Abstract: A system and a method for draining soft soil A bordered with soil B are disclosed. The system includes an airtight sheet 10 which covers the soft soil A to assist in vacuuming the soft soil A. The system further includes water gathering pipes 13 and a water drain tank 16 to receive water from the water gathering pipes 13. The water gathering pipes 13 and the water drain tank 16 provide water passages and air passages separately so as to expedite the drainage operation.

Abstract: A sub surface aquatic weed barrier consisting of a strip of plastic held to the aquatic substrate by transverse weights bonded to the plastic strip. Gas release ports are located in the plastic sheet, positioned midway between the transverse weights.

Abstract: At least one cable is attached to a load lying on the ground via a releasable connection mechanism. A traction force is applied to the cable to hoist the load up to a prescribed height. That traction force is then eliminated or reduced to initiate a downward movement of the load followed by the cable. The connection mechanism is then released while the load is moving downwardly.

Abstract: In this invention, after the grade at a construction site has been excavated and/or graded to its preliminary rough grade, re-enforcing material, typically synthetic in nature, such as nylon or polypropylene mesh or rods, fiber-glass rods or mesh, or other specified re-enforcing material is laid across soil at the construction site and a reinforced base is formed by covering the reinforcing material with a polymeric resin, whereby upon curing, the polymeric resin and reinforcing material forms a contiguous thermo-structural base. Re-enforcement material comprising synthetic and/or non-synthetic components in the form of rods, rope, strapping, mesh, netting, geotextile fabrics or other dimensional forms laid longitudinally, or in a grid pattern, in single or multiple layers, tied or not tied all in situ sprayed with a high density closed cell, water resistant expanding two component polyurethane foam system.

Abstract: An erosion barrier implementing the invention is a filter berm advantageously comprising a biodegradable “sock” filled with a biodegradable material, e.g., using conventional blower techniques. The sock is composed of materials, such as burlap, that naturally rot and decompose. Thus, when the sock decays, it merges into the surrounding soil and thus leaves no trace. Preferably, the biodegradable material comprises compost that is pre-seeded to allow desired vegetation to grow from the compost into the underlying soil. In this manner, the vegetation anchors the berm and prevents it from eroding, even when its exterior sock is fully decomposed. In an exemplary embodiment, the sock may be constructed with larger holes on its bottom so as to allow the material in the berm to effectively bind and adhere to the soil beneath.

Abstract: A modular erosion and sediment control barrier. The linear modular erosion and sediment control barrier is constructed of reinforced fiber logs joined end-to-end or side-to-side. Each fiber log is made of a quantity of loose fibers retained in a reinforced tubular casing having at least one closed end wherein the fibers are retained in the casing by either a second closed end or by a plug. The coupler fiber logs are constructed with a reinforced tubular casing comprising at least two layers of a flexible material. The open-ended reinforced coupler fiber log includes an extended section which is peeled back and folds over the end of the coupler fiber log during storage and transportation. When deployed, the extended section is unfolded to receive the end of an adjacent fiber log. Two fiber logs, whether having two closed ends or a single closed end, are secured together by a cord and hooks.

Abstract: A linear modular erosion and sediment control barrier is constructed of fiber logs joined end-to-end, the logs having a maximum length of about 8 feet long. Each fiber log is made of a quantity of loose fibers retained in a tubular casing by a plug. The tubular casing includes an extended section which is peeled back and folds over the end of the coupler fiber log during storage and transportation. When deployed, the extended section is unfolded to receive the end of an adjacent fiber log. The two fiber logs are secured together by a cord and hooks. The combination of a plurality of coupler fiber logs on the surface of a pallet is particularly suited for storing and transporting the logs.

Abstract: A method of reducing ground disturbance during freeze-thaw cycles. The steps include excavating soil from an area affected by ground disturbance due to subsurface flow and subsequent freezing of water. A subsurface layer of thermal insulation is then laid over the affected area, thereby thermally insulating the affected area from freezing. The subsurface layer of thermal insulation has a top surface and a bottom surface. A subsurface layer of wick material capable of drawing water away from the affected area by capillary action is also laid parallel to one of the top surface or the bottom surface of the subsurface layer of thermal insulation positioned in a path of the subsurface flow of water.

