The history of impermeable barriers (ПФЭ) for waterproofing the foundations of dams, foundations and canal beds reflects centuries of engineering progress — from the use of natural materials to the development of high-performance geocomposites.
Ancient world: early solutions
28th century BC. Ancient Egypt
During the construction of the Sadd el-Kafara dam, its core was built from soil and stone chippings, serving as a prototype for future impermeable barrier elements.
13th century BC. Hittites
Embankment dams already used a compacted clay core — a deliberate waterproofing technology for the foundations of structures.
1st century AD. Roman Empire
The Romans developed hydraulic concrete containing pozzolan and crushed ceramics, which was used to build canals and aqueducts and prevent filtration through the soil.
Middle Ages: the legacy of ancient knowledge
9th–11th centuries AD. Carolingian France
In coastal systems, earth dams with clay layers and drainage ditches were built, creating effective barriers against groundwater.
20th century: transition to synthetic materials
From the mid-20th century, the USA, Italy and the USSR began testing sheet polymer materials made from PVC and polyethylene — prototypes of modern geomembranes — for dam lining.
In 1995, the first bentonite mats appeared in Russia. Their operating principle is based on bentonite’s ability to swell on contact with water, creating a “clay seal” effect in a compact roll structure. Their use began at sludge storage facilities.
Today: high-tech composites
The current stage in the development of impermeable barriers is represented by multilayer composite materials, such as “Hydromat 3D/M Arctic” from “TechPolymer”. They combine three key functions:
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100% waterproofing (geomembrane);
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effective drainage;
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reliable puncture protection.
Such engineering solutions can operate effectively in the most severe climatic conditions, as demonstrated by real facilities delivered by “TechPolymer”.
Watch the video showing the use of modern geocomposites.
