Landfills Can't Do Without It—PVC Waterproof Fabric

Introduction

PVC waterproof fabric (also known as PVC coated fabric) is the core material of modern landfill impermeability systems. Its polymer barrier properties effectively prevent harmful leachate from polluting the soil and groundwater.

During the accumulation process, municipal solid waste landfills generate large amounts of leachate. This liquid contains high concentrations of organic matter, heavy metals, and pathogens. If it seeps into the soil or groundwater, it will seriously damage the ecological environment and human health. According to the national standard "Technical Standard for Impermeable Systems of Municipal Solid Waste Sanitary Landfills" (GB/T51403-2021), impermeability systems must use high-efficiency materials to construct a sealing barrier to ensure "zero leakage" of leachate. PVC waterproof fabric, due to its superior impermeability and chemical stability, has become a key material for landfill linings and capping layers.

Why is PVC waterproof fabric so suitable?

High Impermeability and Durability: PVC waterproof fabric uses polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as its base material, reinforced with polyester mesh or directly coated to form a composite structure. Its water vapor permeability coefficient is lower than K≤1.0×10−13cm2⋅s⋅Pa, almost completely preventing liquid penetration. Its molecular structure is highly stable, resistant to acids, alkalis, and ultraviolet rays, and its service life can reach more than 10 years in the highly corrosive environment of landfills, far superior to ordinary polyethylene materials.

Flexibility and Deformation Resistance: Landfill base layers may crack due to settlement or temperature changes. PVC waterproof fabric has an elongation rate of up to 700%, adapting to base layer deformation without cracking. For example, in landfill closure projects, PVC waterproof fabric can be used as a capping layer material, combined with geotextiles to form a flexible impermeable system.

Balancing Environmental Protection and Economic Benefits: Compared to traditional HDPE geomembranes, PVC waterproof fabric production processes consume less energy, reducing costs by approximately 50%. Furthermore, its materials are recyclable, meeting green engineering requirements, and significantly reducing the risk of secondary pollution, especially in the ecological restoration of closed landfills.

Specific Applications of PVC Waterproof Fabric in Landfill Projects

PVC waterproof fabric is often combined with geotextiles and bentonite waterproof blankets to form composite linings, such as a "two-layer geotextile, one-layer membrane" structure (i.e., two layers of geotextile sandwiching a layer of PVC membrane). This enhances both mechanical protection and drainage efficiency.

After landfill closure, a cover layer is needed to control rainwater infiltration and gas escape. PVC waterproof fabric, as an impermeable layer, combines with drainage networks, vegetation, and soil to form a closed cap. For example, some projects use 0.7mm thick PVC impermeable fabric, with a tensile strength exceeding 2100N/5cm, capable of withstanding soil pressure and natural weathering.

Emergency Protection and Temporary Closure: For simple landfill structures, PVC tarpaulins can be used as temporary covering materials to prevent rainfall from exacerbating leachate formation. Their lightweight nature facilitates rapid installation, and the surface can be treated with a non-slip finish to withstand inclement weather.

Conclusion

From base lining to landfill closure, PVC tarpaulins, with their reliable impermeability and economic efficiency, have become the "invisible guardians" of environmental protection in landfills. With technological advancements and improved standards, they will continue to play a crucial role in solid waste management.