Abstract: A durable erosion control blanket featuring a novel synthetic fiber filler is disclosed. The erosion control blanket of the present invention addresses the need for a particularly resilient erosion control blanket through the use of a post-consumer, crimped, polyester fiber filler material. In one embodiment, the post-consumer fiber material is of polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) readily available in post-consumer form from the recycling of soda bottles. In short, a preferred filler material for the blanket of the present invention would utilize recycled soda bottle material which has been converted into a crimped, highly-resilient fibrous filler. It is, thus, possible to achieve the desired physical and mechanical properties in the erosion control blanket of the present invention while conserving natural resources to some extent by using a readily available post-consumer polymer material.

Abstract: The apparatuses for improving the permeability of a fluid containment basin having a plurality of ridges and furrows in the bottom of the basin are configured to disturb sediment that has settled on the ridges so as to place the sediment back into suspension. In one configuration, the apparatus comprises a tool support frame adapted to support one or more ridge cleaning tools on top of the ridges. The tools include dragging, discing and grinding tools. The discing tool is configured with a flexible axle to allow the tool to move in response to changes in the contour of the ridge. In another configuration, a boat or other device is moved across the basin above the ridges to cause wave energy from the boat's propellor to disturb the sediment on the ridges. The tool support frame with one or more ridge cleaning tools can be pulled behind the boat.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for the prophylactic and therapeutic treatment of animals, including humans from radiation injury. In particular, the present invention provides methods and compositions comprising the isoflavone genistein (4′, 5, 7-trihydroxyfllavone) or phytoestrogenic isoflavonoids.

Abstract: An erosion barrier implementing the invention is a filter berm advantageously comprising a biodegradable “sock” filled with a biodegradable material, e.g., using conventional blower techniques. The sock is composed of materials, such as burlap, that naturally rot and decompose. Thus, when the sock decays, it merges into the surrounding soil and thus leaves no trace. Preferably, the biodegradable material comprises compost that is pre-seeded to allow desired vegetation to grow from the compost into the under-lying soil. In this manner, the vegetation anchors the berm and prevents it from eroding, even when its exterior sock is fully decomposed. In an exemplary embodiment, the sock may be constructed with larger holes on its bottom so as to allow the material in the berm to effectively bind and adhere to the soil beneath.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for constructing an underground curved and narrow multisectional structure, stratum and wall horizontally and vertically extending in a multihole excavation, trench and gallery being formed in the ground that utilizing a movable chassis, a framework arranged thereon and including upper frame, a slip tiltable and a pulling and pushing means that can be coupled between the frame and forming means. A set of elongate forming means is provided downward and upward separately movable relative to the framework. These forming means have a supporting motive means, a means for making alternately holes ahead of the motive means, along the length of a transversal cross-section of the excavation and adjacent closely together in a horizontal advancing direction and serve to alternately form, empty and fill up the holes with materials and to advance the chassis by the pulling means.

Abstract: Method for consolidating an earth stratum situated in a subgrade by withdrawing water that is present in there from it, comprising the stepwise arrangement from the surface of the soil, at some depth, of vertical draining means, such as drainage strips, in the earth stratum, the arrangement of horizontal drainage means, such as drainage pipes, in the upper area of the earth stratum and connecting them to the vertical drainage means for water transfer between them, the arrangement of an air sealing layer directly over the horizontal drainage means and the closing of the surface of the soil, as well as the connection of the horizontal drainage means to a pump for discharge of the water.

Abstract: Particulates, partially ballast in a railway track, are stabilised by adding a multi component system synthetic material selectively to the ballast in accordance with the results of analysing the results of a site survey with a mathematical model, to produce a structure of stabilised elements in the ballast, with unstabilised parts, to provide required structural reinforcement.

Abstract: A fastening system is invented for fasten the soil nails (which are used in cut areas) and the reinforced retaining structures (which are used in fill areas). The system is to connect the two and form an integrated body to prevent sliding plane passing through the interface of the two. The fastening system includes coupling elements, struts, flanges, steel pipes, cables, annular sleeve and clamps.

