Abstract: A grounding device for conducting current into the earth through protrusions which engage thereinto. The protrusions are integrally affixed on a base plate and extend from only one surface plane thereof. Protrusions having tapered configurations are included for compatibility with the surface and subsurface characteristics of the earth. Structural particulars regarding the base plate and the protrusions are also incorporated to enhance the bearing pressure between the protrusions and the earth. Such particulars may be incorporated to cause flexure in the grounding device that is employed under a wheel of a vehicle which is temporarily grounded therethrough and thereby enhance the bearing pressure.

Abstract: A grounding device is disclosed which utilizes the superposition principle o preclude step voltage hazards. At least three conductors are included in the grounding device, each conductor being capable of extending radially from a common center with the adjacent radially extending conductors being separated by substantially equal angles. A plurality of electrically conductive stakes are affixed to each conductor and are engaged into the earth for conducting current thereinto. The stakes may be tapered to facilitate the engagement thereof into the earth, while a center plate may be utilized to connect the conductors to the common center.

Abstract: Metals such as iron, uranium, vanadium, molybdenum and rare earths are reduced to lower oxidation states in various acid media using silicon metal or an iron-silicon alloy. In particular, ferric iron and hexavalent uranium in wet-process phosphoric acid are reduced to the ferrous and tetravalent states, respectively, using silicon metal or an iron-silicon alloy to provide a feed acid which is suitable for extraction with an extractant which is selective for tetravalent uranium such as a mixture of mono- and di-(alkylphenyl) esters of orthophosphoric acid.