NATURAL CLAY LINERS
It comes as no surprise that not lining the ponds at all is the least expensive approach, but at the same time, it is also the least effective approach to preventing water seepage, floor erosion, and soil contamination. If not lining at all is the chosen approach, then preventing seepage and contamination will depend on the clay layer of the local soil.
There are two important
considerations about clay liners. The first important consideration is the thickness of the clay liners. The clay liners must have some minimum thickness because drying out the open ponds, which is often necessary for maintaining the selected algae, will often cause the clay liners to crack (Lundquist et al., 2010). The second important consideration is that, depending on the type of clay liners, this could adversely affect the pondsâ€&#x; effectiveness of maintaining the productivity of the selected algae species, because pond cleaning would be impossible (Lundquist et al., 2010). Finally, In addition to clay liners, the crushed rock layer could also be used to line the open ponds (Weissman & Goebel, 1987), but it is too expensive and not more effective in preventing seepage, erosion, or contamination. In summary, if open ponds are built without being lined, managing the risks associated with seepage, erosion, and soil and groundwater contamination will depend on the clay layer of the local soil, and many site-specific details must be carefully evaluated on a case-by-case basis
PLASTIC AND SYNTHETIC LINERS
Besides clay liners, PVC (Polyvinylchloride), HDPE (High Density Polyethylene), EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), Fiberglass, and Butyl Rubber are the most common choices for pond liners. Durability, reliability, and other characteristics of lining materials directly determine their effectiveness in managing and preventing soil and groundwater contamination.
Each of the five types have advantages and disadvantages in terms of 48