InfraClay3300G: Somersby, NSW Waste Transfer Station Remediation

Case Studies

// Case Studies • Geosynthetic Clay Liner (GCL)

InfraClay3300G: Somersby, NSW Waste Transfer Station Remediation

The Project

The project at a waste transfer station in Somersby, NSW, demanded an urgent remediation solution to prevent groundwater contamination – a critical environmental concern. The expansive project covered an area of 35,000 square meters, designated for the construction of a building waste recycling complex. Given the substantial size and environmental sensitivity of the undertaking, the chosen solution required effective containment capabilities, ease of installation, and cost-efficiency.

Challenges

The primary challenge was to select a liner system that could provide a low permeability barrier to protect the groundwater while being cost-effective and suitable for the scale and timeframe of the project. The choice was between a traditional High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) liner known for its durability and chemical resistance and a Bentonite Geosynthetic Clay Liner (GCL) renowned for its natural sealing properties and quick installation process. While HDPE liners are recognized for their longevity and robustness against physical and chemical threats, their installation typically necessitates skilled technicians and welding equipment, which can introduce significant costs and potential delays. In contrast, the InfraClay3300G GCL offers a simpler and quicker deployment, which is crucial for phased projects with strict timelines.

// Our Solution

InfraClay3300G was recommended and ultimately selected for its several distinct advantages, particularly in the context of Somersby's waste transfer station: Natural Sealing Capability: The InfraClay3300G incorporates bentonite, a clay material that expands upon contact with water, forming a low-permeability seal. This self-healing feature makes it exceptionally effective at preventing the migration of contaminants. Ease of Installation: Unlike HDPE, which requires heat welding of seams and is labor-intensive, InfraClay3300G can be rolled out and overlapped without the need for specialized equipment or personnel, significantly reducing installation time and labor costs. Cost-Effectiveness: Considering both the material and installation costs, InfraClay3300G presents an economical solution, especially for a project of this magnitude and under the operational constraints dictated by the project’s stages. Environmental Compatibility: Given its natural clay component, InfraClay3300G is environmentally benign, a critical factor for a project focused on sustainability and environmental protection. The deployment of InfraClay3300G at the Somersby site proceeded over three months, adhering to the planned stages. The liner's flexibility and ease of handling facilitated its installation in the varying topographical and soil conditions encountered across the site. Following the liner installation, a 500mm thick protective embankment fill was applied and compacted, completing the containment structure. The InfraClay3300G installation at the Somersby waste transfer station exemplifies how modern geotechnical solutions can align with the urgent environmental needs and operational demands of large-scale industrial projects. By leveraging the unique properties of the InfraClay3300G GCL, the project successfully mitigated potential environmental risks, demonstrating the material's effectiveness and reinforcing its position as a reliable option in the field of environmental remediation.