very steeply sloping soils, is designed to rot comparatively slowly and only decomposes after several, for example four, five, six or more growth periods. A period of rotting of the plastic fibers can advantageously be set by adjusting the composition of the fleece-like composite and / or can be adapted to expected weather conditions. The protective device, in particular the geotextile, is designed in particular as an embankment mat and / or as a claw mat.

A “geotextile” is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a flat or three-dimensional textile which is permeable to water and which is used as a building material in civil engineering, water and traffic construction and / or for geotechnical safety work. A geotextile is preferably provided for separating, draining, filtering, reinforcing, protecting, packaging and / or protecting against erosion. In particular, the geotextile is designed as a geo-fleece. “Provided” is to be understood in particular as specifically programmed, designed and / or equipped. The fact that an object is provided for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

A “plastic fiber” is to be understood in particular as a fiber consisting of macromolecules, the chemical flake and / or basic component of which is at least a synthetically or semi-synthetically produced polymer with organic groups and / or regenerated cellulose. The plastic fiber is preferably a polymer fiber, preferably a synthetic fiber, and / or a regenerated fiber, preferably a viscose fiber. In particular, a plastic fiber forms a staple fiber, which are preferably extruded via a melt spinning process with the aid of sieve plates. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the plastic fiber forms an extruded monofilament. In particular in comparison to geotextiles made of natural fibers, for example jute, reed and / or coconut fibers, a rate of biological decomposition can advantageously be slowed down. Plastic fibers are advantageously less susceptible to mold infestation. The plastic fibers advantageously have a low absorbency for water, which advantageously further reduces the risk of mold infestation. In particular, the plastic fibers have a round cross-section, an oval cross-section, a trilobal cross-section and / or an angular cross-section. In particular, at least some of the plastic fibers are designed as staple fibers, preferably all of the plastic fibers are designed as staple fibers. Alternatively or additionally, in particular at least some of the plastic fibers can be designed as continuous fibers.

The fact that the plastic fibers form a “three-dimensional composite” is to be understood in particular that individual plastic fibers of the plurality of plastic fibers are / can be oriented in different directions encompassing all three spatial directions and / or that the plastic fibers in particular at least partially and / or partially have an alignment in a direction perpendicular to the planar direction of propagation of the protective device. In particular, different subsections of a plastic fiber can be oriented in at least two different spatial directions, preferably in at least three different spatial directions. In particular, the entire mat element is three-dimensional. In particular, the mat element is a two-dimensionally spreadable and three-dimensional fleece-like textile. Due to the three-dimensional structure, the protective device preferably has an extension perpendicular to the planar direction of propagation, in particular a thickness, which is greater than 4 times, preferably 6 times, advantageously 8 times, particularly advantageously 10 -fold, is preferably 20 times and particularly preferably less than 100 times an average diameter of the plastic fibers, in particular an average diameter of the plastic fibers of a fiber type with the largest diameter of all fiber types. In particular, the mat element and / or the composite has flea spaces. In particular, the protective device, preferably the mat element and / or the composite, is not opaque.

Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the mat element is designed to be opaque. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the mat element is at least essentially flat, in particular extending two-dimensionally. In particular, the mat element is free of a superstructure, in particular a pyramid-like superstructure. The surfaces of the mat element, in particular of the composite, are preferably at least substantially flat and / or free of periodic, grid-like or randomly arranged projections. The mat element is preferably water-permeable. In particular, individual plastic fibers are designed as solid bodies, which are preferably free of other materials apart from the biodegradable plastic (s), possible additives for controlling biodegradability and / or possible dyes. Alternatively, at least some of the plastic fibers can form a core-sheath structure in which a core made of at least one different material, for example a natural fiber such as coconut or jute fiber, is surrounded by a sheath made of biodegradable plastic. By means of such a core-sheath structure, an absorbency for liquids of the natural fibers can advantageously be controlled. A "composite with a large number of fibers" is to be understood in particular as a connection of parts, i.e. in the present case predominantly fibers, to form a unit, i.e. in the present case to the mat element.

The three-dimensionality of the composite is provided, in particular, so that, when inseminated, plant seeds get caught in the structure and thus remain lying on sloping terrain and, in particular, not be washed away by rain or the like. In addition, seeds that get caught in the three-dimensional composite are advantageously exposed to good germination conditions, in particular by being protected from conditions that are too humid and / or too dry for successful germination, for example by keeping the seeds away from a surface that is too damp, such as puddles ( prevents rot) and at the same time can be supplied with sufficient moisture through the formation of dew on the large surfaces of the plastic fibers (promotes germs). In addition, the three-dimensionality of the composite advantageously supports a stabilization of the sole, in particular in that the three-dimensionality gives the mat element an advantageously high sliding friction.

The fact that at least the plastic fibers are designed to be biodegradable should be understood in particular to mean that the plastic fibers are made from a biodegradable plastic. All plastic fibers of the mat element and / or at least of the composite are preferably biodegradable. In particular, the biodegradable plastic fibers are free from oxo-degradable plastics. In particular, the biodegradable plastic fibers are free from polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate and / or polypropylene.

The expression “biodegradable” should be understood to mean, in particular, biodegradable and / or biodegradable. In particular, a biodegradable plastic fiber is intended to decompose to a large extent into carbon dioxide (CO2), water (FI2O) and screenable residues with less, preferably vanishing, ecotoxicity within an ecologically compatible period of time. The organic components of the plastic fibers preferably decompose to at least 90% in CO2 and / or FI2O within the ecologically compatible period. In particular, the biodegradable plastic fibers are at least largely decomposed by microorganisms and / or by water, or with the aid of water.

In particular, decomposition of the biodegradable plastic fiber leads to a preferably complete conversion of the biodegradable plastic fiber to CO2, H2O and / or biomass. Preferably, 90% of the remainder of the plastic fiber that has not been converted to CO2 can be sieved through a sieve with a maximum sieve hole diameter of 2 mm after the ecologically compatible period of time has elapsed. The ecologically compatible period is in particular at least one year, preferably at least 1.5 years, advantageously at least 2 years, preferably at least 3 years and particularly preferably at least 5 years. In addition, the ecologically compatible period is in particular a maximum of 50 years, preferably a maximum of 35 years, advantageously a maximum of 25 years, particularly advantageously a maximum of 15 years, preferably a maximum of 10 years and particularly preferably 5 years. In particular, the residues of the plastic fibers do not contain any concentrations of the elements zinc, copper, nickel, cadmium, lead, mercury, chromium, molybdenum, selenium, arsenic and fluorine or only low concentrations of the elements mentioned, which are the ones in the standard DIN EN 13432: 2000 Do not exceed the specified limit values. Residues of the plastic fibers, in particular in contrast to residues of polyvinyl chloride, preferably have no concentrations of hydrogen chloride. In particular, the synthetic fibers do not have any negative effects on a natural composting process. In particular, test fibers that are identical to the plastic fibers meet at least the aforementioned conditions for ecotoxicity, screenability and conversion to CO2 within the ecologically compatible period if the test fibers are subjected to a test under the composting conditions listed in the DIN EN ISO 14855: 2004-10 standard. The biodegradable plastic fibers are preferably made at least to a large extent, preferably completely, from bio-based, in particular non-fossil, raw materials. In particular, the biodegradable plastic fibers can be completely metabolized by organisms, in particular microorganisms, into biomass. A service life of the mat element advantageously depends on the presence and / or concentration of microorganisms. This can advantageously be achieved that weathering at an installation site with a lot of vegetation, ie many microorganisms, it goes much faster in a place with little vegetation and few microorganisms (deserts, etc.). In places with vegetation, after the biological decomposition of the mat element, the vegetation takes over the protective effect, in particular the erosion effect, while in a place with little vegetation the protective effect can advantageously be produced by the mat element for a long time.

