An Experimental Investigation of Leakage through Composite Liner due to Geomembrane Defects

Abstract

The most popular method currently in use is landfill disposal. Landfill lining structures play a key role in creating a buffer between the waste and the environment. We are one of the key components of landfill design and construction. The composite liner's geomembrane portion is almost impervious to liquid flow, defects in the geomembrane can occur even when construction and assembly are closely tested. Quantifying the risk of leakage through the composite liner is very important because of a geomembrane fault as it may contaminate the surrounding area. In this analysis the effect of liquid head, low permeability bentonite thickness and increase in defect hole diameter on discharge through the geomembrane defect was studied. An analytical equation is proposed based on the study.