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Geosynthetics-Sodium bentonite geosynthetic clay liner

Description Specifications Scope of Application FAQ Download

Description

The mineralogical name of bentonite is montmorillonite. Bentonite has the property of water swelling, and sodium-based bentonite adsorbs five times its own weight of water when it meets water,and its volume expands to more than 15-17 times of the original, locking the sodium-based bentonite in the middle of two layers of geosynthetic materials. It plays the role of protection and reinforcement, so that GCL could have a certain overall shear strength. YH Geosynthetic Clay Liners(GCL) is a new type of geosynthetic material. It is a blanket - like waterproof roll material made by mixing bentonite particles and corresponding admixtures as raw materials, and fixing the bentonite particles between the sodium bentonite blanket and the plastic woven cloth through a needling process. The bentonite waterproof blanket not only has the characteristics of geosynthetic materials, but also has waterproof (anti - seepage) performance. We can not only provide ordinary sodium-based bentonite waterproof blankets, but also natural sodium-based bentonite waterproof blankets. Their physical and chemical properties are extremely stable. They are resistant to aging, microorganisms, and corrosion. They will not deteriorate even if buried underground for hundreds of millions of years, and their durability far exceeds that of the structure itself.

Specifications

Characteristics and Packaging

Item	Description
Packaging	Roll
Width (m)	3~6
Length (m)	30~50
Roll Size (m2/roll)	90~300

Properties

Properties		Unit	Inspection Standards	Product Specification
Properties		Unit	Inspection Standards	NP	OF
Mass Per Unit Area		g/㎡	ASTM D 5993	4000	4000
Cover layerMass per unit area		g/㎡	ASTM D 5621	220	220
Currier layer Mass per unit area		g/㎡	ASTM D 5621	110	110
Bentonite Swell index		ml/2g	ASTM D 5890	24	24
Bentonite Fluid Loss*		ml	ASTM D 5891	18	18
Tensile Strength		N/100mm	ASTM D 4595	600	700
Elongation at Break		kN/m	ASTM D 4595	10	10
Peel Strength	Nonwoven Cloth and Woven Cloth	N/100mm	ASTM D 6496	40	40
Peel Strength	PE Film and Nonwoven Fabric	N/100mm	ASTM D 6496	/	30
Hydraulic Conductivity*		m/s	ASTM D 5887	5*10-11	5*10-12

Application Instructions

【Construction Technology】

Base inspection→On-site measurement and lofting→Laying-Lap treatment→Inspection and acceptance

【Construction key points】

Installation Requirements:

· The installation of bentonite waterproof membranes should be mechanically executed with manual assistance.

· During application, joints between layers must be staggered to avoid continuous gaps. For vertical surfaces or slopes, use nails with washers to secure the membrane against sliding.

· Lay the membrane along slopes without cross seams; overlap layers vertically to prevent water infiltration. At slope tops, embed materials into anchor trenches and backfill.

· Field installations require overlapping edges. When using geomembranes as one layer, weld them. Longitudinal and transverse overlaps should be at least 250mm wide, with minimum end overlap of 500mm. Apply bentonite powder or granules (0.5-1kg/m) between overlapping layers and spray water for adhesion.

· Replace damaged sections entirely or cut new rolls to fit gaps above and below. New sections should overlap at least 300mm around damage areas. Before laying new sections, apply bentonite powder or paste around damaged zones.

· Avoid contact with non-polar liquids. After installation, promptly introduce water to the covered area to ensure complete hydration.

Advantages

· Excellent water-swellable performance, high compactness, and long-lasting waterproof effect.

· Simple construction, wide range of applicable construction temperatures, and versatile applications.

· Bentonite is a natural inorganic material that does not undergo aging, featuring good durability. It causes no adverse impact on the environment and is eco-friendly.

Scope of Application

Mainly used in artificial lakes and water features, landfills, underground garages, roof gardens, ponds, oil depots and chemical dumps.

FAQ

Q1: What is a geomembrane?

A geomembrane is a synthetic membrane liner or barrier used to control fluid migration in a wide range of civil, environmental, and industrial applications.
Q2: Why should I choose a geosynthetic barrier instead of traditional clay liners?

Geosynthetics offer superior impermeability, faster installation, reduced thickness requirements, and higher chemical resistance compared to traditional compacted clay liners.
Q3: How long does a geomembrane last?

Depending on the material and environmental conditions, service life can range from 30 to over 100 years.
Q4: Is it safe for drinking water or sensitive environmental applications?

Yes, certain geomembranes are certified safe for potable water use and meet environmental regulations like NSF or GRI-GM standards.
Q5: What factors should be considered when selecting a geomembrane?

Key factors include chemical resistance, mechanical strength, UV resistance, site conditions, expected service life, and installation method.
Q6: How thick should the geomembrane be?

Common thicknesses range from 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm, depending on application requirements and site-specific conditions.
Q7: Are there international standards or specifications for geomembranes?

Yes, ASTM, ISO, and GRI (Geosynthetic Research Institute) standards provide guidelines for testing and performance.