Systems and methods for injecting a material into soil

Abstract

Systems and methods use pumps and injection guns for injecting a material into soil, such as for controlling water migration, preventing water ingress or soil conditioning. Such systems and methods may control the flow of the material or precursors thereof from vessels to the injection gun, or flow of compressed air to a pneumatic subsystem that drives the pump, based on measured operating parameters relating to the material or precursors, the compressed air in the pneumatic subsystem and / or operating parameters relating to the ambient environment. Such systems and methods may configure the system in a cleaning mode to flow a cleaning agent through the injection gun based on measured operating parameters relating to the material, user input or scheduled times.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INJECTING A MATERIAL INTO SOILCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 552,665, filed February 12, 2024, and titled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREVENTING WATER INGRESS TO SLEEVE, AND MODULAR PUMP THEREFOR", the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, where permitted.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates in general to systems and methods using pumps and injection guns for injecting a material into soil, such as for controlling water migration or ingress, and / or for soil conditioning.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] It is known to use a pump and an injection gun to inject a material into soil for purposes such as controlling water migration or ingress and / or for soil conditioning.

[0004] The material to be injected may be a "mono-component" material that is pressurized by a pump through the injection gun and into the soil. Examples of monocomponent materials are epoxy or polyurethane-based water-reacting resins, which are mixtures of polymers with other chemicals (e.g., catalysts, resin modifiers, plasticizing agents, and solvents). Such resins may react with water in the soil to foam, expand, and cure in situ.

[0005] Alternatively, the material to be injected may be a "dual-component" material that is formed by two precursors that are pressurized by a pump through separate conduits into a mixing chamber of the injection gun, where the two precursors react with each other to form the material to be discharged from the injection gun. Some examples of dual-component materials are silicate-based resins, polyurethane- based multi-component resins, and acrylate-based water-swelling hydrogels. In some examples of acrylate-based resins, the first precursor is a mixture of two subcomponents: a liquid methacrylate (e.g., 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate or 2- dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate); and liquid hydrocarbon. The second precursor isan aqueous solution of a salt (crystalline disodium-peroxodisulphate) and an optional retarding additive. The first and second precursors react rapidly in the mixing chamber of the injection gun to form a low viscosity hydrogel that is discharged from the injection gun and into the soil, where it cures in situ to have a soft elastic consistency.

[0006] The injection pump may be driven by a pneumatic motor that is energized by a compressed air source to drive a single piston that pressurizes a monocomponent material through a single conduit, or two pistons that pressurize two precursors of the material through the two separate conduits.

[0007] A technical challenge with using pumps and injection guns is that the material's properties depend on a variety of operating parameters. Examples of these material properties include pot-life, curing time, rheology and mechanical properties before and after curing, reactivity of first and second precursors, and reactivity of the material with water in situ of the soil.

[0008] These operating parameters include the volumetric mixing ratio of the two precursors of a dual-component material. Suppliers typically specify the required volumetric mixing ratio (e.g., 1 :1 ) of the two precursors. Only small deviations (e.g., 1% to 3%) from the specified volumetric mixing ratio may be tolerated without undesirable effects on the properties of the resulting material.

[0009] These operating parameters also include the temperature of the material and the temperature of the ambient environment. For example, the chemical reactivity of first and second precursors with each other may be positively related to the temperature of the material. Meanwhile, the curing time of the material may be negatively related to the ambient temperature. The temperature of the ambient environment may dictate different optimal mixing ratios of the first and second precursors.

[0010] These operating conditions also include the pressure of the material discharged from the injection gun. For example, material injected with inadequate pressure may not penetrate satisfactorily into the voids of the soil. The injection pressure of the material may be affected by the cleanliness of the injection gun. The injection pressure of the material may also be affected by operation of the pneumatic motor that drives the pump, which depends on the condition of the pneumatic motor,and the temperature and pressure of compressed airthat is supplied thereto fordriving the pump.

[0011] Another technical challenge with using injection guns is that material to be injected may leave residues that occlude the internal passage of the injection gun, so as to impair the desired flow and injection pressure of material. Thus, it is a known practice for a user to manually re-configure the injection pump and injection gun so as to flush a cleaning agent through the injection gun. Examples of such cleaning agents isoalkanes. Such cleaning operations may be performed either preventatively on a periodic basis, or in response to detected abnormal behavior (e.g., inadequate flow rate or pressure of the discharged material).

[0012] Manual human supervision, control and cleaning of pump and injection gun systems may be impractical in terms of time and labor requirements, or unsatisfactory in terms of reliability and responsiveness to abnormal and dynamic operating conditions. Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for automated and precise control over such systems and cleaning of the injection gun.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0013] Aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below. It will be appreciated that while these aspects are summarized separately below, any one or more aspects may be implemented in combination with each other.

[0014] In one aspect, the present disclosure comprises a system for injecting, into soil, a material to be formed from a first precursor and a second precursor. The system is for use with: a first precursor vessel for storing the first precursor; a second precursor vessel for storing the second precursor, and an injection gun comprising an injection gun first precursor inlet for receiving the first precursor, an injection gun second precursor inlet for receiving the second precursor, an injection gun mixing chamber in fluid communication with the injection gun first and second precursor inlets for mixing of the first and second precursors, and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun mixing chamberfordischarging the material from the injection gun. The system comprises a first precursor flow path for fluid communication of the first precursor from the first precursor vessel to the injection gun first precursor inlet, and comprising: a first precursor pump for pressurizing the firstprecursor through the first precursor flow path; and a first precursor flow control valve. The system comprises a second precursor flow path for fluid communication of the second precursor from the second precursor vessel to the injection gun second precursor inlet, and comprising a second precursor pump for pressurizing the second precursor through the second precursor flow path; and a second precursor flow control valve. The system comprises a first precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the first precursor in the first precursor flow path; and a second precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the second precursor in the second precursor flow path. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the first and second precursor flow meters and to the first and second precursor flow control valves. The system comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the first and second precursor flow control valves so as to control a measured volumetric flow ratio of the first precursor to the second precursor within a predefined volumetric flow ratio range, wherein the measured volumetric flow ratio is based on the volumetric flow rate of the first precursor measured by the first precursor flow meter and the volumetric flow rate of the second precursor measured by the second precursor flow meter.

[0015] In another aspect, the present disclosure comprises a system for injecting, into soil, a material. The system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and a compressed air source. The system comprises a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path. The system comprises at least one material or precursor pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the material or the precursor in at least one location in the material or precursor flow path downstream of the material or precursor pump, or in the injection gun. The system comprises a pneumatic motor for driving the material or precursor pump. The system comprises a compressed air flow path for fluid communication of compressed air from the compressed air source to the pneumaticmotor, and comprising a compressed air flow control valve. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor and to the compressed air flow control valve. The system comprises a non- transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the compressed air flow control valve so as to control the pressure of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one pressure material or precursor sensor within a predefined pressure range. In embodiments of the system, the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor comprises a material or precursor pressure sensor positioned to measure the pressure of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path downstream of the material or precursor pump. In embodiments of the system, the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor comprises a material or precursor pressure sensor positioned to measure the pressure of the material or the precursor in the injection gun.

[0016] In another aspect, the present disclosure comprises a system for injecting, into soil, a material. The system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and a compressed air source. The system comprises a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path. The system comprises a pneumatic motor for driving the material or precursor pump. The system comprises a compressed air flow path for fluid communication of compressed air from the compressed air source to the pneumatic motor. The system comprises a compressed air temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the compressed air in the compressed air flow path. The system comprises an electric heater positioned to heat the compressed air in the compressed air flow path. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the compressed air temperature sensor and the electric heater. The system comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control a heat power output of the electric heater so as to control the temperature of thecompressed air measured by the compressed air temperature sensor within a predefined compressed air temperature range.

[0017] In another aspect, the present disclosure comprises system for injecting, into soil, a material. The system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and a compressed air source. The system comprises a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path. The system comprises a pneumatic motor for driving the material or precursor pump. The system comprises a compressed air flow path for fluid communication of compressed air from the compressed air source to the pneumatic motor. The system comprises and a compressed air flow control valve. The system comprises a compressed air pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the compressed air in the compressed air flow path. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the compressed air pressure sensor and the compressed airflow control valve. The system comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the compressed air flow control valve so as to control the pressure of the compressed air measured by the compressed air pressure sensor within a predefined compressed air pressure range.

[0018] In another aspect, the present disclosure comprises a system for injecting, into soil, a material.The system is for use with a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; and an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun. The system comprises a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material orthe precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material orthe precursor through the material or precursor flow path, and a material or precursor flow controlvalve. The system comprises a material or precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path. The system comprises a material or precursor temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the material or precursor flow meter, to the material or precursor temperature sensor, and to the material or precursor flow control valve. The system comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the material or precursor flow control valve so as to control a volumetric flow rate of the material or precursor as measured by the material or precursor flow meter based on a predefined relationship with the temperature of the material or precursor measured by the material or precursor temperature sensor.

