Containment Patents (Class 588/249)
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Patent number: 5416253Abstract: Disclosed are formulations for producing chemical solvent admixtures that can be employed to clean a surface for further work; and that can be applied to cloths for the cleaning operation yet alleviate problems with solvent evaporation into the atmosphere to cause many legal and environmental problems, and a method of storing and disposing of cloths soaked with the formulation that alleviates current problems.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1992Date of Patent: May 16, 1995Assignee: Lockheed CorporationInventors: Henry J. Weltman, Tony L. Phillips
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Patent number: 5416249Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for encapsuling hazardous wastes materials stored in drums. The drum is enclosed in an overcapsule that is grouted to the drum and the contents of the drum are stabilized if necessary with a solidification grout. Once the grouts have set, the overcapsule is positioned onto an undercapsule and grouted to the undercapsule so that the entire capsule with the drum containing hazardous waste inside may safely be transported and stored. The capsule is shaped so that the individual capsules may be stacked one on the other.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1993Date of Patent: May 16, 1995Assignee: Nicholson Construction CompanyInventors: Lynn M. Crayne, Gary J. Zawada
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Patent number: 5414208Abstract: Dense ceramic material in the form of a block is made in a hot uniaxial press, particulate precursor material for the ceramic being supplied in cylindrical metal capsules having a convoluted or bellows-like side wall which are supplied in a stream with an elongated cylindrical spacer of greater diameter between adjacent metal capsules. Each spacer has a recessed end face for accommodating a corresponding end portion of a metal capsule so that the metal capsule is centered and there is restraint against radially outward expansion of the capsule under the heat and pressure which is applied. The apparatus is operated essentially continuously and the stream moves progressively upwardly so that the discharge of processed containers and spacers occurs at the upper end and capsules to be processed and spacers are inserted intermittently at the lower end.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1993Date of Patent: May 9, 1995Assignee: Australian Nuclear Science & Technology OrganisationInventor: John E. Ramm
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Patent number: 5406019Abstract: The present invention is used in response to petroleum related spills in the environment. The hydrocarbon materials can be removed from any substrate, particularly ice or beach sand, by impinging in two separate fluid streams, a formable surfactant/emulsifying solution with a latent foaming agent and a foam inducing agent through specially designed variable pressure guns. Once treated, the petroleum-related liquids are lifted above the substrate in a foam matrix formed while the solution is in contact with the spilled contaminants, and captured via standard industrial vacuum technology for later disposal.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1993Date of Patent: April 11, 1995Inventor: Miles W. Dean
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Patent number: 5399833Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the melting and subsequent solidification of fine particulate material by use of a plasma torch. The fine particulate material is introduced into a furnace having a plasma torch to a depth sufficient to cover the plasma flame produced by the torch. When operative, the torch generates a heat at low gas flow, which both allows the fine particulate material to rest with little disturbance and to transfer large amounts of heat energy to the fine particulate, effectively preheating the fine particulate material for more efficient melting. The melt may, for example, be solidified into a block for building use, into fibers by way of pressurized air passed through a venturi nozzle or into other useful forms.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1993Date of Patent: March 21, 1995Inventor: Salvador L. Camacho
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Patent number: 5391020Abstract: A method for removing a substance from a medium including the steps of growing plant life in the medium to absorb the substance into the plant life, removing the plant life from the medium and thereby the substance from the medium and repeating the growing and removing steps as many times as necessary to reduce the remaining quantity of the substance in the medium to the level desired.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1992Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Assignee: SDVC, Inc.Inventor: John B. Williamson
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Patent number: 5391019Abstract: An environmental enclosure structure formed of a cement-based slurry infiltrated fiber composite material is used above ground or underground to enclose, protect, and safely contain; hazardous materials, telecommunications equipment, volatile explosives, and the like. The preferred enclosure structure is a box-like enclosure formed of a cement-based slurry infiltrated fiber composite material which is produced by first placing a plurality of individual short fibers or fiber mats of organic or inorganic materials into a form to create a bed of fibers substantially filling the form and having a predetermined fiber volume density and then adding a cement-based slurry mixture into the form to completely infiltrate the spaces between the fibers. The cement-based slurry mixture includes a composition of Portland cement, fly ash, water, a high-range water reducer (superplasticizer), and may also include fine grain sand, chemical admixtures, and other additives.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1993Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Inventor: J. P. Pat Morgan
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Patent number: 5387736Abstract: A portable decontamination system including a carriage for carrying an operator and a decontamination unit is moved to the site of a truck mounted environmental well drilling rig. The carriage is displaced along the length of the substantially upright rig via a lift, whereupon the operator remotely operates the decontamination unit for washing the rig. Contaminated wash water resulting from washing the rig is caught in a pan for subsequent disposal, or decontamination and re-use, as the case may be.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1993Date of Patent: February 7, 1995Assignee: Salomone Bros., Inc.Inventors: Joseph Salomone, Paul Salomone, Jr.