Abstract: Dust from and erosion of earth surfaces is controlled by the application of a fatty acid containing material such as used vegetable oil, animal renderings, or a combination thereof such as Yellow Grease to the surface and allowing the surface to harden and dry. The hardening and drying of the surface may be accelerated by making an at least semi-emulsion of the fatty acid containing material with a surface binding material such as lignin, magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, or a mixture thereof, and water. With the at least semi-emulsion, the fatty acid containing material makes up between about 30% to about 75% of the product, the surface binding material makes up between about 10% and about 40%, with the water making up the remainder. The product is applied to the earth surface to be treated and dries in several hours.

Abstract: A linear modular erosion and sediment control barrier is constructed of fiber logs joined end-to-end, the logs having a maximum length of about 8 feet long. Each fiber log is made of a quantity of loose fibers retained in a tubular casing by a plug. The tubular casing includes an extended section which is peeled back and folds over the end of the coupler fiber log during storage and transportation. When deployed, the extended section is unfolded to receive the end of an adjacent fiber log. The two fiber logs are secured together by a cord and hooks. The combination of a plurality of coupler fiber logs on the surface of a pallet is particularly suited for storing and transporting the logs.

Abstract: A foundation comprising one or more layers or mattresses of tires, and a fill material provided within and/or between tires of each of the mattresses. The fill material is preferably a relatively coarse aggregate and provides a porous bed having relatively high drainage capacity. The lowermost mattress is typically wrapped in a porous sheet such as a geofabric cloth which is designed to allow the passage of water across the lowermost mattress whilst preventing the ingress of relatively finer material into the fill material and which can otherwise lead to degeneration of the foundation. At least some of the tires typically also have an upper sidewall removed therefrom.

Abstract: A modular erosion and sediment control barrier. The linear modular erosion and sediment control barrier is constructed of reinforced fiber logs joined end-to-end or side-to-side. Each fiber log is made of a quantity of loose fibers retained in a reinforced tubular casing having at least one closed end wherein the fibers are retained in the casing by either a second closed end or by a plug. The coupler fiber logs are constructed with a reinforced tubular casing comprising at least two layers of a flexible material. The open-ended reinforced coupler fiber log includes an extended section which is peeled back and folds over the end of the coupler fiber log during storage and transportation. When deployed, the extended section is unfolded to receive the end of an adjacent fiber log. Two fiber logs, whether having two closed ends or a single closed end, are secured together by a cord and hooks.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of re-tightening or retensioning a roof bolt in an underground mine serves the purpose of enabling the operator to place tension between the head of a permanent, epoxy-secured, roof bolt and the roof plate of a standard roof bolt system used to effect primary roof support in an underground mine. The method and apparatus have particular utility in mines in which drawrock or localized crumbling of shale of soft rock material is encountered as the first layer of material in the mine roof. The apparatus consists of a slotted screw member and slotted nut combination. A second embodiment of the apparatus is comprised of a slotted nut, slotted screw member, and one or more slotted spacers to be oriented between the roof bolt head and base plate. The members are turned with the appropriate tightening tool such as to apply pressure between the base plate and roof bolt head, thereby re-tensioning the roof bolt.

Abstract: A method of reducing ground disturbance during freeze-thaw cycles. The steps include excavating soil from an area affected by ground disturbance due to subsurface flow and subsequent freezing of water. A subsurface layer of thermal insulation is then laid over the affected area, thereby thermally insulating the affected area from freezing. The subsurface layer of thermal insulation has a top surface and a bottom surface. A subsurface layer of wick material capable of drawing water away from the affected area by capillary action is also laid parallel to one of the top surface or the bottom surface of the subsurface layer of thermal insulation positioned in a path of the subsurface flow of water.

Abstract: A method for reinforcing a slope in which field ground deformation characteristics of an unstable slope can be rapidly and reliably judged and the unstable slope recovered and restored to its own natural state by introduction and application of an earth reinforcement theory, where apparent cohesion is increased by reinforcement members.

