Hydraulic Engineering

Water Reservoir Liner Protection

Protecting reservoir liners from puncture, abrasion and long-term mechanical damage.

Geotextiles in Reservoir Lining Systems

Water reservoirs require reliable lining systems to help retain water and protect the surrounding soil structure. Whether used for irrigation, industrial water storage, stormwater retention or hydraulic infrastructure, the liner must remain intact throughout installation and operation.

Used as a protective layer for the entire waterproofing system, the geotextile protects the geomembrane from mechanical damage caused by uneven sub-bases, sharp stones or incorrect installation practices.

Without a suitable protection layer, liners can be exposed to puncture, abrasion or localised stress, which may affect the integrity of the water-retaining system. Drefon and Edilfon act as a puncture-resistant barrier, helping to distribute pressure and reduce direct contact between the liner and potentially damaging surfaces.

Our geotextiles fulfil a dual function of protecting geomembranes and separating soils, ensuring high performance and maximum reliability of water reservoirs throughout the structure’s entire service life.

Key Benefits

  • Protects membranes and geomembranes from punctures and abrasion
  • Acts as a puncture-resistant layer between the membrane and rough or sharp surfaces
  • Helps reduce localised stress on water-retaining barrier systems
  • Preserves the integrity of the geomembrane over time
  • Separates soil, aggregate and lining layers where required
  • Contributes to the durability of water storage and retention systems

Example of a Layer Structure

In water reservoir liner protection, nonwoven geotextiles are commonly installed directly next to the liner or geomembrane. Their exact position depends on the design of the reservoir, the subgrade conditions and the protection requirements of the project.

  • Water-facing surface
    The exposed reservoir area that comes into direct contact with stored water.
  • Upper protection layer
    Where required, a nonwoven geotextile may be installed above the liner to protect it from cover materials, ballast or mechanical stress.
  • Liner or geomembrane
    The water-retaining barrier designed to prevent unwanted water loss or migration.
  • Lower nonwoven geotextile protection layer
    Installed beneath the membrane to protect it from punctures, abrasion and localised stresses caused by poorly compacted soil or underlying aggregate materials.
  • Prepared subgrade or foundation soil
    The compacted or shaped base that supports the reservoir lining system.

Let's Make Your Project Happen!

Connect with our experts to explore how nonwoven geotextiles can provide durable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for your specific engineering challenges.