U.S. patent application number 13/680518 was filed with the patent office on 2013-06-06 for chemical method and composition for soil improvement.
This patent application is currently assigned to MIDWEST INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is MIDWEST INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY, INC.. Invention is credited to C. DAVID BRANGAN, TODD R. HAWKINS, ROBERT W. VITALE.
Application Number | 20130140486 13/680518 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42354372 |
Filed Date | 2013-06-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130140486 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
VITALE; ROBERT W. ; et
al. |
June 6, 2013 |
CHEMICAL METHOD AND COMPOSITION FOR SOIL IMPROVEMENT
Abstract
A composition for chemical soil improvement includes a synthetic
fluid or base oil, a pour point depressant, polyisobutylene, and
synthetic fibers, and various combinations thereof.
Inventors: |
VITALE; ROBERT W.; (CANTON,
OH) ; HAWKINS; TODD R.; (MASSILLON, OH) ;
BRANGAN; C. DAVID; (ANCHORAGE, AK) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MIDWEST INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY, INC.; |
Canton |
OH |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
MIDWEST INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY,
INC.
CANTON
OH
|
Family ID: |
42354372 |
Appl. No.: |
13/680518 |
Filed: |
November 19, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13185821 |
Jul 19, 2011 |
8313668 |
|
|
13680518 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
252/88.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C09K 17/20 20130101;
C09K 17/22 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
252/88.1 |
International
Class: |
C09K 17/22 20060101
C09K017/22 |
Claims
1. A composition for chemical soil improvement, the composition
comprising: about 80% to about 95% by weight synthetic isoalkane;
polyisobutylene; synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are
polypropylene, are about one-quarter inch to about three inches in
length; and, polyalkylmethacrylate.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No.
13/185,821, filed on Jul. 19, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,313,668,
which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 12/696,550, filed Jan. 29,
2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,048,333, which claims priority to a
provisional patent application filed Jan. 29, 2009, entitled
CHEMICAL METHOD FOR SOIL IMPROVEMENT IN COLD REGIONS, having Ser.
No. 61/148,216, and to a provisional patent application filed Jan.
25, 2010, entitled A CHEMICAL METHOD FOR SOIL IMPROVEMENT, having
Ser. No. 61/297,843, both of which of hereby incorporated by
reference.
I. BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] This invention relates to a method of soil improvement and
dust control utilizing synthetic fluids and other non-synthetic
base oils and various combinations of polyisobutylene, carboxylic
acids, pour point depressants, esters, soil/ash, biodegradable
fibers, wood chips, and/or synthetic fibers.
[0004] 2. Background
[0005] Many methods of chemical dust and erosion control, and soil
stabilization have been utilized over the years, with various
detrimental effects on environment, health, and safety and varying
degrees of success. Traditional products used for dust control and
soil stabilization consist of used or recycled oil, virgin oils,
chlorides, lignins, and emulsifications made with low-grade
petroleum resins, asphalt, oil, and pitch.
[0006] The use of used or recycled petroleum oils has long been
employed as a dust control agent. In recent years legislation by
most states has curtailed the use of these oils for dust control
because of concerns with environment, health, and safety. This
legislation has spawned an interest in virgin oils, some highly
refined and very safe. The highly refined products may contain low
or no aromatics but are generally cost prohibitive for most
applications. In addition, petroleum oils have limited value as
dust suppressants and virtually no value as soil stabilizers. They
act as particle weighting agents by the processes of adsorption or
absorption and do not have any significant cohesive action for soil
stabilization and control of fine dust.
[0007] Magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, and sodium chloride
used in solution or solid form act as humectants when added to
soil. These products work well in areas of sufficient moisture or
require watering for humectants action. The problems with these
products are their solubility in water and effects on ground water
and plant life. In addition, as strong electrolytes they are highly
corrosive to metal equipment.
[0008] Lignins have been employed as a low-cost means of dust
control for several decades. Recently lignins have come under
considerable attack by environmental, health, and safety
organizations that have identified dioxin and dioxin forming
compositions in lignin. This problem is compounded by lignins
solubility in water and its ability to contaminate ground water.
Lignins also have a limited working life because they are water
soluble they tend to be washed away with rain, melting snow, or
other moisture.
[0009] Many types of emulsions of tall oil, petroleum resins, and
asphalts and combinations can be prepared and have been exhibited
in prior art. Typically these products are emulsified to reduce
viscosity to sprayable levels and to aid in penetration of the
product into the soil. One of the problems created is the use of
excess liquid, which is sprayed onto the ground and can migrate
into ground water. In addition, emulsions can also be severely
damaged by rain and moisture when the moisture event occurs prior
to the emulsion breaking and the active ingredients curing. When
cured properly these products produce a bound soil layer, which is
effective for dust control for short periods and under conditions
where there is little mechanical disturbance. Examples of tall oil
pitch emulsions that produce these results can be found in prior
art. Doyle U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,347 discloses chemically stabilized
emulsions of tall oil pitch, hydrochloric and stearic acids, and
emulsifiers in water where temperature and pH are controlled during
preparation. Additionally, Burch U.S. Pat. No. 4,822,425 discloses
an emulsion comprising tall oil pitch, rosin, emulsifier, and
water.
[0010] Different soil types are classified under the Unified Soil
Classification System (USCS) with a two letter code. The first
letter choices are G--gravel, S--sand, M--silt, C--clay,
O--organic, and the second letter choices are P--poorly graded,
W--well graded, H--high plasticity, L--low plasticity. The group
symbols are GW, GP, GM, GC, SW, SP, SM, SC, ML, CL, OL, MH, CH, and
OH.
