Environmental containment for petroleum storage tanks
FRANCARE supplied geomembranes for a petroleum storage infrastructure project, helping an industrial client protect soil and groundwater against potential hydrocarbon leaks and spills.
The project
Our client required a protective liner for the containment area surrounding fuel storage tanks. The objective was to create a reliable barrier to help prevent hydrocarbons from infiltrating the ground in the event of a leak or accidental release.
The solution needed to combine chemical resistance, mechanical strength and durability under site exposure conditions, while allowing efficient installation across the storage area.
FRANCARE supported the project by the analysis of the request and taking into account all specific environmental requirement and factors and we selected and supplied the tailored made geomembranes to meet these requirements.
The challenge: preventing soil and groundwater contamination
Petroleum storage facilities face environmental risks associated with leaks, seepage and accidental spills. Without effective containment, hydrocarbons can migrate into the surrounding soil and groundwater, resulting in environmental damage, costly remediation and operational disruption.
The client therefore required a liner system offering:
- Effective barrier performance to help prevent pollutants from entering the ground;
- Chemical resistance suited to the stored substances and expected exposure conditions;
- Mechanical strength to withstand stresses during installation and use;
- Resistance to outdoor exposure, including UV radiation;
- Practical installation across an extensive containment area.
The geomembrane forms part of the facility’s wider environmental protection measures, alongside the containment design, operating procedures and regular inspections.
The role of a geomembrane
A geomembrane is a synthetic liner used to restrict the passage of liquids and create a protective barrier between a contained substance and the surrounding environment.
In petroleum storage applications, it forms part of the secondary containment system, providing an additional layer of protection beyond the storage tanks themselves. If a release occurs, the lined area helps retain the liquid, supporting its recovery and limiting infiltration into the ground.
Geomembranes are also used in waste management, water storage, mining, agriculture and infrastructure projects. The material and installation approach must be adapted to the substances involved, the site layout and the expected conditions of use.
The solution supplied
FRANCARE supplied geomembranes selected for their barrier properties, chemical resistance and mechanical performance.
The liner was intended to create a continuous protective layer within the designated containment area. Its combination of strength and flexibility supports installation over appropriately prepared surfaces, while its resistance to environmental exposure contributes to durability in service.
The supplied roll format also supports efficient coverage of large areas and helps reduce the number of field joints required, depending on the site layout.
Installation and long-term performance
The effectiveness of a geomembrane system depends on both the material and the quality of installation.
Adjacent sheets must be joined to form a continuous barrier, with particular attention paid to seams, edges and connections. Appropriate preparation of the supporting surface helps reduce the risk of punctures and localised stresses.
Checks during installation and inspection of completed joints are essential to the integrity of the lining. Once the system is in service, regular inspection and maintenance help identify potential damage and support continued performance.
Benefits for the storage facility
Protection of soil and groundwater
The geomembrane provides an additional barrier against hydrocarbon infiltration, helping limit the spread of pollutants beyond the containment area.
Reduced environmental and remediation risks
By supporting the containment of accidental releases, the system can help limit the extent of contamination and the associated clean-up requirements.
Durability under site conditions
Chemical resistance, mechanical strength and resistance to outdoor exposure support the liner’s suitability for the intended industrial application.
Efficient installation
The roll format facilitates coverage of extensive surfaces while helping reduce the number of joints needed on site.
Support for environmental management
The solution contributes to the client’s pollution prevention measures and broader efforts to manage the environmental risks associated with petroleum storage.
FRANCARE’s contribution
FRANCARE’s role focused on supplying geomembranes suited to the project’s containment requirements and practical installation needs.
This project illustrates our ability to support industrial clients with technical materials that address concrete environmental challenges.