Abstract: Device, method and system for substantially simultaneous injection of air or sealant into a borehole resulting from extraction of a sampling assembly from a formation. An auxiliary conduit is attached along a sampling tube. Fluids, including a slurry or compressed air, are injected into the borehole as the sampling assembly is extracted. Injection of compressed air reduces or removes the suction of the vacuum forming below the retracting assembly. Introduction of a bentonite slurry seals the borehole that is opening as the sampling assembly withdraws. Fluids containing disinfectants or nutrients may be injected into the borehole as the assembly withdraws. Fluid flow of the auxiliary conduit may be used to activate a cut and cap mechanism for containing the sampled core. The auxiliary conduit is formed not to interfere with the insertion of sampling tube into the formation and is outfitted with mechanisms that keep the conduit closed during descent.

Abstract: Device, method and system for substantially simultaneous injection of air or sealant into a borehole resulting from extraction of a sampling assembly from a formation. An auxiliary conduit is attached along a sampling tube. Fluids, including a slurry or compressed air, are injected into the borehole as the sampling assembly is extracted. Injection of compressed air reduces or removes the suction of the vacuum forming below the retracting assembly. Introduction of a bentonite slurry seals the borehole that is opening as the sampling assembly withdraws. Fluids containing disinfectants or nutrients may be injected into the borehole as the assembly withdraws. Fluid flow of the auxiliary conduit may be used to activate a cut and cap mechanism for containing the sampled core. The auxiliary conduit is formed not to interfere with the insertion of sampling tube into the formation and is outfitted with mechanisms that keep the conduit closed during descent.

Abstract: Device, system and method for sampling of soft sediments with retention of sample material and profile. A barge is anchored and stabilized in position; sampling tubes are driven through underlying sediments using continuous and controllable translational pneumatic force; a torpedo-shaped end piece leads the sampling tubes into the sediments. Once at desired depth, a rotational force is applied to sampling tubes. Fins located around torpedo prevent the torpedo from rotating and connection between leading sampling tube and torpedo is tightened. O-ring located between torpedo and leading sampling tube is squeezed as a result of such tightening and bulges inward pinching the core inside sampling tube. During retrieval, core is more likely to break at the location of the pinch which has introduced structural discontinuity; core above the pinch is capped by compacted material at the pinch. O-ring does not disturb sample integrity during descent. Winch and pulley mechanism may assist.