Abstract: This invention relates to a method of seepage control which comprises contacting a soil surface with a composition comprising anionic copolymers and a surfactant. This invention provides a method of seepage control for irrigation ditches, drainage ditches, farm ponds, feeder canals, golf course water features, park ponds and lakes, lagoons, and the like.

Abstract: A liner is the product of reaction of (a) a hydrophilic prepolymer bearing isocyanate groups; and (b) a water-borne polymer dispersion, the polymer bearing groups that are reactive to isocyanate groups; wherein the dispersion has a sufficiently high solids content, and the polymer has a sufficiently high modulus and glass transition or crystalline melting temperature, that the product of reaction exhibits a 24-hour Tensile Strength of at least about 2.5 MPa.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the stabilization of dusting surfaces characterized in that the dusty ground is tilled or scarified and mixed with polymers in form of water-redispersible polymer powders, which are optionally reemulsifiably modified, or reemulsifiable modified aqueous polymer dispersions, which are optionally sprayed on to the untreated dusty ground. In a preferred embodiment the redispersible polymer powder, respectively the reemulsifiable modified redispersible polymer powder or the reemulsifiable modified aqueous polymer dispersion, is combined with hydraulically setting compounds, preferably cement and/or gypsum.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of reducing the production of both water and particulates from subterranean formations; the methods are particularly useful in conjunction with subterranean formations surrounding wellbores and fractures. The methods comprise the steps of applying to a subterranean formation a pre-flush fluid, applying aqueous surfactant fluid, applying a low-viscosity consolidating fluid, and applying an after-flush fluid.

Abstract: Soil binding and revegetation compositions useful for stabilizing soil and promoting vegetation or revegetation of soil comprise water, an endosperm, an iron compound, a strong base, and a fibrous material comprising at least two different types of fibers. The endosperm comprises the carbohydrate and protein portions of grains, seeds, or tubers. The strong base is reacted with the endosperm in the presence of water added in order to ionize the carbohydrate and protein of the endosperm and render them more soluble or dispersible in water. The iron compound promotes an electrochemical reaction that assists in the formation of a silicate crystal matrix when applied to soil. The fibrous material comprises at least two different types of fibers that promote adhesion to soil and soften and nourish the soil in order to promote the emergence of plant life and/or seed germination. Seeds may optionally be added to further promote vegetation or revegetation of denuded soils.

Abstract: Hydrotropic wetting agents enhance the activity of water for earthy materials by lowering surface tension to promote surface-to-surface contact, to neutralize the electric double layer, to destroy protective colloids, to neutralize other charged particles, and to bind water to the materials, thus, significantly reducing the evaporation rate and, concomitantly, reducing the amount of water that must be applied and the energy and time used to prepare the material. A wetting agent suitable for the present invention includes an alkylphenol ethoxylate (APE) and a polyglycol, such as, for example, glycerin or propylene glycol (when toxicity is not an issue), and an antifoaming agent, such as for example, a polysiloxane polymer. These chemicals combined in the concentration ranges of the present invention produce wetting agent/hydrotropic formulations that maybe used to provide the advantages of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of reducing the production of both water and particulates from subterranean formations; the methods are particularly useful in conjunction with subterranean formations surrounding wellbores and fractures. The methods comprise the steps of applying to a subterranean formation a pre-flush fluid, applying aqueous surfactant fluid, applying a low-viscosity consolidating fluid, and applying an after-flush fluid.

Abstract: In this invention, after the grade at a construction site has been excavated and/or graded to its preliminary rough grade, re-enforcing material, typically synthetic in nature, such as nylon or polypropylene mesh or rods, fiber-glass rods or mesh, or other specified re-enforcing material is laid across soil at the construction site and a reinforced base is formed by covering the reinforcing material with a polymeric resin, whereby upon curing, the polymeric resin and reinforcing material forms a contiguous thermo-structural base. Re-enforcement material comprising synthetic and/or non-synthetic components in the form of rods, rope, strapping, mesh, netting, geotextile fabrics or other dimensional forms laid longitudinally, or in a grid pattern, in single or multiple layers, tied or not tied all in situ sprayed with a high density closed cell, water resistant expanding two component polyurethane foam system.

