Geosynthetic Clay Liner (GCL) - Sodium Bentonite Needle-Punched Liner India

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Geosynthetics & Civil InfrastructureASTM D6766GRI-GCL3

Auroguard Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCL) consist of a sodium bentonite layer (4.5–6.0 kg/m²) needle-punched between two geotextile carrier fabrics — a woven PP cover geotextile and a non-woven PP carrier geotextile. When hydrated, the sodium bentonite swells to form an extremely low-permeability barrier (≤5×10⁻¹¹ m/s), equivalent to approximately 1m of compacted clay. GCLs are specified for municipal solid waste landfill bottom liner systems, industrial effluent pond liners, canal anti-seepage lining, water reservoir containment, and as a cost-effective alternative to compacted clay liners where suitable native clay is unavailable on site. Significantly thinner and lighter than CCL, GCL installation requires no heavy compaction equipment.

Technical Specifications

ParameterSpecification
Bentonite Content4.5–6.0 kg/m² (sodium bentonite)
Hydraulic Conductivity≤ 5×10⁻¹¹ m/s (ASTM D6766)
Hydrated Swelling Index≥ 24 mL/2g (ASTM D5890)
Peel Strength≥ 65 N/100mm (GRI-GCL3)
Internal Shear Strength≥ 25 kPa @ 50kPa normal (ASTM D6243)
Mass per Unit Area (dry)4,500–6,000 g/m²
Roll Width4.5m / 5.0m
StandardASTM D6766, GRI-GCL3

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Geosynthetic Clay Liner (GCL) used for?
A GCL is a low-permeability barrier used as an alternative to or in combination with compacted clay or HDPE geomembrane in landfill liner systems, water reservoir lining, canal lining, and secondary containment. When hydrated, sodium bentonite swells to form an impermeable layer.
What is the hydraulic conductivity of a sodium bentonite GCL?
When hydrated with fresh water, needle-punched sodium bentonite GCLs achieve hydraulic conductivity ≤ 5×10⁻¹¹ m/s (equivalent to 1m of compacted clay), tested per ASTM D6766. Conductivity increases with saline or calcium-rich leachate, which must be accounted for in design.
How is a GCL installed?
GCL panels are dry-installed by overlapping adjacent rolls by 150–300mm with bentonite paste or granules applied to the overlap zone. The GCL is then covered with a geomembrane or fill layer. No welding or adhesives are needed; bentonite self-seals at overlaps when hydrated.
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