Geosythetic Clay Liner

The Geosynthetic Clay Liner (GCL) made of sodium-based bentonite is a new type of geosynthetic waterproof material. The following is a detailed introduction to it:

Material Composition

• Sodium-based Bentonite: It is the core component of the waterproof blanket and has the characteristic of swelling when exposed to water. The sodium-based bentonite particles are specially screened and processed, featuring high purity, high expansibility, and good colloidal properties.

• Geotextile: Usually made of synthetic fibers such as polypropylene or polyester, it has good tensile strength, tear resistance, and water permeability. The geotextile is located on the upper and lower surfaces of the waterproof blanket. Its main function is to fix the bentonite particles, prevent them from being lost, and enhance the overall strength and stability of the waterproof blanket.

• Plastic Woven Fabric (Optional): Some sodium-based bentonite waterproof blankets have a layer of plastic woven fabric in the middle to further improve the strength and puncture resistance of the waterproof blanket and enhance its durability during construction and use.

Working Principle

When sodium-based bentonite comes into contact with water, it will swell and form a high-density and low-permeability gel-like substance. This gel-like substance can fill the pores and cracks in the base layer, preventing the penetration of water, thus achieving the function of waterproofing. Under the restriction of the two layers of geotextile, the expansion of bentonite is more uniform and orderly, and the formed waterproof layer is denser and more stable. Even if there are minor deformations or cracks in the base layer, the expansion of bentonite can promptly fill and repair them, ensuring the durability of the waterproof effect.

Product Features

• Excellent Waterproof Performance: The Geosynthetic Clay Liner made of sodium-based bentonite has an extremely low coefficient of permeability, generally reaching below \(10^{-11}\) m/s, which can effectively prevent water seepage and achieve remarkable waterproofing results.

• Strong Self-healing Ability: It has a strong self-healing ability. For minor cracks, holes, and other defects in the base layer, it can automatically repair them through its own expansion, ensuring the integrity of the waterproofing system.

• Simple Construction: The construction process is relatively simple. There is no need for special construction equipment or complex construction techniques. It can be directly laid on the base layer and then properly fixed and connected. The construction speed is fast, which can save a large amount of time and labor costs.

• Strong Adaptability: It can adapt to various different construction environments and base layer conditions. Whether it is a wet base layer or cold climate conditions, it can be constructed normally and exhibit good performance.

• Environmentally Friendly and Non-toxic: Taking natural sodium-based bentonite as the main raw material, it contains no harmful substances, is harmless to the human body and the environment, and meets environmental protection requirements. It can be widely applied in various engineering fields with high environmental protection requirements.

Application Areas

• Water Conservancy Projects: Such as the anti-seepage projects of reservoirs, dams, canals, and pools, etc. It can effectively prevent water leakage, protect water resources, and ensure the safe operation of water conservancy facilities.

• Landfills: As the anti-seepage liner of landfills, it can prevent the leakage of landfill leachate from polluting groundwater and the surrounding soil, and protect the environment from pollution.

• Mining Projects: Used for the anti-seepage treatment of tailings ponds to prevent the leakage of harmful substances in the tailings and avoid polluting the surrounding environment.

• Construction Projects: In construction projects such as basements, tunnels, and subways, it can be used as a waterproof and moisture-proof material to improve the waterproof performance of buildings and extend the service life of buildings.

• Agricultural Projects: Such as the anti-seepage of aquaculture ponds like fish ponds and shrimp ponds, as well as the anti-seepage treatment of agricultural irrigation channels. It can reduce the waste of water resources and improve the utilization efficiency of water resources.