Comparison of HDPE/EPDM/PVC/EVA Geomembranes -L

Haoyang
Feb/18/2025
Comparison of HDPE/EPDM/PVC/EVA Geomembranes -L
Geomembranes play a crucial role in various engineering and environmental projects, providing a barrier against the movement of liquids and gases. This article is a comparison of four common types of geomembranes: HDPE (High - Density Polyethylene), EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), and EVA (Ethylene - Vinyl Acetate), covering their characteristics, similarities, differences, advantages, disadvantages, costs, and selection guidelines.
Comparison of HDPE/EPDM/PVC/EVA Geomembranes -L

Edited by Lucia-Haoyang Environmental Co.,Ltd


I. Introduction

In the field of geomembrane applications, understanding the characteristics, similarities, differences, advantages, disadvantages, and costs of various materials is crucial for making informed decisions. This article, provides a comprehensive comparison of HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer Rubber), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), and EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) geomembranes, with a focus on their properties, costs, and selection criteria for different scenarios.

 

II. Properties Comparison

1. Chemical Resistance

The chemical resistance of geomembranes is vital for their long - term performance in different environments. The following table shows how HDPE, EPDM, PVC, and EVA perform against acids, alkalis, and organic solvents.

Geomembrane Type

Acid Resistance

Alkali Resistance

Organic Solvent Resistance

HDPE

Excellent

Excellent

Good

EPDM

Good

Good

Fair

PVC

Fair

Good

Fair

EVA

Good

Good

Poor

 

Among them, HDPE shows outstanding performance in withstanding acids and alkalis, making it suitable for chemically - harsh environments.

 

2. Mechanical Strength

Mechanical strength determines the durability and ability of geomembranes to withstand external forces.

Geomembrane Type

Tensile Strength (MPa)

Elongation at Break (%)

Puncture Resistance (N)

HDPE

20 - 30

600 - 800

1000 - 1500

EPDM

10 - 15

500 - 700

800 - 1200

PVC

15 - 20

300 - 500

900 - 1300

EVA

8 - 12

400 - 600

700 - 1000

HDPE has a relatively high tensile strength and good puncture resistance, which is beneficial for projects where the geomembrane needs to withstand external forces.

 

3. Thermal Stability

Thermal stability affects the applicable temperature range of geomembranes.

Geomembrane Type

Melting Point (°C)

Service Temperature Range (°C)

HDPE

120 - 130

- 70 - 100

EPDM

N/A (does not melt but degrades)

- 50 - 150

PVC

160 - 210

- 15 - 60

EVA

90 - 100

- 40 - 80

 

EPDM has a wide service temperature range, while HDPE also offers a relatively broad range suitable for many applications.

 

Haoyang Geomembranes (1).webp


III. Cost Analysis

1. Material Cost

Geomembrane Type

Price Range (CNY/m²)

Remarks

HDPE

20 - 50

Due to production processes and raw materials

EPDM

10 - 30

Price for ordinary quality, high - end may vary

PVC

15 - 35

High cost - performance ratio among these types

EVA

18 - 45

Similar or slightly lower than EPDM

In general, HDPE offers a good balance between cost and performance in terms of material cost.

 

2. Welding Cost

Welding cost is related to the welding method and the requirements for equipment and labor.

Geomembrane Type

Welding Method

Cost Characteristics

HDPE

Hot - air Welding

High requirements for equipment and technology

EPDM

Hot - wedge Welding, High - frequency Welding, etc.

Mature technology, but equipment and labor costs involved

PVC

Hot - melt Welding

Fast welding speed, relatively low equipment and labor costs

EVA

Hot - melt Welding, etc.

High requirements for welding environment and technology

HDPE has an edge in welding cost due to its relatively simple and efficient welding method.

 

3. Laying Cost

Geomembrane Type

Laying Characteristics

HDPE

High requirements for the base layer, need to ensure flatness and cleanliness to avoid scratches

EPDM

Light - weight, convenient for laying, but more labor and time are required for complex terrains

PVC

High - efficiency for large - area laying, but high requirements for site flatness

EVA

Light - weight, wide width, easy for laying and processing

Each type has its own laying requirements, and project conditions need to be considered for cost - effective laying.

