Self-Healing Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCLs) | Engineered Pond & Reservoir Liners

3.1 Phase 1: Design and Subgrade Preparation

Site Assessment & Subgrade Preparation: All sharp objects (stones, roots, debris) must be removed from the subgrade. The foundation must be graded, smoothed, and compacted to achieve the specified firmness and level surface tolerance (typically within ±25 mm) to provide uniform support and prevent stress concentration on the GCL liner.

Drainage System Design: In areas with high groundwater tables, a subsurface drainage network should be designed and installed to relieve potential uplift pressure on the lining system.

Protection Layer Specification: To safeguard the geosynthetic clay liner during installation and service life, it is standard practice to install a layer of non-woven geotextile both above and below the GCL as a cushion. A layer of sand or other selected granular material may also be used as the overlying protection layer.

3.2 Phase 2: GCL Installation

Panel Deployment: Unroll GCL liner sheets across the pond base and slopes with the bentonite clay side facing down (towards the subgrade). Sheets should be laid smoothly, avoiding excessive wrinkles. On slopes, installation should proceed from the top down along the slope contour to minimize slippage.

Seaming and Sealing (Critical Step): Adjacent rolls must be overlapped sufficiently (typically 150-300 mm). The key to creating a continuous barrier is the application of supplemental granular bentonite into the overlap area (recommended application rate: ≥0.4 kg/m²). Upon hydration, this added bentonite will swell with the core material to form a continuous, seamless bentonite clay seal across the seam, superior to a simple physical overlap.

Patching and Anchoring: Any damage incurred during handling or installation must be repaired using a GCL patch extending at least 300 mm beyond the damaged area, with supplemental bentonite applied at the patch perimeter. The liner must be securely anchored in a trench at the top of slopes and around the perimeter.

3.3 Phase 3: Covering and Filling

Immediate Covering: The installed geo clay liner must be covered with the specified protection layer as soon as possible (typically within 48 hours and under dry conditions) to prevent premature hydration from rain or wind damage.

Controlled Filling: Filling is necessary to activate the GCL's impermeable function. The pond should be filled slowly and evenly from the lowest point to allow the liner to conform to the subgrade under hydrostatic pressure and ensure uniform, complete hydration of the bentonite. Direct high-velocity water discharge onto exposed GCL should be avoided.

Construction Quality Control (CQC): A systematic check must be performed and documented for subgrade smoothness, seam overlap width, supplemental bentonite application rate, and anchorage integrity. Photographic documentation of critical stages is recommended.

Long-Term Performance Monitoring: Once fully hydrated, the GCL system delivers long-term stability. Maintenance focuses on preserving the protective cover soil to prevent erosion and monitoring water levels. The liner's self-healing capability effectively addresses minor stresses and settlements over time.

 

1、What's in it for you when you choose us?

Certification: CE/ISO 9001/GRI GT13/ASTM

15-day delivery: Direct from our Shandong manufacturing base (F.O.B. Qingdao Port)

2、Pre-sample production is always performed before mass production;

Final inspection is performed before shipment;

If you have any questions about us or our products, please feel free to contact us.

3、Can we provide samples? Is there a charge?

Yes, we can provide samples free of charge, but we won't cover the shipping costs.

If you place an order after confirming the sample, we will refund the shipping fee or a portion of the order value.