Abstract

Asphaltic concrete lining for dams and storage reservoirs are today classified as state of the art technology. Storage reservoirs and dams are sealed with asphaltic concrete –world-wide. However, certain prerequisites are absolutely necessary for the successful use of this sealing method. First, there must be careful selection and suitability testing of the construction materials and then the subsequent elaboration of the mix composition for the various layers of the lining package. Professional placement and careful compaction are the critical impotence for the quality of finished lining. Asphaltic concrete as an impervious material is used in many countries for more than 60 years. In the Arab region, the asphaltic concrete is used in Syria, Oman, Algeria, Iraq, UAE and Saudia Arabia for sealing of dams and storage reservoirs. The first use of asphaltic concrete in Syria was the sealing of Al Sourani dam in Tartus by the use of asphalt facing with inclination of 1:2.25. The construction of the asphalt facing was finished in November 2003. In this paper, we shall explain the property of the construction materials, lining design, quality control, and thermal condition in such semi-arid area.

Key words: Asphalt, dams, testes, construction materials, bitumen.