Abstract: A combination anchoring pin and insertion apparatus which includes a vertically disposed elongated barrel having an axial bore and an elongated hammer drive rod slidably received within the bore with the upper end extending above the top opening of the barrel and having a handle secured to the upper end of the rod. A side opening is provided in the barrel for sequentially introducing anchoring pins therethrough into the bore and a pin guide chute is secured to the barrel and aligned with this barrel side opening for sequentially feeding anchor pins through the side opening in guided alignment. An anchoring pin retainer is positioned in the barrel bore below the side opening to receive, retain and position the anchoring pins sequentially under the lower end of the drive rod for sequential downward driving engagement or hammering by the drive rod.

Abstract: A process for converting municipal solid waste landfills to aerobic conditions that will allow for a highly accelerated and enhanced bioreduction of landfill mass, followed by the optional excavation of the landfill cell materials subsequent to the bioreduction process, separation of excavated materials using trommels, screens, and other means as necessary, production of useable compost materials, and reclamation of recyclable plastics, metal, and glass.

Abstract: In a slope stabilising means, a single borehole (4) comprises both a ground anchorage (7) and a soil nail means (18), comprising a tensile member bonded to the bore grout along substantially its whole length. The slope stabilising means has the advantage of allowing the ground to be pre-stressed using the ground anchorage means (7). However, the active zone of the ground (2) is also stabilised by the soil nail means (18), which allows a lighter facing structure (24) to be used than is normal with ground anchorage means. Economy of operations is obtained, as a number of items are included in a single borehole.

Abstract: A plurality of rows of wells are drilled in the soil of the area to be stabilized, and then pairs of electrodes, i.e., an aluminum anode and a copper-graphite cathode connected to a source of a bipolar pulse current, are inserted into each well in such a manner that during operation all anodes of odd wells are connected to a positive terminal (for odd pulses) of the source, while all cathodes of even wells are connected to a negative terminal (for odd pulses) of the source. After a certain period of treatment the anodes and cathodes are reversed so that all anode of even wells are connected to the positive terminals (for even pulses) of the source, whereas the cathodes of the odd wells are connected to the negative terminal of the source. Controlled directional structuring of the soil mass is carried out by adjusting the duration of current pulses, intervals between two sequential bipolar pulses of pulse current, and current density in the pulses.

Abstract: A method of forming a support structure on a base from a framework uses a tube of a flexible material divided by dividing walls of flexible material into an array of compartments. Each compartment includes at least one wall including a hollow protrusion or recess. In use the framework is located on the base and the compartments are filled with the filler material so that each compartment is adjacent to one or more other compartments filled with the filler material and so that each hollow protrusion fills with the filler material so that each compartment protrudes into or is protruded into by at least one adjacent compartment so as to interlock adjacent compartment. This increases the overall strength of the support structure.

Abstract: A modular erosion and sediment control barrier. The linear modular erosion and sediment control barrier is constructed of fiber logs joined end-to-end. Each fiber log is made of a quantity of loose fibers retained in a tubular casing by a plug. The tubular casing includes an extended section which is peeled back and folds over the end of the coupler fiber log during storage and transportation. When deployed, the extended section is unfolded to receive the end of an adjacent fiber log. The two fiber logs are secured together by a cord and hooks.

Abstract: A concrete silt fence constructed of a plurality of very thin, steel reinforced concrete panels that are aligned side by side and fixed in a trench in the ground to form a fence. Each of the panels is constructed of reinforcing steel bars and concrete. The steel bars are aligned parallel to each other and centered in the neutral axis of the panel. A steel bar is provided adjacent each of the two side walls of the panel to provide shear strength to the side edges of the panel, and one or more steel bars are provided between these two outside steel bars. A thin coating of concrete is poured around the reinforcing steel bars so that each pre-cast panel contains so little concrete that it does not satisfy the American Concrete Institute's standard for minimum concrete cover of reinforcement for pre-cast concrete wall panels that are exposed to earth or weather.

Abstract: A method of construction works for preventing the bed and shore of a torrent from being eroded by using steel cables and steel nets without requiring a huge number of works or huge costs, comprising the steps of fixing at least two longitudinal cables (1) directly or indirectly to lodgments (2), connecting the longitudinal cables by at least two lateral cables (5) at proper intervals, and disposing at least two nets (3), the number of which corresponds to the number of lateral cables, so that the nets are arranged at proper intervals in the direction from upstream to downstream of the torrent and mooring the nets by the longitudinal cables and the lateral cables or mooring cables that are connected to the longitudinal cables so that the nets face the water flow of the torrent.

