Fifth Canadian Geotechnical Colloquium: Control of contaminant migration by the use of liners
Procedures satisfactory for the design of seepage control liners for hydraulic structures are not generally sufficient for the design of pollution control liners, where the primary intent is mitigation of contaminant migration effects on the environment. Contaminant migration rates and concentrations are controlled by seepage rate, dispersion and diffusion processes, and attenuation mechanisms such as filtration, precipitation, adsorption, and biodegradation. Both liner and subsoil (or bedrock) properties affect contaminant migration; thus, both should be considered as part of the overall liner system. Mechanisms for controlling migration are limited by the perceived extent of the liner system. Typical liner materials include compacted clays, admixes, polymeric membranes, spray-ons, and sealants. The field hydraulic properties, liner thickness, and liner–fluid compatibility should be considered in design