Secondary containment is a major challenge for every outdoor waste storage project, but it’s particularly hard for landfill operators. Trying to predict where a leak or spill may occur can seem downright impossible when dealing with a site that stretches out over 40 to 50 acres or more. The sheer surface area of a modern landfill makes secondary containment intimidating. However, it’s easier than it might seem with correct landfill cell placement and lining. Using the right impermeable liner material in each cell creates an interconnected containment system that is easily supported with just a little additional lining in key areas. The same impermeable geomembranes used to line the cells themselves, double as the ideal material for implementing any mandated secondary containment.
Leak Detection Systems
The first level of containment in any modern landfill cell tends to be built right into the primary liner itself. Almost all new landfill liner systems are complex units that include a layer for leachate accumulation built right in. These systems will also include sensors that detect if any liquids migrate past the impermeable liner barrier. Based on simple electrical conductivity technology, these detection systems are sensitive enough to catch leaks early before they’ll cause extensive remediation costs. However, they do require regular maintenance and inspection. This can make them infeasible to use on aging sites that are getting less attention. They must also be installed from the start and are hard to retrofit on older landfill cells that are already filled or capped.
Lining for Utility Corridors, Paths, and More
In order to contain leachate that may overflow, rather than leaking through the bottom of the pit, it’s important to line all the surrounding low-lying areas leading in and around the landfill. This includes paths and utility corridors cutting through and between the individual cells. These kinds of overflows often occur after one or more cells have been closed, but while other cells are still in operation. This means the site is likely to be in use and potentially at risk for damage or injuries if the leaks aren’t contained. Installing impermeable liners along all low-lying areas that double as drainage areas will ensure that leachate is easily cleaned up and pumped out when the flooding event is over.
Secondary containment is always tricky, but the scale of most landfills can make it expensive as well. Try using the same affordable RPE and RPP liners available from BTL Liners that you’re already ordering for primary containment in the landfill cell. These materials are tough enough for exposed installation if that makes secondary containment easier and more affordable for your project. Contact our team today for more information on custom manufacturing to ensure we can provide just the right materials for your needs.
Conclusion
Designing a landfill cell is a challenge, but it’s worth the effort to keep municipal waste leachates from causing long-term environmental damage. With both liner and cover materials available from the same source at BTL Liners we are ready to assist you with the industry leading products to meet your project needs.