Abstract: Composite fabric for reinforcing soil layers, including a textile lattice and a water-permeable, flat textile structure which is joined to the lattice. The invention provides a geotextile composite fabric web whose positioning not only achieves good reinforcement but also allows for the rapid and reliable consolidation of the subsoil situated beneath the textile composite fabric web. The lattice includes strips which are at least 4 cm wide, extend at distances of at least 30 cm in the longitudinal direction of the composite fabric web and have high tensile strength, and second strips which are at least 4 cm wide, extend at distances of at least 30 cm at right angles to the first strips and have high tensile strength. At the points of intersection, the second strips are joined to the first strips in a non-slip manner.

Abstract: The present invention relates to soil redeposition inhibiting agents, soil redeposition inhibiting articles comprising such soil redeposition inhibiting agents, method for using such soil redeposition inhibiting articles for removing soils from dry or essentially dry fabrics, and systems employing said soil redeposition inhibiting agents such that soil is removed from dry or essentially dry fabrics exposed to the soil redeposition inhibiting agents.

Abstract: Method for consolidating an earth stratum situated in a subgrade by withdrawing water that is present in there from it, comprising the stepwise arrangement from the surface of the soil, at some depth, of vertical draining means, such as drainage strips, in the earth stratum, the arrangement of horizontal drainage means, such as drainage pipes, in the upper area of the earth stratum and connecting them to the vertical drainage means for water transfer between them, the arrangement of an air sealing layer directly over the horizontal drainage means and the closing of the surface of the soil, as well as the connection of the horizontal drainage means to a pump for discharge of the water.

Abstract: A treatment product for earth surfaces, particularly earth surfaces which generate dust such as dirt roads or parking lots, includes a fatty acid containing material and water in at least a temporary semi-emulsion state when applied to the earth surface. The fatty acid containing material may be used vegetable oil, animal renderings, or a combination thereof such as Yellow Grease. An emulsifying agent can be used to help emulsify the fatty acid material in the water. The fatty acid material makes up between about 10% to about 85% of the product with the water, and emulsifying agent, if used, making up the remainder. When used, the emulsifying agent can make up to about 1% of the amount of water used. The product is applied to the earth surface to be treated and dries in several hours.

Abstract: A landscaping tile for stabilizing hillsides that includes a top surface which is textured to simulate a bed of gravel, river rocks, or the like. The landscaping tile is flexible and conforms to the topography of the land. The landscaping tile is secured to the ground using a plurality of stakes. The stakes may be driven through preformed holes defined directly in the tile, or through a border frame which overlaps the tile.

Abstract: Backfill for a mine contains a main component of conventional backfill material and a flow enhancing superfine material component mixed with the main component. The superfine material component may be a clay, for example, and has a particle size of less than 1 micron. The superfine component is present in an amount of about 0.5 to 1% by weight to best achieve improved flow without plugging in a pipeline.

Abstract: In order to provide wider biaxially-stretched geogrids having high primary direction (PD) strength, crotch-forming zones of a starting material which is at least 2.0 mm thick have protuberances (6). On strectching, PD orientation passes right through the junction (27) but the protuberance (6) causes the orientation ratio of the crotch edge to decrease significiantly as orientation enters the central part of the crotch edge. After a secondary direction stretch of at least about 1.5:1, the thickness of the central part of the crotch edge is not reduced by more than about 20%. The stretching does not reduce the thickness of any point along notional ridge lines (31) to such an extent that the ratio of finished thickness to starting thickness at that point mid-point. In the biax geogrid (25), the junction mid-point is significantly thicker than the PD is less than about 80% of the ratio of finished thickness to starting thickness of the junction strand mid-point.

