Long-Term Behavior of Cement-Bentonite Barriers Subjected to Drying Processes: A Laboratory Experience

Cement-bentonite barriers are structures designed to contain pollutants within contaminated areas and prevent their spread into the environment. However, since a part of these barriers is typically exposed to the atmosphere, desaturation and shrinkage can occur following changes in the water and humidity levels. Therefore, it is essential to study the long-term behavior of these walls based on the environmental conditions of the site to assess their durability and effectiveness over time. To achieve this, laboratory experiments were conducted to analyze the hydraulic behavior of these barriers under unsaturated conditions. The study aimed to evaluate the water retention curve and the impact of drying processes on the integrity and hydraulic performance of cement bentonite slurry walls. The results of the tests on barriers made with traditional binders (such as cement) offer important insights into their effectiveness and limitations. This data will serve as a starting point for evaluating the effectiveness of eco-friendly and sustainable binder materials.