[0019] In another aspect, the present disclosure comprises a system for injecting, into soil, a material to be formed from a first precursor material and a second precursor. The system is for use with: a first precursor vessel for storing the first precursor; a second precursor vessel for storing the second precursor, and an injection gun comprising an injection gun first precursor inlet for receiving the first precursor, an injection gun second precursor inlet for receiving the second precursor, an injection gun mixing chamber in fluid communication with the injection gun first and second precursor inlets for mixing of the first and second precursors, and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun mixing chamber for discharging the material from the injection gun. The system comprises: a first precursor flow path for fluid communication of the first precursor from the first precursor vessel to the injection gun first precursor inlet, and comprising: a first precursor pump for pressurizing the first precursor through the first precursor flow path; and a first precursor flow control valve. The system comprises a second precursor flow path for fluid communication of the second precursor from the second precursor vessel to the injection gun second precursor inlet, and comprising a second precursor pump for pressurizing the second precursor through the second precursor flow path; and a second precursor flow control valve. The system comprises a first precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the first precursor in the first precursor flow path. The system comprises a second precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the second precursor in the second precursor flowpath. The system comprises an ambient air temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of ambient air proximal to any one of the first precursor vessel, the second precursor vessel and the injection gun. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the ambient air temperature sensor and to the first and second precursor flow control valves. The system comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the first and second precursor flow control valves so as to control a measured volumetric flow ratio of the first precursor to the second precursor based on a predefined relationship with the ambient air temperature measured by the ambient air temperature sensor, wherein the measured volumetric flow ratio is based on the volumetric flow rate of the first precursor measured by the first precursor flow meter and the volumetric flow rate of the second precursor measured by the second precursor flow meter.

[0020] In another aspect, the present disclosure comprises a system for injecting, into soil, a material. The system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and an energy source selected from the group consisting of: a compressed air source, a pressurized hydraulic fluid source, and an electrical energy source. The system comprises a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path; wherein the material or precursor pump is powered by the energy source. The system comprises a shut-off means actuatable to interrupt supply of energy from the energy source to the material or precursor pump, wherein the shut off-means is selected from the group consisting of: a shut-off valve for interrupting supply of compressed air from the compressed air source, supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the pressurized hydraulic fluid source, or an electrical switch for interrupting supply of electrical energy from the electrical energy source. The system comprises at least one material or precursor sensor for measuring at least one operating parameter of the material or precursor, wherein the at least one material or precursor sensor is selected from the group consisting of: a material or precursorflow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path; and at least one material or precursor pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the material or the precursor in at least one location in the material or precursor flow path downstream of the material or precursor pump, or in the injection gun. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the at least one material or precursor sensor, and to material or precursor flow control valve. The system comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to perform at least one response action based on the at least one operating parameter of the material or precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor sensor being outside of a predetermined operating parameter range, wherein the at least one response action comprises actuating the shut-off means to interrupt supply of energy from the energy source to the material or precursor pump. In embodiments, the system comprises at least one output device selected from the group consisting of: an audio transducer; and a light or a display screen, and the at least one response action comprises controlling the at least one output device to generate an alert that is audible or visible to a human user.

[0021] In another aspect, the present disclosure comprises a system for injecting, into soil, a material. The system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; a cleaning agent vessel for storing a cleaning agent; and an injection gun comprising an injection gun material or precursor inlet for receiving the material or the precursor, an injection gun cleaning agent inlet for receiving the cleaning agent, and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun and in fluid communication with the injection gun cleaning agent inlet for discharging the cleaning agent from the injection gun. The system comprises a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path; and a material or precursor flow control valve. The system comprises a cleaning agent flow path forfluid communication of the cleaning agent from the cleaning agent vessel to the injection gun cleaning agent inlet and comprising: a cleaning agent pump for pressurizing the cleaning agent through the cleaning agent flow path; and a cleaningagent flow control valve. The system comprises a processor operatively connected to the material or precursor flow control valve and the cleaning agent flow control valve. The system comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to configure the system alternately in: an injection mode wherein the material or precursor flow control valve is open and the cleaning agent flow control valve is closed; and a cleaning mode wherein the material or precursor flow control valve is closed and the cleaning agent flow control valve is open. In embodiments, the system comprises the injection gun. In embodiments, the system comprises at least one material or precursor pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the material or the precursor and / or at least one precursor or material flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor in at least one location in the material or precursor flow path, or in the injection gun, the processor is operatively connected to the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor and / or the at least one precursor or material flow meter, and the instructions are executable by the processor to configure the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on the pressure of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor and / or the volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor flow meter, such as when the pressure and / or volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor and / or the at least one material or precursor pressure flow meter, respectively, is outside of a predefined pressure range or a predefined volumetric flow rate range, respectively, and / or when the pressure and / or volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor and / or the at least one material or precursor pressure flow meter, respectively, exhibits a fluctuation in value over time. In embodiments, the instructions are executable by the processor to configure the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode in response to a user command input. In embodiments, the instructions are executable by the processor to configure the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on a predefined time schedule or operational schedule.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The foregoing and other aspects of the invention will be better appreciated with reference to the attached drawings, as follows.

[0023] Figure 1 shows an exemplary use of a system of the present disclosure to inject a material into soil adjacent to a tunnel sleeve.

[0024] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an injection gun of the present disclosure that may be used with or form part of the system of Figure 2.

[0026] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an injection station of the present disclosure that may form part of the system of Figure 2, with external panels of the trolley shown as transparent to show components inside the trolley.

[0027] Figure 5 is a front perspective view of the injection station of Figure 4 with external panels of the trolley removed to components inside the trolley.

[0028] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the injection station of Figure 4.

[0029] Figure 7 is a front-bottom-right side quarter perspective view of an embodiment of a dual-component pump module used in the injection station of Figure 4.

[0030] Figure 8 is a partial cut-away front-bottom-right side quarter perspective view of the dual-component pump module of Figure 7.

[0031] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the dual-component pump module of Figure 7 with the external housing thereof removed to show interior components thereof.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0032] INTERPRETATION

[0033] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the Figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order toprovide a thorough understanding of the embodiment or embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. It should be understood at the outset that, although exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the figures and described below, the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations and techniques illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0034] Various terms used throughout the present description may be read and understood as follows, unless the context indicates otherwise: "or" as used throughout is inclusive, as though written "and / or"; singular articles and pronouns as used throughout include their plural forms, and vice versa; similarly, gendered pronouns include their counterpart pronouns so that pronouns should not be understood as limiting anything described herein to use, implementation, performance, etc. by a single gender; "exemplary" should be understood as "illustrative" or "exemplifying" and not necessarily as "preferred" over other embodiments. Further definitions for terms may be set out herein; these may apply to prior and subsequent instances of those terms, as will be understood from a reading of the present description.

[0035] It will also be noted that the use of the term "a" or "an" will be understood to denote "at least one" in all instances unless explicitly stated otherwise or unless it would be understood to be obvious that it must mean "one". The phrase "at least one of" is understood to be one or more. The phrase "at least one of... and..." is understood to mean at least one of the elements listed or a combination thereof, if not explicitly listed. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" is understood to mean A alone or B alone or C alone or a combination of A and B or a combination of A and C or a combination of B and C or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0036] The term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and / or steps. Theforegoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, "including", "having" and their derivatives. It will be understood that any embodiments described as "comprising" certain components may also "consist of' or "consist essentially of' these components, wherein "consisting of' has a closed-ended or restrictive meaning and "consisting essentially of' means including the components specified but excluding other components except for components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effects described herein.

[0037] It will be understood that any component defined herein as being included may be explicitly excluded from the claimed invention by way of proviso or negative limitation, such as any specific components or method steps, whether implicitly or explicitly defined herein.

[0038] In addition, all ranges given herein include the end of the ranges and also any intermediate range points, whether explicitly stated or not.

[0039] Terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree should be construed as including a deviation of at least ±5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies.

[0040] The abbreviation, "e.g." is derived from the Latin exempli gratia, and is used herein to indicate a non-limiting example. Thus, the abbreviation "e.g." is synonymous with the term "for example." The word "or" is intended to include "and" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0041] "Attached", as used herein, in describing the relationship between two connected parts includes the case in which the two connected parts are "directly attached" with the two connected parts being in contact with each other, and the case in which the connected parts are "indirectly attached" and not in contact with each other but connected by one or more intervening other part(s) between.

