Long-term performance of bituminous geomembranes for waste containment and mining applications

Geomembranes (thin sheets that can be polymeric or bituminous), are used as the liners in waste containment
and mineral extraction facilities to protect the surrounding environment from contaminant migration. Environmental
awareness and high demand for mineral resources increased the demand for geomembranes and have created
economic opportunities for Canadian companies with an estimated revenue of the geomembrane market reaching
$417 million in 2022. This project seeks to understand how bituminous geomembranes will interact with
aggressive field conditions found in geoenvironmental application by examining their long- and short-term
properties. The proposed work aims to reduce the risks associated with the current uncertainty regarding their
performance to provide more effective and reliable groundwater and surface water protection. Partnership with a
leading geosynthetic installer will provide them with a rigorous understanding on the factors that affect the
geomembrane performance in the field to expand existing and develop new markets for their specialized products.

Faculty Supervisor:

Fady Abdelaal

Student:

Partner:

Titan Environmental Containment

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction and infrastructure; Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Queen's University

Program: