Performance Analysis of GCLs as Barriers-A Review

Abstract

Geosynthetic clay liner has been used over a decade to stave off problems such as leaching of hazardous chemicals from landfill containments which otherwise could cause ecological issues and endanger the environment. Low permeability is a highly desirable property for use as a liner material in landfills to effectively control the seepage of highly contaminated leachate which can pollute the soil and groundwater in the vicinity. GCLs contain bentonite essentially, which has a high montmorillonite content imparting swelling characteristics. The usage of GCLs is booming day by day in engineered landfills and they are being extensively researched on their different characteristics such as hydraulic conductivity, diffusion characteristics, mechanical properties, reaction to various chemicals, and durability. This paper presents an overview of the major findings on the critical aspects affecting the various characteristic properties of GCLs. The performance of GCLs upon coming in contact with a higher concentration of salts considering the actual composition of leachate has also been dealt in this study.