GB191323312A - Improvements in and relating to the Sterilizing of Soil. - Google Patents

Abstract

23,312. Holmes, P. J. Oct. 15. Sterilizing soil.-Soil is sterilized in situ by heating by means of steam supplied to the interiors of hollow covers placed in position on the soil. Fig. 1 shows two sets of four covers connected together in ,pairs by underground pipes e and supplied with steam through pipes h, f and a valve g. Fig. 3 shows a cover consisting of a metal lining b fastened to a frame a and cross-bars k and separated by an air-space i from a covering c of wood, felt, or other non- conductor of heat. The screws l for connecting the lining b to the cross-bars k pass through rubber washers m and wood packing n. The covers are left in position for some time after the steam has been cut off. The edges of the covers may be embedded in the soil. They may be hinged, and may be formed of rubber or other flexible material. The covers may communicate with one another by means of covered trenches, or they may all communicate directly with a main steam-pipe by means of pipes passing through the soil. They may have perforated bottom plates. According to the Provisional Specification, perforated nozzles or pipes may be employed to facilitate penetration of the steam into the soil.