Method and apparatus for protective encapsulation of structural members subjected to tidal influence

Abstract

A method and composition of matter for the encapsulation of the upper portion of a piling and header associated with a wharf, pier or the like, whereby this upper portion of the piling and header, while normally above the high tide mark, is often subjected to submergence due to climatic conditions and requires encapsulation by the composition of matter disclosed herein to prevent attack from marine microorganisms or marine borers.

I claim:  
     
         1 . A process for creating a controlled environment and encapsulation of the upper portion of a piling and associated header normally positioned about the high water mark, but subjected to intermittent flooding and therefore attack from marine infestation, comprising the steps of: 
 a. encapsulating the upper portion of the piling and associated header with a spray foam in a thickness of from 30 to 250 mils, said foam comprising a mixture of isocyanate, up to about 20 percent by weight CHCIF 2 , up to about 2 percent by weight of water and a combination of polyols having an average OH number of from about 300 to 500 and comprising polyalkoxylated glycerine having an OH number of from about 200 to about 300 in which the alkoxy groups each have from 2 to about 3 carbon atoms;    b. allowing the spray foam to set; and    c. performing the aforesaid steps when the water level is below its high water level.    
     
     
         2 . The process in accordance with  claim 1  wherein said process if performed on said upper portion of said piling and said associated header after said submerged portion of said piling has been suitably jacketed and said jacket has been injected with the foam of the present invention in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,919,004 or 5,829,920.