The foundation of any modern mining treatment plant is the bottom liner. Installed below any equipment or ponds designed for processing holding mining materials and waste, this is the primary containment method for preventing spills and losses of valuable products. The bottom liner is typically made from a geomembrane material, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), that is designed to be impermeable and prevent the movement of liquids or gases through the material. The liner is installed in multiple layers, with each layer designed to provide an additional level of protection against leaks or damage.
The primary purpose of a bottom liner in a mining operation is to prevent contamination of the surrounding ecosystem and water sources. Waste materials generated by mining operations can contain a wide range of hazardous substances, including heavy metals, acids, and other chemicals. If these materials were to leak into the surrounding environment, they could cause significant harm to wildlife, plant life, and human populations. The bottom liner acts as a barrier to prevent these materials from leaching into the soil or groundwater, and ensures that they remain contained within the waste containment facility or tailings pond.
