Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling water seepage at an interface between a wall supported by a footing and a floor with a side surface adjacent the wall and a bottom surface adjacent the footing using a pliable panel disposed between the wall and the side surface of the floor and between the footing and the bottom surface of the floor to substantially isolate the floor from the wall and the footing. The panel including a water flow path between the wall and the side surface of the floor and between the footing and the bottom surface of the floor, wherein the pliable panel permits expansion and contraction of the floor, walls and footing.

Abstract: A method for decomposing the cyanide radical in cyanide-bearing wastes or materials. The cyanide radical of cyanide compounds contained in cyanide-bearing wastes or materials is chemically decomposed. In the preferred embodiment, the cyanide-bearing waste or material and water are introduced into a closed retort. The closed retort is heated and maintained at a temperature above a critical temperature and the cyanide radical is decomposed by reaction with water. At least two new compounds are formed, one of which contains the carbon constituent and the other of which contains the nitrogen constituent of the cyanide radical. The gaseous components which form in the closed retort are vented therefrom and may be condensed. The nongaseous components which form in the closed retort are accumulated therein and removed periodically.

Abstract: A waste treatment method for metal hydroxide electroplating sludges. Metal hydroxide sludges from the treatment of electroplating waste waters are rendered environmentally safe. The sludges are first dewatered and heated to a temperature sufficient to cause the metal hydroxides to convert to metal oxides. Predetermined quantities of silica and soda, or sources thereof, are mixed with the metal oxides. The mixture is further heated to a temperature sufficient to cause fusion of the mixture and form a slag-like composition having the metal oxides in chemical solution. The slag-like composition is then cooled to ambient temperature. The structure of the cooled slag-like composition is predominantly crystalline, having the metal oxides in solid solution in either a precipitate phase or a silicate matrix. The slag-like composition is resistant to corrosion even in an acidic environment.