29
09 '26
Heap leach pad leak detection is most reliable when done with an electrical leak location (ELL) survey. ELL tests the entire geomembrane under the pad, not just the seams. Because an HDPE liner is an electrical insulator, current applied across it can only pass through holes, so survey crews can locate each leak for repair…
29
09 '26
An electrical leak location survey finds holes in a geomembrane by passing electrical current across the liner. An intact geomembrane is an electrical insulator, so current can only flow where there is a hole, puncture, tear, or seam defect. Technicians map where that current flows and mark each leak for repair, whether the liner is…