A “nonwoven composite” is to be understood as meaning, in particular, a composite that forms a nonwoven. In particular, the fleece-like composite is to be understood as meaning a structure made of fibers of limited length, of filaments and / or of cut yarns which have been joined together in some way to form a nonwoven (a fiber layer) and connected to one another in some way, of which the crossing and / or entangling of yarns, as happens in a weaving, a warp-knitting, a knitting, a lace making, a braiding and a weaving of tufted products, is excluded. In particular, the fleece-like composite forms a non-woven (non-woven), non-knitted (non-knitted), non-knitted (non-woven), non-braided (non-braided) structure. In particular, a nonwoven fabric forms a flexible (slightly pliable) textile structure, the main structural elements of which are fibers. In particular, a nonwoven fabric has a comparatively small thickness compared to its length and width. In particular, the nonwoven fabric is designed differently from film-like structures. In particular, the nonwoven fabric is designed differently from fiber-reinforced plastic structures. In particular, the nonwoven fabric is designed differently from papers. In particular, a nonwoven fabric can be designed as a felt, in particular as a needle felt. In the context of this document, the term nonwoven should preferably be understood in accordance with the definition in the standard DIN EN ISO 9092: 2012-01, preferably in accordance with the definition in the standard DIN EN ISO 9092: 2019-08. A “tangled fleece-like composite” is to be understood in particular as a fleece-like composite which is a tangled fleece, in particular a tangled nonwoven fabric, forms. In particular, the random nonwoven is designed as an anisotropic nonwoven, preferably a carded nonwoven, which in particular has a preferred fiber orientation. In particular, the carded nonwoven fabric consists at least for the most part of fibers which have a corresponding preferred direction, in particular preferred surface direction and / or preferred spatial direction. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the random nonwoven is designed as an isotropic nonwoven which is preferably free from a preferred fiber orientation. The random fleece would consist at least to a large extent, preferably completely, of fibers which take up any desired surface direction, preferably any desired spatial direction. In addition, the tangled nonwoven would consist at least to a large extent, preferably completely, of fibers which are distributed relatively evenly in all directions of the nonwoven, preferably in any surface direction, preferably in all spatial directions. In particular, the nonwoven fabric, preferably the randomized nonwoven fabric, can be designed, in particular manufactured, as a needle punched nonwoven fabric.

If the fibers comprise a biodegradable polylactide plastic (polylactic acid, PLA) or are preferably formed and / or manufactured from the biodegradable PLA plastic, a protective device with advantageous protective properties and at the same time high environmental compatibility can be achieved in particular. The PLA plastic advantageously has an at least essentially neutral CO2 balance, since it can advantageously be obtained from renewable raw materials, which in particular avoids negative effects on the climate and thus on the frequency of extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, fibers made of PLA plastic advantageously have a particularly stable, in particular constant, tensile strength even after significant weathering. In addition, fibers made of PLA plastic have an advantageously high UV resistance, in particular even without added UV stabilizers. This can advantageously achieve a longer service life than natural fibers such as coconut, reed or jute fibers become. A service life comparable to that of PP fibers can advantageously be achieved with advantageously additional biodegradability. Fibers made of PLA plastic are also advantageously more hydrophobic, at least in comparison to PP fibers. Fibers made from PLA plastic can also advantageously be spun and / or extruded. Fibers made of PLA plastic are also advantageously flame retardant. Preferably, all plastic fibers are at least partially formed from the PLA plastic. All plastic fibers are preferably made entirely from the PLA plastic.

If, in addition, at least a substantial part of all fibers of the composite, preferably all fibers of the composite, are drawn, in particular pre-drawn, the protective properties of the protective device can advantageously be further improved. In addition, durability, in particular service life, can thereby advantageously be increased. In addition, this can advantageously increase the tensile strength of the fibers. The phrase “pre-stretched” should be understood in particular before it is inserted into the nonwoven fabric and / or before it is joined together to form the nonwoven fabric. A “substantial part” of the fibers should be understood to mean in particular at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, advantageously at least 40%, preferably at least 50% and particularly preferably at least a large part of all fibers of the composite. “A large part” should be understood to mean in particular 51%, preferably 66%, advantageously 75%, particularly advantageously 85% and preferably 95%. All fibers of the composite are particularly preferably drawn, in particular pre-drawn. In particular, stretching leads to a change in the material properties of the fiber, inter alia through partial crystallization, in particular at least through an increase in a partially crystallized proportion of the originally predominantly amorphous P LA plastic. In particular, by designing the mat element as a nonwoven fabric and / or by pre-stretching the fibers, the use of other types of plastic besides PLA can advantageously be dispensed with, while at the same time achieving sufficiently high stability and / or usability, in particular in comparison to previous mat elements. Nevertheless, it is conceivable that at least some of all fibers contain another biocompatible and / or biodegradable plastic, such as a plastic from the group of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA group), such as polyhydroxybutyric acid (PHBV), a polycaprolactone (PCL) plastic, a polybutylene succinate (PBS) plastic, a polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) plastic and / or an, in particular spinnable, blend of at least two of the aforementioned biodegradable plastics or are formed from this. For further properties of the aforementioned plastics, reference is made in particular to the German patent application with application number 102018 123477.5.

If, in addition, at least a substantial part of all fibers of the composite, preferably all fibers of the composite, are pre-deformed and / or pre-lingered, the protective properties of the protective device can advantageously be further improved. An improved cohesion of the composite can advantageously be achieved, in particular through higher frictional forces and / or a higher degree of entanglement. As a result, an increased tensile strength of the mat element can advantageously be achieved. In particular, pre-deformed and / or pre-lingering fibers are odd in an initial state, preferably before they are added to the composite or before they are joined together to form the composite. In particular, the pre-deformed and / or pre-lingering fibers are each bent several times in the initial state, preferably in different directions. However, it is also conceivable that the fibers are not pre-deformed or pre-lingered.

It is also proposed that the mat element have a weight per unit area of less than 400 g / m ² , preferably less than 350 g / m ² , preferably less than 300 g / m ² , in particular with a thickness of the mat element of at least 0.5 cm , preferably at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, preferably at least 3 cm and particularly preferably at least 4 cm. As a result, the weight of the protective device can advantageously be kept low become. This can advantageously facilitate assembly, in particular in impassable and / or sloping terrain, whereby in particular a workload for assembly personnel can be significantly reduced and / or safety for assembly personnel can be significantly increased. In addition, material costs can advantageously be kept low. By stretching and / or pre-deforming the fibers, the strength and / or stability of the mat element can advantageously be increased so that a weight per unit area can be reduced, in particular in comparison to a mat element with non-stretched and / or non-pre-deformed fibers without resulting in a reduction in stability and / or strength. In particular, it is also conceivable that the mat element has a weight per unit area of less than 499 g / m ² .

