Locating leaks in geomembrane-lined ponds using the electrical leak location method: Case histories

Results from seven years of electrical leak location methods applied to geomembrane-lined ponds to locate leaks are presented. Inspections were conducted on 195 projects designed with single (n = 74), double (n = 120), or triple (n = 1) liners. These projects are located in the U.S.A. (n = 159), Canada (n = 30), and Mexico (n = 11). All inspections were conducted on full ponds, which resulted in the detection and repair of 1230 leaks during the study period across an analyzed area of 322 ha. From 2015 to 2021, the average was 14 leaks/ha, with values ranging from 0 to 689 leaks/ha. The results reveal that larger inspected areas (greater than 2 ha) tend to have fewer leaks. 63% of projects had up to 5 leaks/ha. 15% of projects had more than 20 leaks/ha. The results of this study could influence landfill designers, operators, and environmental agencies in defining new practices for designing and operating geomembrane-lined ponds.