Gabions are wire mesh cages or baskets filled with stones, gravel, or similar materials, widely used in civil engineering, landscaping, and environmental protection. Their basic function is to provide flexible, permeable, and durable structures for retaining soil, preventing erosion, and stabilizing slopes and riverbanks. Because of their simple composition and modular form, they are easy to transport, assemble, and adapt to different terrains and project requirements.The structure of a gabion typically consists of galvanized steel wire or PVC-coated steel wire woven or welded into rectangular or cylindrical units. These units are divided into internal compartments, called diaphragms, to prevent the fill material from shifting and to maintain the shape of the cage. Once placed on site, they are filled with hard, durable stones or other suitable aggregates, usually sourced locally to reduce cost and environmental impact.Gabions are widely applied in hydraulic engineering, such as river training, bank protection, and channel lining. Their permeable nature allows water to pass through the structure, reducing hydrostatic pressure behind retaining walls and minimizing the risk of structural failure. At the same time, the gaps between the stones dissipate the energy of flowing water, helping to reduce scouring and protect the underlying soil.In road and railway engineering, gabions are commonly used as retaining walls for embankments and cuttings, as well as for slope stabilization. Compared with rigid concrete walls, gabion walls exhibit a high degree of flexibility, enabling them to withstand differential settlement and minor ground movements without cracking. This makes them particularly suitable for areas with poor soil conditions or regions prone to landslides and earthquakes.From an environmental and aesthetic perspective, gabions offer notable advantages. Over time, soil and organic matter accumulate in the voids between the stones, allowing vegetation to grow naturally. This process leads to a more natural appearance, better integration with the surrounding landscape, and improved habitat for small animals and plants. In ecological restoration projects, gabions often serve as a framework for re-establishing stable, vegetated banks and slopes.Installation of gabions is relatively straightforward and does not usually require heavy machinery. The empty cages are placed in position, laced or clipped together, and then filled with selected stones, either by hand or with mechanical assistance. Once filled and properly tied, adjoining units form a monolithic mass that is heavy, stable, and resistant to weathering. With appropriate design, material selection, and maintenance, gabion structures can provide long service life and cost-effective performance in a wide range of engineering and landscaping applications.