[0011] Binders are defined as additives to the material being
agglomerated that produce bonding strength in the final product. A
binder can be a liquid or solid that forms a bridge, film, or
matrix filler or that causes a chemical reaction. Binders can be
classified into four types. The first type is a matrix binder which
is a solid or semi-solid, such as tar, pitch, asphalt, wax, or
cement. Another type is a film binder, which includes water,
solutions, dispersions, powders, silicate, gel, oil, alcohol, clay,
and starch. The third type is a chemical binder, which reacts
chemically with the material being agglomerated; these include
silicate, acid molasses, lime, and lignosulphonate. The fourth type
is a lubricant, which is used to reduce friction and induce flow of
the material. Lubricants include oil, glycerin, stearate, and
wax.
II. SUMMARY
[0012] Accordingly, several objects and advantages of our invention
are superior dust control and soil improvement in areas of intense
use and/or cold ground. Improved air and water quality through
reduction of airborne particulates and soil erosion are achieved
with use of our chemical agents formulated from safe aliphatic and
cyclic organic compositions.
[0013] In addition, our invention has several benefits over
traditional chemical dust and erosion control, and soil improvement
agents, it can be applied neat or undiluted eliminating the chances
of collateral runoff, it remains active over long periods of time
requiring fewer maintenance applications, is insoluble in water
resisting rain and inclement weather contains no electrolytes thus
inhibits corrosion.
[0014] A heterogeneous mixture produced by blending aliphatic or
cyclic organic compositions with carboxylic acids of chemical
structure R--COOH and applied to soils in a manner to produce high
levels of dust control and soil stabilization. The aliphatic and
cyclic compositions act as plasticizers and carriers for the
carboxylic acids. When applied to soil the carrier provides a
mechanism for the carboxylic acid to penetrate the soil and also
acts as a dust suppressing weighting agent. The plasticized
carboxylic acid provides a durable, reworkable binder that
associates small particulates while stabilizing soil and aggregate.
The chemical agent is manufactured and applied using conventional
mixing and applied using conventional construction equipment.
[0015] The present invention also encompasses a heterogeneous
mixture produced by blending aliphatic or cyclic organic
compositions with polyolefins of chemical structure C.sub.nH.sub.2n
or R--C.sub.2nH.sub.3n, and applied to soils in a manner to produce
high levels of dust control and soil stabilization. The aliphatic
and cyclic compositions act as plasticizers and carriers for the
polyolefin to penetrate the soil and also act as a dust suppressing
weighting agent. The plasticized polyolefin provides a durable,
reworkable binder that associates small particulates while
stabilizing soil and aggregate. The chemical agent is manufactured
and applied using conventional mixing and applied using
conventional construction equipment.
[0016] The present invention also incorporates a pour point
depressant.
[0017] Still further objects and advantages will become apparent
from a consideration of the ensuing description and accompanying
drawings.
III. DEFINITIONS
[0018] Adhesion--the tendency of certain dissimilar molecules to
cling together due to attractive forces.
[0019] Agglomeration--the process of particle size enlargement in
which small, fine particles (such as dusts or powders) are gathered
into larger masses, clusters, pellets, or briquettes for use as end
products or in secondary processing steps.
[0020] Binder--additives to the material being agglomerated that
produce bonding strength in the final product.
[0021] Bonding--the forces of cohesion between particles, as in
agglomerate bonding or bonding strength.
[0022] Carboxylic Acid--an organic acids characterized by the
presence of a carboxyl group, which has the formula --C(.dbd.O)OH,
usually written --COOH or --CO.sub.2H.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carboxylic_acid-cite_note-O Carboxylic
acids are Broonsted-Lowry acids--they are proton donors.
[0023] Clustering--loose bonding of particles by pendular and
funicular bridges in the presence of moisture.
[0024] Cohesion--the intermolecular attraction between
like-molecules.
[0025] Hydrocracking--the elimination of aromatics and polar
compounds achieved by chemically reacting the feedstock with
hydrogen, in the presence of a catalyst, at high temperatures and
pressures.
[0026] Hydroisomerization--The isomerization of alkane hydrocarbons
via an intermediate alkene.
[0027] Lipophilic Fluid--a fluid having an affinity for, tending to
combine with, or capable of dissolving in lipids.
[0028] Olefin--an unsaturated chemical compound containing at least
one carbon-to-carbon double bond (also called an alkene with the
general formula C.sub.nH.sub.2n).
[0029] Polyolefin--a polymer produced from a simple olefin as a
monomer.
[0030] Pour Point Depressant--Pour point depressants (also known as
PPDs) are polymers that are designed to control wax crystal
formation in lubricants resulting in lower pour point and improved
low temperature flow performance.
[0031] Synthetic isoalkane--A synthetic alkane with a branched
chain whose next-to-last carbon atom is bonded to a single methyl
group.
[0032] Viscosity Index Improver--a chemical component that
increases the viscosity index (a measure for the change of
kinematic viscosity with temperature).
IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] At least one embodiment of the invention is set forth in the
following description and is shown in the drawings and is
particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the
appended claims.
[0034] FIG. 1 is a chart showing test results; and,
[0035] FIG. 2 is a chart showing test results.
