The diagram demonstrates how a modern lanfill for household waste is constructed, used, and eventually closed.
Overall, the process consists of three main stages. First, a large hole is prepared, household waste is then deposited inside. Finally, the hole is sealed and the gases are released using a separate pipe.
During construction, a large man-made hole is excavated in a natural rock area. The inside of this hole is covered by a layer of clay, and then synthetic lining. Subsequently, a series of drainage pipes is installed along the bottom, connecting to a drainage tank.
To use the landfill, household waste is delivered by trucks and deposited into the prepared hole. As it accumulates, waste liquid flows into the drainage tank through the pipes to avoid contaminating the surrounding areas.
After being used, the filled landfill is covered by a thick layer of clay. A vertical pipe is also installed in order to release the remaining gases.
