Topic:

Detecting Defects with Liner Integrity Surveys

Course Overview

Liner integrity surveys are essential for maintaining the performance of containment systems in landfills, tailings dams, and water storage facilities. Conductive geotextiles enable the detection of even the smallest defects in geomembrane liners, helping to reduce environmental risks and avoid costly repairs.

In this presentation, Ryan Hackney will introduce Bidim C, a conductive non-woven geotextile designed to support effective liner integrity surveys. He will outline key benefits, including simple installation without the need for welding, the ability to detect pinholes as small as 0.2 mm, and compatibility with all types of geomembranes. Case studies will be highlighted to demonstrate its use across a variety of projects, offering practical insights for engineers, designers, and installers seeking innovative solutions for containment systems.

Speaker

Ryan Hackney is the Mining and Environmental Manager for Geofabrics Australasia and has more than 18 years of experience with geosynthetic testing, analysis, development, and applications. He is passionate about the role geosynthetics play in protecting the environment and how these construction materials can be used as an economical and sustainable alternative to traditional construction methods. Ryan has a bachelor’s degree in Geological Sciences and a master’s degree in Engineering Geology obtained at the University of Leeds in the UK. He is the past Secretary, and current Vice President of the Australasian Chapter of the International Geosynthetics Society.

Learning Outcome:

• Learn about the benefits of conducting leak location surveys
• Identify where to install conductive geotextile
• Explore the differences between conductive geotextile and conductive geomembrane
• Understand standardised ASTM for leak location