V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention utilizes a
composition for enhancing soil improvement characteristics in cold
regions. The liquid soil improvement agent is comprised of a
synthetic fluid in combination with a pour point depressant. By
"synthetic" it is meant a substance, pure or a mixture, which has
undergone at least one major chemical transformation (reaction) in
its manufacture or processing. A simple physical separation,
purification, or transformation (i.e. freezing or boiling) does not
constitute a major chemical reaction. In one embodiment, the pour
point depressant is chosen from acrylic, acrylic copolymer,
polymethacrylate, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, vinyl acetate
olefin copolymers, alkyl esters of styrene-maleic anhydride
copolymers, alkyl esters of unsaturated carboxylic acids,
polyalkylacrylates, alkyl phenols, alpha olefin copolymers, and
polyakyl methacrylate. Incorporating the synthetic fluid and pour
point depressant into soil and compacting it, will increase the
soil bearing strength and other mechanical properties. The
improvements in compacted soil characteristics can be achieved in
cold weather environments at temperatures well below the freezing
point of water. Typically, in warmer climates this soil improvement
is accomplished by the use of water. This invention has the benefit
over traditional methods by virtue of its ability to be dispersed
and incorporated into soil at temperatures impossible for use with
water due to the freezing point of water. It also remains in situ,
gaining strength due to the water proofing ability, protection
against freeze thaw, frost heave, and soil binding characteristics
of the chemical composition. In one embodiment of the invention,
the synthetic fluid is about 98% to about 99.9% by weight
(including, but not limited to, 98.0, 98.1, 98.2, 98.3, 98.4, 98.5,
98.6, 98.7, 98.8, 98.9, 99.0, 99.1, 99.2, 99.3, 99.4, 99.5, 99.6,
99.7, 99.8, and 99.9) and the pour point depressant is about 0.01%
to about 2% by weight (including, but not limited to, 0.01, 0.02,
0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13,
0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24,
0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35,
0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46,
0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57,
0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68,
0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.77, 0.78, 0.79,
0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89, 0.90,
0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, 1.00, 1.01,
1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.10, 1.11, 1.12,
1.13, 1.14, 1.15, 1.16, 1.17, 1.18, 1.19, 1.20, 1.21, 1.22, 1.23,
1.24, 1.25, 1.26, 1.27, 1.28, 1.29, 1.30, 1.31, 1.32, 1.33, 1.34,
1.35, 1.36, 1.37, 1.38, 1.39, 1.40, 1.41, 1.42, 1.43, 1.44, 1.45,
1.46, 1.47, 1.48, 1.49, 1.51, 1.50, 1.52, 1.53, 1.54, 1.55, 1.56,
1.57, 1.58, 1.59, 1.60, 1.61, 1.62, 1.63, 1.64, 1.65, 1.66, 1.67,
1.68, 1.69, 1.70, 1.71, 1.72, 1.73, 1.74, 1.75, 1.76, 1.77, 1.78,
1.79, 1.80, 1.81, 1.82, 1.83, 1.84, 1.85, 1.86, 1.87, 1.88, 1.89,
1.90, 1.91, 1.92, 1.93, 1.94, 1.95, 1.96, 1.97, 1.98, 1.99, and
2.00), and a neutral oil can be added at between about 0.01% to
about 2% by weight (including, but not limited to, 0.01, 0.02,
0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13,
0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24,
0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35,
0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46,
0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57,
0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68,
0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.77, 0.78, 0.79,
0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89, 0.90,
0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, 1.00, 1.01,
1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.10, 1.11, 1.12,
1.13, 1.14, 1.15, 1.16, 1.17, 1.18, 1.19, 1.20, 1.21, 1.22, 1.23,
1.24, 1.25, 1.26, 1.27, 1.28, 1.29, 1.30, 1.31, 1.32, 1.33, 1.34,
1.35, 1.36, 1.37, 1.38, 1.39, 1.40, 1.41, 1.42, 1.43, 1.44, 1.45,
1.46, 1.47, 1.48, 1.49, 1.51, 1.50, 1.52, 1.53, 1.54, 1.55, 1.56,
1.57, 1.58, 1.59, 1.60, 1.61, 1.62, 1.63, 1.64, 1.65, 1.66, 1.67,
1.68, 1.69, 1.70, 1.71, 1.72, 1.73, 1.74, 1.75, 1.76, 1.77, 1.78,
1.79, 1.80, 1.81, 1.82, 1.83, 1.84, 1.85, 1.86, 1.87, 1.88, 1.89,
1.90, 1.91, 1.92, 1.93, 1.94, 1.95, 1.96, 1.97, 1.98, 1.99, and
2.00). In another embodiment, the synthetic fluid is between about
80% to about 95% by weight (including, but not limited to, 80, 81,
82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95), the
pour point depressant is between about 0.1% to about 0.9% by weight
(including, but not limited to, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7,
0.8, and 0.9), a polyolefin is between about 5% to about 20% by
weight (including, but not limited to, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,
13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20), and a neutral oil is between
about 0.01% to about 0.9% by weight (including, but not limited to,
0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11,
0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22,
0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33,
0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44,
0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55,
0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66,
0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.77,
0.78, 0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88,
0.89, and 0.90). In one embodiment, the application of the soil
improvement composition does not require any water. The composition
is a paraffin-based, hydrophobic, liquid material that can be
applied at temperatures down to at least -40.degree. F.
(-40.degree. C.). The composition binds and coats all contacted
soil, making it water repellant while insuring compaction. The
composition makes for a compacted, yet self-healing surface, in
case damage at the base course occurs. It is continuously active,
therefore facilitating long-term compaction of base and sub-base
soils, serving as both a densification and ballasting agent.
[0037] In another embodiment of the present invention utilizes a
composition for enhancing soil improvement characteristics in cold
regions. The liquid soil improvement agent is comprised of a
synthetic fluid, that meets EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
standards for offshore drilling, in combination with a pour point
depressant. In this embodiment the synthetic fluid is defined as a
fluid that meets the EPA standards for offshore drilling, including
the static sheer requirement, the sediment requirement, the
polyaromatic hydrocarbon requirement, and the toxicity requirement.
In one embodiment, the pour point depressant is chosen from
acrylic, acrylic copolymer, polymethacrylate, ethylene vinyl
acetate copolymers, vinyl acetate olefin copolymers, alkyl esters
of styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers, alky esters of unsaturated
carboxylic acids, polyalkylacrylates, alkyl phenols, alpha olefin
copolymers, and polyakyl methacrylate. Incorporating the synthetic
fluid and pour point depressant into soil and compacting it, will
increase the soil bearing strength and other mechanical properties.
