Executed in the rugged topography of the Lesser Caucasus, this heap leach pad presented a challenging engineering environment both operationally and climatically. Slope gradients and sub-zero winter temperatures became critical factors directly affecting the liner deployment schedule and welding parameters; therefore, site operations were managed through both seasonal window planning and low-temperature extrusion welding procedures.

Within the leach pad infrastructure, chemically proven HDPE geomembranes were used for surfaces exposed to cyanide solution; following the subgrade preparation, geomembrane deployment was carried out, followed by the installation of the solution collection drainage layer. Weld quality was recorded for every seam using dual-track fusion welding machines and air pressure tests.

Over the course of the two-year site process, in addition to HDPE membrane deployment, welding and installation works of solution conveyance pipelines were also undertaken. Main manifold pipes connected to the drip lines were joined via HDPE butt fusion welding, taking into account slope calculations and thermal expansion allowances, and handed over for operation.