Analysis and study of different grouting materials in vertical geothermal closed-loop systems

In vertical closed-loop geothermal systems, the material used to fill the boreholes is an essential element since it facilitates the exchange of heat between holes and pipes which contain the heat transfer fluid. Therefore, the thermal conductivity of this grouting material plays a vital role in conducting heat to the installation; not only does it increase its efficiency with higher thermal conductivity values, but it also makes the reduction of the total drilling length required to cover some particular energetic needs, possible. In view of the importance of this grouting material, a series of mixtures were produced and both thermal and mechanical properties were analysed in the laboratory. The use of aluminium shavings and sulpho-aluminate cement improved the thermal conductivity of these mixtures and offered excellent mechanical properties. However, non-satisfactory results were obtained for the bentonite due to the contractile effects caused in samples of this nature.