Abstract: Improved deep well grounding systems of the kind used for cathodic protection of ground installations according to the invention employ a combination of materials for the casing of the central metallic anode and the backfill in the well which exhibit a degree of permeability sufficient to allow by-product gases develop in ordinary use of this system to escape, avoiding unwanted cavitation, while minimizing the migration of ground water and the attendant undesirable environmental pollution.

Abstract: Two related approaches are provided to controlling the relative permeability of ground water and gases developed in deep well anodic installations. The central metallic anode is encased and protected by a semi-permeable conductive cementaceous sheath, using as the sheathing material any of a number of compositions having the desired properties of permeability and conductivity. Alternatively, a conductive but impermeable anode is used in conjunction with a semi-permeable backfill material in a bore hole of a deep well anode installation, thereby achieving the same desired ends of controlling the relative permeability of water and gases in the installation.

Abstract: Modified compositions for carbonaceous concrete conductive sheathing materials for ground electrodes are described, for use in protecting installations from electrical currents. By the incorporation of discrete fibers, superior freeze-thaw resistance is imparted. The water resistance of carbonaceous concretes according to the invention is improved by the addition of a soluble soap of long chain fatty acids. A method of precasting carbonaceous cements according to the invention allows uniform and consistent development of properties for use either in shallow trench or deep well applications.