Abstract: Particle binding compositions useful for stabilizing soil and other particles comprise water, an endosperm, an iron compound, a strong base, and a pH adjustor. The endosperm comprises the carbohydrate and protein portions of grains, seeds, or tubers. The strong base is reacted with the endosperm in the presence of water added in order to ionize the carbohydrate and protein of the endosperm and render them more soluble or dispersible in water. The iron compound promotes an electrochemical reaction that assists in the formation of a silicate crystal matrix when applied to soil. The pH adjustor lowers the pH of the composition, which improves handling ability and renders the composition more compatible with soil. Optional components such as fibrous materials and/or seeds can be added to promote vegetation or revegetation of denuded soils.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of reducing the production of both water and particulates from subterranean formations; the methods are particularly useful in conjunction with subterranean formations surrounding wellbores and fractures. The methods comprise the steps of applying to a subterranean formation a pre-flush fluid, applying aqueous surfactant fluid, applying a low-viscosity consolidating fluid, and applying an after-flush fluid.

Abstract: An improved surface material is particularly suited for non-turf baseball field applications such as the pitcher's mound and base paths. The material generally comprises clay, wax and sand and has a putty-like consistency. Cleats can penetrate the material but are not likely to pull it out in clumps upon removal of the cleats. Method for forming the surface includes spraying emulsified wax on a surface and mixing it with the surface material.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are methods and chemical compositions of polymers and crosslinking agents that are particularly suited to aggregate, including soil and other natural aggregates, stabilization via hydraulic application. The present invention is an improvement over existing methods as it provides effective stabilization for longer periods. The compositions, when in an aqueous solution and applied to soil or aggregate surfaces, penetrate the surface polymerize and form a crosslinked polymer film. Individual aggregate particles may bind to the polymer or may be entrapped by the polymer film. In the environment, the film is substantially resistant, in the near term, to biodegradation and natural, physical degradation due to weathering and exposure. The resultant polymer film and aggregate or bonded fiber matrix resists erosion by strong wind and heavy rain but readily allows seeds to germinate and grow.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method of treating and stabilizing base materials for the preparation of foundations and roadways.

Abstract: Dust from and erosion of earth surfaces is controlled by the application of a fatty acid containing material such as used vegetable oil, animal renderings, or a combination thereof such as Yellow Grease to the surface and allowing the surface to harden and dry. A mixture can be made using water, sodium hydroxide or ammonia, and fatty acid containing material that can be applied to a surface at any temperature above the composition's freezing point. The added base promotes mixing of the fatty acid containing material with the water and keeps the water and fatty acid containing material from separating so the composition can be stored at ambient temperatures and transported by uninsulated trucks. Sodium hydroxide works better than ammonia as it does not migrate as much in the mixture. Additionally, both ammonia and sodium hydroxide reduce the odors associated with fatty acid containing material reducing the need for a deodorizing agent.

Abstract: Seams are sealed and surface defects are repaired in a polyurethane/geotextile composite applied over concrete, an earthen canal or a ditch with a non-sagging polyurethane composition. This non-sagging polyurethane composition is a reaction product of a polyisocyanate, a high molecular weight polyhydroxyl compound, and a compound containing at least two amino groups. A low molecular weight diol or triol, a catalyst and a filler are optionally included in the polyurethane-forming reaction mixture.

Abstract: A process for reducing plant availability of heavy metals in substrates such as soils wherein the substrates treated with cross-linked polymethacrylates. The poly (meth)acrylates can be worked into the soils.

Abstract: The invention relates to polymer-modified earthwork materials, containing a) a mineral main constituent based on sand, grit and/or gravel and b) at least one hydrophobic synthetic polymer that is uniformly distributed in the mineral main constituent. The invention also relates to a method for the production of said materials and to a method for the fortification of earth.

Abstract: A method for increasing the bearing capacity of foundation soils for built structures consisting of providing a plurality of holes spaced from each other deep in the soil, and injecting into the soil, through the holes, a substance which expands as a consequence of a chemical reaction, with a potential increase in volume of at least five times the volume of the substance before expansion. The expansion of the substance injected into the soil produces compaction of the contiguous soil.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of preventing the flow of water or gas or both through a subterranean zone having a high temperature and a depth such that a long pumping time is required to place a sealing composition therein. The methods basically comprise the steps of preparing a polymeric sealing composition comprised of water, a cross-linking agent and a selected water-soluble polymer which reacts with the cross-linking agent and forms a sealing gel which is stable for a desired period of time at the temperature of the zone and has a pumping time before gelation in the presence of the cross-linking agent whereby the composition can be pumped to the depth of the zone and placed therein. Thereafter, the sealing composition is pumped into the zone and allowed to form a sealing gel therein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for sealing rock or soil comprising inserting a sealing composition obtained by mixing a silica sol and at least one gelling agent, wherein the silica sol has an S-value higher than about 72%, a method for preparing the sealing composition and the composition obtained from the method.

