A Numerical Investigation on Thermo-Mechanical Behaviour of Geothermal Energy Pile in Dry Sand

Geothermal energy is a type of renewable energy source, which is used to extract the heat energy from the shallow ground depth. Utilization of this energy is beneficial for environment, society and economy. Geothermal energy source is adopted for the purpose of space conditioning of the engineered structures though its foundation. It has been observed that the numerous repetitive thermal cycles influence the settlement characteristics of the piles. In this context, a very few studies have been reported on the load-settlement characteristics of geothermal energy pile on Indian Standard Sand. The purpose of this study is to analyse the geothermal energy pile against the thermo-mechanical loading by using finite element software package COMSOL Multiphysics. The displacement of geothermal energy pile and surrounding soil has been studied against thermo-mechanical loading. The stress developed in interface of the pile soil is also investigated. This study reveals that during heating pile exhibited expansion and contraction during cooling.