Omar Khalid
Buried plastic containers are used for a variety of purposes, from storing valuables to preserving food and supplies. While plastic containers are generally durable, factors such as soil type, depth of burial, and the presence of groundwater can affect their longevity and integrity. In some cases, additional measures like vacuum sealing, nitrogen pressurization, or resin coating may be employed to protect the contents. Locating and retrieving buried plastic containers can be challenging, requiring careful excavation and adherence to environmental regulations, particularly when dealing with hazardous materials such as oil or illegal substances. Proper planning, reinforcement, and compliance with local regulations are crucial to ensuring the safety and legality of buried plastic container usage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container type | Plastic bucket with a sealable top, PVC pipes, carbonated drink bottles, canning jars |
| Container preparation | Vacuum seal, gas pressurize with nitrogen, coat with canning wax or petroleum-based wax |
| Container contents | Food, cash, oil |
| Finding buried containers | Use a fiberglass "locator rod", or a rake to carefully move the soil |
| Container disposal | Dispose of used motor oil at autozone and Walmart |
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What You'll Learn
Use a fiberglass locator rod
If you're looking to locate a buried plastic container, one effective method is to use a fiberglass locator rod, also known as a glass fibre probe rod. This tool is particularly useful when trying to find plastic pipes or containers without tracer wires, which can be challenging due to the non-metallic nature of the material.
The fiberglass locator rod has a copper core that can be inserted into a water line or container. Once the rod is in place, you can attach a standard RF pipe and cable locator to send a locate signal down the line. This signal allows you to trace the path of the container or pipe, helping you to identify its exact location.
Another advantage of using a fiberglass locator rod is the option to install a sluice. This is particularly useful if you need to locate both the container and a potential leak, as the sluice can help pinpoint the position of the leak while under water pressure. By understanding the location of the leak, you can more effectively repair or replace the plastic container.
Additionally, you can enhance the functionality of the fiberglass locator rod by attaching a sonde transmitter to its end. This transmitter emits a signal that can be detected by a dedicated sonde locator or a pipe and cable locator with sonde frequency locating capability. The sonde transmitter enables you to determine the precise location of the rod's end, including any bends, tees, or wyes in the container or pipe.
Overall, the fiberglass locator rod is a versatile and effective tool for locating buried plastic containers. It provides a targeted approach to identifying and addressing issues with plastic pipes or containers, helping to prevent costly repairs and damage to your property.
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Check for ground water
Groundwater can impact the effectiveness of certain detection methods and tools, so it is important to consider this when deciding how to locate a buried plastic container. While some tools are inhibited by different surfaces, there are also tools that can be used in wet soil, snow, clay, or standing water.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), for example, is a great tool for finding conductive materials like metal but is not ideal for locating plastic. GPR can be inhibited by different surfaces, so it may not be the best option when dealing with groundwater.
Acoustic locators, on the other hand, can be a good option for locating buried plastic pipes or containers. This method involves sending an acoustic wave through the water line using a pulse wave generator (PWG). The pulsing water is then located using a device such as a geophone. Acoustic locators have been found to be effective even in the presence of groundwater, making them a suitable option for your scenario.
Another acoustic method for detection involves creating a sound on metal pipes by banging on a fire hydrant or water meter with a hammer. This sound can then be detected above ground using a leak detector or other monitoring devices. While this method is typically used for metal pipe detection, it demonstrates the potential for using sound to locate buried objects in the presence of groundwater.
It is important to note that the detection process for plastic containers or pipes can be challenging and time-consuming. It often requires patience and specialized tools or services. Engaging professionals with 3D mapping capabilities or leak detection companies can provide accurate results, saving time and money in the long run.
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Seal with duct tape and resin
If you're looking to seal a buried plastic container with duct tape and resin, there are a few methods you can try. One approach is to wrap the container's lid or opening with duct tape, creating a tight seal. Then, apply a layer of fiberglass resin or epoxy resin on top of the duct tape. This combination of duct tape and resin will create a strong, watertight barrier that should protect the contents of your container from the elements.
