Abstract: A method of depositing silicon on carbon nanomaterials such as vapor grown carbon nanofibers, nanomats, or nanofiber powder is provided. The method includes flowing a silicon-containing precursor gas in contact with the carbon nanomaterial such that silicon is deposited on the exterior surface and within the hollow core of the carbon nanomaterials. A protective carbon coating may be deposited on the silicon-coated nanomaterials. The resulting nanocomposite materials may be used as anodes in lithium ion batteries.

Abstract: Systems and methods for protecting a subterranean structure. The method can include, but is not limited to, removing at least a portion of earth disposed above a subterranean structure to provide a foundation; depositing an isolation layer above the subterranean structure; and depositing at least a portion of the removed earth, a fill material or both to at least partially cover the isolation layer.

Abstract: Systems and methods for protecting a subterranean structure are provided. The method can include, but is not limited to, removing at least a portion of earth disposed above a subterranean structure to provide a foundation; depositing an isolation layer above the subterranean structure; and depositing at least a portion of the removed earth, a fill material or both to at least partially cover the isolation layer.

Abstract: A trenching plow and technique for its use, especially for forming a trench under water for receipt of pipe. The plow includes a frame with a tandem set of wheels at the front, and a share with mould boards mounted at the back of the frame. During trenching the frame always makes a positive angle with respect to the horizontal, and a soil furrow splitter is formed on the bottom of the frame. A pair of coulters are mounted to the frame in front of the share, each of the coulters raking forward at an angle of about 60.degree.-70.degree. to the horizontal, and the coulters being staggered along the length of the frame. The coulters also have a positive clearance angle with the trench side wall, and they extend to a depth about two-thirds the depth of the share. A trench having a depth of about 1.1 meters with side walls at an angle of about 60.degree. to the horizontal may be formed at a towing speed of about two knots, the trench being formed having constant cross-section and constant depth.