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Patent number: 5387057Abstract: A system and method of remediating a ground site contaminated with volatile chemical material such as volatile organic compounds (VOC). The system includes an array of elongated spaced dewatering wells embedded into the contaminated ground for lowering the ground water level in this area. The system also includes an array of spaced vacuum extraction wells also embedded in the contaminated ground for removal of air mixed with the volatile contaminates after the ground water level has been lowered below the level of the contaminated ground. By this arrangement, both contaminated ground water and volatile contaminants are removed for disposal to greatly increase both efficiency and long-lasting effect. After remediation, the uncontaminated surrounding ground water flows back to further cleanse the now remediated ground.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 1993Date of Patent: February 7, 1995Inventor: Anthony DeLoach
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Patent number: 5387735Abstract: A disposal container and a disposal system employing the disposal container. The container comprises a hollow container body having an opening at the top to permit access to the interior of the container body and having a barrier disposed adjacent the opening for restricting access to the interior of the container body. The barrier at least in part comprises a first cowl extending over the opening and a complementary second cowl extending beneath the opening, with the second cowl being offset relative to the first. The container includes a retention for preventing items from being dispensed through the opening from the interior of the container body when the container body is upright. The outer enclosure is shaped to accommodate the inner container, and includes a hood conforming to the first cowl.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1993Date of Patent: February 7, 1995Assignee: Sage Products, Inc.Inventors: Lawrence G. Ponsi, Barbara T. Skiba, David McDonough
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Patent number: 5385194Abstract: A fabric panel clean change-out frame, for use on a containment structure having rigid walls, is formed of a compression frame and a closure panel. The frame is formed of elongated spacers, each carrying a plurality of closely spaced flat springs, and each having a hooked lip extending on the side of the spring facing the spacer. The closure panel is includes a perimeter frame formed of flexible, wedge-shaped frame members that are receivable under the springs to deflect the hooked lips. A groove on the flexible frame members engages the hooked lips and locks the frame members in place under the springs. A flexible fabric panel is connected to the flexible frame members and closes its center.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1993Date of Patent: January 31, 1995Inventor: Ronald M. Brown
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Patent number: 5385105Abstract: The system (10) for collecting and disposing of contaminated waste products such as medical sharps and other medical wastes includes a housing (11) and its telescopic cover (9) which are fabricated of biodegradable and combustible material such as natural cellulose and non-natural cellulose. An absorbent biodegradable and combustible absorption package (30) or insert (35) can be placed in the bottom of the holding chamber (12) for absorbing any liquids emitted from the sharps and other wastes, and for enhancing the combustion of the medical sharps and other wastes when the housing is placed in a furnace. When the housing is burned it evolves no more than trace levels of sulfur or chlorine and yields substantially only biodegradable ash.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1994Date of Patent: January 31, 1995Assignee: McDonald, Withers & Hughes, Inc.Inventors: L. Andrew Withers, Jr., David W. Hughes
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Patent number: 5383745Abstract: A catch basin for collecting hazardous materials in a drain comprises a container having a drain hole, an annular flange extending from the upper edge of the container for supporting the container in a drain, a cover member having a plurality of through-holes and a drain plug which is threadably inserted in a drain hole provided therefore in the bottom of the container for use in plugging the container to contain hazardous materials.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1992Date of Patent: January 24, 1995Assignee: John P. DemingInventor: John A. Shannon
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Patent number: 5372453Abstract: A fuel spill containment system for use with an underground fuel tank has two upstanding fill tubes extending upwardly from the tank through the bottom wall of a spill container. Each tube has an adjustable sealed connection with the container bottom wall to adapt to the container for different fill tube spacings. The spill container is floatably positioned within a protective casing having an overhead cover with an access opening above the fill tubes. A flexible annular sleeve extends from the spill container side wall to the overhead cover to form a flexible liquid-tight closure about the container upper edge. Dislocations of the casing or spill container, caused by earth movements, as from freezing or earthquake, are safely absorbed by the flexible sleeve, thereby preventing earth stresses from breaking connections between the casing and the container.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1993Date of Patent: December 13, 1994Inventor: Toby Argandona