Abstract: Discloses cementitious materials for treatment of underground or subterranean formations to reduce formation porosity for the control and of subterranean fluid flow as well as methods of applying the cementitous materials to the underground formations. The cementitious materials include both ordinary Portland cement and magnesium oxychloride cement which act co-operatively to produce a low permeability zone in the underground formation. Application methods describing injection of the cementitous materials into the underground formation to be treated are disclosed for treatment of pre-excavation formations and post excavation formations. Describes use of the cementitious materials and methods of application in relation to underground tunnel and roadway construction as well as foundation treatment of dam structures for water reservoirs.

Abstract: A method of constructing a temporary vehicle parking lot (10) on a land area (12) comprises the steps of: providing a composite drainage material (20) through which water drains; and covering the land area (12) with the composite drainage material (20) so that the land area is underneath the composite drainage material. The composite drainage material (20) comprises a polymeric open mesh core (22) between first and second layers (24 and 26) of a non-woven geo-textile fabric. One (24) of the first and second layers contacts the land area (12). The other (26) of the first and second layers faces away from the land area (12) and provides a surface (50) on which vehicles may be parked. The composite drainage material (20) directs water which contacts the other layer (26) through the first and second layers (24 and 26), through the polymeric core (22) between the layers, and into the land area (12) covered by the composite drainage material (20).

Abstract: A geotextile structure for filtering liquid from soil includes a lower layer of geotextile material for contacting soil for filtration thereof. The lower layer presents in its thickness a number of constrictions n included between 15 and 40, and is made of synthetic filaments or fibers presenting a count D wherein D is measured in units of decitex. An upper layer of geotextile material provides mechanical protection of the lower layer. The upper layer presents in its thickness constrictions more open than the constrictions of the lower layer to avoid clogging of the lower layer. The upper layer is made of synthetic filaments or fibers presenting a count at least equal to 2D. The upper and lower layers are bonded to each other.

Abstract: A geotextile fabric constructed as a bi-axially oriented, open grid of high modulus of elasticity strands impregnated with resinous material which is flexible when cured. The fabric may be stored and installed in roll or sheet form and provides high-strength, low-strain reinforcement of earthen structures which is resistant to abrasion, water and chemical attack from soil.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a geogrid including drawn, polymeric longitudinal straps which run parallel or substantially parallel to each other and polymeric transverse straps bonded to the longitudinal straps, with the crosswise elastic modulus of the transverse straps being less than 15%, preferably less than 8%, of the lengthwise elastic modulus of the longitudinal straps. Such geogrids have improved strength compared to conventional geogrids.

Abstract: Erosion or collapse of a stream or a river is prevented by mooring timber, stones, or the like with a longitudinal cable (steel cable) (1). Barrier-like members (3) such as timber and stones moored by using the longitudinal cable (1) are arranged substantially stepwise or parallel to each other on the ground near the eroded or collapsed place to prevent mountain landslides.

Abstract: A cell confinement structure for confinement of material having a plurality of elongated plastic strips in a side by side relationship bonded together in spaced-apart, limited areas where the plurality of strips are capable of being stretched in width to form a unitary web of cells. The strips forming walls of the cells with at least one of the cell walls having a plurality of apertures in which each diameter is between about 3 mm and 17 mm. Preferably, each of the cell walls has a plurality of apertures with the total area of the apertures in the cell walls being between 19% and 28% of cell wall area. The sell structure may include tendons passing through the walls of the cell.

Abstract: Erosion or collapse of a stream or a river is prevented by mooring timber, stones, or the like with a longitudinal cable (steel cable) (1). Barrier-like members (3) such as timber and stones moored by using the longitudinal cable (1) are arranged substantially stepwise or parallel to each other on the ground near the eroded or collapsed place to prevent mountain landslides.

Abstract: An installation for storing of natural gas or some other fluid comprises a lined underground storage space. Inside the rock wall of the storage space there is a concrete layer for supporting an inner impermeable lining layer. According to the invention, the concrete layer has a crack distribution control reinforcement layer closer to the impermeable lining layer than to the rock wall in order to divide large cracks into smaller cracks and distribute the cracks over a larger area of the impermeable lining layer. Further, also according to the invention, there is between the impermeable lining layer and the concrete layer a non-binding sliding layer to facilitate relative movements between the impermeable lining layer and the concrete layer.