It is further proposed that at least a substantial part of all fibers, preferably all fibers of the composite, have a specific weight, in particular a density, which is greater than the specific weight, in particular the density, of water, in particular under standard conditions. As a result, a protective effect, preferably an erosion protection effect, of the protective device can advantageously be increased further. In particular, the resting of the protective mat on the surface to be protected can advantageously be improved. It can advantageously be achieved that the mat element does not float even in the event of heavy rainfall and / or flooding, which is, for example, in contrast to PP fibers, which have a lower specific weight than water and would therefore float. The specific weight is to be understood in particular as a weight which preferably describes a ratio of a weight force of a body, in particular a fiber, to a volume of the body, in particular the fiber. In particular, the SI unit No. ^{3 is} assigned to the specific weight. In particular, the specific weight of one of the PLA fibers is approximately 12.2 kNnr ³ . In particular, the specific weight of water is approximately 9.8 kNnr ³ . In particular, this amounts to specific weight of a PP fiber approx. 9.3 kNnr ³ . In particular, at least a substantial part of all fibers, preferably all fibers of the composite, have a specific weight, in particular a density, which is greater than the specific weight, in particular the density, of PP fibers, in particular under standard conditions. “Standard conditions” are to be understood as meaning, in particular, normal physical conditions (temperature = 273.15 K, pressure = 1.01325 bar).

In addition, it is proposed that the fibers, in particular at least one fiber type of the fibers, have an average length of at most 20 cm, preferably of at most 15 cm and preferably of at most 10 cm. This makes it possible to achieve a particularly advantageous balance between the highest possible tensile strength of the mat element and simplicity and / or efficiency of the process of making the fibers and / or the bond with the fibers. In particular, the average length of the fibers is at most 30 times, preferably at most 20 times and preferably 15 times the average thickness of the mat element. In particular, the average length of the fibers is at least 2 cm, preferably at least 3 cm, preferably at least 4 cm and particularly preferably at least 6 cm.

It is further proposed that at least a substantial part of all fibers of the composite, preferably all fibers of the composite, in particular specifically admixed, have color pigments which, in particular completely, are biocompatible and / or biodegradable. As a result, a particularly high level of environmental compatibility can advantageously be achieved, in particular in that as many as possible, advantageously all, of the components of the protective device, in particular of the mat element, are completely biocompatible and / or biodegradable. The color pigments are preferably designed as natural pigments. Alternatively, however, the color pigments can also be designed as biocompatible and / or biodegradable synthetic pigments. In particular, the color pigments are designed as an integral part of the fibers. In particular the color pigments are added to the PLA plastic during the manufacture of the fibers. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the fibers are at least largely covered on one surface by a color layer comprising the color pigments or by a color layer consisting of the color pigments. In this case, the fibers or at least a part of all fibers are painted and / or coated. The fibers are preferably pre-colored, in particular pre-painted and / or pre-coated, in particular before they are added to the composite and / or before they are joined together to form the composite. The color pigments preferably give the fibers a near-natural color, which is particularly common in nature, such as a brown tone (earth), a green tone (vegetation), a gray tone (rock), a yellow tone (sand) and / or a mixture thereof. A color of the mat element can advantageously be adapted flexibly to a color of the surroundings of an installation location.

It is also proposed that at least a substantial part of all fibers, in particular all fibers forming the composite, have a diameter of less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm. As a result, the weight of the protective device can advantageously be kept low. This can advantageously facilitate assembly, in particular in impassable and / or sloping terrain, whereby in particular a workload for assembly personnel can be significantly reduced and / or safety for assembly personnel can be significantly increased. The stretching and / or pre-deforming of the fibers can advantageously increase the strength and / or stability of the mat element, so that a diameter of the fibers is reduced, in particular compared to a mat element with non-stretched and / or non-pre-deformed fibers without resulting in a reduction in stability and / or strength. In addition, an advantageously high flexibility of the mat element can be achieved, which can thereby advantageously adapt particularly well to a topography of a surface to be protected. In particular, at least a substantial part of all fibers, preferably all fibers forming the composite, have an, in particular average, fineness of less than 350 dtex, preferably less than 300 dtex, advantageously less than 250 dtex, particularly advantageously less than 200 dtex, preferably less than 150 dtex and particularly preferably less than 100 dtex. It is also conceivable that at least some of the fibers, for example fibers of a certain fiber type, have an, in particular average, fineness of less than 50 dtex, preferably less than 31 dtex.

It is also proposed that the fibers comprise at least a multiplicity of fibers of a first fiber type and at least a multiplicity of fibers of a second fiber type, the fibers of the first fiber type and the fibers of the second fiber type differing significantly from one another. In particular, advantageous protective properties can be achieved with high environmental compatibility at the same time. A setting of physical properties (weight per unit area, color, tensile strength, etc.) of the mat element can advantageously be achieved by mixing the fiber types. In particular, it is conceivable that the composite comprises at least one or more further fiber types, each with a large number of fibers, which each differ significantly from the fibers of other fiber types. The phrase “substantially different” is to be understood as meaning that at least one, in particular physical or chemical, property differs between the fiber types at least measurably and / or at least recognizable with the naked eye, preferably by at least 5%, preferably by at least 10%, preferably differs by at least 25% and particularly preferably by at least 50%.

It is also proposed that the fibers of the first fiber type and the fibers of the second fiber type have substantially different, in particular average, finenesses. As a result, the tensile strength of the mat element can advantageously be increased, in particular while the weight per unit area is kept low at the same time. The term "delicacy" is used in this The context must be defined in particular in the Tex system (cf. DIN 60905-1: 1985-12). "Substantially different subtleties" should be understood to mean, in particular, subtleties whose tex values (preferably given in the unit of measurement dtex) are at least 1.25 times, preferably at least 1.5 times, advantageously at least 2- times, particularly advantageously at least 4 times, preferably at least 8 times and particularly preferably at least 12 times. For example, the first fiber type can comprise fibers with an, in particular average, fineness of 240 dtex and the second fiber type can comprise fibers with an, in particular average, fineness of 30 dtex. In this case the subtleties would differ 8 times. In particular, it is conceivable that the fibers of the first fiber type have an, in particular average, fineness of at most 60 dtex, preferably of at most 45 dtex, advantageously of at most 30 dtex, preferably of at most 20 dtex and particularly preferably of at most 10 dtex. In particular, it is conceivable that the fibers of the second fiber type have an, in particular average, fineness of at least 150 dtex, preferably of at least 200 dtex, advantageously of at least 240 dtex, preferably of at least 300 dtex and particularly preferably of at least 350 dtex.

