Integrating MICP with Geothermal Pavements: A Numerical Analysis of Thermal Performance and Cost-Efficiency
Integrating MICP with Geothermal Pavements: A Numerical Analysis of Thermal Performance and Cost-Efficiency
As demand for sustainable infrastructure grows, integrating microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) with geothermal pavements offers a promising way to enhancing energy efficiency and structural performance. This study investigates the technical and economic feasibility of MICP in geothermal pavement systems using a validated finite element model focused on a balanced thermal load case in Adelaide, South Australia. The thermal performance of MICP-treated geothermal pavements is evaluated under varying subbase saturation levels and subgrade thermal conductivities. Results show that MICP treatment significantly improves system performance in dry conditions (up to 70% increase in thermal output), especially when subgrade thermal conductivity is low (0.3 W/(m·K). However, effectiveness decreases when subbase saturation exceeds 10% or when subgrade thermal conductivity is high. Economically, feasibility depends heavily on MICP material costs. This study highlights the potential of MICP within a shallow geothermal context and emphasises the need to balance technical benefits with economic considerations.
Xiaoying Gu; Alexandra Clara Saracho; Nicolas Makasis; M. J. Kreitmair; Guillermo A. Narsilio
2025 International Conference on Bio-mediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics (ICBBG2025)
Special symposium: MICP for sustainable geoenergy applications
https://doi.org/10.53243/ICBBG2025-102
Contact Information
- Secretary General - Dr A M McNamara
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +44 20 7040 8154
- City, University of London
- Northampton Square
- London EC1V 0HB. United Kingdom