Abstract: A method for hardening soil and soil hardened with the method. The soil is mixed with cement and with a soil hardening agent including at least eight of the cations Ca++, Na−, Mg++, K+, NH4+, Ba++, Fe3+, Al3+, Mn4+, Co++ and Ti4+, at least two of the anions Cl−, SO4−− and PO43− and at least one organic acid.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for consolidating an unconsolidated formation, which method includes the steps of providing a well drilled to an unconsolidated formation, providing a consolidation fluid in the form of a fluid suspension of nanoparticles, and flowing said consolidation fluid through the well and into the unconsolidated formation so as to position the nanoparticles between grains of the unconsolidated formation whereby the formation is consolidated over time.

Abstract: A soil distribution system, and particularly a method of blowing topsoil, using an improved topsoil blend and specialized equipment, onto selected surfaces, including sloped surfaces. The topsoil blend may be placed either via traditional or selected placement means including placement by blowing the mixture into place. The topsoil blend may be blown through a manipulatable distribution line onto the surface, including areas which may be substantially inaccessible. A selected aerobic compost tea may be combined with the soil distribution operations such that the tea is distributed and intermixed with the soil as the soil is blown into place. Greensand may be distributed over the surface prior to blowing the soil in place and the soil is then distributed over the layer of greensand.

Abstract: Novel methods for biodegrading nitroaromatic compounds present as contaminants in soil or water using microorganisms are disclosed. Water is treatable directly; dry soil is first converted into a fluid medium by addition of water. The preferred method comprises two stages, each employing microorganisms: a fermentative stage, followed by an anaerobic stage. The fermentative stage is rapid, wherein an inoculum of aerobic and/or facultative microorganisms ferments a carbohydrate added to the fluid medium, exhausting the oxygen in the fluid medium and thereby inhibiting oxidative polymerization of amino by-products of the nitroaromatics. In the subsequent anaerobic stage, an inoculum of a mixed population of anaerobic microorganisms completes the mineralization of the contaminant nitroaromatics, using the remaining carbohydrate as a carbon and energy source.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for injecting grout is described as having an injector body with at least three holes therethrough for conveyance of a first, second, and third fluid as desired. One of the fluids is a resin and another is a catalyst which when combined, chemically react to produce a first chemical grout. A third fluid is an additive which, when combined with the resin and the catalyst, modify at least one characteristic of the first grout that is being produced. The introduction of the additive is controlled as desired at the surface to provide a continuous (monolithic) pour having variable grout characteristics. According to a modification, the additive is replaced by a second resin which when combined with the catalyst produces a second type of a grout having at least some characteristic that is different from the first grout.

Abstract: A soil improver composition produced by digesting a mixture comprising leguminous plant material, igneous rock powder of particle size less than 350 microns, a biodegradable surfactant and water with composting microbes to produce said soil improver composition.

Abstract: A method for reducing the permeability of a region of an underground formation by injecting a gelant solution that forms a stable gel into the region is disclosed. The gelant solution includes an aqueous solvent, about 2% to about 16% by weight of a lignosulfonate-acrylic acid graft copolymer and a sufficient concentration of a crosslinking agent to crosslink the copolymer. The lignosulfonate-acrylic acid copolymer used in the invention has an acrylic acid content of about 10% to about 50% by weight and the crosslinking agent is a complex of one or more positively charged chromium (III) species and one or more negatively charged carboxylate species. Preferably, the chromium (III) species used in the invention has a concentration of about 0.1% to about 8.0% by weight. In one preferred embodiment, the carboxylate species of the crosslinker may be selected from formate, acetate, propionate, lactate, oxalate and malonate.

Abstract: Some ground water sites are capable of achieving risk-based closure without remedial efforts due to the soil's natural intrinsic remediation. However, in many cases this may not be possible due to the magnitude of the contamination. Surfactant enhanced intrinsic remediation is capable of enhancing natural remediation in several ways. First, by introducing the surfactant above its Krafft temperature when the ground water temperature is below the surfactant Krafft temperature, it is possible to install a permeable, sorptive wall that significantly decreases the contaminant migration, thereby improving the opportunity for natural intrinsic remediation to mitigate the contamination. If the contaminant levels are too great for this approach, as may be the case when “source zone” soil contamination is present, the approach is coupled with active extraction/ surfactant enhanced intrinsic remediation of the “source” zone (e.g., surfactant flushing).

