Wednesday 4 November 2026

ECAB 

ECAB (Erosion Control Armoured Block) have successfully defended the coastline from the fiercest of Atlantic storms such as Ophelia and Eowyn. 

ECAB was developed and tested at the Marine and Renewable Energy Institute (MaREI) in University College Cork under the watchful eye of Dr. Jimmy Murphy, Professor of Offshore Renewable Energy. 

It is a specially designed concrete block that interlocks with its neighbouring blocks to form extremely strong, effective protection against coastal erosion. 

Research & development 

Recent research at the Marine and Renewable Energy Institute (MaREI) in University College Cork have led to increased knowledge in the design, construction and installation of revetments for coastal protection. This research was carried out under the supervision of renowned climate specialist Dr Jimmy Murphy, Professor of Offshore Renewable Energy.  

Projects  

There are ECAB Revetments installed across throughout Ireland. These revetments have stood the test of numerous storms that have attacked our coastlines since the 1990s. Older revetments have blended into the environment, where the stones have aged and Marram grass has grown through. This is important in visually sensitive areas.

Testimonial from Cork County Council:  

“Construction on site had to be programmed to coincide with low tides, which resulted in a programme of 4 weeks on site. The contract for the ECAB revetment works was within budget and within programme.” 

USPs:
•    Dissipates wave energy and low reflection minimises impact to beach life
•    Faster to Install
•    Sustainable solution with lower carbon footprint than alternatives
•    Up to 50% cost savings are achievable 
•    Interlocking system => less maintenance
•    Longer Life Blocks (estimated to last 200 years+) 
•    Safer for Beach visitors, in particular children
 

Visit the ECAB website here: https://www.ecab.ie/

View the ECAB Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/ecabcoastalprotection/

View more ECAB projects in this short video: