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How to Install Bentonite Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCL)?

Release time:

2025-03-28

Bentonite Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) are widely used in artificial lakes, ponds, landfills, and underground structures due to their excellent self-sealing and waterproofing properties. However, proper installation is crucial to ensure long-term performance. This guide covers the step-by-step process of installing Bentonite Geosynthetic clay liners, including preparation, laying techniques, seam sealing, and post-installation care.

Bentonite Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) are widely used in artificial lakes, ponds, landfills, and underground structures due to their excellent self-sealing and waterproofing properties. However, proper installation is crucial to ensure long-term performance. This guide covers the step-by-step process of installing Bentonite Geosynthetic clay liners, including preparation, laying techniques, seam sealing, and post-installation care.

Bentonite waterproof blanket installation

1. Pre-Installation Preparation

1.1 Surface Inspection & Leak Repair

The base (usually concrete or compacted soil) must be smooth, clean, and free of sharp objects.
Repair any cracks or leaks in the concrete before installation.

1.2 Material & Tools Preparation

Bentonite GCL rolls (typically 6m wide x 30m long, weighing 500-1000kg per roll).
Heavy machinery (excavator, forklift) for handling rolls.
Bentonite powder & sealing paste for joint treatment.
Nails, washers, and geotextile patches for fixing and repairs.
A flat staging area (≥100 m²) for unrolling and cutting.

2. Step-by-Step Installation Process

2.1 Unrolling & Positioning

Start from the lowest point (e.g., the deepest part of a lake) and unroll upwards.
On slopes, secure the top edge and let the blanket roll down naturally.
On flat surfaces, use an excavator with a 6m-long pipe attachment to unroll smoothly.

2.2 Overlapping & Seam Sealing

Side & end overlaps must be 25-30cm.
Apply bentonite powder (10cm wide, 0.5cm thick) between layers.
Seal external edges with bentonite paste to prevent water seepage.

2.3 Fixing on Slopes & Vertical Surfaces

Use galvanized nails + washers (spaced 30-50cm apart) to prevent slippage.
Seal nail holes with bentonite paste.
Round off inside corners to avoid stress points.

2.4 Detailing Around Pipes & Structures

Apply 5mm-thick bentonite paste around pipes before covering with GCL.
Ensure 100mm overlaps at corners, sealed with paste.

3. Post-Installation Inspection & Protection

3.1 Quality Check

Inspect for tears, wrinkles, or loose areas.
Repair damaged spots with bentonite patches & sealant.

3.2 Immediate Backfilling

Cover with clay or soil (≥30cm) to protect from UV and mechanical damage.
Avoid vehicle traffic on exposed GCL.

3.3 Filling with Water

Fill the lake within 24-48 hours to activate uniform swelling.
Ensures a continuous gel barrier for maximum waterproofing.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Poor overlap sealing → Leads to leaks.
❌ Delayed backfilling → Causes drying & cracking.
❌ Heavy machinery on unprotected GCL → Damages the blanket.
❌ Insufficient slope anchoring → Causes slippage.

Conclusion

Proper bentonite Geosynthetic clay liners installation requires careful planning, correct overlapping, and immediate protection. Following these steps ensures a durable, leak-proof barrier for ponds, lakes, and containment systems.

For high-quality bentonite GCLs and professional installation advice, contact Tai'an Wandefu Polymer Composite Materials Co., Ltd.today!

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How to Install Bentonite Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCL)?

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