Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring the condition of a ground anchorage including a tendon arranged in a bore in a group formation at a site is characterized by detecting the vibrational response signature of the anchorage to an impulse load. The vibrational response signature to the impulse is recorded and compared with a reference signature from which any changes in the integrity of the anchorage can be determined.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for identifying the presence or concentration of a target species in a sample by transmitting a wave of ultrasonic vibration through the sample and calculating, from measured values for time of flight of the wave through the sample and its attenuation during that time, an identification parameter dependent on the type or concentration of the target species in the sample and independent of the distance travelled by the wave through the sample. The method is more convenient to use than existing identification techniques because of the removal of distance from the measurements and calculations necessary. The method is of particular use in identifying polymers, for example, in reclamation and recycling processes. An apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of separating the components of a liquid/liquid dispersion or emulsion, comprising the step of applying simultaneously to the dispersion or emulsion both an electric field and an aligned centrifugal force, in such a way as to set up a bulk interface at right angles to the direction of the electric field and centrifugal force, the bulk interface being located within the electric field between the dispersion or emulsion and one separated component thereof. The combined effects of the electric field and centrifugal force break the liquid emulsion, preventing the formation of a sponge layer at the interface and hence allowing more effective separation of the components than has previously been possible. The invention also provides apparatus for carrying out the claimed method of separation.

Abstract: A method for effecting enhanced contact between two immiscible liquid of different electrical conductivities comprises applying both intense mechanical agitation (1) and, in an immediately adjacent zone, a varying electrostatic field (2), in order to effect rapid change of their liquid-liquid interfaces but maintaining droplet size of a desirably high magnitude at least outside the zone of the intense agitation. The method may be applied to, for instance, liquid-liquid extraction. Apparatus is also described.

Abstract: Apparatus for aiding the separation of the components of a liquid dispersion comprises at least one pair of electrodes, arranged so as to be able to apply a unidirectional, varying electric field across at least a portion of a flow path 5a of the dispersion, at least one of the or each pair of electrodes being separated from the dispersion by a layer of electrically insulating material.A method for aiding the separation of the components of a liquid dispersion is also described.

Abstract: A method for, and apparatus for use in connection with, checking the particle size of a powder entrained in a gas stream, comprising separating a sample of the powder into fractions of relatively different particle sizes and comparing the electrostatic or like noises of the fractions.