Drainage systems utilize geomembranes in order to control water flow, prevent erosion, and manage the transporation of sediment and contaminants. These waterproof liners are often used to line drainage channels and ditches so that the liquid is unable to seep into the surrounding soil. Preventing water infiltration prevents erosion and water loss as the liquid is transported to its destination. Mining activities can generate large amounts of sediment that can clog drainage systems and degrade water quality. Geomembranes are used as barriers and liners to trap and settle suspended particles within liquid. These liners are used to capture sediment-heavy water and allowing the water to clarify before moving on in the system.
Mining operations can produce highly contaminated water that may have heavy metals, acids, and chemicals within. Geomembranes are essential in the creation of containment areas like leach pads or waste storage facilities. These geomembranes are used as liners to prevent the contaminated water from moving further into the environment and polluting the ecosystem.
