Publication Date:
2014-05-01
Description:
Background: The thermal effect on the subsurface of a large borehole thermal energy store (BTES) has been investigated by coupling measured rock properties with an enhanced FEFLOW simulation. Methods: The finite element model has been validated against measured data from a 2-year operation period. The thermal changes in the subsurface have been predicted by simulation for a 30-year operation period. The model is based on three 80-m core sections drilled in Triassic carbonates, which have been analyzed in detail with respect to lithology, facies, and thermal and hydraulic parameters. Results: The model shows thermal effects of the BTES on the subsurface at a distance of approximately 350 m after 10 years and a distance of approximately 850 m after 30 years of operation. At a distance of 100 m, the temperature of the subsurface rises by 2 K after 30 years. Conclusions: The simulation describes the real BTES in an accurate manner and is suited for predicting the thermal changes in the subsurface for long-term operational durations.
Electronic ISSN:
2195-9706
Topics:
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
,
Geosciences
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