What are floating covers?

Floating covers are like large blankets that are placed on top of the water and stay afloat. These covers are made of special materials that do not sink, but stay above the water. Below we will review what materials they are made of, which are the most common and why they are so important.

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What materials are used to make these floating covers?

Floating covers are made of plastics that help them not sink and protect the water from things like evaporation or contamination by algae, bacteria or dust. The most common materials are:

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/ High-density polyethylene (HDPE):

This is one of the most commonly used materials for the manufacture of geomembranes and floating elements due to its high resistance to water, chemicals, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. HDPE is flexible, resistant to cracks and has a long lifespan. In addition, its waterproofing capacity is excellent, making it ideal for preventing evaporation or contamination of bodies of water.

/ Polypropylene (PP):

Polypropylene is also used to make geomembranes and floating elements, although it is less common than HDPE. This material has similar properties to HDPE, but is more temperature resistant, making it useful in applications where exposure to high temperatures is an important factor.

/ Elastomers (EPDM):

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a rubber material used in certain floating geomembranes. It is very flexible and resistant to extreme temperature conditions, making it suitable for environments with significant climatic variations. It is also UV and corrosion resistant.

/ PVC (polyvinyl chloride):

In some cases, floating geomembranes are made from PVC, which is a versatile and economical material. Although it is less resistant than HDPE in terms of long-term durability, it is an option used in applications where cost is an important factor. PVC is especially effective in applications where a flexible and easy-to-install material is required.

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In conclusion, floating covers are made of different types of materials and can be employed as a versatile and effective solution to protect bodies of water and conserve water resources. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative and efficient floating cover solutions emerging in the future.

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