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Testing of thermally enhanced cement ground heat exchanger grouts.

Author(s) : KAVANAUGH S. P., ALLAN M. L.

Summary

Optimal performance of closed-loop, ground-source heat pumps is dependent upon the thermal properties of the backfill in the annular region between the ground heat exchanger tubes and the outer bore wall. Equally important is the protection of ground-water aquifers from contaminants that may flow through poorly sealed boreholes. Conventional cement and bentonite-based grouts have relatively low thermal conductivities. The paper reports on the results of four mixes of thermally enhanced cementitious grouts. Four grouts were evaluated in a test stand to minimize the impact of external factors typically present in field tests. Results indicate cement grouts that are enhanced with low-cost additives have thermal conductivities three to four times as large as conventional high-solids bentonite grouts. This would result in reduced heat exchanger lengths compared to those grouted with bentonite.

Details

  • Original title: Testing of thermally enhanced cement ground heat exchanger grouts.
  • Record ID : 2000-2184
  • Languages: English
  • Source: ASHRAE Transactions. 1999 Winter Meeting, Chicago, Illinois + CD-ROM.
  • Publication date: 1999
  • Document available for consultation in the library of the IIR headquarters only.

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