It is also proposed that the fibers of the fiber type with the higher fineness form friction fibers to increase the tensile strength of the mat element. As a result, the tensile strength of the mat element can advantageously be increased, in particular while the weight per unit area is kept low at the same time. The friction fibers with the high fineness advantageously have an enlarged total surface, in particular the friction surface, in relation to the mass, whereby an increased friction force can advantageously be generated, which in particular causes the mat element to hold together. Improved stability of the mat element can advantageously be achieved. A higher fineness is to be understood in particular as a lower tex value. It is also proposed that the fibers of the first fiber type and the fibers of the second fiber type have substantially different, in particular average, lengths. As a result, a high level of stability with a simultaneously long service life and / or high tensile strength can advantageously be achieved. In particular, the fibers of the fiber type with the higher fineness are much longer than the fibers of the fiber type with the lower fineness. “Substantially different lengths” should be understood to mean lengths that are at least 1.25 times, preferably at least 1.5 times, advantageously at least 2 times, particularly advantageously at least 3 times, preferably differ by at least 5 times and particularly preferably by at least 10 times. In particular, the fibers of the fiber type with the higher fineness, in particular the fibers of the first fiber type, have an, in particular average, length of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, advantageously at least 6 cm, particularly advantageously at least 9 cm, preferably at least 12 cm and particularly preferably at least 15 cm. In particular, the fibers of the fiber type with the lower fineness, in particular the fibers of the second fiber type, have an, in particular average, length of at most 15 cm, preferably at most 12 cm, advantageously at most 9 cm, particularly advantageously at most 6 cm, preferably at most 4 cm and particularly preferably at most 2 cm. In particular, the length of a fiber is measured in each case in a straightened state of the fiber.

If the fibers of the first fiber type have a first type and / or mixture of color pigments, which gives the fibers of the first fiber type a first color and if the fibers of the second fiber type have a second type and / or mixture of color pigments which the fibers of the second Gives the fiber type a second coloration, which differs from the first coloration, in particular significantly, an advantageous color matching can be achieved in a particularly simple manner, which in particular an adjustment a coloring of the mat element allowed in different conditions at different installation locations.

If, in addition, the first coloring and the second coloring are intended to produce a camouflage effect in combination, an advantageous adaptation of the mat element to the surroundings of an installation site can be achieved. In this way, the influence and / or impairment of local fauna can advantageously be kept low. In particular, impairment of a natural camouflage, in particular a crypsis, of the native fauna can be reduced. As a result, environmental compatibility can advantageously be further increased. In addition, undesired paint pollution of the environment, for example through partially rotted remnants of a mat element, can be prevented. For example, the fibers of the first fiber type could have brown colored pigments and at the same time the fibers of the second fiber type could have green colored pigments. Alternatively, for example, the fibers of the first fiber type could have colored pigments of a first shade of one color (e.g. dark green) and at the same time the fibers of the second fiber type of a second shade of the same color (e.g. light green).

It is also proposed that a maximum of 10% of the mat element, preferably a maximum of 5%, in particular the biodegradable fibers of the mat element, under controlled composting conditions corresponding to the standard DIN EN ISO 14855: 2004-10 after a period of one year, preferably after one year Two years, biodegraded and / or disintegrated. As a result, a longer service life than that of natural fibers (coconut, reed, jute, etc.) can advantageously be achieved with complete biodegradability at the same time. A protective effect of the protective device can advantageously be further improved as a result. The composting test is preferably carried out under those specified in the standard DIN EN ISO 14855: 2004-10 and / or those listed below

Composting conditions. The controlled composting conditions include, in particular, a mixing of the biodegradable plastic fibers with an inoculum, which is preferably designed as a well-ventilated compost from an aerobic composting plant and is at least substantially free of larger inert objects. The biodegradable plastic fibers are in particular comminuted in such a way that an entire surface of individual pieces of plastic fibers is smaller than 2 cm × 2 cm. A proportion of total dry matter in the total inoculum of the composting experiment is in particular between 5:10 and 5.5:10. A proportion of organic dry matter in the total inoculum of the composting experiment is in particular less than 1.5: 10. A proportion of organic dry matter in the total dry matter of the composting experiment is in particular less than 3:10. A pH value of a mixture of one part inoculum and five parts deionized water is in particular between 7.0 and 9.0. An activity of the inoculum of the composting experiment is in particular designed such that a biodegradable reference material, for example a TLC cellulose reference film with a particle size of less than 20 miti, gasses between 50 mg and 150 mg of CO2 per gram of organic dry matter within 10 days . In particular, the mixture of inoculum and biodegradable plastic fibers is subjected to the composting test in a vessel of the test composting system with an internal volume of at least 3 liters, the vessel being at least two thirds filled with the mixture of inoculum and biodegradable plastic fibers. The filled vessel of the test composting facility is exposed in particular to a constant temperature of 58 ° C. ± 2 ° C. and a water-saturated, at least essentially CO 2-free atmosphere. The vessel of the test composting facility is shaken weekly during the composting test. A water content of the mixture of inoculum and the biodegradable plastic fibers is in particular at least substantially constant 50%. A pH value of the mixture of inoculum and the biodegradable plastic fibers is between 7.0 and 9.0 in particular during the entire composting experiment. It is further proposed that the protective device has a reinforcement element, in particular a net-like reinforcement element, which is connected to the mat element. As a result, a protective effect, in particular an erosion protection effect, of the protective device can advantageously be increased further. The reinforcement element can in particular be formed from a plastic, in particular a biodegradable plastic, and / or a metal. In particular, the reinforcement element is spread out over a large area. In particular, the reinforcement element is arranged and / or spread out at least substantially parallel to the mat element. In particular, the reinforcing element and the mat element overlap at least to a large extent. In particular, the reinforcing element has a tensile strength which is significantly greater, in particular at least 10 times greater, preferably at least 100 times greater, preferably at least 500 times greater and particularly preferably at least 1000 times greater than the tensile strength of the mat element. In particular, the reinforcement element has an at least substantially regular structure. In particular, the net-like reinforcing element comprises regularly arranged and / or regularly shaped meshes. In particular, the net-like reinforcing element is braided, woven, welded or the like. In particular, the reinforcing element is formed from longitudinal elements which have a, in particular average, diameter that is at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times, advantageously at least 4 times, preferably at least 5 times and particularly preferably at least 10 times larger than the, in particular average, diameter of the fibers of the composite, in particular the fibers of the fiber type with the thickest fibers. The reinforcement element can be designed, for example, as a metal or plastic grid or as a metal or plastic mesh. The expression “connected” is to be understood to mean, in particular, force-lockingly connected, materially connected and / or preferably connected by a connecting element, preferably by a seam. In particular, the reinforcement element is connected to the mat element in such a way that movement of one of the two elements causes movement of the other. In particular, a connection goes beyond simply laying the reinforcing element and mat element on top of one another. However, it is also conceivable that the protective device is designed free of a reinforcing element.

It is also proposed that the reinforcement element is arranged above and / or below the mat element. As a result, a protective effect, in particular an erosion protection effect, of the protective device can advantageously be increased further. The reinforcing element is preferably arranged above the mat element. In an assembled state, the mat element is preferably arranged between the surface to be protected and the reinforcement element. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable that the reinforcing element is integrated into the mat element and / or that the reinforcing element is braided around by the mat element.

In addition, it is proposed that the protective device has at least one connecting element which is provided to connect the mat element and the reinforcing element to one another. As a result, a reliable connection of the components of the protective device can advantageously be achieved. A protective effect of the protective device can advantageously be further increased in this way. In particular, the connecting element is made from a biocompatible material. In this way, a particularly high level of environmental compatibility can advantageously be ensured. In particular, the connecting element is designed as a clamp, as a clip or as one or more threads / threads, for example a seam, a loop and / or a knot. In particular, the connecting element can be designed to be rigid or limp. The protective device preferably comprises a multiplicity of connecting elements which are distributed in particular at regular or irregular intervals over an area of the protective device. In particular, the connection element is provided for a relatively loose connection between the mat element and the reinforcement element. The connecting element preferably allows play, in particular a movement, of the mat element relative to the reinforcing element in the direction of the reinforcement element. In particular, in a state fastened to the reinforcing element by the connecting element, the mat element is at least partially spaced from the reinforcing element. In particular, the mat element hangs through the connecting element on the reinforcing element at a distance which is in particular at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, advantageously at least 3 cm, preferably at least 4 cm and particularly preferably at least 5 cm. In particular, the mat element is in a state fastened to the reinforcing element by the connecting element, in which the mat element hangs freely under the reinforcing element, without contact with the reinforcing element. In this way, it can advantageously be achieved that, after installation, the mat element can lie as freely as possible and / or as close as possible to the surface to be protected, in particular even if the surface to be protected is uneven.

