Invited Lecture – A Novel Waste-Cover-Waste Three-layer Landfill Cover System without Geomembrane: from Theory to Practice
This lecture will outline the theoretical framework for the development of a novel waste-cover-waste three-layer landfill cover system without the use of geomembrane but vegetation. The methodology used and findings of an integrated research approach will be described and reported including laboratory column tests quantifying the transpiration-induced suction in vegetated three-layer cover systems using recycled concrete without geomembrane but with different plant species and plant hydrological effects on 6-year field performance of the novel three-layer landfill cover system. Moreover, the combined use of vegetation and biochar together with recycled concrete in another field trial of the novel three-layer landfill cover system without geomembrane will be introduced. The field monitored pore-water pressure, volumetric water content and percolation will be illustrated and explained. Design recommendations will be given.