PGI Sponsored a Landfill Design Conference in New York State

The PVC Geomembrane Institute (PGI) sponsored a short course titled “Specifying with PVC Geomembranes” on November 10, 2003, at the Empire State Convention Center in Albany, NY. The course was moderated by Robert Phaneuf, Section Chief, New York Department of Conservation.
Formulation and manufacturing of PVC geomembranes was covered by Patrick Diebel, Canadian General-Tower, Ltd. Patrick Diebel also discussed the use of the PGI 1103 Specification and the ASTM methods used for geomembrane testing.
Dr. Timothy D. Stark, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, presented information on geosynthetic interface strengths and the slope stability of landfill covers. Tim Stark also discussed the fabrication and field installation aspects of working with PVC geomembranes. Stark stressed that one of the major advantages of using PVC is that approximately 80 percent of all seaming is done in a factory under controlled conditions. Eliminating 80 percent of field-welded seams leads to better seam quality and generally faster installation time. Stark also discussed the benefits of air-channel testing PVC geomembranes including the visual inspection of the inflated seam.
A hands-on welding demonstration was held at the end of the course led by Chris Bonnet from PWT. The hands-on demonstration showed dual-track wedge welding and the air channel testing of PVC geomembrane seams. Air channel testing involves sealing one end of the seam, filling the air channel with air pressure, and measuring the ability of the seam to hold the pressure using an air gauge. Any voids in the seam are easily detected by a loss in air pressure. This is another step in ensuring quality field seams in PVC geomembrane installations.
This seminar was attended by more than 70 people. “The feedback from the attendees indicates that the information the PGI representatives presented was helpful in gaining a better understanding of PVC geomembranes” reported Tim Stark. “Attendees were able to better understand what is required to design, specify, and construct with PVC geomembranes.”
Founded in 1988 by a group of industry leaders, the PVC Geomembrane Institute (PGI) is dedicated to advancing the use of PVC Geomembranes through education and research as well as serving as an industry resource for PVC Geomembrane users. In 1998, PGI partnered with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) which led to the formation of the PGI Technology Program. PGI’s main office is located at UIUC. For more information on PGI go to the www.pgi-tp@uiuc.edu website.