Rehabilitation of the watertightness of navigable canals using geomembranes

Abstract

A series of studies conducted since 1996 on the use of geomembranes to rehabilitate the watertightness of navigable canals is presented. These studies concern feedback on experience (analysis of fourteen projects in France) and the carrying out of an in situ experiment on a canal bank. They also enable us to make a technical and economic analysis of the main systems that are currently possible to protect the geomembrane (concrete slabs, treated gravel, gravel and rock and suspended systems) and to propose a decision-making flowchart to guide the choice of system. An interesting example of rehabilitation on Rigole de l'Arroux is presented in details.