The improvements in compacted soil characteristics can be achieved
in cold weather environments at temperatures well below the
freezing point of water. Typically, in warmer climates this soil
improvement is accomplished by the use of water. This invention has
the benefit over traditional methods by virtue of its ability to be
dispersed and incorporated into soil at temperatures impossible for
use with water due to the freezing point of water. It also remains
in situ, gaining strength due to the water proofing ability,
protection against freeze thaw, frost heave, and soil binding
characteristics of the chemical composition. In one embodiment of
the invention, the synthetic fluid is about 98% to about 99.9% by
weight (including, but not limited to, 98.0, 98.1, 98.2, 98.3,
98.4, 98.5, 98.6, 98.7, 98.8, 98.9, 99.0, 99.1, 99.2, 99.3, 99.4,
99.5, 99.6, 99.7, 99.8, and 99.9) and the pour point depressant is
about 0.01% to about 2% by weight (including, but not limited to,
0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11,
0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22,
0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33,
0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44,
0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55,
0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66,
0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.77,
0.78, 0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88,
0.89, 0.90, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99,
1.00, 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.10,
1.11, 1.12, 1.13, 1.14, 1.15, 1.16, 1.17, 1.18, 1.19, 1.20, 1.21,
1.22, 1.23, 1.24, 1.25, 1.26, 1.27, 1.28, 1.29, 1.30, 1.31, 1.32,
1.33, 1.34, 1.35, 1.36, 1.37, 1.38, 1.39, 1.40, 1.41, 1.42, 1.43,
1.44, 1.45, 1.46, 1.47, 1.48, 1.49, 1.51, 1.50, 1.52, 1.53, 1.54,
1.55, 1.56, 1.57, 1.58, 1.59, 1.60, 1.61, 1.62, 1.63, 1.64, 1.65,
1.66, 1.67, 1.68, 1.69, 1.70, 1.71, 1.72, 1.73, 1.74, 1.75, 1.76,
1.77, 1.78, 1.79, 1.80, 1.81, 1.82, 1.83, 1.84, 1.85, 1.86, 1.87,
1.88, 1.89, 1.90, 1.91, 1.92, 1.93, 1.94, 1.95, 1.96, 1.97, 1.98,
1.99, and 2.00), and a neutral oil can be added at between about
0.01% to about 2% by weight (including, but not limited to, 0.01,
0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12,
0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23,
0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34,
0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42, 0.43, 0.44, 0.45,
0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53, 0.54, 0.55, 0.56,
0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64, 0.65, 0.66, 0.67,
0.68, 0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75, 0.76, 0.77, 0.78,
0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86, 0.87, 0.88, 0.89,
0.90, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, 1.00,
1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.10, 1.11,
1.12, 1.13, 1.14, 1.15, 1.16, 1.17, 1.18, 1.19, 1.20, 1.21, 1.22,
1.23, 1.24, 1.25, 1.26, 1.27, 1.28, 1.29, 1.30, 1.31, 1.32, 1.33,
1.34, 1.35, 1.36, 1.37, 1.38, 1.39, 1.40, 1.41, 1.42, 1.43, 1.44,
1.45, 1.46, 1.47, 1.48, 1.49, 1.51, 1.50, 1.52, 1.53, 1.54, 1.55,
1.56, 1.57, 1.58, 1.59, 1.60, 1.61, 1.62, 1.63, 1.64, 1.65, 1.66,
1.67, 1.68, 1.69, 1.70, 1.71, 1.72, 1.73, 1.74, 1.75, 1.76, 1.77,
1.78, 1.79, 1.80, 1.81, 1.82, 1.83, 1.84, 1.85, 1.86, 1.87, 1.88,
1.89, 1.90, 1.91, 1.92, 1.93, 1.94, 1.95, 1.96, 1.97, 1.98, 1.99,
and 2.00). In another embodiment, the synthetic fluid is between
about 80% to about 95% by weight (including, but not limited to,
80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, and
95), the pour point depressant is between about 0.1% to about 0.9%
by weight (including, but not limited to, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5,
0.6, 0.7, 0.8, and 0.9), a polyolefin is between about 5% to about
20% by weight (including, but not limited to, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20), and a neutral oil is
between about 0.01% to about 0.9% by weight (including, but not
limited to, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09,
0.10, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.20,
0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.30, 0.31,
0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, 0.36, 0.37, 0.38, 0.39, 0.40, 0.41, 0.42,
0.43, 0.44, 0.45, 0.46, 0.47, 0.48, 0.49, 0.50, 0.51, 0.52, 0.53,
0.54, 0.55, 0.56, 0.57, 0.58, 0.59, 0.60, 0.61, 0.62, 0.63, 0.64,
0.65, 0.66, 0.67, 0.68, 0.69, 0.70, 0.71, 0.72, 0.73, 0.74, 0.75,
0.76, 0.77, 0.78, 0.79, 0.80, 0.81, 0.82, 0.83, 0.84, 0.85, 0.86,
0.87, 0.88, 0.89, and 0.90). In one embodiment, the application of
the soil improvement composition does not require any water. The
composition is a paraffin-based, hydrophobic, liquid material that
can be applied at temperatures down to at least -40.degree. F.
(-40.degree. C.). The composition binds and coats all contacted
soil, making it water repellant while insuring compaction. The
composition makes for a compacted, yet self-healing surface, in
case damage at the base course occurs. It is continuously active,
therefore facilitating long-term compaction of base and sub-base
soils, serving as both a densification and ballasting agent.
