Aquaculture Magazine August-September 2020 Vol. 46 No. 4

Page 58

ARTICLE

Greenhouse and Pond Liner Coverings and Films Pond liners are used in ponds to keep water from seeping into the soil. They work by forming an impermeable layer between the water and the soil which prevents water loss. Pond liners also provide a base for plants to root themselves in, and provide a comfortable environment for fish to explore. Greenhouse coverings, although they serve a different purpose than pond liners, are also necessary to cultivate growth. A heavy-duty greenhouse cover is ideal for protecting investments from unwanted light transmission and provides longBy: Kalia Williams *

Pond Liner Plastic Film Pond liners are typically made out of multiple sheets of liner material that are welded together. Leaks can occur anywhere where a seam joins two sheets. In order to avoid leaks, pond liners need to age well. The liner material must be resistant to UV rays and to weather. There are a variety of pond liner materials. The most common materials are EPDM, RPE, and PVC liners. Here are various liner material options: RPE- Reinforced Polyethylene Pond Liners Reinforced Polyethylene liners (RPE) are one of the most durable pond liners available. They can last up to 40 years and have excellent puncture resistance. RPE liners do not need a protective underlayment because of their higher strength. RPE can also be produced in large sizes because they are lightweight. RPE liners do not bend as easily as other flexible liners, which is one drawback of this type of liner.

term service in high UV level environments. welded polypropylene liners are durable and light. They are also UV resistant and safe for fish and plants. Boxwelding is a process that uses heat to weld liners to conform to various 3D shapes. Box welded polypropylene liners allow for covering ponds with corners that are seamless and without folds. Rubber Liners Rubber liners are heavy compared to other liner materials and they are not as puncture resistant. Despite this, rubber liners are flexible and can fit nicely in ponds that have shelves

and a variety of other features. Punctures or tears, leaks in seams, and age and deterioration are all factors that risk the chance that small rocks, tree roots or other objects may remain in the hole excavated for the pond. The weight of the water pressing down on the liner may be heavy enough to puncture it. To decrease chances of the liner tearing, a strong liner material is necessary.

Greenhouse Coverings Greenhouse covers are a key component in greenhouse construction. The ideal greenhouse covers are

Box Welded Polypropylene Liners Box-welded polypropylene is one of the best materials to consider for regular or circular pond liners. Box 56 Âť

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2020


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