Under water installation

Submerging geomembrane structures

Genap specializes in the application of membrane constructions through the submerging of membranes. The aim is to create an artificial impermeable barrier, enabling the construction of infrastructure and civil engineering works in dry conditions. This construction method is unique worldwide and is particularly suited to the specific soil conditions found in the Netherlands. As early as the 1970s, Genap executed its first project near Amelisweerd, and today, this method is an indispensable part of civil engineering. The technique is also highly applicable within cofferdams, whether in urban areas or not. Moreover, this method allows for the installation of not only synthetic materials in wet conditions but also other geosynthetics such as bentonite mats and membrane-protecting geotextiles, known as non-wovens.

Submerging a synthetic structure is relatively simple and cost-effective, especially compared to underwater concrete or dewatering wells. Dewatering also has the additional disadvantage of lowering the groundwater level in the surrounding area, which is often undesirable. By submerging a membrane, this issue is resolved.

• No pontoon required
• Relatively simple and inexpensive method
• No adverse effect on surrounding groundwater levels