Concrete-lined earthen reservoir

Slovak term: Slovenský termín

1. A storage place for water in which the interior has been lined with concrete from which the water may be withdrawn for purposes such as irrigation or drinking water (WHO and IRC 2003).

Explanation

Lined earthen reservoirs can be built in natural depressions, or constructed by excavating and building a dam around the reservoir. If possible, the quantities of excavation and refill are kept nearly identical, to minimize the amount of work. The inner and outer walls of such a reservoir are always sloped, and inlets and outlets are installed during the earthwork. The walls and bottom of the reservoir must be compacted, especially the parts made by refilling. The inside of the reservoir is waterproofed by a lining of concrete, which is usually poured on-site in large slabs. The slab size is limited by the ability of the concrete slab to support its own weight when it is moved into place during construction of the reservoir. Once in place, the slabs are connected by a sealing of waterproof material. Reservoirs have been constructed using a single slab of concrete, using ferrocement technology. Linings can also be made of clay, loam or plastic (WHO and IRC 2003).

References

• WHO and IRC Water and Sanitation Centre (2003) Linking technology choice with operation and maintenance in the context of community water supply and sanitation: A reference document for planners and project staff

Links

• WHO — The Health and Environment Lexicon