Currently, the majority of embankments, bulkheads and water controlling structures are made of steel, concrete or wood. These traditional products are expensive and require continuous maintenance.
Concrete can crack, exposing steel reinforcement to the risk of rust. Moreover, it is rarely installed at the correct depth. Steel rusts and requires continuous maintenance. If wood is chemically treated, there is the risk of release of the chemical treatment into the water supply. In addition, wood needs to be constantly maintained to limit damage from UV rays and brackish water.