Application of impervious geomembranes to control seepage in dams and improve long time behaviour

Since 1959, synthetic waterproofing geomembranes have been effectively used to control seepage and uplift in all types of dams up to 198 m of height, all over the world, in all types of climates, and even underwater. Applications range from rehabilitation of upstream face and waterproofing of cracks, to providing imperviousness to new RCC dams and fill dams. The paper describes their application in different types of dams and compares their function and performance versus other waterproofing methods.