[0042] Any reference to upper, lower, top, bottom or the like is intended to refer to an orientation of a particular element during use of the claimed subject matter and not necessarily to its orientation during shipping or manufacture. The upper surface of anelement, for example, can still be considered its upper surface even when the element is lying on its side.

[0043] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, "each" refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

[0044] The embodiments of the disclosures described herein are exemplary (e.g., in terms of materials, shapes, dimensions, and constructional details) and do not limit by the claims appended hereto and any amendments made thereto. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that there are yet more alternative implementations and modifications possible, and that the following examples are only illustrations of one or more implementations. The scope of the invention, therefore, is only to be limited by the claims appended hereto and any amendments made thereto.

[0045] Unless otherwise explained, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0046] COMPUTER IMPLEMENTATION

[0047] The term "processor", as used herein, refers to one or more electronic hardware devices that is / are capable of reading and executing instructions stored on a memory to perform operations on data, which may be stored on a memory or provided in a data signal. The term "processor" includes a single device or a plurality of physically discrete, operatively connected devices despite use of the term in the singular. The plurality of processors may be arrayed or distributed. Non-limiting examples of processors include integrated circuit semiconductor devices and / or processing circuit devices referred to as computers, servers or terminals having single or multi-processor architectures, microprocessors, microcontrollers, microcontroller units (MCU), central processing units (CPU), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA),application specific circuits (ASIC), digital signal processors, and combinations of the foregoing

[0048] The term "memory", as used herein, refers to a non-transitory tangible computer-readable medium for storing information (e.g., data or data structures) in a format readable by a processor, and / or instructions (e.g., computer code or software programs or modules) that are readable and executable by a processor to implement an algorithm. The term "memory" includes a single device or a plurality of physically discrete, operatively connected devices despite use of the term in the singular. Nonlimiting types of memory include solid-state semiconductor, optical, magnetic, and magneto-optical computer readable media. Examples of memory technologies include optical discs such as compact discs (CD-ROMs) and digital versatile (or video) discs (DVDs), magnetic media such as floppy disks, magnetic tapes or cassettes, and solid state semiconductor random access memory (RAM) devices, read-only memory (ROM) devices, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) devices, flash memory devices, memory chips and combinations of the foregoing. Memory may be non-volatile or volatile. Memory may be physically attached to a processor, or remote from a processor. Memory may be removable or non-removable from a system including a processor. Memory may be operatively connected to a processor in such a way as to be accessible by a processor. Instructions stored by a memory may be based on a plurality of programming and / or markup languages known in the art, with non-limiting examples including the C, C++, C#, Python ™, MATLAB ™, Java ™, JavaScript ™, Perl ™, PHP ™, SQL ™, Visual Basic ™, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Extensible Markup Language (XML), and combinations of the foregoing programming languages. Instructions stored by a memory may also be implemented by configuration settings for a fixed-function device, gate array or programmable logic device.

[0049] Any method, application or module herein described may be implemented using computer readable / executable instructions that may be stored or otherwise held by a memory and executed by a processor. Aspects of the present invention may be described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or blockdiagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor, such that the processor, and a memory storing the instructions, which execute via the processor, collectively constitute a machine for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0050] The flowcharts and functional block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0051] USE OF THE SYSTEM

[0052] For illustrative purposes, Figure 1 shows an non-limiting use of a system 2 comprising an injection station 72 and an injection gun 14 for injecting a material 4 into soil 10 adjacent to a subterranean structure in the form of a tunnel sleeve 6 to prevent water ingress from a zone 8 of soil 10 of high moisture content through the tunnel sleeve 6. In other uses, the system 2 may be used for injecting any material into soil, which may be or may not be adjacent to a subterranean structure. The material may be injected into the soil 10 for a variety of different purposes such as controlling water migration, preventing water ingress through a subterranean structure, and / or soil conditioning.

[0053] "Material", as used herein, refers to a material to be injected into soil. Nonlimiting examples of material may include epoxy or polyurethane-based resins,silicate-based resins, other types of resins, acrylate-based hydrogels or other types of hydrogels as known in the art.

[0054] "Soil", as used herein, refers to porous material situated below a ground surface. Soil may comprise bulk organic matter and / or inorganic matter such as coarse aggregate material (e.g., stones, rocks, gravel, etc.) and fine aggregate material (e.g., sand, silt, clay, etc.).

[0055] "Subterranean structure", as used herein, refers to any structure that is disposed below a ground surface. Non-limiting examples of subterranean structures may include a sleeves for tunnels, walls, piles, footings and foundation structures.

[0056] SYSTEM OVERVIEW

[0057] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the system 2 for injecting a material into soil. The system 2 may considered as including all or only some of the components shown in Figure 2. For example, in some aspects, the system 2 may be considered to include components such as the vessels 12a, 12b, 12c, the injection gun 14, and / or a compressed air source in the form of an air compressor 15, while in other aspects, such components may be considered as part of the environment with which the system 2 is used.

[0058] In the following description of the system, components such as vessels, inlets, outlets, flow paths, pumps, flow control valves, meters and sensors may be denoted by nominal labels such as "precursor", "material or precursor", "material", "cleaning agent" or "compressed air". These nominal labels indicate the nature of the fluid that flows or is intended to flow through such component. For example, a "precursor flow path" indicates that the flow path may be used to convey a precursor for forming a material to be injected into soil, whereas a "material or precursor flow path" indicates that the flow path may be used to convey a material to be injected into soil or a precursor for forming such material.

[0059] The embodiment of the system 2 shown in Figure 2 is adapted for injecting a dual-component material to be formed from a first precursor and a second precursor. The embodiment of the system shown in Figure 2 may be adapted for injecting a mono-component material (e.g., an epoxy or polyurethane resin) by substituting the first and second "precursor" components described below with a singular "material"component. That is, the nominal "first precursor" components of the system 2 would instead be considered as a "material component" of the system 2, while the "second precursor" components would be omitted. Thus, the nominal label "material or precursor" may be used herein for designation of alternative use of certain components. The embodiment of the system 2 shown in Figure 2 also allows for automated cleaning of the injection gun 14. This functionality may be omitted from other embodiments of the system 2, and thus components of the system 2 associated with this functionality may be omitted. In the embodiment of the system shown in Figure 2, the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b and the cleaning agent pump 32 are driven by pneumatic motors 34a, 34b respectively, which are powered by compressed air. In other embodiments, these pumps may be driven by other types of powered motors (e.g., electrical of hydraulic), in which case "compressed air" components would be adapted or omitted accordingly.

[0060] VESSELS

[0061] The embodiment of the system shown in Figure 2 includes or is used with three vessels. The first precursor vessel 12a stores the first precursor denoted by the label "A". The first precursor may itself be formed by mixing two sub-components denoted by the label "A1+A2". For example, the sub-component "A1" may be a liquid methacrylate and the sub-component "A2" may be a liquid hydrocarbon.

[0062] The second precursor vessel 12b stores the second precursor denoted by the label "B". The second precursor may itself be formed by mixing two subcomponents denoted by the label "B1+B2". For exam pie, the sub-component "B1" may be water and the sub-component "B2" may be a salt (crystalline disodiumperoxodisulphate) and an optional retarding additive.

[0063] The cleaning agent vessel 12c stores a cleaning agent that is suitable for cleaning residues of the first and second precursor or the material formed by them from the injection gun 14. For example, the cleaning agent may comprise isoalkanes for cleaning residues of hydrogel formed by the reaction of first precursor "A" and second precursor "B" in the injection gun 14.

[0064] INJECTION GUN

[0065] "Injection gun", as used herein, refers to any device that defines an internal passage between least one injection inlet for receiving a material or precursor for forming a material to be discharged from the injection gun, and an injection gun outlet for discharging the material, and comprises at least one injection gun valve for regulating flow of material or precursor through the internal passage.

[0066] The system 2 shown in Figure 2 includes or is used with an injection gun 14. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of an injection gun 14 in accordance with the schematic depiction of Figure 2.

[0067] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the injection gun 14 has three injection gun inlets. The injection gun first precursor inlet 16a is used for receiving the first precursor. The injection gun second precursor inlet 16b is used for receiving the second precursor. The injection gun cleaning agent inlet 16c is used for receiving the cleaning agent.

[0068] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the injection gun has an injection gun mixing chamber 18 in fluid communication with the injection gun first and second precursor inlets 16a, 16b for mixing of the first and second precursors therein. The injection gun mixing chamber 18 is also in fluid communication with the injection gun cleaning agent inlet 16c, so that cleaning agent received from the injection gun cleaning agent inlet 16c may flow through the mixing chamber 18.