[0038] With reference now to FIG. 1, a chart is shown with test
results, showing strain (0.1 to 0.5 on graph) vs. CBR (California
Bearing Ratio) values. The test consists of causing a plunger of
standard area to penetrate a soil sample, (this can be in the
laboratory or on site). The force (load) required to cause the
penetration is plotted against measured penetration, the readings
noted at regular time intervals. The chart shows the results, which
are reproduced below as Table 1 of tests on a control, a control
plus synthetic fibers, a control not compacted, Sample A (which is
synthetic fluid and pour point depressant) with synthetic fibers,
and Sample B (which is synthetic fluid, pour point depressant, and
polyolefin) with synthetic fibers.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Control Control Sample A Sample B 13.5%
13.5% 13.5% 13.5% Control Moisture moisture moisture moisture 13.5%
plus not plus plus CBR Moisture Fibers compacted Fibers Fibers 0.1
42.43 56.99 2.5 84.03 42.84 0.2 83.19 80.14 3.33 134.22 105.38 0.3
103.77 96.33 3.5 168.58 146.9 0.4 112.31 85.73 3.44 190.08 163.13
0.5 116.15 111.67 3.52 208.47 192.95
[0039] This embodiment of the invention, utilizing synthetic
fibers, gives the needed cohesion and adhesion to the treated soil,
and helps prevent bulging at the heel or toe of the pad. In one
embodiment, the synthetic fibers are GeoFibers.RTM. from Fiber
Reinforced Soils, LLC in Baton Rouge, La. Synthetic fibers, when
mixed into soil, open up to produce net, grid, and fiber
configurations. These net, grid, and fiber configurations provide a
mechanical means for reinforcement of the soil matrix. In this
embodiment, the fibers are made of polypropylene, and are between
about one-quarter inch and about three inches in length (which
includes, but is not limited to 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5,
1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, and 3 inches), with a tensile strength of
about 40,000 psi, a tensile elongation of about 20%, a Young's
Modulus of about 600,000 psi, and a specific gravity of about 0.91
gr/cm.sup.3. In one embodiment, the fibers have carbon black added
as UV protection. Typically, there are three types of fibers:
standard tape fibers, fibrillated fibers, and decomposing fibers.
In this embodiment, the fibers are added at about 0.15 pounds per
square foot (0.072 millibar)-blended uniformly to about 6 inch
(15.24 cm) depth and compacted. FIG. 2 shows a graph of the
increased CBR values with the present invention.
[0040] In another embodiment, synthetic fluid, a pour point
depressant, and synthetic fibers are added to soil. The fluid and
pour point depressant are about 5% by weight after addition to the
soil, and the fibers are between about 0.3% to about 0.5% by weight
(including, but not limited to, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5) after addition
to the soil. A treated and an untreated specimen were exposed to
three subfreezing temperatures, 25.degree. F. (-3.9.degree. C.),
-10.degree. F. (-23.degree. C.), and -30.degree. F. (-34.degree.
C.). Measurements were taken at ambient temperatures and after 24
hours of exposure to each temperature. The untreated specimen
swelled by 7% volume at 25.degree. F. (-3.9.degree. C.), and no
more at the colder temperatures. The treated specimen shrank by
1.5% at 25.degree. F. (-3.9.degree. C.) and did not change at the
colder temperatures. It is to be understood that the synthetic
fibers can be present in an amount between about 0.1% to about 5%
by weight, which includes, but is not limited to 0.1, 0.2, 0.3,
0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6,
1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9,
3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2,
4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, and 5.0. It is also to be
understood that in one embodiment, the synthetic fibers can be made
of any plastic, elastomer, or rubber.
[0041] One method of application is that the fibers are dispersed
at a certain ratio per cubic meter, blended into three lifts. The
fiber length will be determined by laboratory testing. Fiber
dispersing is through mechanical means and monitored for uniformity
over the area. Each lift is blended uniformly with the tilling
apparatus set to a specific profile. The final lift receives the
fluid application along with the fiber as noted. At this point, the
treated material is ready for compaction. The synthetic fluid and
pour point depressant is applied to the final lift of material at a
determined application rate based on the profile. About 50% of the
fluid will be applied prior to the fiber application and blending.
The remaining 50% is applied prior to compaction. Compaction of the
treated material is done with a large compactor. The first pass is
with a static roll, with the ensuing passes set for vibratory
compaction. CBR values will increase over time as there is a cure
time for the synthetic fluid.
[0042] In another embodiment, the composition is a synthetic fluid,
which in one embodiment is severely hydrotreated synthetic
isoalkane and binder, which in one embodiment is polyolefin. The
synthetic fluid can be between about 50% to about 95% by weight
(which includes, but is not limited to 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56,
57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73,
74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90,
91, 92, 93, 94, and 95) in this embodiment and the binder can be
between about 5% and about 50% by weight (which includes, but is
not limited to 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18,
19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35,
36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, and 50). In
one embodiment, the synthetic fluid/binder composition is applied
as a sub-base to the soil, and on top of the sub-base, a surface
course is applied, which is a combination of the synthetic
fluid/binder composition and synthetic fibers. This combination of
the sub-base and the surface course allows for strong impact
resistance in the soil.
[0043] In another embodiment, synthetic fluid is combined with a
pour point depressant and a thermoplastic polyolefin compound
including: polyisobutylene, polyethylene, polypropylene,
polybutenes, polyisoprene, and their copolymers. In another
embodiment, the synthetic fluid can be combined with the
polyisobutylene without the pour point depressant. It is also to be
understood that a binder can be added to any of the embodiments as
well. In yet another embodiment, synthetic fluid is combined with
pitch rosin blend. Pitch rosin operates as a binder. In all of the
above embodiments, the synthetic fluid can be synthetic isoalkane,
having an unsaturated hydrocarbon content of less that 1%, a
saturate percentage of greater than 99% (although it is to be
understood that the saturate percentage can also be 90, 91, 92, 93,
94, 95, 96, 97, 98, or 99%), is either a synthetic or
semi-synthetic hydrocarbon, is either a hydrotreated synthetic
isoalkane, a hydrocracked synthetic isoalkane, or a hydroisomerized
synthetic isoalkane, has a viscosity of at least about 19
centistokes @ 68.degree. F., a flame point greater than about
266.degree. F., and has a flash point of about 350.degree. F. The
synthetic fluid combined with polyisobutylene helps give even
distribution of the load.
