Chile is located on the western coast of South America, along the Andes Mountains, where the American plate and the Nazca plate meet, and experiences frequent volcanic activity, resulting in rich mineral resources. Chile is the world’s largest copper producer, accounting for 28% of global copper production, and the second-largest lithium producer, accounting for 22% of global production. In 2020, the mining industry produced 5.73 million metric tons of copper and 70,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE). Chile holds a 28% share of the global copper market and a 23% share of the lithium production market. Mining is a vital sector of the Chilean economy, contributing 11% to the country’s GDP and more than half of the country’s total exports.
Background Development
As the global economy develops, more investors are turning to copper mining enterprises in Chile. However, environmental protection is also a top priority for the local government, and all copper mining companies must address the issue of anti-seepage treatment for tailings. One of our clients recently constructed a new copper ore processing plant in Zambia and required a comprehensive construction material plan for the tailings anti-seepage project. After consultations and design considerations, our team recommended a double layer waterproofing design consisting of an impermeable membrane and Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCL) system for the waterproofing material. The impermeable membrane has excellent acid and alkali resistance, effectively isolating pollutants from penetrating into the ground. In the event that the geomembrane leaks or is damaged under outside pressure, the GCL can automatically expand and seal the hole. The combination of these two materials can achieve an optimal anti-seepage effect for the tailings.
Case Study
Our clients had high standards for the quality of the geomembrane product, so we sent them samples for testing. The results of the tests met the customers’ requirements. During the production process, a third-party inspection company was invited to the factory to check the product quality, and all products were approved for the project.
Specifications of Impermeable Membrane for Chile Copper Tailings Project
- Impermeable Membrane Liner Thickness – 2.0mm
- Total Quantity – 60000 Square meters
- Each Roll Size – 7m*105m
- GCL gram—5000g/m2
- Total Quantity – 32000 Square meters
- Each Roll Size – 6m*50m
Features of Impermeable Membrane
The use of HDPE impermeable membrane has become widespread in various engineering fields due to its excellent anti-seepage performance and long-lasting durability, which helps to protect groundwater resources from pollution. In the mining industry, the benefits of using HDPE geomembrane are numerous, including:
HDPE impermeable membrane can provide mining companies with significant benefits in harsh climates and challenging environments.
The use of HDPE geomembrane reduces the damage to the surrounding environment caused by mining activities. In complex mining environments, high-quality HDPE geomembrane is essential.
HDPE geomembrane has exceptional chemical resistance and durability, making it resistant to most chemical compounds. This ensures high-quality anti-seepage engineering in the mining industry.
The HDPE impermeable membrane has excellent puncture resistance, providing protection against damage caused by fine ores in the heap leach tank.
Overall, the use of HDPE geomembrane has proven to be a reliable and effective solution for anti-seepage measures in the mining industry, providing long-lasting protection for the environment and groundwater.
About BPM
BPM has been specializing in delivering one stop geosynthetics products and solutions to worldwide customers since its foundation in 2007. BPM had provided many types of effective and state of the art geomembranes, geotextiles, geocells, geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs), drainage boards, geogrids to over 81 countries. Our main customers are from Australia, France, Sweden, UK, Hong Kong, Hungary, New Zealand, Poland, Mexico, Ecuador, Brazil, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Sri Lanka, India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kenya, Ghana, Ethiopia, Somalia, Nigeria, South Africa, Swaziland, Mongolia, etc.
BPM is not only manufacturing best quality geosynthetic products but also providing professional design and installation service. OEM, ODM, custom development and fabrication are also available. If you have any questions or inquiries, please fill and submit the following form, we will reply as soon as possible.
