Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling and/or monitoring volatile compounds such as those buried underground. A cover or cover layer is placed over the source of the volatile compounds in the ground. The cover is intentionally made to be relatively gas permeable, to allow movement of volatile compounds upward into the cover. Oxygen is encouraged to be mixed with the volatile compounds in the layer to promote oxidation and degradation of the volatiles. The treated volatile compounds can then be allowed to be emitted from the cover into atmosphere. According to an aspect of the apparatus and method, optionally, a conduit can be placed in the cover to carry and eject oxygen to and into the cover layer. It can also be used to gather in a mixture of volatiles and air (with oxygen) and transport the mixture to a desired location. Still further, another aspect of the invention includes measuring and monitoring the presence and/or amount of a volatile compound in the ground.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the beneficial utilization or handling of run-off water. The apparatus includes a permeable underground water reservoir in combination with a siphon. Run-off water can be directed to the reservoir where its permeability allows infiltration of the water into an infiltration gallery which includes the soil around the system. Upon reaching a critical head, a siphon operates the siphon off water until the siphon is broken and infiltration resumes. The system can cycle between infiltration and siphon outflow unless an equilibrium between inflow and outflow is set up which can continue indefinitely. Alternative to a siphon, a valve could be used which allows outflow upon water in the reservoir reaching a critical head. The system could be used to clean or treat water, especially initial run-off from storms.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for hydraulically isolating a volume in porous unsaturated material, such as soil. Air is forced through a permeable layer of material adjacent to the volume to be hydraulically isolated. The air flow through the permeable layer creates a water potential gradient. This causes water to migrate from more saturated areas which in turn would allow hydraulic isolation of any unsaturated area.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining physical and chemical properties of a porous medium such as soil or rock. A sample of porous medium is held within a container. Conditions regarding the sample are sensed, including but not limited to weight, temperature, pressure, and humidity. Conditions at the sample can be brought to equilibrium or varied according to instructions. A control system can adjust or equilibrate the conditions according to desire and according to which properties or relationships between physical and chemical properties are desired to be derived.