One-dimensional experimental studies on electrophoresis of clay

The feasibility of using electrophoresis as an innovative technique to repair in-service leaking surface impoundment lined by geomembrane is being investigated. The technique involves adding dispersed clay particles to the impoundment, and applying a direct electrical potential difference across the leaks by placing electrodes of opposite polarities inside and outside the impoundment. Clay particles in suspension are migrated by the imposed electric field through the leaks and develop `impervious' clay cakes to seal the leaks. This paper presents the results of one-dimensional experiments conducted to study the effects of clay type, clay particle concentration in the suspension, and electric field strength on cake formation mechanisms. Hydraulic conductivity measurements were also performed on the resulting clay cakes to evaluate their sealing efficiency.