Problems of clay desiccation in composite lining systems

摘要

Temporary works desiccation of composite liningsystems is introduced as a potential problem. Field evidence forsuch desiccation is presented and the mechanism of desiccationdiscussed. Results from a laboratory testing programme,including a study of a heated test cell, are reported. In the cell,moisture loss caused crack development and, once an initialnetwork of cracks was formed, further moisture loss was foundto cause crack depth propagation. Solutions to the problem ofdesiccation are discussed.