[0069] The injection gun 14 has an injection gun outlet 20 (i.e., at least one injection gun outlet) in fluid communication with the injection gun inlets 16a, 16b, 16c via the injection gun mixing chamber 18 for discharging the material from the injection gun 14 when the system 2 is used an injection mode, and for discharging cleaning agent from the injection gun 14 when the system 2 is used in a cleaning mode. The injection gun outlet 20 may be a plurality of outlets so that the injection gun 14 can be used for multi-port injection sequencing that injection material into multiple points in the soil, either sequentially or simultaneously.

[0070] The injection gun 14 has an injection gun first precursor flow control valve 22a for regulating flow of the first precursor from the injection gun first precursor inlet 16a to the mixing chamber 18. The injection gun has an injection gun second precursorflow control valve 22b for regulating flow of the second precursor from the injection gun second precursor inlet 16b to the mixing chamber 18. In this embodiment, the injection gun first and second precursor flow control valves 22a, 22b are motor controlled valves, but may be other suitable types of valves in other embodiments. The injection valve first and second precursor flow control valves 22a, 22b are controlled by a trigger 24 (see Figure 3) that may be actuated manually by a user.

[0071] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the injection gun is associated with a pressure sensor 26 positioned to measure the pressure of the material between the injection gun mixing chamber 18 and the injection gun outlet 20. This measured pressure will correspond substantially to the injection pressure of the material. The pressure sensor 26 may be implemented by any suitable type of pressure sensor in the art, such as a piezoresistive pressure sensor, that is capable of communicating with a processor.

[0072] FLUID FLOW PATHS

[0073] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the system 2 defines a first precursor flow path 28a, a second precursor flow path 28b, a cleaning agent flow path 28c, and a compressed air flow path 30. In embodiments, the flow paths may be defined by collectively by conduits (e.g., hose lines or piping) and internal passages of components such as pumps and valves.

[0074] FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR FLOW PATHS

[0075] The first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b are analogous to each other, and as such are described together. The first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b are for fluid communication of the first and second precursors, respectively, from the first and second precursor vessels 12a, 12b, respectively, to the injection gun first and second precursor inlets 16a, 16b, respectively.

[0076] The first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b include first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, respectively, for pressurizing the first precursor and the second precursor, respectively, through the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, respectively. As a non-limiting example, the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b are collectively implemented by a dual piston pump that is driven by acommon pneumatic motor 34a. In other embodiments, these pumps may be implemented by other suitable types of pumps known in the art.

[0077] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b also include first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b, respectively, for regulating flow of the first and second precursor, respectively, through the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, respectively. In the embodiment shown Figure 2, the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b are implemented by motor controlled valves, but in other embodiments may be implemented by other suitable types of valves known in the art. In the embodiment shown Figure 2, the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b are positioned upstream of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, respectively, so as to be able to regulate and interrupt flow of the first and second precursor, respectively, to the first and second precursor pump 32a, 32b, respectively.

[0078] First and second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b are provided for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the first and second precursor, respectively, in the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, respectively. The first and second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b may be implemented by any suitable type of flow meter in the art, such as an electromagnetic flow meter or an ultrasonic flow meter, that is capable of communicating with a processor. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the first and second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b are positioned upstream of the first and second precursor pump 32a, 32b, respectively, so as to be able to measure volumetric flow rate of the first and second precursors, respectively, to the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, respectively. In other embodiments, the first and second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b may be positioned downstream of the first and second precursor pump 32a, 32b, respectively.

[0079] First and second precursor temperature sensors 40a, 40b are provided for measuring a temperature of the first and second precursors, respectively, in the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, respectively. The first and second precursor temperature sensors 40a, 40b may be implemented by any suitable type of temperature sensor in the art, such as a thermocouple sensor, that is capable of communicating with a processor. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the first and second precursor temperature sensors 40a, 40b are positioned upstream of the firstand second precursor pump 32a, 32b, respectively, so as to be able to measure the temperature of the first and second precursor, respectively, upstream of the first and second precursor pump 32a, 32b, respectively. In other embodiments, the first and second precursor temperature sensor 40a, 40b may be positioned downstream of the first and second precursor pump 32a, 32b, respectively.

[0080] First and second precursor pressure sensors 42a, 42b are provided for measuring a pressure of the first and second precursors, respectively, in the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, respectively, at a position downstream of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, respectively. The first and second precursor pressure sensors 42a, 42b may be implemented by any suitable type of pressure sensor in the art, such as a piezoresistive pressure sensor, that is capable of communicating with a processor.

[0081] CLEANING AGENT FLOW PATH AND ASSOCIATED SENSORS

[0082] The cleaning agent flow path 28c allows for fluid communication of the cleaning agent from the cleaning agent vessel 12c to the injection gun cleaning agent inlet 16c.

[0083] The cleaning agent flow path 28c includes a cleaning agent pump 32c for pressurizing the cleaning agent through the cleaning agent flow path 28c. As a nonlimiting example, the cleaning agent pump 32c is implemented by a single piston pump that is driven by a pneumatic motor 34b that is powered by compressed air. In other embodiments, the cleaning agent pump 32c may be implemented by other suitable types of pumps known in the art.

[0084] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the cleaning agent flow path 28c also includes a cleaning agent flow control valve 36c for regulating flow of the cleaning agent through the cleaning agent flow path 28c. In the embodiment shown Figure 2, the cleaning agent flow control valve 36c is implemented by a motor controlled valve, but in other embodiments may be implemented by other suitable types of valves known in the art. In the embodiment shown Figure 2, the cleaning agent flow control valve 36c is positioned upstream of the cleaning agent pump 32c, so as to be able to regulate and interrupt flow of the cleaning agent to the cleaning agent pump 32c.

[0085] A cleaning agent flow meter 38c is provided for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the cleaning agent in the cleaning agent flow path 28c. The cleaning agent flow meter 38c may be implemented by any suitable type of flow meter known in the art, such as an electromagnetic flow meter or an ultrasonic flow meter, that is capable of communicating with a processor. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the cleaning agent flow meter 38c is positioned upstream of the cleaning agent pump 32c so as to be able to measure volumetric flow rate of the cleaning agent to the cleaning agent pump 32c. In other embodiments, it is possible that the cleaning agent flow meter 38c is positioned downstream of the cleaning agent pump 32c.

[0086] Although not shown in Figure 2, the cleaning agent flow path 28c may be associated with a cleaning agent temperature sensor in a manner analogous to the first and second precursor temperatures sensors 40a, 40b that are associated with the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, respectively. Although not shown, the cleaning agent flow path 28c may be associated with a cleaning agent pressure sensor in a manner analogous to the first and second precursor pressure sensors 42a, 42b associated with the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, respectively.

[0087] COMPRESSED AIR FLOW PATH AND ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS

[0088] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b are driven by a common pneumatic motor 34a, and the cleaning agent pump 32c is driven by another pneumatic motor 34b. The pneumatic motors 34a, 34b are powered by compressed air supplied by a compressed air source, which is implemented in the embodiment of Figure 2 by an air compressor 15.

[0089] The compressed air flow path 30 allows for fluid communication of compressed air from the air compressor 15 to the pneumatic motor 34a that drives the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, and to the pneumatic motor 34b that drives the cleaning agent pump 32c.

[0090] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the compressed air flow path 30 includes the following components, in sequence, starting from the end connected to the air compressor 15: a compressed air dryer 44 for removing moisture from the compressed air, a compressed air shut-off valve 46 implemented in this embodiment by a solenoid valve, a compressed airfilter / separator48 for removing particulates fromthe compressed air, a compressed air flow control valve 50 implemented in this embodiment by a motor controlled valve, and a lubricator 52 for injecting a lubricant into the compressed air for lubricating the pneumatic motor 34a, 34b.

[0091] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, an electric heater 54 is provided for heating the compressed air in the compressed airflow path 30. The electric heater 54 may be implemented by any suitable type of electric heater in the art, such as a resistance heater or an induction heater, that is capable of having its heat power output controlled by a processor that controls supply of electric power to the electric heater 54.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, a compressed air temperature sensor 56 is provided for measuring a temperature of the compressed air in the compressed air flow path 30. The compressed air temperature sensor 56 may be implemented by any suitable type of temperature sensor in the art, such as a thermocouple sensor, that is capable of communicating with a processor.

[0093] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, a compressed air pressure sensor 58 is provided for measuring a pressure of the compressed air in the compressed air flow path 30. The compressed air pressure sensor 58 may be implemented by any suitable type of pressure sensor in the art, such as a piezoresistive pressure sensor, that is capable of communicating with a processor.

[0094] AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR

[0095] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the system includes an ambient air temperature sensor 60 for measuring a temperature of ambient air proximal to any one of the first precursor vessel 12a, the second precursor vessel 12b and the injection gun 14. The term "proximal" as used in this context means that the ambient air temperature sensor 60 is sufficiently close (e.g., within 5 meters of distance) to the first precursor vessel 12a, the second precursor vessel 12b and / or the injection gun 14 such that the measured ambient air temperature at the ambient air temperature sensor 60 is an accurate indicator of the ambient air temperature at the first precursor vessel 12a, the second precursor vessel 12b and / or the injection gun 14, as the case may be.

