What Is Geomembrane? What Is It Used For, and How Is It Installed?
Geomembranes are used to waterproof all kinds of spaces in civil engineering, industrial and even private projects.
A geomembrane is an impermeable liner that is thin yet extremely strong.
This sheet is produced in thicknesses of 1, 1.5 and 2 mm. Keep in mind that the thicker the geomembrane, the less flexible it is.
With proper care, geomembrane sheets last 30 to 50 years, which gives them a longer service life than other waterproofing materials.
Geomembranes are plastic liners and may be one of the following types:
1- HDPE
HDPE is the most common type of geomembrane. This material is highly resistant to chemicals and environmental stresses.
2- LDPE
This type is very flexible and is used where installation is difficult.
3- PVC
It has chemical resistance but a shorter life than the two types above, and of course it is also cheaper.
4- PP
It has very high chemical and thermal resistance and is used in applications involving corrosive chemicals or high temperatures.
In Iran, many companies produce two-layer LDPE/HDPE geomembranes — but are the properties of both materials preserved?
The answer is no.
When these sheets are produced, the two materials mix, some of their inherent properties are lost and the desired result is not achieved.
That is when we took the initiative and started producing three-layer geomembrane sheet.
Relying on creativity and state-of-the-art machinery, Ara Polymer Nikan has succeeded in producing a geomembrane sheet that not only has three layers but also preserves the inherent properties of both materials.
In this process, LDPE and HDPE are not blended; they are fused side by side with a very strong weld, with an HDPE layer in the middle and two LDPE layers on either side.
HDPE provides the strength, while LDPE provides elasticity and excellent weldability.
This sheet is produced exclusively by Ara Polymer Nikan.
Where Can Geomembrane Be Used?
Geomembranes are used in:
1- Lining earthen ponds
Because geomembrane sheets are highly impermeable, they have become standard for agricultural water-storage ponds and fish-farming ponds.
Water scarcity is the most pressing issue in Iran today, and geomembrane helps protect this national resource.
2- Chemical storage reservoirs
In industries looking for a way to stop chemicals leaking into the environment, these sheets are a lifesaver.
Geomembrane is used in storage reservoirs for chemical waste.
3- Building foundations:
Today, geomembrane sheets are replacing traditional waterproofing materials.
Tar-and-burlap and bitumen membranes are traditional waterproofing methods, but because of their weaknesses, building project owners are increasingly choosing geomembrane.
Long service life, very high elasticity and easy installation have made geomembrane prominent in the construction industry.
4- Tunnels and metro lines:
Geomembranes are used to waterproof tunnels and metro construction. As a moisture barrier, geomembrane prevents water from seeping in as a result of tunnel excavation.
5- Waterproofing rooftop gardens:
Using rooftop space has become very important in building construction today.
Waterproofing roof gardens is the biggest challenge in this field, and geomembranes have solved it.
Geomembrane is used to waterproof planters, water features and pools.
How Is Geomembrane Installed?
Geomembrane sheets are joined together with a special welding machine to create a completely sealed surface.
For proper installation, remember that the smoother the subgrade, the longer the sheet will last.
If the subgrade is not in suitable condition, a geotextile is laid as a protective layer for the sheet.
Conclusion
Geomembrane sheet is a waterproofing material that has proven itself over the years and is now available to industry as a reliable material.
Iran is currently experiencing drought, and lining agricultural ponds is extremely important.
Older materials also waste money and time — and this is where geomembrane steps in as the hero of waterproofing.
Given the importance of this material, Ara Polymer Nikan has begun producing three-layer geomembrane sheets and has achieved outstanding results in laboratory tests.