Abstract: A standardized block for forming a retaining wall, said block comprising a top and bottom and having disposed proximate the top thereof first, second and third abutment means, and having disposed proximate the bottom thereof fourth, fifth and sixth abutment means, said second and fifth abutment means abutting in a first abutting position when like blocks are placed course upon course to form a retaining wall having a substantially vertical alignment, said first abutment, said second abutment and said third abutment abutting with said fourth, fifth and sixth abutment in a second abutting position different from said first position when like blocks are placed one upon the other, course upon course, to provide a substantially set-back retaining wall construction, and wherein said first, second and third abutment means abut with said fourth, fifth and sixth abutment means in a third abutting position different from said second or first position when like blocks are placed one upon another, course upon course, to

Abstract: Described is a method for in-situ cleaning of a soil fraction contaminated with halogenated products, in particular with chlorinated products. This method comprises at least the step of introducing an electron donor under substantially anaerobic conditions into the relevant soil fraction. The electron donor herein comprises compost and/or derivatives thereof. In preference the electron donor originates substantially from the first filtrate fraction of compost. This first filtrate fraction comprises liquid released during the first 96 hours after composting.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for preparation of chemically-stabilized emulsions of tall oil in water. Temperature and pH are controlled during preparation of the emulsions so as to prevent saponification and neutralization of acids in the tall oil component. The final emulsions have pHs in the range of from about 3.0 to 5.0 and remain phase stable for extended periods of time. Methods are disclosed for using the emulsions for soil treatment to improve soil stabilization and load bearing capacity for roadbed use, for treatment of reclaimed asphalt pavement for reuse as a stabilized base course for roadway construction and for remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil.

Abstract: A deep mix soil stabilization system comprises a hydraulic cement grout, and a soil dispersant comprising at least one of i) an acrylic acid polymer or copolymer, or a salt thereof, ii) an acrylic acid/sulfonic acid copolymer, or a salt thereof, iii) an acrylic acid/phosphonic acid copolymer or a salt thereof, and iv) a blend of an acrylic acid polymer with at least one of a sulfonic acid polymer and a phosphonic acid polymer, or a salt thereof.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for preparation of chemically-stabilized emulsions of tall oil in water. Temperature and pH are controlled during preparation of the emulsions so as to prevent saponification and neutralization of acids in the tall oil component. The final emulsions have pHs in the range of from about 3.0 to 5.0 and remain phase stable for extended periods of time. Methods are disclosed for using the emulsions for soil treatment to improve soil stabilization and load bearing capacity for roadbed use, for treatment of reclaimed asphalt pavement for reuse as a stabilized base course for roadway construction and for remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil.

Abstract: A process for converting hazard explosives that are contaminating soil into reduced derivatives and thereafter converting the reduced derivatives into humic compounds by admixing the explosives contaminated soil with a natural microorganism source and with an oxidizable carbon source and subjecting the mixture to anaerobic conditions to produce an anaerobic bioremediation product containing reduced concentrations of explosives contaminants and thereafter combining the anaerobic bioremediation product with a compostable material and subjecting the second mixture to aerobic conditions to give an aerobic bioremediation product that is essentially free of explosives contaminants and their reduced derivatives.

Abstract: A process provides for the production of fertilizer solutions from brewery cleaning solutions. The process comprises the steps of combining a brewery caustic potash cleaning solution with a brewery nitrogen- or phosphorus-containing acid cleaning solution in mutually neutralizing amounts. This process results in the production of a fertilizer solution comprising a neutralized potassium salt solution having nitrogen-containing, organic, brewing materials entrained therein. If desired, spent grains and/or spent yeast from the brewing process can be added to provide further nutrients.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improved methods and compositions for sealing subterranean zones penetrated by well bores to reduce their permeabilities and increase their compressive strengths. The methods basically comprise the steps of introducing an aqueous sealing composition into a subterranean zone comprising a polymerizable monomer, a polymerization initiator, a hardenable epoxide containing liquid and a hardening agent, placing the sealing composition by way of the well bore into the subterranean zone and allowing the sealing composition to polymerize and harden whereby the well bore is sealed.

Abstract: A system for preventing upward migration of contaminants in soil having capillary pores defined therein, the system comprising the soil and a hydrophobic substance applied to the soil, the substance being attracted to enter the capillary pores so that a barrier is formed which, under unsaturated soil conditions, prevents the upward migration of contaminants carried by water through the capillary pores in the soil.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for the decontamination of waste matter, in particular for soil remediation. The methods include making and applying a polymer composition to waste matter and subjecting the waste matter and polymer composition to radiation, preferably microwave radiation.

