How to Choose Geosynthetics for Biogas Containment

Biogas from waste stabilization ponds, typically used to treat wastewater from livestock farms and industry, is a smart, sustainable and environmentally responsible choice. A key component of these systems is the geosynthetics for biogas sealing. Why is HDPE geomembrane the right choice?

The value of capturing biogas is becoming clearer as the energy crisis and climate change challenges grow, making it necessary to find ways to improve energy security and supply. What drives the adoption of biogas solutions is the relatively low cost (compared with conventional materials) and the ease with which geomembranes make biogas capture possible. HDPE geomembrane can float on the pond surface, generally without needing additional support.

Waste stabilization ponds built for wastewater treatment reduce organic content and remove pathogens that could harm the environment or pollute fresh water, using natural processes. The ponds can be used to treat animal waste and manure, or waste from industrial, manufacturing or agricultural processes, for example meat, dairy or palm oil processing.

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Traditional open pond systems release biogas into the atmosphere, causing odor problems and contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. A number of studies show that significant energy can be produced by capturing methane. This energy can be used to fuel boilers and turbines, or to generate electricity and heat for household or industrial use.

Many developing countries in Asia have installed floating covers on wastewater ponds and benefit from using HDPE/LDPE geomembrane for biogas collection and recovery, energy production, smoke and odor control, and protection against evaporation and groundwater contamination.