Concrete Protective Liner 101

Concrete, a fundamental construction material, faces significant challenges when exposed to corrosive elements, especially in underground environments. At Engineered Containment, we specialize in Concrete Protective Liners (CPL), essential for maintaining the integrity and longevity of concrete structures.

Importance of CPL

Concrete is susceptible to various forms of degradation, such as spalling, incrustation, abrasion, leakage, and corrosion. Each of these can significantly reduce the service life of concrete structures. CPLs are designed to address these issues by providing a durable barrier that protects the concrete from environmental and chemical damage.

Types of CPL Materials

CPL materials include thermoplastics like PVC, HDPE, polypropylene, and advanced polymers such as ECTFE and PVDF. Each type offers specific benefits, including chemical resistance, flexibility, and temperature tolerance, making them suitable for different applications.

Application Areas

CPLs are widely used in water and wastewater treatment plants, sanitary sewers, vaults, and other infrastructure exposed to harsh conditions. They are suitable for both new constructions and retrofitting existing structures to enhance durability and functionality.

Services Offered by Engineered Containment

Material Supply

We provide high-quality CPL materials tailored to meet specific project requirements. Our extensive inventory ensures timely availability and reliability for any project scale. This supply of material is specifically for precast concrete producers. Concrete protective liner should never be installed and welded by uncertified parties.

Design Support

Our expert team offers comprehensive design support, assisting engineers in selecting appropriate CPL materials and designing systems that maximize protection and efficiency. Our focus is on a 100 year design service life and the use of our EC-Fit 100™ System.

Installation & Installation Support

We ensure correct CPL application through expert installation services. Additionally, we provide support for contractors during installation to ensure adherence to best practices.

Quality Assurance & Control (QA/QC)

We follow strict QA/QC protocols to ensure all CPL installations meet the highest standards of durability and performance, safeguarding your infrastructure investments. This includes protocols by various CPL manufacturers such as AGRU (Ultragrip & Suregrip) and Solmax (Studliner). But more importantly, in includes the protocols set forth by IAGI (International Association of Geosynthetic Installers) and our internal (and more rigorous) protocols that form part of the EC-Fit 100™ System.

Challenges Addressed by CPL

Spalling and Incrustation

Spalling, the flaking of concrete, and incrustation, the buildup within concrete reducing flow capacity, are common issues in concrete infrastructure. CPLs provide a protective barrier, preventing these forms of degradation.

Abrasion and Leakage

Abrasion can wear down concrete, exposing rebar and leading to structural failure. Leakage through exfiltration or infiltration can erode pipes, causing failures. CPLs enhance abrasion resistance and prevent leakage, maintaining structural integrity.

Corrosion Protection

Corrosion, especially microbial induced corrosion (MIC), is a significant threat to concrete structures. MIC, common in wastewater environments, results from the conversion of hydrogen sulfide gas to sulfuric acid by bacteria, leading to severe concrete degradation. CPLs offer robust protection against various types of corrosion, extending the service life of concrete structures.

The Science Behind Concrete Protection: Key fINDINGS

Concrete used in sanitary applications without protection is prone to various forms of degradation, which significantly impacts its durability. The primary factors affecting its longevity include exposure to aggressive environments such as acidic conditions, alkalis, and saline water. Here are some key findings from relevant research:

1. Chemical Resistance:

   • HDPE geomembranes are highly resistant to chemical degradation. Studies show that HDPE liners withstand a variety of aggressive chemical environments, including exposure to acids, bases, and organic solvents without significant deterioration. This resistance ensures that concrete structures remain protected in sanitary applications (Peggs, 2010).

2. Physical Durability:

   • The mechanical properties of HDPE liners, such as high tensile strength and flexibility, contribute to their effectiveness in protecting concrete. They provide a barrier to prevent water ingress and chloride penetration, which are common causes of concrete deterioration (Basheer & Cleland, 2011).

3. Longevity:

   • HDPE liners have demonstrated long-term durability, with service lives estimated to range from several decades to centuries, depending on the specific environmental conditions and installation quality. In landfill applications, for example, HDPE liners have been projected to last between 200 and 750 years (Rowe & Sangam, 2002).

4. Performance Under Stress:

   • HDPE liners maintain their integrity under various stresses, including those from mechanical loads during construction and thermal variations during operation. Proper installation techniques, such as adequate welding and anchoring, are crucial to prevent failures (Bakeer et al., 2001).

5. Case Studies and Practical Applications:

   • HDPE liners have been successfully used in various practical applications, such as lining reservoirs and wastewater treatment plants. These installations have shown that HDPE liners effectively prevent leaks and protect the underlying concrete from chemical attacks and physical wear (Ng, 2008).