If, in addition, the connecting element is designed to be biodegradable, a particularly high level of environmental compatibility can advantageously be ensured. For example, the connecting element can be formed at least partially or completely from a PLA plastic. However, the connecting element is preferably formed from a different material than the mat element. It is conceivable that the connecting element has a service life that is comparable, longer or shorter, under identical environmental conditions as / than the mat element. The connecting element preferably has a significantly shorter service life than the mat element. A connection created by the connecting element between the mat element and the reinforcement element preferably loosens in the event of weathering within a few days, within a few weeks or within a few months.

It is further proposed that the connecting element is provided to be disconnected in the event of exposure to the weather, in particular due to water (eg rainwater) and / or solar radiation (eg UV radiation). As a result, a protective effect of the protective device can advantageously be further improved become. In particular, after assembly on the surface to be protected, the mat element separates itself advantageously from the reinforcement element, whereby a particularly close fit of the mat element on the surface and at the same time simple assembly by means of the easily relocatable, stiffer and more stable reinforcement element can be ensured. A high erosion protection effect can advantageously be achieved by the mat element lying directly and closely on the surface. At the same time, an additional stone chip protection or the like can advantageously be achieved by the stable reinforcing element stretched over the surface. In particular, the connecting element is formed from a water-soluble and / or from a material that can be decomposed by UV radiation, in particular plastic. For example, the connecting element can be designed as a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) thread. In particular, it is conceivable that after the installation of the protective device has been completed on a surface, the connecting element is specifically sprayed with water in order to accelerate and / or effect the detachment of the mat element from the reinforcing element.

If the reinforcement element, in particular with the connecting element, is sewn to the mat element, a simple, in particular easy to manufacture, and reliable connection between the mat element and the reinforcement element can advantageously be achieved.

If, in addition, the reinforcing element is designed as a wire mesh, a particularly high stability of the protective device and thus a particularly high protective effect can advantageously be achieved. The protective device with the wire mesh advantageously has high strength and / or stability. The wire mesh is advantageously provided to hold back the soil and / or the rock of the terrain to be protected. In this way, a high level of security can advantageously be achieved. In particular, the wire mesh has a regular mesh shape. Alternatively, the mesh shape of individual meshes can differ from other meshes and / or the wire mesh can have an irregular mesh shape. In particular, the wire mesh a, in particular regular, rhomboid mesh shape. As a result, even smaller rocks can advantageously be stopped safely. Alternatively, the wire mesh can also have a different mesh shape, for example a square mesh shape, a hexagonal mesh shape and / or a round mesh shape. In particular, the wire of the wire mesh has a thickness of, for example, approximately 1 mm, approximately 2 mm, approximately 3 mm, approximately 4 mm, approximately 5 mm, approximately 6 mm, approximately 7 mm or even more or even less or also a diameter of an intermediate value on. Larger, in particular considerably larger, diameters are also conceivable if the longitudinal element comprises several components, in particular several wires, for example in the case of a wire rope or a stranded wire or a wire bundle or the like. In particular, the wire of the wire mesh has a corrosion protection layer, for example a zinc layer applied by means of hot-dip galvanizing, an Al / Zn corrosion protection layer, an Al / Zn / Mg corrosion protection layer or the like. Alternatively, the wire is made of rust-resistant and / or stainless steel. In particular, the corrosion protection layer has a mass per unit area of at least 110 g / m ² , preferably at least 150 g / m ² , preferably of at least 200 g / m ² and particularly preferably of at least 250 g / m ² . In particular, the wire mesh is flat. The wire mesh preferably extends at least over a large part of a flat overall extent of the protective device, in particular of the mat element. The wire mesh preferably extends completely over the flat overall extent of the protective device, in particular of the mat element.

It is further proposed that the wire mesh is formed at least from interwoven helical longitudinal elements. In this way, in particular, an advantageously structured wire mesh can be produced.

Such a wire mesh advantageously has a high tensile strength. Such a wire mesh with the protective device, in particular the random scrim or the fleece-like structure, is advantageously designed so that it can be rolled up. Through this assembly and / or transport can advantageously be facilitated. In particular, a longitudinal element has a longitudinal extent which is at least 10 times, preferably at least 50 times and preferably at least 100 times as large as a maximum transverse extent running perpendicular to the longitudinal extent. In particular, at least one of the helical longitudinal elements, preferably all helical longitudinal elements, is made at least from a single wire, a wire bundle, a wire strand, a wire rope and / or another longitudinal element with at least one wire. In particular, the longitudinal elements have the shape of a flat, in particular flattened, spiral. The helical longitudinal elements have in particular at least one first leg, at least one second leg and at least one bending point connecting the first leg and the second leg to one another. Adjacent, interwoven helical longitudinal elements are advantageously connected via their bending points. Two bending points of different helical longitudinal elements are particularly advantageously connected to one another, in particular hooked into one another. In particular, the helical longitudinal elements of the wire mesh have the same direction of rotation. In each case, two helical longitudinal elements are advantageously knotted to one another, in particular in each case at a first of their ends and / or in each case at a second of their ends opposite the first ends.

If the wire mesh comprises at least one wire which is at least partially made of a high-strength steel, in particular with a tensile strength of at least 500 N / mm ² , preferably at least 750 N / mm ² , advantageously at least 1000 N / mm ² , particularly advantageously at least 1770 N / mm ² , preferably at least 2500 N / mm ² and particularly preferably at most 3000 N / mm ² , a particularly high stability of the protective device can advantageously be achieved, preferably with the lowest possible weight. In particular, a high level of security can be achieved in this way. It is also proposed that the wire mesh have a three-dimensional, mattress-like structure. As a result, a high flexibility of the protective device, in particular of the wire mesh, can advantageously be achieved with respect to loading in a loading direction perpendicular to the main extension plane of the wire mesh. For example, the protective device, in particular during assembly, can thereby advantageously be walked on and / or driven on to a limited extent. A “mattress-like structure” is to be understood in particular as a three-dimensional planar structure which has a resilience capacity in a direction perpendicular to the planar extent of the structure.

Furthermore, a slope protection with the protective device is proposed. As a result, an embankment protection with a high level of environmental compatibility can advantageously be provided.

In addition, a use of the protective device in the case of a new greening and / or a re-greening of a surface, in particular a sloping and / or erosion-prone surface, is proposed. In particular, this enables efficient re-greening, in particular through advantageous germination conditions and / or an advantageous prevention of dispersed seeds from being washed out in the event of heavy rain. In addition, use as an erosion protection mat for an ungreened sloping surface, use as a drainage mat in or on a floor or on a building roof and / or use for protecting agricultural products, for example fruits, directly at a cultivation site is proposed.

