The installation of a mining geomembrane involves several steps to ensure proper placement, alignment, and secure attachment. Site Preparation: The area where the geomembrane will be installed needs to be properly prepared. This typically involves clearing vegetation, removing any debris or sharp objects, and grading the surface to achieve a smooth and even substrate. Subgrade Preparation: The subgrade refers to the soil or foundation on which the geomembrane will be placed. It should be properly compacted and leveled to provide a stable base. Any rocks, roots, or sharp objects that could potentially damage the geomembrane should be removed. Geomembrane Unrolling: The geomembrane rolls are delivered to the site and positioned near the installation area. Unrolling the geomembrane should be done carefully to avoid damage. The rolls are typically placed at one end of the installation area and gradually unrolled across the designated area. Anchoring and Seaming: The geomembrane needs to be securely anchored to prevent movement or displacement. Various methods can be used, such as burying the edges, using anchor trenches, or employing ballast materials like sandbags or concrete blocks along the edges. Seaming of the geomembrane is done using specialized welding equipment to join individual panels together. The seams must be properly heated and fused to ensure a watertight and durable connection.
Penetrations and Fixtures: If there are existing structures or penetrations in the installation area, such as pipes or posts, these need to be accommodated by properly sealing them with compatible geomembrane materials or specialized boots to maintain the integrity of the liner. Quality Control and Testing: Throughout the installation process, quality control measures should be implemented to ensure the geomembrane is properly installed. This can include visual inspections, spark tests, seam integrity tests, and leak detection surveys to verify the integrity and performance of the liner. Backfill and Cover: Once the geomembrane is securely installed and tested, the area can be backfilled or covered with the appropriate materials, such as soil, rock, or geotextiles, depending on the project requirements. This provides additional protection and stability to the geomembrane.
