Abstract: A sealing system for an earthen container such as a pit, lagoon, land fill or the like for storing waste materials includes an outer seal layer formed by mixing a water expandable colloidal clay, such as bentonite with the soil of the pit. A middle or intermediate layer is defined by a layer of granular fill material placed on the first layer. An inner seal layer is formed by mixing water expandable colloidal clay, such as bentonite with the upper surface of the granular fill layer. A source of pressurized clean fluid is in communication with the granular fill layer to develop pressure therein and prevent leakage through the inner seal layer. Level sensing apparatus for sensing the level of waste and clean fluids may be included and apparatus for detecting leakage may also be included.

Abstract: A masonry cement is prepared by dry mixing portland cement, diatomaceous earth and a water-swellable colloidal clay, such as bentonite. Accordingly, the crushed limestone and other ingredients previously included in masonry cements for admixture with portland cement can be completely eliminated and substituted by diatomacious earth and water-swellable colloidal clay. In this manner, a combination of less than about 10% by weight of a combination of diatomaceous earth and colloidal clay replaces approximately 50% by weight crushed limestone and other ingredients from prior art masonry cement compositions while providing a masonry cement which meets ASTM specifications, particularly for air entrainment, water retention and compressive strength.