Industry Case Analysis: The Role of Geosynthetic Clay Liners in Modern Infrastructure Projects
Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) have become a cornerstone solution in environmental containment and civil engineering due to their superior performance, ease of installation, and cost-efficiency. A geosynthetic clay liner typically consists of a layer of bentonite clay sandwiched between geotextiles or bonded to a geomembrane, providing a low-permeability barrier ideal for applications such as landfills, mining, and water containment. Mining Containment in Australia In Western Australia, GCLs were deployed extensively in a copper mine tailings dam. The challenge was to prevent seepage of acidic leachates into the surrounding soil and groundwater. Engineers selected GCLs because of their high chemical resistance and self-sealing capabilities. The result was a stable, long-term barrier system that met strict environmental standards with minimal maintenance. Landfill Liners in the United States A major municipal solid waste landfill in California implemented ge...