Furthermore, a method for producing the protective device, in particular the erosion protection device and / or the drainage device, preferably the geotextile, is proposed, in which a mat element, which is provided at least to be spread over a surface to be protected, is used as, in particular three-dimensional, Fleece-like, in particular tangled fleece-like, composite is produced from a large number of biodegradable plastic fibers. As a result, a protective device with the aforementioned advantageous properties can in particular be produced.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the biodegradable plastic fibers are stretched, in particular pre-stretched, before the production of the nonwoven-like composite. As a result, the protective properties of the protective device can advantageously be further improved. In addition, durability, in particular service life, can thereby advantageously be increased. In addition, this can advantageously increase the tensile strength of the fibers.

It is also proposed that the biodegradable plastic fibers are pre-deformed, in particular pre-dwelled, before the production of the nonwoven-like composite. As a result, the protective properties of the protective device can advantageously be further improved. An improved cohesion of the composite can advantageously be achieved, in particular through higher frictional forces and / or a higher degree of entanglement. As a result, an increased tensile strength of the mat element can advantageously be achieved

It is also proposed that the mat element be connected, in particular sewn, to a reinforcing element, in particular a net-like reinforcement element.

As a result, a simple, in particular easy to manufacture, and reliable connection between the mat element and the reinforcement element can advantageously be achieved.

Furthermore, a method for assembling the protection device, in particular the erosion protection device and / or the drainage device, preferably the geotextile, is proposed, the mat element connected to the reinforcing element by a connecting element being installed on the surface to be protected in such a way that the mat element is between the Surface and the reinforcing element is arranged, and wherein the connecting element is dissolved after installation by weathering so that the mat element is separated from the reinforcement element and lies as closely as possible over the surface to be protected. In this way, a high erosion protection effect can advantageously be achieved through the mat element lying directly and closely on the surface. At the same time, an additional stone chip protection or the like can advantageously be achieved by the stable reinforcing element stretched over the surface.

The protective device according to the invention, the embankment protection device according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention should not be restricted to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the protective device according to the invention, the embankment protection device according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention can have a number of individual elements, components, method steps and units that differs from a number of individual elements, components, method steps and units mentioned herein for fulfilling a mode of operation described herein.

drawings

Further advantages emerge from the following description of the drawings. Two exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. The drawings, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

Show it:

1a shows a schematic lateral section through a

Embankment stabilization with a protective device and a suggested use of the protective device,

1b shows a schematic representation of an alternative use of the protective device,

2 shows a schematic plan view of a mat element of the protective device, 3 shows a schematic side view of the mat element,

4 shows an enlarged detailed view of a section of the mat element,

5 shows a schematic representation of fibers of different fiber types of the mat element,

6 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for lowering the protective device,

7 is a schematic illustration of a stretching effect on one of the fibers;

8 is a schematic plan view of an alternative

Protective device with a mat element and with a reinforcement element,

9 shows a schematic side view of the alternative protective device,

10 shows a flow chart of a method for lowering the alternative protective device,

11 shows a schematic representation of a lowering position device for lowering the alternative protective device,

12 shows a schematic lateral section through a

Slope protection with the alternative protection device immediately after the slope protection has been installed,

13 shows a flow chart of a method for assembling the alternative protective device and FIG

14 shows the schematic lateral section through the slope protection after weathering.

Description of the exemplary embodiments

1a shows a lateral section through a slope protection 32a and the underlying soil and / or rock. The slope protection 32a is provided to secure a slope against erosion. the Embankment protection 32a is provided to secure the embankment against landslides and / or leaching of embankment material. Alternatively or in addition, the slope protection 32a can also be provided for a drain. The slope protection 32a comprises a protective device 34a. The protection device 34a is as a

Erosion protection device formed. Alternatively or additionally, the protective device 34a can also be designed as a drainage device. The protective device 34a is designed as a geotextile. The protective device 34a has a mat element 10a. The protective device 34a, in particular at least the mat element 10a, is provided to be spread out flat over a surface 12a to be protected. The protective device 34a, in particular at least the mat element 10a, is provided to cover a surface 12a of the embankment over a large area. The protective device 34a, in particular at least the mat element 10a, is in the form of a sheet and can be rolled up for transport. In order to cover the surface 12a to be protected, webs of the protective device 34a, in particular at least the mat element 10a, are unrolled on the surface 12a, connected to one another at the side edges of individual webs and spread out and attached to the surface 12a to be protected by means of tensioning ropes and anchoring elements 36a. Fig. 1a shows a use of the

Protective device 34a, in particular of the mat element 10a in the case of a new greening and / or a renewed greening of the surface 12a. Use as an erosion protection mat for ungreened sloping surfaces or as a drainage mat in or on a ground is also conceivable. 1b shows an alternative use of a protective device 34'a for protecting agricultural products, in this case of fruits 72a, in which the protective device 34'a is placed directly at a cultivation location between the fruits 72a and the ground, so that the fruits 72a do not lie directly on the damp and / or dirty ground. 2 shows a schematic plan view of the mat element 10a. The mat element 10a shown by way of example in FIG. 2 has a weight per unit area of less than 400 g / m ² . The mat element 10a comprises a plurality of fibers 16a. The multiplicity of fibers 16a forms a composite 14a. The composite 14a with the plurality of fibers 16a extends three-dimensionally (cf. FIG. 3). The composite 14a with the plurality of fibers 16a has a thickness 38a. The thickness 38a shown by way of example in FIG. 3 is approximately 4 cm. The composite 14a with the multiplicity of fibers 16a is fleece-like. The composite 14a with the plurality of fibers 16a forms a nonwoven fabric. The composite 14a with the multiplicity of fibers 16a is like a tangled fleece. The composite 14a with the multiplicity of fibers 16a forms a random-layer nonwoven fabric. The mat element 10a is formed from the fleece-like composite 14a of the plurality of fibers 16a.

The fibers 16a of the composite 14a are designed as biodegradable fibers 16a. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a are designed as plastic fibers 16a. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a are designed as biodegradable plastic fibers 16a. The biodegradation of the biodegradable plastic fibers 16a takes place more slowly than a biodegradation of natural fibers such as reed fibers,

Jute fiber or coconut fiber. A maximum of 10% of the mat element 10a, in particular the fibers 16a, is / are biodegraded and / or disintegrated under controlled composting conditions (according to DIN EN ISO 14855: 2004-10) within a period of one year. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a comprise a biodegradable polylactide plastic (PLA). The fibers 16a of the composite 14a consist of the biodegradable PLA plastic. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a have a specific weight which is greater than the specific weight of water. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a are drawn. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a are pre-drawn. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a have specifically admixed color pigments (not shown). The color pigments are biocompatible. The color pigments are biodegradable. 4 shows a detailed view of a section of the mat element 10a. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a, which forms the mat element 10a, comprise a first fiber type 18a with some of all fibers 16a. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a, which forms the mat element 10a, comprise a second fiber type 40a with a further part of all fibers 16a. The fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a and the fibers 16a of the second fiber type 40a differ substantially from one another. The fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a and the fibers 16a of the second fiber type 40a have substantially different finenesses. The fibers 16a of the fiber type 18a, 40a with the higher fineness form friction fibers to increase the tensile strength of the mat element 10a. The fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a have a significantly higher fineness. The fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a form the friction fibers in the illustrated case.

