EPDM geomembrane for a water application

Q: We are looking at a life-cycle study for the usefulness of an ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) geomembrane for a water conservation application. Request to kindly share the information for our study. Regards.

A: An EPDM geomembrane is going to lie flat on the subgrade soil without wrinkles (no field-induced stress). Therefore, it will have intimate contact with the soil above and below it. This results in a composite action for the barrier layers if the adjacent soils are fine grained (clay). EPDM also will not have issues with thermal coefficients of expansion and contraction. Hence, it will stay put once you place it. 

Unfortunately, the durability and aging characteristics of an EPDM liner are less than high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for most environmental conditions. Like most things in life, there are trade-offs.