Core Sampler Impregnation Windows Stabilize Unconsolidated Sediment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for coring unconsolidated sediments from the earth are prone to mechanical damage due to handling and stabilization processes, which require segmenting long inner tubes and extensive handling, leading to potential damage from vibration and movement.
Innovation Solution
A core sampling apparatus with an inner tube featuring impregnation windows for resin flow, allowing for stabilization of the entire core sample length without segmentation, using a resin such as epoxy, vinylester, or polyester, and a method involving resin impregnation through these windows to solidify the core sample, minimizing handling and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the inner tube is segmented into approximately one meter segments for stabilization, then the core sample can be stabilized using epoxy or gypsum fill techniques, but the substantial handling required increases the risk of mechanical damage from vibration and jarring
Solution Approach 1:
The inner tube is divided into multiple segments along its length, with each segment containing impregnation windows. This segmentation allows resin to be introduced at multiple locations simultaneously, enabling stabilization of the entire core sample without requiring physical segmentation and handling of the tube itself.
Solution Approach 2:
Resin is used as an intermediary substance that flows through the impregnation windows into the annular space between the inner tube and core sample. The resin acts as a bonding agent that stabilizes the core sample in place, eliminating the need for manual handling and positioning operations.
2Ease of operation
If the inner tube is kept as a single long piece for undisturbed retrieval, then handling is minimized, but the core sample cannot be effectively stabilized without segmentation and extensive handling
Solution Approach 1:
The inner tube is designed with impregnation windows that function as porous or permeable structures, allowing the resin to flow through the tube wall into the annular space. This enables the long inner tube to be stabilized internally without requiring external handling or segmentation operations.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If resin impregnation is used to stabilize the core sample, then mechanical damage risk is reduced, but the inner tube requires additional impregnation windows and structural modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The impregnation windows are strategically positioned at specific locations along the inner tube where resin introduction is most effective. This local modification approach provides the necessary stabilization functionality without requiring complete restructuring of the entire inner tube.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method effectively stabilizes unconsolidated sediments, reducing the risk of mechanical damage and allowing for detailed petrographic analysis by solidifying the core sample in place, enabling undisturbed retrieval and analysis of the core sample.
Implementation Method 1
A core sampling apparatus and method for micro-coring unconsolidated or friable sediments and sediment solidification with resin impregnation
Data Source
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AI summary
A core sampling apparatus includes an inner tube configured to collect a core sample by means of a core catcher attached to one end of the core sampling apparatus, and an outer tube co-axially disposed on the outside of the inner tube, wherein the inner tube includes a plurality of impregnation windows configured to allow resin to flow into the core sample, each window including a window opening and a window cover configured to cover the window opening. A method for sampling a core includes extracting a core sample using a core sampler, transporting the inner tube containing the core sample to the surface, impregnating the core sample with a resin by allowing the resin to flow into the core sample through a plurality of impregnation windows formed on the inner tube, and allowing for the resin to cure, thereby stabilizing unconsolidated sediment in the core sample.