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Patent number: 5367116Abstract: Solid residues obtained in flue gas purification, in particular flue dusts, are disposed in an environmentally compatible and economical manner by acid extracting heavy metals from the residues, precipitating the heavy metals from the extract, separating the precipitate from the mother liquor, subjecting the precipitate containing heavy metals to mechanical stress during which procedure the water contained in the precipitate is released and the precipitate itself is resuspended, and then adding a hydraulic binder to the resuspended precipitate containing heavy metals and/or to the extracted residues separately from one another. The binder-containing mixture can be used to form moldings which, after hardening, are employed for the erection of boundary walls in a landfill, Additionally or alternatively, the plastic binder-containing mixture can be introduced in the form of layers into preformed landfill spaces, where it then hardens.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1993Date of Patent: November 22, 1994Assignee: Von Roll AGInventor: Rudolf Frey
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Patent number: 5365013Abstract: A mobile trailer adapted to receive hazardous waste building products such as lead painted windows, doors, door frames, sills and the like. The trailer is lined to prevent escape of toxic air and dust. The trailer contains wood working machinery to plane and cut lead painted wood surfaces from the wood building material fed therein. The lead painted wood scraps are the encapsulated into compact bales, washed and stored within the trailer to await hauling by a waste haul service. The stripped wood once having had its lead paint surfaces cut away, is passed from the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1994Date of Patent: November 15, 1994Inventor: Alan P. Aulson
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Patent number: 5360632Abstract: Solid waste material which contains arsenic and/or mercury impurities is encapsulated in a cured polysulfide polymer so as to alleviate leaching of arsenic and/or mercury into aqueous liquids. Preferably, the solid waste material is first extracted with an alcohol such as ethanol or, alternatively, treated with an oxidizing agent such as aqueous hydrogen peroxide and then substantially dried before the encapsulation with the polymer is carried out.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1993Date of Patent: November 1, 1994Assignee: Phillips Petroleum CompanyInventors: Marvin M. Johnson, Maybin Simfukwe, Gerhard P. Nowack, Donald H. Kubicek
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Patent number: 5354149Abstract: A hazardous waste containment system for preventing the lateral migration of hazardous fluid substances (including both liquid and gas wastes, heavy metals, etc.) into the water table, particularly for sites which are located over a fluid impermeable strata (20) of clay or the like, while also allowing the controlled removal and/or in situ treatment of the fluid substances. The system uses an encircling barrier containment wall (W) comprising a plurality of slidingly engaged, sealed, interlocked, vertical barrier members (501/101) which extend down to and sealingly interface with the underlying fluid impermeable strata. At least one barrier member (1') includes a pass-through (P', FIG. 2) for one or more pipes (900) leading into an adjacent, satellite work/equipment area (E, FIGS. 1 & 3) where the hazardous fluids are controllable removed and treated on-site, and the treated fluids thereafter removed out of the work/equipment area.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1993Date of Patent: October 11, 1994Assignee: Barrier Member Containment Corp.Inventor: Louis B. Breaux
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Patent number: 5347074Abstract: Fly ash generated from incineration of municipal solid waste (MSW) when placed in landfills can under mild acid conditions can leach lead and cadmium. A process for stabilizing heavy metals in this fly ash is presented which involves calcining the fly ash in the presence of an oxygen containing gas stream at a temperature greater than about 400.degree. C. and less than about 600.degree. C. for times from about 170 seconds up to about 5 hours fly ash which has been subjected to calcium scrubbing for acid gas removal. Such treated MSW fly ash will give leachates containing heavy metal concentrations less than the EPA regulatory limit.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Wolfgang A. Hochleitner, Stephen P. Goff
