Types of Geomembrane
Geomembrane is a very low permeability synthetic membrane barrier, sheet, or liner used within soils so as to control fluid (liquid or gas) migration in a human-made project, structure, or system. Depending on the parent resin used, several types of geomembranes are available. The most commonly used geomembranes are listed below.
► HDPE Geomembrane
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is characterized by strong UV/temperature resistance, inexpensive material cost, durability, and high resistance to chemicals.
It is the most commonly used geomembrane because it offers higher thickness which other geomembranes don’t. HDPE is the preferred choice for pond and canal lining projects, landfill, and reservoir covers.
Thanks to its chemical resistance, HDPE can be used in storing potable water.
► LLDPE Geomembrane
LLDPE (Linear Low-Density Polyethylene) geomembrane is made with virgin polyethylene resins which make it strong, durable, and resistant to UV & low temperature.
Engineers and installers who require an impermeable geomembrane usually opt for LLDPE as it offers more flexibility compared to HDPE.
They are used in industrial applications, such as animal & environmental waste containments as well as liquid storage tanks.
► PVC Geomembrane
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) geomembranes is a thermoplastic waterproofing material made with vinyl, plasticizers, and stabilizers.
When ethylene dichloride is cracked into a dichloride, the result is then polymerized to make the polyvinyl chloride resin used for PVC geomembranes.
PVC geomembrane is tear, abrasion, and puncture-resistant, making them suitable for constructing canals, landfills, soil remediation, wastewater lagoon liners, and tank linings.
The material is also perfect for maintaining potable drinking water and preventing contaminants from entering water sources.
► TRP Geomembrane
A TRP (Reinforced Polyethylene) geomembrane uses polyethylene fabric for long-term water containment and industrial waste applications.
TRP geomembranes are an ideal choice for soil remediation, landfills, canals, lining temporary retaining ponds, agricultural & municipal applications due to their low-temperature range, chemical resistance, and ultraviolet stability.
► RPP Geomembrane
RPP (Reinforced Polypropylene) geomembranes are polyester-reinforced liners made from a UV-stabilized polypropylene copolymer that gives the material stability, chemical resistance, and flexibility.
Its strength and durability can be traced to the support it gets with nylon scrim. RPP geomembranes are ideal for long-term water containment and industrial waste applications.
RPP is perfect for municipal applications, evaporation pond liners, aqua & horticulture, and mine tailings.
► EPDM Geomembrane
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) geomembrane has a rubber-like texture that makes for its durability, UV-stability, strength, and flexibility. They are ideal for extreme weather conditions and for resisting punctures. EPDM geomembranes are easy to install, typically used as surface barriers for dams, liners, covers, backyard landscape, and other irrigation sites.