Geosynthetics in artificial pond design: new approaches and technologies

Geosynthetics are widely used in the current construction thanks to their unique properties that make them indispensable for construction of artificial ponds. These materials play an important role in waterproofing, leakage prevention, bank reinforcement and enhancement of the structure durability. 

Contents

Geosynthetics Types

Benefits of Geospan use

Geospan assisted reservoir construction stages

Conclusions

Geosynthetics types

Various synthetics are used to address various tasks in building artificial reservoirs. They can be classified into several main types:

1. Volumetric geogrid

Volumetric geogrid is a modern 3D material in the form of cells made of a strong polymer. The main benefits of the material include durability and resistance to deformation and UV rays. Geogrid is used for:

• A reservoir bank strengthening with erosion prevention;
• Stabilization of soil under a reservoir;
• Construction of a reliable foundation for the reservoir decorative elements.

Geospan GC (GCP) use is particularly effective where there is a high risk of land slides and a shoreline wash-out.

2. HDPE Geomembranes

HDPE Geomembranes are flexible, water impermeable coatings made of high-density polyethylene. They are widely used in waterproofing thanks to the following properties:

• high resistance to chemical agents;
• long service life (over 25 years);
• high puncture and tear strength.

Geospan M geomembranes are used to make fully waterproofed reservoir foundations preventing water leakage into the soil.

3. Geocomposites

Geocomposites are combined materials consisting of geomembrane and geotextile. They perform several functions at once, such as:

• waterproofing;
• protection from mechanical damage;
• filtration and drainage.

Geospan GT PP WA Type1 and Type 2 ideally fit complex hydraulic projects, including multilayer structures requiring intensified leakage protection. These materials provide stability even under substantial load conditions.

4. Woven geotextiles

Woven geotextiles are made of strong synthetic fibers to ensure their high tensile strength.  Application:

• separating layers between soil and decorative elements.

Geospan GT PP geotextiles are used in reservoir construction as well as dam reinforcement preventing soil wash-out.

5. Thermally bonded geotextiles

Thermally bonded geotextiles are characterized by enhanced tensile strength and resistance to aggressive agents. They are used for construction of drainage systems in artificial reservoirs.

Thanks to thermal bonding of its fibers, Geospan BB geotextile demonstrates high resistance to ground water impact and to mechanical loads.

Geospan use benefits

The main benefits of Geospan geosynthetics use are:

• Reliability. All the materials are exposed to strict quality control ensuring high structure reliability.
• Ecofriendliness. The products are made from environmentally safe materials thus minimizing ecological footprint.
• Multipurposeness. A wide variety of materials allows their use in all types of projects, from decorative ponds to industrial reservoirs.
• Durability. The materials are resistant to external impacts including UV rays, chemical agents and extreme temperatures.

Geospan assisted reservoir construction stages

In order to reach the optimal effect of Geospan geosynthetics use, it is necessary to do the work in a proper manner and follow all the stages:

1. Base preparation. Removal of vegetation, soil levelling and laying of a levelling sand layer.
2. Geospan GT PP geotextile laying. This prevents mechanical damage of a waterproofing layer.
3. Geospan M geomembrane installation. The geomembrane is laid with the seams overlapped and then welded by special equipment.
4. Geospan M geomembrane installation. The geomembrane is laid with the seams overlapped and then welded by special equipment.
5. Installation of Geospan BB-assisted drainage systems. The drainage system provides an effective evacuation of surplus water and prevents stagnation.
6. Finishing operations. Filling the reservoir with water, waterproofness check and the bank planting.

Conclusions

Geospan geosynthetics provide a wide range of solutions for artificial reservoir construction. Their use allows development of reliable, durable and ecofriendly hydraulic installations. The variety of materials, such as geomembranes, geogrids, geotextiles and geocomposites, makes them a multi-purpose choice for a project of any complexity. Geospan’s innovative technologies and many years of experience guarantee a high quality and compliance with the current requirements for reservoir construction.