In FIG. 5, one fiber 16a of the first fiber type 18a and one fiber 16a of the second fiber type 40a are shown by way of example. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a are preformed. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a are pre-lingered. The fibers 16a have an average length 20a, 42a of at most 20 cm. The fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a and the fibers 16a of the second fiber type 40a have substantially different average lengths 20a, 42a. In the case shown by way of example in FIG. 5, the fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a have an average length 20a of 15 cm. In the case shown by way of example in FIG. 5, the fibers 16a of the second fiber type 40a have an average length 42a of 7 cm. The fibers 16a of the composite 14a have an average diameter 22a, 44a of less than 2 mm. In the case shown by way of example in FIG. 5, the fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a have an average diameter 22a of approximately 0.2 mm. The fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a thus form the friction fibers. In the case shown by way of example in FIG. 5, the fibers 16a of the second fiber type 40a have an average diameter 44a of approximately 1 mm. The fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a have a first type and / or mixture of Color pigments which give the fibers 16a of the first fiber type 18a a first coloration (indicated by a first hatching). The fibers 16a of the second fiber type 40a have a second type and / or mixture of color pigments, which gives the fibers 16a of the second fiber type 40a a second color (indicated by a second hatching). The first coloration differs significantly from the second coloration. The first color is a shade of brown, for example. The second color is a shade of green, for example. The different first and second colors are intended to create a camouflage effect in combination.

6 shows a flow chart of a method for setting the protective device 34a in position, in which the mat element 10a is produced as the fleece-like composite 14a from the multiplicity of biodegradable plastic fibers 16a. In at least one method step 46a, the fibers 16a, in particular the fibers 16a of both fiber types 18a, 40a, are produced from the biodegradable plastic (eg PLA), preferably spun and / or extruded. In at least one further method step 48a, the biodegradable plastic fibers 16a are drawn. The fibers 16a are drawn in process step 48a before the fleece-like composite 14a is fused. When the fibers 16a are stretched, polymer chains in the interior of the fibers 16a are partially aligned, which leads to partial crystallization of the fiber material, in particular to an increase in a partially crystallized portion of the fiber material and thus to a reinforcement of the fibers 16a (see also the illustration of FIG Stretching in Fig. 7). In at least one further optional method step 50a, the biodegradable plastic fibers 16a are deformed and / or lingered. The fibers 16a are pre-deformed and / or pre-dwelled in method step 50a before the fleece-like composite 14a is fused. In at least one further method step 52a, the biodegradable plastic fibers 16a are cut to defined lengths 20a, 42a. In at least one further process step 54a, the fibers 16a, in particular the fibers 16a of the two fiber types 18a, 40a, are turned into the nonwoven composite 14a, in particular the Nonwoven fabric. The nonwoven composite 14a, in particular the nonwoven fabric, is produced in method step 54a, for example, by needling. As an alternative or in addition, other known (mechanical, chemical and thermal) methods for producing the nonwoven fabric from the fibers 16a are also conceivable (for example calendering, hydroentanglement, stitchbonding, etc.).

The stretching effect is illustrated in FIG. 7. In the upper drawing of FIG. 7, an undrawn fiber 16a, the polymer chains of which are essentially disordered and / or undirected, can be seen. In the lower drawing of FIG. 7, a drawn fiber 16a can be seen, the polymer chains of which are essentially straightened and / or directed. By straightening the polymer chains, an increase in a partially crystallized proportion of the fibers 16a and thus a strengthening of the fiber 16a can be achieved.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, whereby with regard to identically labeled components, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, in principle also to the drawings and / or the description of the other exemplary embodiments, in particular FIGS to 7, can be referenced. To distinguish the exemplary embodiments, the letter a is placed after the reference numerals of the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 1 to 7. In the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 8 to 14, the letter a is replaced by the letter b.

8 shows a plan view of an alternative protective device 34b. The alternative protective device 34b has a mat element 10b. The mat element 10b is formed from a fleece-like composite 14b with a multiplicity of fibers 16b, the fibers 16b being formed as biodegradable plastic fibers 16b. The alternative protective device 34b has a reinforcing element 24b. The reinforcement element 24b is formed like a network. The reinforcement element 24b is above the mat element 10b arranged. The reinforcement element 24b is designed as a wire mesh 28b. The wire mesh 28b comprises a wire 30b which is formed entirely from a high-strength steel. The wire mesh 28b has a three-dimensional, mattress-like structure. The wire mesh 28b is formed from flat coils twisted into one another, which form diamond-shaped or square meshes.

9 shows a side view of the alternative protective device 34b with the reinforcing element 24b. The reinforcement element 24b is connected to the mat element 10b. The reinforcement element 24b is sewn to the mat element 10b. The alternative protective device 34b comprises a connecting element 26b. The alternative protective device 34b comprises a multiplicity of at least essentially structurally identical connecting elements 26b. The connecting element 26b is provided to connect the mat element 10b and the reinforcing element 24b to one another. The reinforcing element 24b is sewn to the mat element 10b by means of the connecting element 26b. In a horizontal orientation, as shown by way of example in FIG. 9, the mat element 10b hangs on the connecting elements 26b below the reinforcing element 24b. The mat element 10b and the reinforcement element 24b do not touch each other. The mat element 10b and the reinforcing element 24b are spaced apart from one another. The connecting element 26b is designed to be biodegradable. The connecting element 26b is designed to be biocompatible. The connecting element 26b is provided to disintegrate in the event of exposure to the weather. The mat element 10b is provided to detach itself from the reinforcing element 24b after the connecting element 26b has been released. The mat element 10b is provided, after being detached from the reinforcement element 24b, to spread out in a tightly fitting manner over a surface 12b to be protected.

FIG. 10 shows a flow chart of a method for producing the alternative protective device 34b. In at least one method step 56b the mat element 10b is produced as described in the method disclosed in connection with FIG. 6. In at least one further method step 58b, the mat element 10b is connected to the reinforcement element 24b. In method step 58b, the mat element 10b is sewn to the reinforcement element 24b. In method step 58b, the mat element 10b is sewn to the reinforcement element 24b.

11 shows a significantly simplified schematic representation of a lowering position device 60b for lowering the alternative protective device 34b. The lowering position device 60b is designed as a type of sewing machine.

The lowering position device 60b comprises an unwinding device 62b with a rolled up mat element 10b and an unwinding device 64b with a rolled up reinforcing element 24b. The mat element 10b and the reinforcing element 24b are unrolled in a synchronized manner from the unwinding devices 62b, 64b and fed to a sewing device 66b of the lowering device 60b. The sewing device 66b is provided to sew the mat element 10b and the reinforcing element 24b to one another, in particular to connect them to one another by means of the connecting element 26b.

FIG. 12 shows a lateral section, comparable to FIG. 1a, through an alternative slope protection 32b with the alternative protective device 34b immediately after the alternative protective device 34b has been installed on the surface 12b. The mat element 10b is also connected to the reinforcing element 24b by means of the connecting element 26b.

