Methods for detecting and locating imperfections in geomembranes

Abstract

Different electrical and ultrasonic leak detection systems are presented allowing to detect holes in geomembranes. A definition of the word "hole" is given first. Then, the measurement principle of each system is given, together with the calibration protocol, the conditions of use, the installation feasibility, the limits of validity, the description of results obtained and the way they are presented, the method sensitivity. Electrical methods are applicable to non-conductive geomembranes (polypropylene, polyethylene, polyvinylchloride, bituminous) and ultrasonic methods to high density polyethylene and bituminous geomembranes.