[0044] In another embodiment, the composition is a base oil, which
in one embodiment is severely hydrotreated synthetic isoalkane and
binder, which in one embodiment is polyolefin. The base oil can be
between about 50% to about 95% by weight (which includes, but is
not limited to 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62,
63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79,
80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95)
in this embodiment and the binder can be between about 5% and about
50% by weight (which includes, but is not limited to 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,
10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,
27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43,
44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, and 50).
[0045] In one embodiment, the base oil/binder composition is
applied as a sub-base to the soil, and on top of the sub-base, a
surface course is applied, which is a combination of the base
oil/binder composition and synthetic fibers. This combination of
the sub-base and the surface course allows for strong impact
resistance in the soil.
[0046] In another embodiment, base oil is combined with a pour
point depressant and a thermoplastic polyolefin compound including:
polyisobutylene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutenes,
polyisoprene, and their copolymers. In another embodiment, the base
oil can be combined with the polyisobutylene without the pour point
depressant. It is also to be understood that a binder can be added
to any of the embodiments as well. In yet another embodiment, base
oil is combined with pitch. In all of the above embodiments, the
base oil can be synthetic isoalkane, having an unsaturated
hydrocarbon content of less than 1%, a saturate percentage of
greater than 99% (although it is to be understood that the saturate
percentage can also be 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, or 99%),
is either a synthetic or semi-synthetic hydrocarbon, is either a
hydrotreated synthetic isoalkane, a hydrocracked synthetic
isoalkane, or a hydroisomerized synthetic isoalkane, has a
viscosity of at least about 19 centistokes @ 68.degree. F.
(20.degree. C.), a flame point greater than about 266.degree. F.
(130.degree. C.), and has a flash point of about 350.degree. F.
(177.degree. C.). The base oil combined with polyisobutylene helps
give even distribution of the load.
[0047] In another embodiment, base oil is combined with synthetic
fibers. In this embodiment, the fibers are made of polypropylene,
and are between about one inch and about three inches in length,
with a tensile strength of about 40,000 psi (2,758 bar), a tensile
elongation of about 20%, a Young's Modulus of about 600,000 psi
(41,368 bar), and a specific gravity of about 0.91 gr/cm.sup.3. In
one embodiment, the fibers have carbon black added as UV
protection. Typically, there are three types of fibers: standard
tape fibers, fibrillated fibers, and decomposing fibers. In this
embodiment, the fibers are added at about 0.15 pounds per square
foot (0.072 millibar)--blended uniformly to about 6 inch depth and
compacted. It is to be understood that this embodiment could also
include a pour point depressant, a binder, and/or
polyisobutylene.
[0048] There are five specific categories of base oils. These
categories define the type of base stock the oil is formulated
from. The categories are as follows. Note that the base oil group
category is followed by the manufacturing method (in bold print)
and then a description of the oil characteristics for each
category.
[0049] Group I--Solvent Freezing: Group 1 base oils are the least
refined of all the groups. They are usually a mix of different
hydrocarbon chains with little or no uniformity. While some
automotive oils on the market use Group I stocks, they are
generally used in less demanding applications.
[0050] Group II--Hydro processing and Refining: Group II base oils
are common in mineral based motor oils currently available on the
market. They have fair to good performance in lubricating
properties such as volatility, oxidative stability and flash/fire
points. They have only fair performance in areas such as pour
point, cold crank viscosity and extreme pressure wear.
[0051] Group--III Hydro processing and Refining: Group III base
oils are subjected to the highest level of mineral oil refining of
the base oil groups. Although they are not chemically engineered,
they offer good performance in a wide range of attributes as well
as good molecular uniformity and stability. They are commonly mixed
with additives and marketed as synthetic or semi-synthetic
products. Group III base oils have become more common in America in
the last decade.
[0052] Group IV--Chemical Reactions: Group IV base oils are
chemically engineered synthetic base stocks. Polyalphaolefins
(PAOs) are a common example of a synthetic base stock. Synthetics,
when combined with additives, offer excellent performance over a
wide range of lubricating properties. They have very stable
chemical compositions and highly uniform molecular chains. Group IV
base oils are becoming more common in synthetic and synthetic-blend
products for automotive and industrial applications.
[0053] Group V--As Indicated: Group V base oils are used primarily
in the creation of oil additives. Esters and polyolesters are both
common Group V base oils used in the formulation of oil additives.
Group V oils are generally not used as base oils themselves, but
add beneficial properties to other base oils.
[0054] In some embodiments, the invention consists of aliphatic and
cyclic organic compositions utilized as plasticizers and carriers
that are blended with materials composed primarily of carboxylic
acids and applied in a manner to produce improved levels of dust
and erosion control, and soil improvement (by soil improvement it
is meant the integration of fines preservation, dust control,
erosion control, soil stabilization, strength gain, and/or
increased load bearing capacity).
[0055] A novel and unexpected result occurs when carboxylic acids
are blended with aliphatic or cyclic organic plasticizers and
carriers. These blends are processed into either heterogeneous
mixtures or emulsions that applied to soil, aggregate, or mineral
provide high levels of long lasting dust control and stabilization.
The invention exhibits tremendous moisture resistance,
reworkability, working life, while being noncorrosive and
nonhazardous.
[0056] Aliphatic organic compositions refers to saturated and
unsaturated hydrocarbons derived from petroleum, coal, or synthetic
manufacturing including paraffins or alkanes, olefins, alkenes, and
alkadienes. Alcohols, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids,
and carbohydrates. The invention, in some embodiments, is comprised
of 0% to 95% by weight (which includes, but is not limited to 0, 1,
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,
21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,
38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,
55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71,
72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88,
89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95) of these compositions.