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Patent number: 5347071Abstract: A process for the treatment of contaminants using metal scavenger is disclosed. The metal scavengers individually comprise a polyamine derivative and a polyethyleneimine derivative. The polyamine derivative is formed of a polyamine having a molecular weight not higher than 500 and contains, per molecule of the polyamine, at least one dithiocarboxyl group or a salt thereof as an N-substituting group substituted for an active hydrogen atom of the polyamine. The polyethyleneimine derivative is formed from a polyethyleneimine having an average molecular weight of at least 5,000 and contains, per molecule of the polyethyleneimine, at least one dithiocarboxyl group or a salt thereof as an N-substituting group substituted for an active hydrogen atom of the polyethyleneimine.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1992Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Assignee: Miyoshi Yushi Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masafumi Moriya, Kazuo Hosoda, Masatoshi Yoshida, Masayoshi Tsukanome
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Patent number: 5347070Abstract: The present invention includes a method of treating solid earthen material having volatile, semi-volatile and non-volatile contaminants. Six electrodes are inserted into a region of earthen material to be treated in a substantially equilateral hexagonal arrangement. Six phases of voltages are applied to corresponding electrodes. The voltages are adjusted within a first range of voltages to create multiple current paths between pairs of the electrodes. The current paths are evenly distributed throughout the region defined by the electrodes and therefore uniformly heat the region. The region of earthen material is heated to a temperature sufficient to substantially remove volatile and semi-volatile contaminants. This temperature is less than a melting temperature of the earthen material. The voltages are then increased to a second range of voltages effective to create dry regions around the electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1991Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Assignee: Battelle Pacific Northwest LabsInventors: William Heath, Richard Richardson, Steven Goheen
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Patent number: 5345034Abstract: A barrier for reducing the spread of a plume of subsurface contaminants. The apparatus includes a well system for injecting a fluid, such as air, just outside and below the periphery of the plume. The fluid is injected at a pressure sufficient to lower the hydraulic conductivity of the soil from the point of injection to the surface thus establishing a curtain-like barrier to groundwater movement. The barrier is established upgradient of the plume to divert groundwater away, or preferably completely around the plume to reduce the flow of groundwater into or out of the plume. The barrier enables the remediation of the confined contamination and then, when the injection of the fluid is halted, the barrier quickly dissipates.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1993Date of Patent: September 6, 1994Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventor: John C. Corey
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Patent number: 5345033Abstract: A method for neutralizing hazardous materials wherein the material and if applicable, the device within which such material is contained, is first cooled to substantially sub-ambient temperatures. The material is then safely extractable from such device and exposed to the appropriate reactants in order to form benign products. Most of the hazards associated with accessing, handling, and reacting these materials are thereby eliminated and such is achieved in relatively economical manner.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1992Date of Patent: September 6, 1994Assignee: Toxco, Inc.Inventor: William J. McLaughlin
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Patent number: 5336843Abstract: A process for compacting normally occurring radioactive material (NORM) into a cylinder, such as a pipe, by providing a cylinder having a continuous sidewall, a first open end and a second closed in, and a cavity formed by the side wall defining a NORM storage space therein; providing a hopper for holding a quantity of the NORM; positioning the open end of the cylinder against the hopper, so that there is communication between the hopper space containing the NORM and the cylinder space; moving a ram member through the hopper toward the open end of the cylinder for forcing a quantity of the NORM contained within the hopper into the cylinder; repeating the compaction step until the cylinder is substantially filled with the NORM; and closing off the open end of the cylinder so that the NORM cannot move from the cylinder. The process also includes the step of removing the moisture from the NORM before the NORM is compacted in the cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1992Date of Patent: August 9, 1994Inventor: John Zimmer
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Patent number: 5332335Abstract: A method for fabricating a secondary containment system in place includes providing a support surface for bottom and side portions of the secondary containment systems and applying a thermoset resin material to the support surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1993Date of Patent: July 26, 1994Assignee: Amoco CorporationInventor: Charles M. Daul
