Long term hydraulic performance of oxidized exposed and covered bituminous geomembranes

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study aiming at quantifying the evolution of water flow rates through oxidized bituminous geomembranes, uncovered or covered. The flow rate was measured with the experimental device from the NF EN 14150 standard, adapted in some cases for flow measurement. Variable results were obtained depending on the presence or absence of a protection on the geomembrane and on the exposure conditions. The recommendation arising from the results obtained is to cover oxidized bituminous geomembranes in order to ensure a good hydraulic performance of these materials in the long term.