Geotechnical Data Requirements for Earthen Hydraulic Barriers

Geotechnical data required to meet regulatory requirements for sound technical evaluation of soil compacted for waste containment liners or precipitation barriers in landfill cover systems are more stringent than those for most engineered soil structures. Unambiguous requirements for geotechnical parameters and measurement data are needed by both design/construction engineering firms and reviewing agencies so that the credibility of the data is clearly demonstrated. Data generated by laboratory soil testing to confirm design feasibility, and field performance testing of the structural and hydraulic properties of waste containment structures need to be evaluated from several perspectives.