[0096] INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES, PROCESSOR, AND MEMORY

[0097] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the system includes one or more input device(s) 62, one or more output device(s) 64, a processor 66, and a memory 68.

[0098] The one or more input device(s) 62 may be used by user of the system to input information relevant to operation of the system 2 to the processor 66. The one or more input device(s) 62 may be implemented by computer peripherals known in the art such as a touch-sensitive display screen, a computer mouse, and / or a computer keyboard.

[0099] The one or more output device(s) 64 may be used to provide information relative to operation of the system 2 to the user. As an example, such information may include measurements generated using the aforementioned temperature and pressure sensors and volumetric flow meters, the open or closed state of the aforementioned flow control valves and shut-off valve, or an alert for warning the user of an abnormal operating condition of the system 2. The one or more output device(s) 64 may be implemented by computer peripherals known in the art such as a display screen (which may be the touch-sensitive display screen that also implements an input device), and / or an audio transducer such as a speaker, or an electronic buzzer 70.

[0100] As a non-liming example, the processor 66 may be implemented a programmable logic controller (PLC) - e.g. a ruggedized computing device comprising one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, and digital signal processors. The processor 66 is operatively connected to the various components of the system 2. Such operative connections may be implemented by wired and / or wireless signal communication paths as are known in the art. The processor 66 is operatively connected to the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b, the cleaning agent flow control valve 36c, the compressed air shut-off valve 46, and the compressed air flow control valve 50 to vary their opening sizes (e.g., by closing or opening the valves or changing the opening size of the valves between fully closed and fully open states). The processor 66 is operatively connected to the pressure sensor 26 associated with the injection gun, the first and second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b, the cleaning agent flow meter 38c, the first and second precursor temperatures sensors 40a, 40b, the first and second precursor pressure sensors 42a, 42b, the compressed air temperature sensor 56, the compressed air pressure sensor58 and the ambient air temperature sensor 60 to receive signals from these sensors from which the relevant measured operating parameters can be determined by the processor 66. The processor 66 is operatively connected to the electric heater 54 to regulate the amount of heat power output by the electric heater 54. The processor 66 is operatively connected to the one or more input device(s) 64 to allow for user input to the processor 66, and the one or more output device(s) 66 to allow for audible or visible output from the processor 66 to a user.

[0101] The memory 68 is a non-transitory computer readable medium that stores instructions executable by the processor 66 implement control operations as described below. As a non-limiting example, the memory 68 may be a solid state memory device. The instructions stored by the memory 68 may be considered as firmware of the system 2.

[0102] MODULAR IMPLEMENTATION OF SYSTEM IN INJECTION STATION

[0103] Referring to Figures 2 and 4 to 6, some components of the system 2 may be implemented in self-contained modules that may be readily connected and separated from each other to form an injection station 72 (Figures 4 to 6). The modules include a dual-component pump module 74, a mono-component pump module 76, a flow control module 78, a compressed air conditioning module 80, and a control module 82. In Figure 4, the rounded rectangular boundaries denoting the module surround the components forming the module. In this embodiment, the input 64 and output devices 66 are implemented by a touch-sensitive display screen 84 (Figure 4).

[0104] Referring to Figures 4 to 6, the injection station 72 includes a wheeled trolley 86 that supports the first and second precursor vessels 12a, 12b, and the cleaning agent vessel 12c, and the modules 74 to 82 so that they can be easily moved about a work environment. The conduits for the first and second precursors and compressed air connecting the components shown in Figure 2 are omitted in Figures 4 to 6 for clarity. The first and second precursor vessels 12a, 12b, and the cleaning agent vessel 12c are supported on a lower rack of the trolley 86 and covered by a canopy (see Figure 6) to protect them from environmental elements. The cartridgelike modules 74 to 82 slot into an upper rack of the trolley 86. The trolley 86 is equipped with external panels (shown as transparent in Figure 4, omitted from Figure 5 and shown as opaque in Figure 6) to enclose the modules 74 to 82 while having aperturesfor through passage of hoses for connection of the modules 74 to 82 to the first and second precursor vessels 12a, 12b, the cleaning agent vessel 12c and the air compressor 15 as needed, and for allowing user access to the touch-sensitive display screen 84. The trolley 86 includes a desk 88 that pivots upward against the frame of the trolley 86 for compact storage (see Figure 4), and pivots downward to provide a support surface (see Figure 6) to support working papers or a laptop computer.

[0105] The external housings of the modules 74 to 82 may be color-coded with different colors. For example, the housings of the dual-component pump module 74, the mono-component pump module 76, and the flow control module 78 may have different colors such as red, green or yellow, while the housing of the air conditioning module 80 and the control module 81 may be white. The color of the dual-component pump module 74 may be coordinated with the colors of the first and second precursor vessels 12a, 12b, while the color of the cleaning agent module 78 may be coordinate with the color of cleaning agent vessel 12c.

[0106] Figures 7 and 8 show views of the dual-component pump module 74, and Figure 9 shows the interior components thereof with a housing thereof removed. Referring to Figure 9, first and second precursor inlets 90a, 90b upstream of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b in the form of piston pumps are provided for hose connections to the flow control module 80 via first and second bottom openings of the housing (see Figures 7 and 8). Referring to Figure 9, first and second precursor outlets 92a, 92b downstream of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b are provided for hose connections to the injection gun first and second precursor inlets 16a, 16b via first and second front openings 94a, 94b of the housing (see Figures 7 and 8).

[0107] CONTROL OPERATIONS IMPLEMENTED BY PROCESSOR

[0108] As noted, the memory 68 stores instructions executable by the processor 66 to implement control operations based on operating parameters of the system that are measured using temperature and / or pressure sensors and / or volumetric flow meters of the system 2. The processor 66 may implement the control operations continuously - i.e., on a repeated basis - during use of the system 2 to implement feedback control loops. The processor 66 may implement the control operations in real-time response to the measured operating parameter - i.e., the control operationsare performed by the processor 66 within a relatively short time (e.g., fractions of a second, a second, a few seconds, or several seconds) of the relevant operating parameter being measured by the system 2. The processor 66 may record a log of the relevant operating parameters in the memory 68 and / or transmit them by wired or wireless communication paths to another processor or another memory so that they can be monitored, analyzed or stored for supervisory, quality assurance and control or archival purposes. The processor 66 may process the log of the relevant operating parameters into the form of a human-readable report (e.g., in the form of a text document, or a message for display in an e-mail system or dedicated application), which may be used for quality assurance and control, performance analysis, or for a proof-of-work to document and verify completed injection processes and material usage.

[0109] Control operations performed by the processor 66 or parameters described below may be described as being "based on" one or more measured operating parameters or parameters derived from them. The term "based on", as used in this context, means that the performance of the control operation or the value of a parameter depends on the measured operating parameter, whether partly or wholly, and whether directly or indirectly. The performance of the control action or determination of parameter "based on" the measured operating parameter may involve performing computations according to predefined relationships (e.g., formulas, or look-up tables) that involve the measured operating parameter and / or evaluating logical tests (e.g., whether a condition involving the measured operating parameter is "true" or "false" to determine whether or not to perform the control action).

[0110] The control operations are described below with reference to the embodiment of the system 2 shown in Figure 2 that is adapted for injecting a dualcomponent material formed from first and second precursors, but it will be appreciated that they may be adapted to embodiments of the system 2 that are adapted for injecting a mono-component material, except where the control method is specifically directed to a dual-component material.

[0111] The control operations described below may be implemented in a partly or wholly automated manner by the processor 66. In embodiments of the system 2, however, the control operations, may be subject to inputs by the user using the inputdevice 62 to "manually" override the control operations. For example, the user using the input device 62 may reject, cancel or otherwise vary the control operations to operate the system 2 in a manner desired by the user.

[0112] In embodiments of the system 2, the control operations described below may implement artificial intelligence by implementing machine learning-based algorithms to make predictive adjustments to the system 2 in order to optimize parameters such as flow control, and material consistency.

[0113] I. CONTROL OF VOLUMETRIC FLOW RATIO OF FIRST PRECURSOR TO SECOND PRECURSOR BY CONTROL OF FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR FLOW CONTROL VALVES

[0114] It is desirable that the first and second precursors are delivered to the injection gun mixing chamber 18 with a mixing ratio that is within acceptable tolerance of the mixing ratio specified by the supplier of dual-component materials.