FIG. 13 shows a flow chart of a method for assembling the alternative protective device 34b. In at least one method step 68b, the mat element 10b connected to the reinforcing element 24b by the connecting element 26b is installed on the surface 12b to be protected by means of anchoring elements 36b. The alternative protective device 34b is installed in method step 68b in such a way that the mat element 10b is arranged between the surface 12b to be protected and the reinforcement element 24b is. In at least one method step 70b, which can in particular run independently or provoked by rainfall or the like, the connecting element 26b is dissolved after installation by water and / or UV radiation. In method step 70b, the mat element 10b is separated from the reinforcing element 24b and sinks downwards. In most of the usual installation positions, the mat element 10b will automatically lie as closely as possible over the surface 12b to be protected.

FIG. 14 shows the lateral section shown in FIG. 12 through an alternative slope securing 32b after the connecting elements 26b have been undone. The mat element 10b is no longer connected to the reinforcement element 24b. The mat element 10b rests on the surface 12b. The flexible mat element 10b nestles against the surface 12b. In the state shown in FIG. 14, the mat element 10b develops its maximum erosion protection effect, while the reinforcement element 24b mainly serves to protect against falling rocks and / or larger surface slides.

Reference number

10 mat element 12 surface 14 composite 16 fiber 18 first fiber type 20 length 22 diameter 24 reinforcement element 26 connecting element 28 wire mesh 30 wire

32 Embankment protection 34 Protective device 36 Anchoring element 38 Thickness 40 Second fiber type 42 Length 44 Diameter 46 Process step 48 Process step 50 Process step 52 Process step 54 Process step 56 Process step 58 Process step 60 Production device 62 Unwinding device 64 Unwinding device 66 Sewing device Process step Process step fruit

Claims

Expectations

1. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b), in particular erosion protection device and / or drainage device, preferably geotextile, with a mat element (10a-b), which is provided at least to be spread over a surface (12a-b) to be protected and which is formed at least to a large extent from an, in particular three-dimensional, fleece-like, in particular tangled fleece-like, composite (14a-b) with a plurality of fibers (16a-b), characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) are designed as biodegradable plastic fibers.

2. Protection device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) comprise a biodegradable polylactide plastic (PLA).

3. Protective device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least a substantial part of all fibers (16a-b) of the composite (14a-b) are stretched, in particular pre-stretched.

4. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a substantial part of all fibers (16a-b) of the composite (14a-b) are pre-deformed and / or pre-lingered.

5. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mat element (10a-b) has a weight per unit area of less than 400 g / m ² .

6. Protection device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one essential

Part of all fibers (16a-b) has a specific weight which is greater than the specific weight of water.

7. Protection device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) have an average length of at most 20 cm.

8. Protection device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to one of the preceding

Claims, characterized in that at least a substantial part of all fibers (16a-b) of the composite (14a-b), in particular specifically admixed, has color pigments which are biocompatible and / or biodegradable.

9. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a substantial part of all fibers (16a-b), in particular all of the fibers (16a-b) forming the composite (14a-b) , have a diameter (22a-b) of less than 2 mm.

10. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) have at least a plurality of fibers (16a-b) of a first fiber type (18a-b) and at least one A plurality of fibers (16a-b) of a second fiber type (40), the fibers (16a-b) of the first fiber type (18a-b) and the second fiber type (40a-b) differing significantly from one another.

11. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to claim 10, characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) of the first fiber type (18a-b) and the fibers (16a-b) of the second fiber type (40a-b ) have significantly different subtleties.

12. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to claim 11, characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) of the fiber type (18a-b, 40a-b) with the higher fineness are friction fibers to increase the tensile strength of the mat element ( 10a-b) train.

13. Protection device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) of the first fiber type (18a-b) and the fibers (16a-b) of the second fiber type (40a-b) have significantly different, in particular average, lengths (20a-b, 42a-b).

14. Protective device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the fibers (16a-b) of the first fiber type (18a-b) have a first type and / or mixture of color pigments, which gives the fibers (16a-b) of the first fiber type (18a-b) a first coloration and that the fibers (16a-b) of the second fiber type (40a-b) have a second type and / or mixture of color pigments which have the Fibers (16a-b) of the second fiber type (40a-b) gives a second color which is different from the first color.

15. Protection device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to claim 14, characterized in that the first coloration and the second coloration are provided to produce a camouflage effect in combination.

16. Protective device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at most 10% of the mat element (10a-b) is biodegraded and / or disintegrated under controlled composting conditions after a period of one year.

17. Protection device (34b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an, in particular net-like, reinforcing element (24b) which is connected to the mat element (10b).

18. Protection device (34b) according to claim 17, characterized in that the reinforcing element (24b) is arranged above and / or below the mat element (10b).

19. Protection device (34b) according to one of claims 17 or 18, characterized by at least one connecting element (26b) which is provided to connect the mat element (10b) and the reinforcing element (24b) to one another.

20. Protection device (34b) according to claim 19, characterized in that the connecting element (26b) is biodegradable.

21. Protection device (34b) according to one of claims 19 or 20, characterized in that the connecting element (26b) is provided to dissolve in the event of exposure to the weather.

22. Protection device (34b) according to one of claims 17 to 21, characterized in that the reinforcing element (24b) is sewn to the mat element (10b).

23. Protection device (34b) according to one of claims 17 to 22, characterized in that the reinforcing element (24b) is designed as a wire mesh (28b).

24. Protection device (34b) according to claim 23, characterized in that the wire mesh (28b) comprises at least one wire (30b) which is at least partially formed from a high-strength steel.

25. Protection device (34b) according to one of claims 17 to 24, characterized in that the reinforcing element (24b), in particular the

Wire mesh (28a-b), has a three-dimensional, mattress-like structure.

26. Embankment protection (32a-b) with a protective device (34a; 34’a; 34b) according to one of the preceding claims.

27. Use of the protective device (34a; 34'a; 34b) according to one of claims 1 to 25 in the case of a new greening and / or a re-greening of a surface (12a-b), in particular sloping and / or at risk of erosion, as an erosion protection mat for a Ungreened, sloping surface (12a-b), as a drainage mat in or on a floor or on a building roof and / or to protect agricultural products, for example fruits (72a-b), directly at a cultivation site.

28. A method for producing a protective device (34a; 34'a; 34b), in particular erosion protection device and / or drainage device, preferably geotextile, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that a mat element (10a-b) which It is provided at least to be spread over a surface (12a-b) to be protected, as an, in particular three-dimensional, fleece-like, in particular tangled fleece-like, composite (14a-b) is produced from a large number of biodegradable plastic fibers (16a-b) .

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that the biodegradable plastic fibers (16a-b) are drawn before the production of the nonwoven composite (14a-b).

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the biodegradable plastic fibers (16a-b) are pre-deformed, in particular pre-dwelled, before the production of the nonwoven-like composite (14a-b).

31. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, characterized in that the mat element (10b) is connected, in particular sewn, to a reinforcing element (24b), in particular a mesh-like reinforcement element.

32. A method for assembling a protective device (34b), in particular

Erosion protection device and / or drainage device, preferably geotextile, according to one of claims 23 to 25, wherein a mat element (10b) connected to a reinforcing element (24b) by a connecting element (26b) is installed on a surface (12b) to be protected in such a way that the Mat element (1 Ob) is arranged between the surface to be protected (12b) and the reinforcing element (24b), and wherein the connecting element (26b) is dissolved by weathering after installation, so that the mat element (10b) from the reinforcing element (24b) is separated and lies as closely as possible over the surface to be protected (12b).