Discussion Topic : Geomembrane Failure

We had this case, where a 40-mils texturixed HDPE geomembrane failed after being exposed for about 4 to 5 years, some hypotesis were discussed:

  1. a combination of sun exposure, poor benching and wind gusts
  2. since some areas were kind of salt stained it may add exudation
  3. failures during installation process
  4. defective membrane rolls 

Failures observed along or parallel to the seams, in some cases, change direction across the seams and tear the panel appart in the cross section. Test performed during installation passed or were mostly ok. in some cases where NDT or DT indicated a failure, seams were seamed by extrusion, however, failures observed were along this portions.

Test  to veryfy the quality of the membrane and seams were condcuted on samples recovered from site and all parameters are within especifictions, although some exhibited a dinminish from expected results they are still above minimum values, which might be expected after the exposure time and conditions, this case occurred in a semiarid region where temperature can reach about 40 to 42 °C. with High UV exposure.

Have someone faced to a similiar case? 

 

Kind Regards

 

 

 

 

Posted: 24/02/2023 19:16
Jose Genovevo Robledo