[0057] Cyclic organic compositions refer to alicyclic hydrocarbons,
cycloparaffins, cycloolefins, cycloacetylenes, aromatic
hydrocarbons, heterocyclics, and any combinations of aliphatic and
cyclic structures such as terpenes, amino acids, proteins and
nucleic acids. The invention, in some embodiments, is comprised of
0% to 95% by weight (which includes, but is not limited to 0, 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,
21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,
38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,
55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71,
72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88,
89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95) of these compositions.
[0058] Carboxylic acid refers to any substance whose major
constituents are saturated or unsaturated fatty acids and their
esters derived from animal or vegetable fat or oil; and vegetable
derived resins or rosin acids, all represented chemically R--COOH.
The invention is comprised 5% to 70% by weight (which includes, but
is not limited to 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17,
18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34,
35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51,
52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68,
69, and 70) of these substances.
[0059] Plasticizer refers to organic compositions added to
carboxylic acids to facilitate processing and increase the
flexibility and durability of the final product.
[0060] Carrier refers to any organic compositions in which
carboxylic acids are miscible in and serve as a vehicle to aid in
the dispersion and penetration of plasticized carboxylic acids into
the soil.
[0061] Heterogeneous mixtures refer to mixtures or solutions
comprised of two or more substances, whether or not they are
uniformly dispersed.
[0062] Emulsions refer to mixtures of two or more immiscible
liquids held in suspension by small percentages of emulsifiers.
Emulsifiers can be protein or carbohydrate polymers or long-chained
alcohols and fatty acids. The emulsions can either be oil-in-water
or water-in-oil continuous phase mixtures.
[0063] The invention is manufactured using conventional
manufacturing equipment. Conventional mixers, emulsifiers, or
colloid mills are utilized to blend these components into stable
heterogeneous mixers or emulsions.
[0064] Application of the chemical agent to the soil is also
accomplished by the use of conventional spray equipment. The agent
is gravity fed or pumped through hoses, spray nozzles, or fixed
sprayers and evenly applied to the soil or material to be treated.
Motor-graders, asphalt grinders, mixers, pug mills, compactors,
rollers, and other conventional construction equipment may be
utilized to blend, set grade, and compact stabilized base if
desired.
[0065] Once applied the liquid penetrates into the soil where two
mechanisms for dust control and stabilization contribute to the
effect. The first is a particle weighting and loading mechanism
achieved through the processes of adsorption, adherence of
molecules to the surface of particles and absorption, penetration
of the substance into the inner structure of the particles.
[0066] The second mechanism is produced by the plasticized higher
polymeric carboxylic acids which act as binders, in the embodiments
in which binders are incorporated. The fatty acids and resins bind
particles into a tightly cohesive base when subjected to compactive
forces. The plasticized fatty acids and resins remain active even
through severe wet weather and mechanical disturbances from heavy
tracked vehicles and steel-chained tires. Our invention displays a
unique and unexpected ability to be recompacted into a tightly
cohesive base when disturbed, dramatically extending the working
life of the chemical agents. In embodiments using synthetic
isoalkane, the isoalkane can provide both cohesive and adhesive
effects. In embodiments with esters, the ester can provide both
cohesive and adhesive effects.
[0067] In some of the embodiments, the composition consists of
aliphatic and cyclic organic compositions utilized as plasticizers
and carriers that are blended with materials composed primarily of
thermoplastic polyolefin compositions and applied in a manner to
produce improved levels of dust and erosion control, and soil
stabilization.
[0068] A novel and unexpected result occurs when polyolefin
compositions are blended with aliphatic or cyclic organic
plasticizers and carriers. These blends are processed into either
heterogeneous mixtures or emulsions that applied to soil,
aggregate, or mineral provide high levels of long lasting dust
control and stabilization. The invention exhibits tremendous
moisture resistance, reworkability, working life, while being
noncorrosive and nonhazardous.
[0069] Thermoplastic polyolefin composition refers to any substance
derived from olefins with chemical structure C.sub.nH.sub.2n or
R--C.sub.2nH.sub.3n, including polyethylene, polypropylene,
polybutenes, polyisobutylenes, polyisoprene, and their copolymers.
The invention, in some embodiments, is comprised of 2% to 90% by
weight (which includes, but is not limited to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,
9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,
26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42,
43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59,
60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76,
77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, and 90) of
these substances.
[0070] In another embodiment, a synthetic isoalkane and binder are
added to in situ sand with another sand/soil mixture at 10% of the
mix. The 10% sand/soil mixture in this embodiment is a fine
material passing a 60 sieve. In one example, the dry material was
treated with water and EK35 (available from Midwest Industrial
Supply of Canton, Ohio) to a moisture of approximately 7%. The EK35
was added at an application rate of one gallon per twelve square
feet. The control gave a result of 10%, whereas at 0.1 penetration
the result was 71.3% and at 0.2 penetration the result was 114.4%.
It is to be understood that the sand/soil mixture can be between
about 1% to about 15% of the mix by weight, which includes, but is
not limited to, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and
15. It is also to be understood that the fine material of the
sand/soil mixture can have a sieve range between about 4 to about
200, which includes, but is not limited to, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,
9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,
26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42,
43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59,
60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76,
77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,
94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107,
108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120,
121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133,
134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146,
147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159,
160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172,
173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185,
186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198,
199, and 200.
[0071] In at least one embodiment, the fluid/fiber system works
well with poor materials (i.e. minimal soil confinement, support,
and weather). The improved soil could support and sustain high
pressures for years with the worst soil and site conditions.
