Commonly used materials for constructing secondary containment barriers include concrete, steel, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and geosynthetic liners. Concrete is durable and suitable for permanent containment structures, while steel provides strength and flexibility for movable or modular barriers. HDPE offers resistance to chemicals and corrosion, making it a popular choice for lining containment areas. Geosynthetic liners, such as geomembranes and geotextiles, provide an impermeable layer that prevents oil from seeping into the ground.
Additionally, earthen berms and dikes made of compacted soil are economical and widely used for temporary containment. The choice of material depends on factors such as the scale of the containment area, the type of oil being stored, budget constraints, and the required lifespan of the secondary containment system.