[0115] To this end, the processor 66 may control the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b so as to control a measured volumetric flow ratio of the first precursor to the second precursor within a predefined volumetric flow ratio range. The measured volumetric flow ratio is based on the volumetric flow rate of the first precursor measured by the first precursor flow meter 38a and the volumetric flow rate of the second precursor measured by the second precursor flow meter 38b. As an example, the predefined volumetric flow ratio range may predefined by being preprogrammed in the memory or by the user using an input device 62 to input the specified mixing ratio for the precursors, the processor 66 converting this value to a volumetric flow rate using known or assumed flow rates of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, and the processor 66 applying an acceptable tolerance amount (e.g., + / - 1 to 3%).

[0116] II. CONTROL OF PRECURSOR PRESSURE AND / OR MATERIAL PRESSURE BY CONTROLLING COMPRESSED AIR FLOW CONTROL VALVE TO CONTROL PRESSURE OF COMPRESSED AIR SUPPLIED TO PNEUMATICMOTOR THAT DRIVES FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR PUMPS BASED ON PRESSURE OF FIRST AND / OR SECOND PRECURSORS AND / OR MATERIAL

[0117] It is desirable that the first and second precursors are delivered to the injection gun first and second precursor inlets 16a, 16b with a pressure that is within an acceptable tolerance of a desired pressure range, and that the material is discharged from the injection gun 14 within tolerance of a desired injection pressure range. These pressures are affected by the operation of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, which is in turn affected by pressure of the compressed air supplied to the pneumatic motor 34a that drives the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, which may be controlled by the compressed air flow control valve 50.

[0118] To this end, the processor 66 may control the compressed air flow control valve 50 so as to control the pressure of the first and second precursors measured by the first and second precursor pressure sensors 42a, 42b and / or the pressure of the material measured by the pressure sensor 26 associated with the injection gun 14, within predefined pressure range(s). As an example, the predefined pressure range(s) may be predefined by being pre-programmed in the memory or by the user using the input device 62 to input specified pressure(s) and the processor 66 applying an acceptable tolerance amount.

[0119] III. CONTROL OF TEMPERATURE OF COMPRESSED AIR SUPPLIED TO PNEUMATIC MOTOR THAT DRIVES FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR PUMPS BY CONTROLLING ELECTRIC HEATER

[0120] The pressurization effect of the first and second precursor pump 32a, 32b is affected by the pressure of the compressed air supplied to the pneumatic motor 34a that drives the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b. The pressure of the compressed air will vary with the temperature of the compressed air. Forexample, use of the system 2 in cold temperatures may result in compressed air pressure that are lower than the compressed air pressure at a calibration temperature of the pneumatic motor 34a. Further, cold compressed air may decrease the temperature components of the pneumatic motor 34a and reduce lubricity between these moving components, thus increasing resistance to their movement. It is therefore desirable that the temperature of the compressed air supplied to the pneumatic motor 34a be controlled within a desired temperature range.

[0121] To this end, the processor 66 may control a heat power output of the electric heater 54 so as to control the temperature of the compressed air measured by the compressed air temperature sensor 56 within a predefined compressed air temperature range. As an example, the predefined compressed air temperature range may be predefined by being pre-programmed in the memory or by the user using the input device 62 to input a specified compressed air temperature (e.g., the calibration temperature of the pneumatic motor 34a) and the processor 66 applying an acceptable tolerance amount.

[0122] IV. CONTROL OF PRESSURE OF COMPRESSED AIR SUPPLIED TO PNEUMATIC MOTOR THAT DRIVES FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR PUMPS BY CONTROLLING COMPRESSED AIR FLOW CONTROL VALVE

[0123] As noted, the pressurization effect of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b is affected by pressure of the compressed air supplied to the pneumatic motor 34a. It is therefore desirable that the pressure of the compressed air supplied to the pneumatic motor 34a be controlled within a desired pressure range.

[0124] To this end, the processor 66 may control the compressed air flow control valve 50 so as to control the pressure of the compressed air measured by the compressed air pressure sensor 58 within a predefined compressed air pressure range. As an example, the predefined compressed air temperature range may be predefined by being pre-programmed in the memory or by the user using the input device 52 to input a specified compressed air pressure (e.g., the calibration pressure of compressed air for the pneumatic motor) and the processor 66 applying an acceptable tolerance amount.

[0125] V. CONTROL OF FLOW RATE OF FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSORS BY CONTROLLING FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR PUMPS BASED ON TEMPERATURE OF FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSORS

[0126] It is desirable that the first and second precursors are delivered at a certain flow rate for purposes such as optimizing reaction times of the first and second precursors to form the material in the injection gun mixing chamber 18. As the temperature of the first and second precursors decreases, however, their rate of chemical reactivity with each other may decrease. Thus, it may be useful to control theflow rate of the first and second precursors so that they have adequate "residence time" within the injection gun mixing chamber 18 to react with each other.

[0127] To this end, the processor 66 may control the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b so as to control a volumetric flow rate of the first and second precursors, respectively as measured by the first and second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b, based on a predefined relationship with the temperature of the first and second precursors, respectively, measured by the first and second precursor temperature sensors 40a, 40b, respectively. As an example, the predefined relationship may be stored in the memory as a formula based on an empirical relationship between volumetric flow rates of the first and second precursors and their temperatures, which result in a desired reactivity of the first and second precursors.

[0128] VI. CONTROL OF VOLUMETRIC FLOW RATIO OF FIRST PRECURSOR TO SECOND PRECURSOR BY CONTROL OF FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR FLOW CONTROL VALVES BASED ON TEMPERATURE OF AMBIENT AIR

[0129] The optimal mixing ratio of the first and second precursors may depend on the temperature at which they are used. For example, as the ambient air temperature increases, the curing time of the injected material may decrease. The mixing ratio of the first and second precursors may need to be adjusted having regard to the ambient air temperature to result in a suitable curing time, or other properties. It is therefore desirable that the mixing ratio can be adjusted depending on the prevailing temperature for job-specific conditions that may vary over the duration of a material injection procedure.

[0130] To this end, the processor 66 may control the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b so as to control a measured volumetric flow ratio of the first precursor to the second precursor based on a predefined relationship with the ambient air temperature measured by the ambient air temperature sensor 60. The measured volumetric flow ratio is based on the volumetric flow rate of the first precursor measured by the first precursor flow meter 38a and the volumetric flow rate of the second precursor measured by the second precursor flow meter 38b. As an example, the predefined relationship may be stored in the memory as a formula describing an empirical relationship between volumetric flow ratio of the first precursorto the second precursor and ambient air temperature, which results in optimal curing time of the material formed by the first and second precursors.

[0131] VII. CONTROL OF SHUT-OFF MEANS TO INTERRUPT ENERGY SUPPLY TO FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSOR PUMPS BASED ON PRESSURE AND / OR VOLUMETRIC FLOW RATE OF FIRST AND SECOND PRECURSORS

[0132] It is desirable that the system automatically shut down to stop injection of the material into soil upon detection of abnormal operating parameters such as inadequate or excessive volumetric flow rate or pressure of the first and second precursors in the system 2, which may be indicative of a fault in the system 2 such as a blockage in the first or second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b. It is also desirable that the user of the system 2 be alerted to the existence of the abnormal operating condition.

[0133] To this end, the processor 66 may perform at least one response action based on at least one operating parameter of the material or precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor sensor being outside being outside of a predetermined operating parameter range. As an example, the predetermined operating parameter range may be predefined by being pre-programmed in the memory or by the user using the input device 62 to enter values of an acceptable operating parameter range, or such values may be pre-programmed and stored in the memory 68.

[0134] In embodiments, the operating parameter may include volumetric flow rates of the first or second precursors that are measured by the first or second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b, respectively. In embodiments, the operating parameter may alternatively or additionally include pressures of the first or second precursors that are measured by the first or second precursor pressure sensors 42a, 42b, respectively or the pressure of the material measured by the pressure sensor 26 associated with the injection gun 14.

[0135] In embodiments, the at least one response action may include actuating a shut-off means to interrupt supply of energy from an energy source that supplies energy to drive the first and second precursor pumps. In embodiments, the energy source may be compressed air (e.g., of the air compressor 15 shown in Figure 2) or apressurized hydraulic fluid source. In such embodiments, the shut-off means may be a shut-off valve for interrupting supply of the compressed air (e.g., shut-off valve 46 in Figure 2) or the pressurized hydraulic fluid. In embodiments, the energy source may be an electrical energy source, and the shut-off means may be an electrical switch (not shown) for interrupting supply of the electrical energy source.

[0136] In embodiments, the at least one response action may alternatively or additionally include activating the at least one output device 64 to generate an alert that is audible or visible to a human user. The at least one output device may include the audio transducer 70 which emits an alert sound, the display screen 84 which displays an alert message, and / or a light (e.g., on an instrumentation panel) that illuminates to indicate an alert.

