Ground Thermal Responses During Heat Exchange at EcoFarm

Abstract

This paper analyzes the ground thermal responses
during constant rate of heat injection and extraction. The
undisturbed underground temperature is assumed to be uniform.
Seven types of earth material are analyzed using mean values of
their thermal properties. Simple equation for Zone of Influence,
convenient for quick engineering assessment, is derived. The
results show that, among seven underground materials studied,
dry sand and sand aquifer are the best for storage type
application of thermal energy; whereas igneous is the best for
dissipative type application of geothermal energy.