Geomembranes – synthetic membranes used in conjunction with geotechnical engineering materials – are increasingly relied on for soil, water, and waste containment. HDPE, LLDPE, EVA, PVC, and CSPE compounds are the most commonly used varieties; each offering different thicknesses, surface treatments, and shades. This makes it possible to customize the geomembrane to suit any specific requirement.

Around the globe, HDPE geomembranes are revered for their remarkable ability to combat ultraviolet rays, bad weather, and chemical exposures. These trusted membranes come in black, white, and green. For superior puncture- and tear-resistance, many opt for LLDPE – which is available in the same shades as HDPE. When it comes to tolerating chemicals and UV radiation, PVC stands out from the pack – and comes in black and white.

Most commonly, geomembranes are created through an extrusion process which begins with the melting of a polymer resin into a malleable form before forcing it through a die to form a sheet. Once cooled, that sheet is rolled to the necessary thickness. Calendering, another method for creating geomembranes, employs heated rollers to manipulate the polymer resin into a sheet that is then rolled to the desired dimensions after cooling.

Geomembranes can either be loose-laid or held fast through materials such as anchors, plates, and fasteners. The former is placed on the substrate and kept in position by a bed of soil or sand, while the latter is secured to the base with any combination of aforementioned elements.

To ascertain the permeability of a geomembrane, the most regularly utilized test is known as the double ring infiltrometer test. This technique involves the application of two separate rings of soil – one on top, and the other underneath – of the geomembrane. When water is added to the top layer of soil and permitted to filter through to the lower layer, it triggers a measurement of the flow rate which then contributes to computing the permeability of the geomembrane.

Learn About the Multi-Faceted Uses of Geomembranes

Geomembranes are invaluable tools for waste containment, specifically used in places like landfills, lagoons, and other related facilities. They create powerful barriers to ensure the hazardous materials stay within their designated area.

Geomembranes are used to line reservoirs, canals, and other structures built to retain or contain water.

In order to secure ponds and additional remediation systems, geomembranes provide a supplemental barrier between the environment and the areas of need.

In heap leach mining, geomembranes are used to line the ponds that contain the cyanide solution which enables extraction of gold from ore.

Shielded by geotextiles, geomembranes are kept safe from punctures and tears. Geotextiles are breathable fabrics used to filter, separate, reinforce, protect, and drain. Their incorporation allows for unfettered purpose and steady effectiveness.

For countless geotechnical projects, geomembranes are essential components. Their purpose is to contain and manage materials such as water, waste, and other substances. At any given time, these membranes can be sourced in multiple materials, colors, and thicknesses.

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