Bituminous Geomembrane (BGM) in hot climates for hydraulic construction

This paper will explain the reinforced structure and key characteristics that make bituminous geomembranes (BGM) an interesting option for waterproofing hydraulic works in hot climate areas. For illustrating this, the paper will review some case studies where BGM was chosen due to its characteristics. In dam application, a project for a waterproofing of a dike in Saday (Djibouti) and a rock fill dam (42-m high) in France will be explained. For irrigation in reservoir and canal lining, a work in Goudel and a canal on laterite soil in Niamey (both in Niger) will described proving use of BGM in dry tropical climates. This paper will also review the construction of raw water storage ponds in Pirque (Chile) for the city of Santiago’s potable water system. A last project will be described on a large irrigation canal in Nagpur (India) where the Pench canal, located in the center of India, convey water from the Pench River to the surrounding agricultural areas. The old canal, originally made of concrete, collapsed due to the water seepage and the swelling clay underneath.