Loose-fitting earth-rod holes

I have heard whispers of a compound that can be used to backfill, loose-fitting earth-rod holes to impove the connection to earth. Anyone done this? Thanks

  • "Bentonite (/ˈbɛntənaɪt/ BEN-tə-nyte) is an absorbent swelling clay consisting mostly of montmorillonite (a type of smectite) which can either be Na-montmorillonite or Ca-montmorillonite. Na-montmorillonite has a considerably greater swelling capacity than Ca-montmorillonite."

    I need a babel fish  Zaphod  :-)

    (At least I've learned something new too.)

  • Yes.  Direct Current.  

  • Gypsum/bentonite mixes are routinely used for earth electrodes to reduce the contact resistance.  It is a hygroscopic mix and benefits from an initial  good soaking when it is installed.  If you interested I can pass on the  gypsum bentonite mixing ratio.

  • Well there is certainly no harm in knowing - though if its only a mix of gone-off plaster powder and cat litter then the magical mix maybe  overpriced ;-)

    Mike.