Another method is to use duct tape and resin together as a sealing compound. First, apply a generous amount of duct tape to the container's opening, making sure there are no gaps. Then, mix a batch of fiberglass resin or epoxy resin according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the resin is prepared, carefully coat the duct tape with the resin, ensuring that the tape is completely saturated. This technique will create a rigid, durable seal that should withstand underground conditions.
Additionally, if you're sealing a container with multiple parts, such as a lid and a body, you can use duct tape and resin to secure the joints. Apply duct tape along the seams where the parts join together, then coat the taped areas with resin. This will help create a unified structure, enhancing the container's overall durability and water resistance.
When working with resins, it's important to follow safety precautions. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection. Resins can be toxic and should not come into contact with your skin or eyes. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper handling and application procedures.
By following these methods and taking the necessary precautions, you can effectively seal a buried plastic container using duct tape and resin, ensuring its contents remain safe and dry underground.
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Vacuum seal contents
Vacuum sealing is a great way to preserve the contents of your buried container. Vacuum sealing involves removing oxygen from bags or containers, creating an airtight seal that protects the contents from freezer burn and bacteria growth. By limiting exposure to oxygen, which causes spoilage, vacuum sealing helps extend the shelf life of your contents.
Vacuum sealing is a popular method for preserving food. It can be used to preserve uncooked ingredients for future preparation or cooked meals for future consumption. Vacuum sealing can also be used for meal prepping, allowing you to save your pancakes, roasts, and soups for upcoming meals. Additionally, it is useful for marinating, especially when you need to marinate in a short amount of time.
Vacuum sealing is also useful for preserving non-food items. For example, if you are sealing cash, you can vacuum seal individual bags of money and then place them inside a larger plastic container for added protection. This will help keep the contents dry and protected from the elements.
To vacuum seal your contents, you can use a vacuum sealer machine, such as FoodSaver®. These machines are easy to use and can help keep your food fresh for longer. With proper vacuum sealing, you can extend the shelf life of your food by up to 5 times compared to ordinary storage methods. For example, vacuum-sealed beef and poultry can be frozen for up to three years, and baking essentials like flour and sugar can last for up to two years.
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Bury in a plastic bucket
Burying items in a plastic bucket is a low-cost option for those seeking to hide items for the short term. While plastic buckets are engineered to be resistant to air and water infiltration, they will eventually allow moisture and air in or out.
To mitigate this, you can use a plastic bucket with a top that seals and then apply silicone caulking around the joint. For additional protection, you can place the items inside the bucket in plastic storage, such as carbonated drink bottles, before vacuum sealing or gas pressurizing with an inert gas like nitrogen. You can then coat the top with canning wax or petroleum-based wax.
If you are burying cash, you may want to consider wrapping the stacks of cash in unlubricated, plain latex condoms and then wrapping the whole pile in plastic with duct tape. You can then put the stack in an ice chest and fill it with fiberglass resin. Once it hardens, place it in a box with just the handle sticking out and fill the box with resin.
For a low-cost, in-ground irrigation system, you can punch a few small holes in plastic buckets and bury them up to their rims in your garden. Fill them with water, and the buckets will deliver a steady drip of moisture to the surrounding soil without splattering excess water.
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Frequently asked questions
If you are trying to locate a buried plastic container, you can use a fiberglass "locator rod" to carefully locate it or use a rake to move the soil and uncover the container.
If you are unsure of the exact location, you can try using a metal detector to scan the area and locate the container.
Once located, carefully dig up the container and check if it has leaked. If the container is intact and has not leaked, you can dispose of it properly or reuse it as needed.
If there is a spillage, you will need to dig up and containerize the contaminated soil for proper disposal. You should also check for the presence of earthworms and pill bugs, as they are highly susceptible to environmental toxins.
To avoid potential issues, ensure that the containers are properly sealed before burial. Additionally, consider using a material other than plastic, as it may deteriorate over time. Glass jars sealed with wax or Mylar bags inside airtight containers are good alternatives.