 

4. Maintenance Cost

Geomembrane Type

Aging Resistance and Repair Characteristics

HDPE

Good aging and weather resistance, but difficult to repair when damaged

EPDM

Performance may be affected by plasticizer migration, regular inspection is required

PVC

Strong chemical stability and anti - aging property, easy to repair

EVA

Good weather resistance, slightly high repair cost for external force damage

HDPE's good anti - aging and easy - repair features contribute to its relatively low maintenance cost.


Haoyang Geomembranes (2).webp

 

IV. Application Scenarios of Different Geomembranes

1. Landfills

HDPE Geomembranes: The primary choice, given their high anti - seepage performance, robust chemical stability, and high strength. These properties enable them to effectively prevent leachate leakage and endure the pressure exerted by the accumulated garbage.

EPDM Geomembranes: Can be considered as an alternative in regions with harsh weather conditions and intense UV radiation. However, their relatively high cost may pose a constraint to their widespread adoption.

 

2. Water Conservancy Projects

HDPE Geomembranes: Widely utilized due to their excellent anti - seepage and chemical stability characteristics. They are highly suitable for applications such as reservoirs and canals.

PVC Geomembranes: Can be employed in small - scale water conservancy projects or in scenarios where some degree of flexibility is required, such as small ponds and artificial lakes. This is attributed to their relatively low cost and certain flexibility.

 

3. Artificial Wetlands

HDPE Geomembranes: Provide reliable anti - seepage capabilities, effectively preventing sewage leakage and safeguarding groundwater quality.

EVA Geomembranes: Their flexibility and anti - root - penetration performance can be advantageous in certain artificial wetlands with specific requirements for plant root resistance.

 

4. Tunnel Projects

EVA Geomembranes: Their outstanding flexibility makes them the preferred option for tunnel projects, as they can adapt well to the complex shapes and structures inherent in tunnels.

HDPE Geomembranes: Can also be used in large - scale tunnels where high anti - seepage and structural stability are of utmost importance.

 

5. Aquaculture

HDPE Geomembranes: Ensure a stable water environment by preventing water leakage and shielding against soil contaminants. Their good anti - aging performance also makes them suitable for long - term use.

PVC Geomembranes: Suitable for small - scale aquaculture farms or cost - sensitive projects, thanks to their relatively low cost and ease of cleaning.

 

6. Landscaping

HDPE Geomembranes: Employed in artificial lakes and water features to prevent water leakage and maintain water quality, with good anti - puncture performance.

EPDM Geomembranes: Their good weather resistance and environmental protection performance can be a distinct advantage in high - end landscaping projects. Additionally, their color options can blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment.

 

V. Advantages of HDPE Geomembranes

1. Superior Chemical Resistance: HDPE can resist a wide range of chemicals, ensuring its long - term stability in chemically - aggressive environments.

 

2. High Mechanical Strength: With high tensile strength and puncture resistance, it can withstand various external forces during construction and service life.

 

3. Cost - Effectiveness: As shown in the cost analysis, HDPE has relatively lower costs in material, welding, laying, and maintenance, providing a cost - efficient solution for projects.

 

4. Wide Application Range: Suitable for various projects such as landfills, reservoirs, and aquaculture ponds due to its excellent comprehensive properties.

 

Haoyang Geomembranes (5).webp


VI. Why choose HAOYANG HDPE Geomembranes

 

1. Advanced Production Technology: Haoyang uses state - of - the - art production technology to ensure the high quality of its HDPE geomembranes. The products have consistent thickness and excellent performance stability.

 

2. Strict Quality Control: Stringent quality control measures are implemented throughout the production process. Each batch of products undergoes multiple tests to ensure that they meet or exceed industry standards.

 

3. Customization Services: Haoyang can provide customized HDPE geomembranes according to different project requirements, such as different thicknesses, widths, and physical properties, to better meet the needs of customers.

 

4. Excellent After - sales Service: The company offers professional after - sales service teams. They can provide on - site technical support, answer customer questions in a timely manner, and ensure the smooth progress of projects.

 

In conclusion, when considering the selection of geomembranes, HDPE geomembranes generally have significant advantages in terms of properties and costs. And Haoyang Environmental Co., Ltd.'s HDPE geomembranes, with their unique advantages, are an ideal choice for a wide range of engineering projects.

1.5mm geomemrbane test report.pdf

 

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