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Patent number: 5324137Abstract: An advancing freeze front is established in a porous region adjacent to or within contaminated earth. A flow of contaminated liquid phase water migrates toward the freeze front and a concentration of impurities is established in front of the advancing freeze front. When the freeze front reaches a collection zone, at least a portion is melted and the resultant water bearing concentrated impurities is collected and removed. This process may be repetitively performed.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignee: University of WashingtonInventor: J. Gregory Dash
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Patent number: 5318383Abstract: A method for controlling a closed-loop processing system (100) including the steps of receiving and analyzing an element to be processed to identify the contents thereof. The method further includes the steps of processing and converting the element into a residue which is stabilized, to prevent physical interaction therewith, and then deposited in a permanent landfill storage facility (124). Finally, a plurality of parameters of the residue and the environment surrounding the closed-loop processing system (100) are monitored to provide a plurality of control signals. The control signals are utilized to control each stage of the processing system to ensure a negligible environment effect. Thus, the invention provides a method for controlling a processing system in a closed-loop automated manner with negligible environmental impact. In a preferred embodiment, the closed-loop automated system (100) for processing waste of the present invention receives and analyzes waste.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1992Date of Patent: June 7, 1994Assignee: Hughes Aircraft CompanyInventors: William A. Yates, Jon N. Leonard
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Patent number: 5306861Abstract: A flexible sheet barrier includes a flexible sheet which has a first face to receive adhesive surface from a material being a strip of duct tape. The flexible sheet has a spaced series of apertures along at least one edge of the sheet, and inwardly spaced from the edge of the sheet. When the duct tape is placed over the apertures, the adhesive surface adheres to a substrate on the opposite face of the flexible sheet. The adhesive surface also adheres to the material on the first face of the sheet. This effectively provides a bonding of the flexible sheet to the substrate. Applied to a secured area, a room or space or floor can be lined so that safe asbestos abatement can be effected.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1992Date of Patent: April 26, 1994Inventors: Philip I. Amos, Diane L. Lickar
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Patent number: 5304705Abstract: A depository for storing radioactive waste is comprised of a material such as natural rock, magmatic rock, or concrete. The construction body has an interior storage chamber. The size and the wall thickness of the construction body prevent emission of radioactive radiation during a projected storage time of several thousand years. The construction body is designed to provide a free, stable support on a concave to flat ground surface so that a displacement of the construction body due to tectonic movements of the earth's crust does not have an effect on its free and stable support. Preferably, the construction body has the shape of a tetrahedron.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1992Date of Patent: April 19, 1994Inventor: Max Himmelheber
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Patent number: 5304704Abstract: A process of soil remediation in which an encapsulation solution is introduced into contact with a soil matrix containing chemical contaminants such as polynucleated aromatics in an amount sufficient to form a saturated admixture of the soil matrix and the encapsulation solution, the encapsulation solution being capable of preferentially attracting the chemical contaminants contained in the soil matrix, and containing an effective amount of non-ionic surfactant material and water; and the admixture is admixed for an interval sufficient to permit the chemical contaminants to preferentially dissociate from contact with the soil matrix in favor of association with the encapsulation solution. Once this occurs, the encapsulation solution with associated chemical contaminants can be removed from contact with the soil matrix.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1992Date of Patent: April 19, 1994Inventor: Norman Kammeraad
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Patent number: 5304707Abstract: A method for solidification or encapsulation of compositions containing a substantially continuous aqueous phase comprising uniformly incorporating into said compositions core-shell polymer particles and subsequently neutralizing said polymer particles by incorporating into said compositions an organic or inorganic base. The neutralized polymer particles swell and absorb substantially all of said aqueous phase.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1993Date of Patent: April 19, 1994Assignee: Rohm and Haas CompanyInventors: Robert M. Blankenship, Clarence Neyhart, Ronald W. Novak