[0137] VIII. CONTROL OF SYSTEM BETWEEN INJECTION MODE AND CLEANING MODE

[0138] It is desirable that the system 2 be able to clean the injection gun 14 with limited intervention by the user. It may be desirable that such cleaning occur automatically in response to residue build up in the injection gun, which may be indicated by increasing or excessive pressure of the first and second precursors in the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b and / or of the material in the injection gun 14. It may be desirable that such cleaning occur preventatively, on a periodic basis, or in response to detected residue build up.

[0139] To this end, the processor 66 may configure the system 2 alternately in an injection mode and a cleaning mode. In the injection mode, the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b are open, and the cleaning agent flow control valve 36c is closed. Thus, in the injection mode, the first and second precursors may flow to the injection gun 14, while the cleaning agent is prevented from flowing to the injection gun 14. In the cleaning mode, the first and second precursor flow control valves 36a, 36b are closed and the cleaning agent flow control valve 36c is open. Thus, in the cleaning mode, the first and second precursors are prevented from flowing to the injection gun 14, while the cleaning agent may flow to the injection gun 14.

[0140] In embodiments, the processor 66 may configure the system 2 from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on the pressure of the pressure of the firstand / or second precursors measured by the first and / or second precursor pressure sensors 42a, 42b, respectively, and / or the pressure of the material measured by the pressure sensor 26 associated with the injection gun 14. For example, the configuration to the cleaning mode may occur if any one or more of these pressures is outside a predefined pressure range, which may be pre-programmed in the memory or predefined by the user using the input device 62. One or more of these pressures being outside a predefined pressure range, may be indicative of a blockage of the first and / or second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, and / or the injection gun 14, due to buildup of residue therein. As another example, the configuration to the cleaning mode may occur if any one or more of these pressures exhibits a fluctuation in value over time. Pressure fluctuations over time may also be indicative of a residue build-up prior to a critical blockage that causes a more significant increase in pressure.

[0141] In embodiments, the processor 66 may configure the system 2 from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on a volumetric flow rate of the first and / or second precursors measured by the first and / or second precursor flow meters 38a, 38b, respectively, and / or another flow meter that measures volumetric flow rate of material in the injection gun 14. For example, the configuration to the cleaning mode may occur if any one or more of these volumetric flow rates is outside a predefined volumetric flow rate range, which may be pre-programmed in the memory or predefined by the user using the input device 62. One or more of these volumetric flow rates being outside a predefined volumetric flow rate range, may be indicative of a blockage of the first and / or second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, and / or the injection gun 14, due to build-up of residue therein. As another example, the configuration to the cleaning mode may occur if any one or more of these volumetric flow rates exhibits a fluctuation in value over time. Volumetric flow rate fluctuations over time may also be indicative of a residue build-up prior to a critical blockage that causes a more significant decrease in volumetric flow rate.

[0142] Alternatively or additionally, any other suitable sensor can be provided for indicating a reduced flow rate, an increased or decreased pressure, or other change to or level of a measurable operating parameter of the first and / or second precursors in the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b, or the material in the injection gun 14, which may be used as a proxy for detecting residue build up in and / or blockage of the first and second precursor flow paths 28a, 28b and / or the injection gun 14.

[0143] In embodiments, the processor 66 may alternatively or additionally configure the system 2 from the injection mode to cleaning mode in response to a user command input that is made using the input device 62.

[0144] In embodiments, the processor 66 may alternatively or additionally configure the system 2 from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on a predefined time schedule or operational schedule, which may be pre-programmed in the memory or predefined by the user using the input device 62. For example, a time schedule or operational schedule may be defined by a series of fixed times, or a certain sequence of use, number of uses or a cumulative time duration of use of the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b.

[0145] In embodiments, the processor 66 may alternatively or additionally configure the system 2 from the injection mode to cleaning mode in response to a detection of an outage of power that powers the first and second precursor pumps 32a, 32b, or a failure of such pumps. In this manner, the cleaning mode can help to ensure that the first and second precursor flow paths are not blocked by precursor that may set and cure within them.

[0146] GENERAL METHODOLOGY

[0147] The system 2 as described above may be used as a part of a general methodology for injecting a material into soil, which is described in an embodiment as follows.

[0148] In an embodiment, the method according to the present disclosure involves injecting material into soil, where the method takes into account one or more parameters related to the region of the soil where a seal is needed, such as for preventing ingress of water through a subterranean structure. For example, the parameters may include: the temperature at the area to be sealed (e.g. an area adjacent to a sleeve of a tunnel), the looseness of the soil, the amount of aggregate in the soil, the size of the aggregate in the soil, how much water is present in the soil, and other factors. The term "takes into account" means selecting one or more of: the pressure of the injection fluid, the selection of the constituent chemicals that make up the injection fluid, the viscosity of the injection fluid, and the flow rate of the injection fluid.

[0149] In an embodiment, the method includes the steps of:

[0150] 1. Discovery or Planning: This initial phase involves a thorough analysis to uncover the specific challenges presented by the project. It takes into consideration relevant parameters including the condition of the ground or soil, water presence and state, and environmental temperatures. It is advantageous to understand the context and constraints of the project.

[0151] 2. Conceptualization: In this step, all relevant parties may agree upon the solution concept, project objectives, and desired end results. This stage ensures that the proposed solution adheres to environmental, work safety, and human-friendly measures, aligning with all stakeholders' expectations.

[0152] 3. Design: A method is identified, and the solution is designed in detail. This involves selecting good materials, equipment, and techniques that will be used to achieve the project objectives efficiently and effectively.

[0153] 4. Engineering: This step defines engineering details to realize the design in a cost-effective and rapid manner. It includes finalizing the technical specifications, schedules, and methodologies for implementation.

[0154] 5. Implementation: During implementation, the application is executed according to the engineered parameters. Quality and safety are constantly assured through automated, online, and offline software systems. This phase includes ongoing QA / QC (Quality Assurance / Quality Control) processes to ensure the project meets all standards and specifications.

[0155] 6. Proof of Implementation: This step involves recording all progress with online data collection and executing defined quality control (QC) measures at specific intervals. This ensures that the project's implementation matches the planned design and engineering specifications, providing a transparent and verifiable record of success.

[0156] Regarding a system 2 used to inject the material, in an embodiment, the system 2 may have a modular pump that is divided into a plurality of pump submodules that are connectable together via suitable conduits, such as hoses. The hoses (or conduits, more broadly) may be organized to only connect to specific ports on specific submodules to ensure that the correct connections are made.

[0157] The modules (also referred to as cartridges) may be colour coded so that each colour is dedicated for different uses, such as follows: (1) red, or green etc., coloured cartridges for parts of the pump (e.g., the dual-component pump module and the mono-component pump module) for processing chemicals, with different colours being used for different chemicals; and (2) white coloured cartridges for electronic control and air conditioning module (regardless of the chemical). The modules may be attached to or supported by a trolley for correct placement of chemicals that will be used with a top and sides closed, and a canopy, assuring weather elements do not effect the chemicals.

[0158] The system 2 in conjunction with or including a software system, may be used as follows.

[0159] 1 ) Job orders with all necessary technical parameters depending on the job and the material to be used, with mixture rate of different components, temperature, injection pressure, flow, etc., technical parameters are uploaded to the system 2 directly from a day's work order automatically as per engineered specifications.

[0160] 2) Pump, electronic (e.g. the processor and memory) and mechanical systems (e.g., flow control valves, pressure and temperature sensors, and flow meters) of the system 2 work according to the uploaded job order parameters.

[0161] 3) The system 2 constantly monitors all operating parameters during the application and assures that the realization is as per the job order and warns when operating parameters are within certain critical tolerances (or allowances), and automatically shut downs at breach of the tolerances.

[0162] 4) The system 2 records all data at all times and provides online data with comparisons between required and realized results.

[0163] While the description contained herein constitutes a plurality of embodiments of the present invention, it will be appreciated that the present invention is susceptible to further modification and change without departing from the fair meaning of the accompanying claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for injecting, into soil, a material to be formed from a first precursor and a second precursor, wherein the system is for use with: a first precursor vessel for storing the first precursor; a second precursor vessel for storing the second precursor, and an injection gun comprising an injection gun first precursor inlet for receiving the first precursor, an injection gun second precursor inlet for receiving the second precursor, an injection gun mixing chamber in fluid communication with the injection gun first and second precursor inlets for mixing of the first and second precursors, and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun mixing chamber for discharging the material from the injection gun; wherein the system comprises: a first precursor flow path for fluid communication of the first precursor from the first precursor vessel to the injection gun first precursor inlet, and comprising: a first precursor pump for pressurizing the first precursor through the first precursor flow path; and a first precursor flow control valve; a second precursor flow path for fluid communication of the second precursor from the second precursor vessel to the injection gun second precursor inlet, and comprising a second precursor pump for pressurizing the second precursor through the second precursor flow path; and a second precursor flow control valve; a first precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the first precursor in the first precursor flow path; a second precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the second precursor in the second precursor flow path; a processor operatively connected to the first and second precursor flow meters and to the first and second precursor flow control valves; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the first and second precursor flow controlvalves so as to control a measured volumetric flow ratio of the first precursor to the second precursor within a predefined volumetric flow ratio range, wherein the measured volumetric flow ratio is based on the volumetric flow rate of the first precursor measured by the first precursor flow meter and the volumetric flow rate of the second precursor measured by the second precursor flow meter.

