ABSTRACT
Quality assurance for geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) requires a receipt of goods check as well as detailed testing of all component parts during the manufacture of these geocomposites. The characteristic properties are to be checked in producing the fibers. Physical characteristics must be checked in further processing to the geotextile stage. Moreover, the bentonite used must be monitored by checks. The finished product again needs special testing. Moreover, the production process and its conditions must be documentated and controlled, so that constant quality characteristics may be guaranteed. These tests are to be carried out by the GCL manufacturer as manufacturing quality control (MQC). In addition, the manufacturer must submit to manufacturing quality assurance (MQA) by a qualified, independent institute, in accordance with DIN 18200. Each individual roll must be marked and numbered, in such a way that it is possible at any time, and anywhere, to check back on all details of production. At the construction site, constant expert supervision must be available to ensure that the necessary checks are carried out, as well as to ensure due and proper storage, and proper technical installation. For a definite project, all tasks and responsibilities, as well as the type and number of tests, are to be entered in a quality assurance plan. For this purpose, the necessary proofs of suitability are to be submitted, or the ability to be installed is to be proven at a test site.