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Patent number: 5301479Abstract: A hazardous material container storage building comprising a plurality of modules, each module having a floor for supporting containers of hazardous waste materials and tubes underlying the floor. In one embodiment, a first and second module are provided. A mechanical joining mechanism extends through the first module tube and the second module tube for securing the first module to the second module. The first and second modules are joined to create a single, unitary hazardous waste material storage building. A related method is also provided. Another embodiment of a hazardous waste material container storage building comprises providing a plurality of modules, each having a securing member disposed on the roof of each module. Two modules are joined by connecting a fastener to the securing members of each respective module. A related method is also disclosed. The first and second embodiment may be used in the same installation.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1993Date of Patent: April 12, 1994Assignee: CID Associates, Inc.Inventor: Frederick W. Romig
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Patent number: 5302179Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing a useful soil product from contaminated soil and sludge is disclosed, and wherein the contaminated soil is heated in a primary treatment unit to a temperature above the vaporization temperature but below the auto ignition temperature of the contaminates, so as to volatilize the contaminates. The volatilized contaminates are then delivered to a secondary treatment unit where they are heated to a temperature sufficient to be converted to non-toxic products, such as carbon dioxide and water. The hot purified soil produced in the primary treatment unit is conveyed to a mixing chamber, and sedimentary sludge is also conveyed to the mixing chamber, and during mixing, heat energy is transferred to the sludge so as to heat and substantially sterilize the sludge, and to thereby produce a useful soil product.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 1991Date of Patent: April 12, 1994Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.Inventor: Larry R. Wagner
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Patent number: 5297896Abstract: An environmentally safe underground piping system for liquid fuels and chemicals which interconnects an underground liquid storage tank to one or more above ground liquid dispensing units, that provides a complete secondary containment system for the entire primary liquid supply piping system. The piping systems employs one tank access chamber interconnected to one or more dispenser access chambers by a double walled pipe. The double wall pipe provides an interstitial space for gravity flow of any leaking liquids, from any point in the primary liquid supply piping system, to an access chamber, which also serves as a liquid collection sump, for purposes of leak detection.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1992Date of Patent: March 29, 1994Assignee: Environ Products, Inc.Inventor: Michael C. Webb
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Patent number: 5285617Abstract: A hazardous waste material container storage building comprising a plurality of modules, each module having a floor for supporting containers of hazardous waste materials and tubes underlying the floor. In one embodiment, a first and second module are provided. The invention further comprises a mechanical joining mechanism extending through the first module tube and the second module tube for securing the first module to the second module. The first and second modules are joined to create a single, unitary hazardous waste material storage building. A related method is also disclosed. Another embodiment of a hazardous waste material container storage building comprises providing a plurality of modules, each having a securing member disposed on the roof of each module. Two modules are joined by connecting a fastener to the securing members of each respective module. A related method is also disclosed. The first and second embodiment may be used in the same installation.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1992Date of Patent: February 15, 1994Assignee: CID Associates, Inc.Inventors: Frederick W. Romig, Charles D. Ledford
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Patent number: 5284998Abstract: Drums liners and methods used in the handling of hazardous materials and liquids comprising the use of disposable drum liners having a fitting allowing communication with the interior of the liner for securing the liner to a conventional drum bung hole, said fitting to be used to evacuate and collapse the liner, and a reseal plug attached to the fitting to seal the collapsed liner, said reseal plug having means to accept a plunger. The lid of the drum is removed and the sealed liner is taken from the drum using the plunger attached to the reseal plug. The liner is then placed into a disposal drum made of the same material as the liner and compressed. Once the disposal drum contains a sufficient number of compressed liners, it is removed for incineration or other safe disposal.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1993Date of Patent: February 8, 1994Assignee: Russell-Stanley CorporationInventors: William Lima, Earl V. Lind, Philip D. Bartlett
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Patent number: 5284997Abstract: A two-stage filtering process and a two-stage filter, with a first-stage coalescing filter separating and removing liquid paint droplets and solids from the gaseous contents of a spent aerosol container, and a second-stage filter removing the hazardous solvents from the gaseous mixture discharging from the first-stage filter.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1992Date of Patent: February 8, 1994Assignee: Porous Media CorporationInventors: Michael R. Spearman, Eric C. Stender, Patrick R. Spearman