2. A system for injecting, into soil, a material, wherein the system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and a compressed air source; wherein the system comprises: a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path; at least one material or precursor pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the material or the precursor in at least one location in the material or precursor flow path downstream of the material or precursor pump, or in the injection gun; a pneumatic motor for driving the material or precursor pump; a compressed airflow path for fluid communication of compressed air from the compressed air source to the pneumatic motor, and comprising a compressed air flow control valve; a processor operatively connected to the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor and to the compressed air flow control valve; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the compressed air flow control valve soas to control the pressure of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one pressure material or precursor sensor within a predefined pressure range.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor comprises a material or precursor pressure sensor positioned to measure the pressure of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path downstream of the material or precursor pump.

4. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor comprises a material or precursor pressure sensor positioned to measure the pressure of the material or the precursor in the injection gun.

5. A system for injecting, into soil, a material, wherein the system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and a compressed air source; wherein the system comprises: a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursorpump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path; a pneumatic motor for driving the material or precursor pump; a compressed airflow path for fluid communication of compressed air from the compressed air source to the pneumatic motor; a compressed air temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the compressed air in the compressed airflow path; an electric heater positioned to heat the compressed air in the compressed air flow path; a processor operatively connected to the compressed air temperature sensor and the electric heater; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control a heat power output of the electric heater so as to control the temperature of the compressed air measured by the compressed air temperature sensor within a predefined compressed air temperature range.

6. A system for injecting, into soil, a material, wherein the system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and a compressed air source; wherein the system comprises: a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursorpump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path; a pneumatic motor for driving the material or precursor pump; a compressed airflow path for fluid communication of compressed air from the compressed air source to the pneumatic motor; and a compressed air flow control valve; a compressed air pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the compressed air in the compressed airflow path; a processor operatively connected to the compressed air pressure sensor and the compressed air flow control valve; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the compressed air flow control valve so as to control the pressure of the compressed air measured by the compressed air pressure sensor within a predefined compressed air pressure range.

7. A system for injecting, into soil, a material, wherein the system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; and an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; wherein the system comprises: a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through thematerial or precursor flow path, and a material or precursor flow control valve; a material or precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path; a material or precursor temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path; a processor operatively connected to the material or precursor flow meter, to the material or precursor temperature sensor, and to the material or precursor flow control valve; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the material or precursor flow control valve so as to control a volumetric flow rate of the material or precursor as measured by the material or precursor flow meter based on a predefined relationship with the temperature of the material or precursor measured by the material or precursor temperature sensor.

8. A system for injecting, into soil, a material to be formed from a first precursor material and a second precursor, wherein the system is for use with: a first precursor vessel for storing the first precursor; a second precursor vessel for storing the second precursor, and an injection gun comprising an injection gun first precursor inlet for receiving the first precursor, an injection gun second precursor inlet for receiving the second precursor, an injection gun mixing chamber in fluid communication with the injection gun first and second precursor inlets for mixing of the first and second precursors, and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun mixing chamber for discharging the material from the injection gun; wherein the system comprises: a first precursor flow path for fluid communication of the first precursor from the first precursor vessel to the injection gun first precursor inlet, and comprising: a first precursor pump for pressurizing the first precursorthrough the first precursor flow path; and a first precursor flow control valve; a second precursor flow path for fluid communication of the second precursor from the second precursor vessel to the injection gun second precursor inlet, and comprising a second precursor pump for pressurizing the second precursor through the second precursor flow path; and a second precursor flow control valve; a first precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the first precursor in the first precursor flow path; a second precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the second precursor in the second precursor flow path; an ambient air temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of ambient air proximal to any one of the first precursor vessel, the second precursor vessel and the injection gun; a processor operatively connected to the ambient air temperature sensor and to the first and second precursor flow control valves; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to control the first and second precursor flow control valves so as to control a measured volumetric flow ratio of the first precursor to the second precursor based on a predefined relationship with the ambient air temperature measured by the ambient air temperature sensor, wherein the measured volumetric flow ratio is based on the volumetric flow rate of the first precursor measured by the first precursor flow meter and the volumetric flow rate of the second precursor measured by the second precursor flow meter.

9. A system for injecting, into soil, a material, wherein the system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; an injection gun comprising an injection gun inlet for receiving the material or the precursor; and an injection gun material outlet in fluidcommunication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun; and an energy source selected from the group consisting of: a compressed air source, a pressurized hydraulic fluid source, and an electrical energy source; wherein the system comprises: a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through the material or precursor flow path; wherein the material or precursor pump is powered by the energy source; a shut-off means actuatable to interrupt supply of energy from the energy source to the material or precursor pump, wherein the shut off-means is selected from the group consisting of: a shut-off valve for interrupting supply of compressed air from the compressed air source, supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the pressurized hydraulic fluid source, or an electrical switch for interrupting supply of electrical energy from the electrical energy source; at least one material or precursor sensor for measuring at least one operating parameter of the material or precursor, wherein the at least one material or precursor sensor is selected from the group consisting of: a material or precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor in the material or precursor flow path; and at least one material or precursor pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the material or the precursor in at least one location in the material or precursor flow path downstream of the material or precursor pump, or in the injection gun; a processor operatively connected to the at least one material or precursor sensor, and to material or precursor flow control valve; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to perform at least one response action based on theat least one operating parameter of the material or precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor sensor being outside of a predetermined operating parameter range, wherein the at least one response action comprises actuating the shut-off means to interrupt supply of energy from the energy source to the material or precursor pump.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the system comprises: at least one output device selected from the group consisting of: an audio transducer; and a light or a display screen; wherein the at least one response action comprises controlling the at least one output device to generate an alert that is audible or visible to a human user.

11. A system for injecting, into soil, a material, wherein the system is for use with: a material or precursor vessel for storing the material or a precursor for forming the material; a cleaning agent vessel for storing a cleaning agent; and an injection gun comprising an injection gun material or precursor inlet for receiving the material or the precursor, an injection gun cleaning agent inlet for receiving the cleaning agent, and an injection gun material outlet in fluid communication with the injection gun material or precursor inlet for discharging the material from the injection gun and in fluid communication with the injection gun cleaning agent inlet for discharging the cleaning agent from the injection gun; wherein the system comprises: a material or precursor flow path for fluid communication of the material or the precursor from the material or precursor vessel to the injection gun material or precursor inlet and comprising: a material or precursor pump for pressurizing the material or the precursor through thematerial or precursor flow path; and a material or precursor flow control valve; a cleaning agent flow path for fluid communication of the cleaning agent from the cleaning agent vessel to the injection gun cleaning agent inlet and comprising: a cleaning agent pump for pressurizing the cleaning agent through the cleaning agent flow path; and a cleaning agent flow control valve; a processor operatively connected to the material or precursor flow control valve and the cleaning agent flow control valve; and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor to configure the system alternately in: an injection mode wherein the material or precursor flow control valve is open and the cleaning agent flow control valve is closed; and a cleaning mode wherein the material or precursor flow control valve is closed and the cleaning agent flow control valve is open.

12. The system according to claim 11 , comprising the injection gun.

13. The system according to claim 11 or 12: wherein the system comprises: at least one material or precursor pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the material or the precursor in at least one location in the material or precursor flow path; wherein the processor is operatively connected to the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor; and wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to configure the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on the pressure of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the processor configures the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode when the pressure of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor is outside of a predefined pressure range.

15. The system according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the processor configures the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode when the pressure of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor pressure sensor exhibits a fluctuation in value over time.

16. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 15: wherein the system comprises: at least one material or precursor flow meter for measuring a volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor in at least one location in the material or precursor flow path, or in the injection gun; wherein the processor is operatively connected to the at least one material or precursor flow meter; and wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to configure the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on the volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor flow meter.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the processor configures the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode when the volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor flow meter is outside of a predefined volumetric flow rate range.

18. The system according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the processor configures the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode when the volumetric flow rate of the material or the precursor measured by the at least one material or precursor flow meter exhibits a fluctuation in value overtime.

19. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to configure the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode in response to a user command input.

0. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to configure the system from the injection mode to cleaning mode based on a predefined time schedule or operational schedule.

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