BIDIM C PROTECTS WATER STORAGE WITH RELIABLE LEAK DETECTION AT SA MINE

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Fluid storage tanks serve many purposes in the mining industry, including at well heads, fluid processing facilities, irrigation water storage, dust suppression, construction water, potable water, and grey water at camps. They are also suitable for wash down bays.

At this South Australian mine site, our client required two double-lined brine water storage tanks. The goal was to implement a lining containment system that would reduce design and construction time, lower costs, and minimise environmental impacts compared with traditional regulated dam construction.

OUR SOLUTION

The tanks were lined with Bidim C conductive non-woven geotextile, providing reliable leak detection and effective water retention. The primary liner retained water, while a composite layer of Bidim C and geonet allowed for leak testing and directed any water through potential liner holes. A secondary leak detection liner captured and drained leaks to the internal sump, and a Bidim® A34 geotextile cushion protected the liner from damage. For comparison, a traditional copper wire and wetted geotextile system was also installed on the secondary liner.

Traditional methods require wetting the geotextile and can produce false leak reports. Bidim C geotextile eliminates the need for water and allows accurate testing at any time, with multiple operators able to work simultaneously. Most liner holes are caused by handling or creasing rather than welding or factory patches, and Bidim C is compatible with any geomembrane type, unlike other conductive membranes.

This project demonstrated that Bidim C reduces installation costs, saves water, and provides faster, more reliable leak detection, offering an efficient and environmentally sensitive solution for fluid storage tanks, especially at remote mining sites.

PRODUCT USED

Bidim® C Conductive Non-Woven Geotextile

• A strong three-dimensional structure with high elongation, providing excellent filtration and acts as a cushion to subgrade
•  Effective and economical leak detection surveys for geomembrane lining systems using Arc testing for holes and defects as small as 0.2mm
• Durable with a high melting point and high UV resistance due to Bidim polyester properties
• Simple installation with no heavy machinery, equipment or special skills required