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Patent number: 5284996Abstract: Method for storing a waste gas mixture comprised of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and inert gases, the gas mixture containing corrosive contaminants including inorganic acids and bases and organic solvents, and derived from space station operations. The gas mixture is stored under pressure in a vessel formed of a filament wound composite overwrap on a metal liner, the metal liner being pre-stressed in compression by the overwrap, thereby avoiding any tensile stress in the liner, and preventing stress corrosion cracking of the liner during gas mixture storage.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 1992Date of Patent: February 8, 1994Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Brian D. Vickers
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Patent number: 5276252Abstract: The disclosure relates to the field of the storage of toxic wastes, in solidified form, without the creation of any pollution, on appropriate artificial sites. Briefly, a concrete raft is cast on a ground stabilized in depth, said concrete raft being constituted by slabs having joints between them and being arranged in a diamond moulding. This raft can support a tight-sealing material. Wastes are then piled up on the raft in maintaining the shape of a tumulus-like mound, the positioning being done under the protection of a movable cover comprising a travelling crane provided with rolls of plastic film.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1993Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Assignee: SARP IndustriesInventors: Jean-Louis Biros, Bertrand Gontard, Philippe Pichat
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Patent number: 5263794Abstract: An environmentally safe underground piping system which employes a inner flexible fluid supply piping system contained within an outer non-flexible containment piping system which interconnects a series of surface access chambers. Both the flexible supply and and non-flexible containment piping systems are interconnected by a series of directional fittings and couplings. The containment system may be installed, integrity tested, inspected and backfilled, prior to installation of the supply piping system which allows for a faster and more economical installation.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1992Date of Patent: November 23, 1993Assignee: Environ Products, Inc.Inventor: Michael C. Webb
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Patent number: 5262578Abstract: An environmental chamber comprising a transparent dome shaped housing having an annular conduit, including an exhaust port, affixed to the base of the housing. The housing securely fits over an end of a chemical container, to create a controlled environment within the encapsulated space between the housing and the container. Two cylindrical openings at the top of the housing allow chemical transfer hoses to be connected to the chemical container openings. A pair of gloved access ports allow an operator to access the encapsulated space to manipulate connections between the transfer hoses and the chemical container openings. The top of the housing also includes an intake port for delivering clean purging material into the encapsulated space in order to purge the encapsulated environment of any chemical that escaped from the chemical openings during hook up of the transfer tubing.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1992Date of Patent: November 16, 1993Assignee: Systems Chemistry, Inc.Inventor: James C. Hall
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Patent number: 5254798Abstract: A secondary containment structure for the safe storage of hazardous materials held in primary containers, such as drums, cans and bottles. In large sizes, the containment structure is adapted to function as a pallet or as the floor of a building or shelter for primary containers. The structure includes a core formed of an end-grain balsa wood base and a rectangular frame placed thereover formed of the same or similar material to define the bed and the side walls of a sump. The inner edges at the upper end of the frame are indented to create a ledge to accommodate a fiberglass grating. The containers to be stored are seated on the grating, whereby leakage or spillage from the containers are collected in and confined to the sump. Laminated to the exposed surfaces of the core is a layer of a fiberglass-reinforced plastic material, whereby the resultant laminate, though light in weight, is of exceptional strength.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1992Date of Patent: October 19, 1993Assignee: Warminster Fiberglass CompanyInventor: Harry A. Zoback
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Patent number: 5245118Abstract: This invention provides a collapsible waste disposal container apparatus and a method of disposing of hazardous waste in the subduction zone between tectonic plates making up the earth's upper mantle.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1992Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Inventor: Howard W. Cole, Jr.
