Environmental Geotechnics
Permeability of barrier materials
barriers formed using compacted clay-rich soils are an integral part of containment strategies for many types of waste in the context of groundwater protection. However, difficulties arise in measuring the very low hydraulic conductivity values required by codes of practice and EU and national waste management legislation. Traditionally, performance is assessed on the basis of in-situ infiltration tests and/or laboratory hydraulic conductivity measurements although there is much uncertainty about the practicality of these tests and the accuracy of the results. The research project aims to develop a practical and reliable method(s) to assess the hydraulic conductivity of these barrier materials over their design life, including the controlling engineering properties, and to assess the suitability of different source materials available in Ireland for barrier construction.