Numerical Model of Energy Foundation Behavior: The Prototype of a Geothermal Micro-pile

This paper presents the results of a numerical study performed in the design stage of an innovative geothermal technology - the geothermal micro-piles - recently developed and currently under testing at the University of Perugia for the exploitation of low enthalpy geothermal energy in existing buildings. In this investigation, micro-piles are equipped with a primary circuit of a traditional GSHP system, where the circulation of a heat carrier fluid (i.e. glycolic water) permits a thermal interaction with the surrounding soil. The numerical study has been performed to simulate the thermal behavior of such prototype and to obtain useful information concerning its functioning under real operating conditions. The first results of the study showed that this new technology can provide a thermal flux comparable with the one provided by traditional geothermal piles.