Bituminous geomembranes (BGM) to reduce water losses in irrigation canals

The world population increases decade after decade straining global food demand. During this time drought becomes more accentuated thus irrigation must become more efficient. Many irrigation canals are built of soil with a poor waterproofing quotient and concrete sections which, after 15 years or less, meet seepage through cracking. Geosynthetic lining is the solution. The main challenges for irrigations districts when lining canals are that during construction canals are taken out of service, this paper will illustrate these processes. It is important that the choice of material enables efficient installation in diverse weather conditions, is economically competitive and can withstand time when left exposed to the elements with an easy maintenance component. Through case studies, this paper demonstrates that bituminous geomembranes (BGM) meet and exceed these challenges. The paper reviews briefly the characteristics of BGM as uniquely qualified for usage when lining canals: low thermal coefficient, a low Manning coefficient, a density greater than 1, and proven longevity when left exposed. Thanks to their flexibility and bituminous properties that can be connected to any surface. Case studies presented in this paper highlight the BGM specific properties. In Romania, renovation of irrigation canals, in North America, BGM began a partnership with the Roza Irrigation District (USA), to line a complete irrigation scheme reservoir and irrigation canals throughout the Columbia River Basin, in Chile rehabilitation work on canals supplying water for a small irrigation scheme, in India and in France.