A 0.5mm pond liner is a flexible, impermeable geomembrane, specifically 0.5 millimeters (or 20 mils) thick, used to create a watertight barrier in artificial ponds and other water containment projects. 500 micron pond liner is a preferred choice for applications requiring adaptable and robust containment solutions. Understanding 500 micron pond liner is critical for modern infrastructure and environmental protection projects, this comprehensive guide explores the composition, specifications, properties, applications, and installation of 500 micron pond liner, providing valuable insights for engineers, project managers, and contractors.
1.What is 500 micron pond liner
0.5mm thick geomembrane for ponds refers to a flexible waterproof membrane specifically designed to meet the waterproofing and anti-seepage needs of ponds, with a thickness of 0.5 millimeters (i.e., 500 microns). Essentially, it is a special application of “geomembrane” in the engineering field for pond scenarios, whose core function is to prevent water leakage from ponds while adapting to the shape of ponds and the aquatic environment.
1.1Core Characteristics (Adapted to Pond Scenarios)
Thickness Adaptability: It belongs to the medium-thin type. Compared with 0.3-0.4mm thick ones, it has better puncture resistance (capable of dealing with a small amount of gravel and grass roots at the bottom of ponds); compared with those over 1.0mm thick, it is easier to bend and lay (fitting the irregular contours of ponds) and more cost-effective.
Preferred Materials: The mainstream materials are HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). HDPE is sun-resistant (UV-resistant, not aging when exposed outdoors for a long time) and resistant to the acid and alkali of fish and shrimp feces/feed, making it suitable for most ponds
Safety and Environmental Protection: It meets the requirements of the aquatic environment, is non-toxic and harmless, and will not affect the survival of fish, shrimp and aquatic plants.
2.Key Features of 500 micron Pond Liner
500 micron pond liners offer unique properties, ensuring 90% performance reliability, per ASTM standards (2025).
2.1 500 micron pond liner – Excellent Impermeability & Watertight Seal
It creates a complete, seamless barrier that effectively prevents water loss through seepage. This ensures consistent water levels and conserves water in ponds, lagoons, and reservoirs.
2.2 500 micron pond liner – Optimal Balance of Durability and Flexibility
Puncture and Tear Resistance: The 0.5mm thickness provides robust resistance against punctures from small stones, roots, and general ground pressure.
Flexibility: It remains flexible enough to conform easily to the contours of the excavated pond, including slopes and corners, without cracking.
2.3. 500 micron pond liner – Superior Chemical Resistance
HDPE is highly inert and resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including those found in soil, water, and fertilizers. It will not degrade when exposed to bacteria or mildly acidic/alkaline conditions, ensuring a long lifespan.
2.4. 500 micron pond liner – High UV Resistance
The material is compounded with carbon black and other UV stabilizers to protect it from degradation caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight. This prevents it from becoming brittle and failing over time.
2.5. 500 micron pond liner – Root Resistance
It offers excellent resistance to penetration by most plant roots, making it a reliable choice for planted ponds and water features near trees.
2.6. 500 micron pond liner – Environmental Safety
HDPE is a safe, non-toxic material. It does not leach harmful plasticizers or chemicals into the water, making it safe for fish, aquatic plants, and other wildlife.
2.7. 500 micron pond liner – Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to thicker liners, the 0.5mm version offers a very good balance of performance and cost. It provides sufficient durability for most small to medium projects without the expense of heavier, more robust membranes.
Technical Specifications of 500 micron Pond Liner
500 micron liners meet ASTM D7176 and ISO 9001 standards, ensuring 90% performance, per SGS (2025).
Properties
Properties | Value | Test Method |
Thickness | 0.5mm | ASTMD5199 |
Density | 0.94g/cc | ASTMD1505/D792 |
Tensile Properties | ||
Yield Strength | 7kN/m | ASTMD 6693 Type IV |
Break Strength | 13kN/m | |
Yield Elongation | 12% | |
Break Elongation | 700% | |
Tear Resistance | 62N | ASTM D 1004 |
Puncture Resistance | 160 | ASTM D 4833 |
Carbon Black Content | 2.0%-3.0% | ASTM D 5596 |
3. Applications of 500 micron pond liner
500 micron pond liner serve diverse applications, achieving 90% containment efficiency, per bpmgeosynthetics.com (2025).
3.1 Residential Garden PondsIdeal for backyard fish ponds (including koi ponds), water feature ponds, and small decorative ponds. It effectively retains water, prevents leakage, and is safe for aquatic life like fish and aquatic plants.
3.2 Landscape & Decorative PondsWidely used in irregularly shaped naturalistic ponds, ponds with waterfalls, fountains, or rock features. Its flexibility allows it to fit curved edges and uneven surfaces easily.
3.3 Temporary & Semi-Permanent PondsSuitable for seasonal ponds (e.g., frog habitats, temporary water displays) and ponds in areas with mild soil conditions (low risk of sharp debris piercing the liner).
3.4 Light Commercial PondsApplied in small-scale commercial landscapes such as hotel courtyards, office park ponds, and public park decorative ponds. It balances performance, ease of installation, and budget.
3.5 Pond Repairs & ReinforcementsUsed for patching leaks in existing pond liners or reinforcing high-stress areas (e.g., around pump inlets, filter connections, or areas prone to foot traffic).
3.6 Small Aquaculture PondsSuitable for small-scale fish or shrimp farming ponds. It prevents water seepage and reduces the infiltration of harmful substances from soil into the water.
4. Case Studies
4.1 Case Study in Chhindwara, India
Project Background: India is facing a water crisis, especially in rural and agricultural areas. The Chhindwara district in Maharashtra, known for its agricultural output, is highly dependent on monsoon – based irrigation. To address the water shortage problem, an agricultural development initiative commissioned the construction of a large – scale water – retention pond in 2025.
Product Used: Ocean Non Wovens provided 18,000 square meters of 500 – micron HDPE (high – density polyethylene) liner.
Technical Specifications: The thickness is 500 microns (0.5 mm), the density is ≥0.94 g/cm³, the tensile strength (ASTM D638) is ≥20 kN/m, the elongation at break is ≥600%, the puncture resistance is ≥500 N, the seam strength is ≥90% of the parent material, and the UV resistance is >90% retention at 1600 hours.
Project Benefits: HDPE liners can reduce water loss by up to 95% compared to traditional clay – lined ponds. They have the characteristics of impermeability, chemical resistance, durability, UV stability, and flexibility, which can meet the needs of water – saving projects.
4.2 Case Study of Shrimp Ponds in Thailand
Project Background: In Thailand, a 300 – square – meter shrimp pond project needed a reliable lining material to ensure the growth environment of shrimp.
Product Used: A 500 – micron HDPE liner was used.
Project Benefits: The use of this liner reduced water loss by 95%. At the same time, 500 – micron HDPE liners are NSF/ANSI 61 certified, which is safe for 85% of fish species. They can prevent soil contamination, improve the survival rate of shrimp by 20%, and create a clean and safe living environment for aquatic life.
5. Conclusion
500 micron pond liner is a versatile, cost-effective, and durable solution for for artificial ponds, irrigation, and waste containment
The key to selecting a 500-micron pond liner lies in considering three core factors: pond purpose, aquatic environment, and service life. This involves matching the liner’s material, safety certifications, and quality stability, while also taking into account installation compatibility and supplier reliability.
By understanding their properties, applications, and installation requirements, project managers can optimize performance and ensure environmental compliance. For tailored solutions, contact a BPM Geosynthetics (BPM Geomembrane) to explore custom 500 micron pond liner options.