[0072] Accordingly, it can be seen that we have provided a unique
and effective means of soil improvement using a chemical agent that
provided unexpected results when tested. In one embodiment, the CBR
of the marginal soils was only slightly increased by the
introduction of the present invention. However, the treated soil
was demonstrated to have significantly increased weight-bearing
properties, despite the relatively low CBR value. This result is
surprising in that CBR values are associated with weight-bearing
properties, so excellent weight-bearing properties for a soil with
a relatively low CBR value is unexpected. A marginal soil is
defined as a soil that typically will not compact sufficiently to
develop the bearing strength for its indented use. This is often
due to particle shapes that will not facilitate the interlocking of
particles or a particle distribution that prevents coherence
between particles (e.g., insufficient fines, <5%, or too much
fines, >30%). Marginal soils are often found locally to a
construction site, making their potential use economically
attractive. The present invention supplements the particle
interlocking and cohesion of a compacted soil. Interlocking is
supplemented when the ends of fibers are pinched between pairs of
adjacent particles effecting mechanical reinforcement. Cohesion is
supplemented when the fluid enhances compaction and capillary
action between particles. The application of the present invention
to a marginal soil improves its bearing capacity via the actions
just described, enabling an economical material alternative with
sufficient performance for the intended use.
[0073] In a separate embodiment from the previous definition of
"synthetic," the definition of "synthetic" includes the fluid
meeting the EPA static sheen requirement, the sediment requirement,
the polyaromatic hydrocarbon requirement, and the toxicity
requirements.
[0074] In one embodiment, wherein the synthetic fluid is a
synthetic isoalkane, the synthetic isoalkane acts as a plasticizer,
and the synthetic isoalkane is the only plasticizer. It is to be
understood that this is merely one embodiment of the invention,
however. In another embodiment of the invention, which can be
combined with other embodiments, the composition is essentially
devoid of hydrocarbons. In one embodiment, the synthetic isoalkane
has a saturate percentage greater than 99%.
[0075] In another embodiment, the composition consists essentially
of a synthetic fluid and a pour point depressant. In another
embodiment the composition consists essentially of a synthetic
fluid and a binder. In another embodiment the composition consists
essentially of a synthetic fluid, a biodegradable material, and
synthetic fibers. In another embodiment the composition consists
essentially of a base oil and polyisobutylene. In another
embodiment the composition consists essentially of a base oil and
synthetic fibers.
[0076] Example--In many of Alaska's unstable soils, simply building
a staging pad in an oil exploration camp can present significant
challenges. In remote locations of the North Slope, where adequate
materials are nonexistent or cost-prohibitive to import, the
present invention has proven itself to be a cost-effective solution
for soil stabilization. About 47 miles east of Barrow, Ak., the
U.S.'s farthest north city, lies Cape Simpson--a former Defense
Early Warning (DEW) site, is now a staging area for oil
exploration. The Ukpea vik Iniupiat Corporation was faced with a
real challenge. They had to reinforce and stabilize 180,000 square
feet of material--washed and well-rounded beach sand. The solution
must support heavy equipment by having 150,000 lb. wheel loads or
higher. Without stabilization, a standard, unloaded pickup truck
would sink to its front axle before its rear wheels were on the
pad. Also the solution must work in sub-zero temps, require a
minimum of installation equipment, and meet U.S. EPA and Alaska
environmental standards. A combination of proven technologies from
other applications was selected, synthetic fibers and synthetic
fluid with binder (Midwest SF2). The geo-fiber is a polypropylene
fiber that when blended into soil offers mechanical reinforcement,
often used for slope repair and slope construction. It is also used
in the sports industry to reinforce grass football fields. Nontoxic
synthetic fluid with binder is used in gravel roads to provide
continuous compaction and strength gain through cohesion and
adhesion. The initial step was to apply the synthetic binder with a
tracked vehicle. Lack of surface bearing made wheeled application
impractical. Step two consisted of bags of geo fibers being
strategically placed on the pad and broadcast by hand. A front-end
loader with a tiller attachment blended the geo-fibers into the top
several inches of soil to complete the third step in the process.
The fourth step was another application of the synthetic fluid with
binder, followed by the fifth and final step, compaction with a
conventional, 13 ton, steel wheeled roller. The outcome was that
the pad was capable of supporting 150,000 lb. wheel loads at a high
frequency and much higher distributed stationary loads
continuously. This outcome enabled uninterrupted Cape Simpson
operations during the winter exploration season. During the summer,
Midwest and the University of Alaska--Fairbanks visited the Cape
Simpson site to determine the effectiveness of the SF2
installation. Over 100 surface strength measurements were made on
the pad using 2 different ASTM standard test methods. The testing
demonstrated that the strength of the SF2 stabilized surface was
still twice that of unstabilized areas. According to the Ukpea vik
Iniupiat Corporation, the surface strength was still more than
sufficient to support uninterrupted camp operations. In situations
where logistical challenges make traditional soil stabilization
cost-prohibitive, SF2 is a very viable option. At Cape Simpson the
pad was stabilized in three days for about $1.95 per square foot,
many times cheaper and much faster than importing materials.
[0077] Although the description above contains much specificity,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the
presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Various other
embodiments and ramifications are possible within its scope. For
example, several different types of substances rich in polyolefins
are available as drop-in replacements to those tested, as well as
numerous a aliphatic and cyclic organic compositions.
[0078] The foregoing detailed description is given primarily for
clearness of understanding and no unnecessary limitations are to be
understood therefrom, for modification will become obvious to those
skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure and may be made
upon departing from the spirit of the invention and scope of the
appended claims. Accordingly, this invention is not intended to be
limited by the specific exemplifications presented hereinabove.
Rather, what is intended to be covered is within the spirit and
scope of the appended claims.
[0079] Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters
setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations,
the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are
reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however,
inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the
standard deviation found in their respective testing
measurements.
[0080] The invention has been described with reference to several
embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to
others upon a reading and understanding of the specification. It is
intended by applicant to include all such modifications and
alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended
claims or the equivalents thereof.
[0081] Having thus described the invention, it is now claimed:
* * * * *
References