Abstract: A finite difference analysis using the computer code FLAC was conducted for a landfill,in order to investigate the tensile stress level of HDPE geotechnical membrane under typical loading conditions in the landfill.The loading conditions considered mere:(1) the deadweight of layer-built waste filled up to 36m;(2) the loads induced by potential differential settlement of base;(3) the dynamic loads caused by earthquake.The main conclusions were that(1) the accumulative tensile stress was developed in HDPE membrane by waste dumping,differential settlement,and earthquake,(2) the remarkable stress in liner HDPE membrane was induced by differential settlement primarily(3) the tensile stress in cover system HDPE membrane was higher than ultimate strength of HDPE geotechnical membrane under motion input with moderate intensity(e.g.peak acceleration was 0.25g).