Abstract: A recreational and sport surface which contains a particulate composition containing an intimate mixture of sand, polyolefin fibers, polyolefin particles, tire fibers and a coating of wax on the ingredients of the composition. The surface is preferably placed over a crushed aggregate layer which provides drainage to an area and may also contain a separator layer to prevent the passage of particulate material from the composition.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of sealing conduits in multi-lateral wells whereby the sealant can withstand stress induced conduit movements without failure. The methods basically include the steps of preparing a hardenable epoxy composition having flexibility and resiliency upon hardening including an epoxide containing liquid or an epoxy resin and an epoxide containing liquid and a hardening agent. The epoxy composition is placed into a lateral well bore between a conduit therein and the walls of the lateral well bore and allowed to harden therein.

Abstract: A process is provided for constructing a fluid impermeable subterranean barrier wall in a permeable earthen material at an earthen surface. The process is initiated by excavating an earthen pit in the permeable earthen material. A gelable slurry is prepared including unconsolidated solids, an aqueous solvent, a crosslinkable polymer, and a polymer crosslinking agent. The unconsolidated solids have a bulk component consisting of a soil or a clay. The unconsolidated solids can also include a number of additive agents which enhance the performance of the gelable slurry, such as density control agents, mixing agents, permeability reduction agents, filtration control agents and strength loss reduction agents. The gelable slurry is placed in the earthen pit and gelled to substantial maturity. The resulting gel binds the unconsolidated solids present in the earthen pit to convert the gelable slurry to a gelled continuum of consolidated solids, which forms the fluid impermeable barrier wall in the earthen pit.

Abstract: Compositions of precipitated cationic polymers containing mixtures of certain salts as well as processes for making and using the same are disclosed.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for the removal of aromatic amines from soil and water is described. In particular, treatment trains are described in which soil washing or low temperature desorption process effect removal of contaminant, such as xylidines from soil and steam stripping is utilized to remove contaminant from water. Further treatment through organic acid precipitation and advanced oxidation produce clean water and precipitated salts which may be recovered.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved well drilling fluids containing epoxy sealants and methods of drilling well bores using the drilling fluids. The drilling fluids basically include a base fluid selected from the group of water and oil, a viscosity increasing material and a hardenable epoxy sealant composition which becomes part of the filter cake formed on the walls of the well bore and hardens therein whereby the filter cake is consolidated into a stable solid mass.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for preparation of chemically-stabilized emulsions of tall oil in water. Temperature and pH are controlled during preparation of the emulsions so as to prevent saponification and neutralization of acids in the tall oil component. The final emulsions have pHs in the range of from about 3.0 to 5.0 and remain phase stable for extended periods of time. Methods are disclosed for using the emulsions for soil treatment to improve soil stabilization and load bearing capacity for roadbed use, for treatment of reclaimed asphalt pavement for reuse as a stabilized base course for roadway construction and for remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil.

Abstract: There is provided an additive for and a method of using the additive to treat a clay-containing earthen formation, such as a subterranean formation, to substantially reduce formation damage caused by contact of the formation with an aqueous liquid foreign to the formation. The additive, which is employed in a water solution, is comprised of a chloride-free, quaternary ammonium compound which can be used without adverse affect upon animal, soil and water resources due to the chloride-free and substantial organic nature thereof. It thus biodegrades to environmentally acceptable end products.

Abstract: Compositions of precipitated cationic polymers containing mixtures of certain salts as well as processes for making and using the same are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of modifying the properties of a subterranean stratum penetrated by a well bore to increase its strength and decrease its permeability. The methods basically include the steps of preparing a hardenable epoxy composition having flexibility upon hardening, pumping the epoxy composition into the subterranean stratum by way of the well bore and by way of the porosity of the stratum and then allowing the epoxy composition to harden in the stratum.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods of sealing a string of pipe in a well bore. The methods basically include the steps of preparing a hardenable epoxy sealing composition which hardens into a solid mass having flexibility and resiliency comprising an epoxide containing liquid and a hardening agent, placing the epoxy composition in the annulus between the string of pipe and the walls of the well bore and allowing the epoxy resin to harden.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods and compositions for sealing a pipe string in a well bore. The methods basically include the steps of preparing a hardenable epoxy sealing composition which hardens into a resilient solid mass having high bond strength comprising an epoxide containing liquid, an organosilane compound and a hardening agent, placing the epoxy composition in the annulus between the pipe and the walls of the well bore and allowing the epoxy composition to harden.