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Patent number: 5245117Abstract: The container (11) includes a side wall (15) defining a syringe storage chamber (19) where a coiled strip pack (31) of syringes (29) is placed. A central core (35) is place concentrically within the container and forms a collection chamber (20) for used syringes. The side wall (15) includes an outlet opening (30) so that the strip pack (31) can be paid out through the opening (30) and the syringes can be dispensed. The used syringes (29) will be pushed, needle-first through the central opening (26) and into the collection chamber (20), whereby when all the syringes in the strip pack are used and deposited into the collection chamber, the entire container can be disposed of, as by burning.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 1992Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Inventors: L. Andrew Withers, David W. Hughes
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Patent number: 5231938Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for handling hazardous materials, including liquid and solid materials, includes as a central feature the encapsulation of materials into spherical capsules. The capsules, which may be in one preferred embodiment about 12 inches to 17 inches in diameter, may be formed of two connected hemispheres or as an integral ball with a fill opening. Once filled and sealed, the spherical balls are nearly indestructible (although incineratable) and a very high percentage of the balls will survive even in a collision of a vehicle carrying them. The system of the invention preferably includes a color coding scheme directly on the capsules for identifying the materials in the capsules both generally, with a background color, and more specifically, with one or more color bands. In one preferred embodiment the spherical balls, when filled with hazardous materials, have a specific gravity less than 1.0 so that they will float.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1991Date of Patent: August 3, 1993Inventor: Douglas Gore
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Patent number: 5220112Abstract: Fly ash generated from incineration of municipal solid waste (MSW) when placed in landfills can under mild acid conditions leach lead and cadmium. A process for stabilizing lead in this fly ash is presented which involves calcining a mixture of the fly ash and certain calcium-containing compounds in the presence of an oxygen containing gas stream at a temperature greater than about 475.degree. C. and substantially less than about 800.degree. C. for times from about 30 minutes up to about 5 hours. Such treated MSW fly ash will give leachates containing lead concentrations less than the EPA regulatory limit.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1991Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Donald P. Bucci, Francis A. Altemose, II, Nancy C. Easterbrook, Edwin N. Givens, Joseph Klosek, Kenneth D. Tracy, Kai P. Wong
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Patent number: 5220111Abstract: Fly ash generated from incineration of municipal solid waste (MSW) when placed in landfills under mild acid conditions can leach lead and cadmium. A process for stabilizing heavy metals in this fly ash is presented which involves calcining in the presence of an oxygen containing gas stream at a temperature greater than about 375.degree. C. and substantially less than about 800.degree. C. for times from about 170 seconds up to about 5 hours fly ash which has been subjected to lime scrubbing for acid gas removal. Such treated MSW fly ash will give leachates containing heavy metal concentrations less than the EPA regulatory limit.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1991Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Donald P. Bucci, Francis A. Altemose, II, Nancy C. Easterbrook, Edwin N. Givens, Joseph Klosek, Kenneth D. Tracy, Kai P. Wong
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Patent number: 5202522Abstract: Radioactive waste is mixed with concrete and stored below any potable aquifers in a well casing traversing a stable geological hydrocarbon-containing formation. Salt water and/or hydrocarbon zones are sealed off with clean cement. Preferred storage is in offshore deep non-operating oil or gas wells.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1991Date of Patent: April 13, 1993Assignee: Conoco Inc.Inventor: Billy J. Williams
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Patent number: 5191156Abstract: The drill string enclosure consists of six component parts, including; a top bracket, an upper acrylic cylinder, an acrylic drill casing guide, a lower acrylic cylinder, a bottom bracket, and three flexible ducts. The upper acrylic cylinder is optional based upon the drill string length. The drill string enclosure allows for an efficient drill and sight operation at a hazardous waste site.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1992Date of Patent: March 2, 1993Assignee: The United States of Americas as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: Douglas K. Jorgensen, Douglass J. Kuhns, Otto Wiersholm, Timothy A. Miller
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Patent number: 5161915Abstract: A synthetic cover for waste piles may be formed from a mixture of liquid, binder, cellulose fibers and plastic fibers. These constituents may be mixed and applied to cover a waste pile. The cover will harden to minimize odor and affinity to birds, flies and other insects. The liquid may include water; the binder may include cement kiln dust with or without bentonite, or portland cement with flyash or stone dust. The cellulose fibers may comprise shredded paper or wood.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1991Date of Patent: November 10, 1992Assignee: Landfill Service CorporationInventor: David L. Hansen