The following table explains the advantages of RAWMAT® HDB over Dry Bentonite GCLs in more detail.
| Dry Bentonite GCLs | RAWMAT® HDB |
|---|---|
| Use dry bentonite - cannot guarantee correct hydration. | RAWMAT® HDB is pre-hydrated in factory controlled conditions. |
| Highly susceptible to cation exchange. | Polymer complex within RAWMAT® HDB prevents cation exchange. |
| Loose bentonite falls out when damaged or mishandled. | Vacuum extrusion creates a Plasticine-like consistency. |
| Loss of bentonite is often not evident, esp. cutting to pipes etc. | Plasticine-like consistency means no loss of bentonite. |
| "Bald" or "Fat" patches as the bentonite moves within fabrics. | Plasticine-like consistency means no loss or movement of bentonite within fabrics. |
| Some dry GCLs require additional bentonite applied between the joints. | RAWMAT® HDB forms self-sealing overlaps without additional bentonite. |
| Dry GCLs use thick non-woven geotextiles which potentially cause leakage at structures/penetrations within the design and at overlaps. | RAWMAT® HDB geotextiles allow intimate seal between membrane and structures. |
| Many published papers on failures of dry bentonite GCLs. | RAWMAT® HDB does not breakdown through cation exchange. |