Naslov
Conditions for shallow geothermal energy utilization in Dinaric karst terrains in Croatia

Autori
Borović, Staša ; Terzić, Josip ; Urumović, Kosta

Izvornik
Environmental Earth Sciences (1866-6280) 78 (2019); 245-255

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
Dinaric karst ; Rock thermal properties ; Hydrogeological properties ; Heat pumps ; Croatia

Sažetak
Hydrogeological and thermogeological properties of the shallow subsurface in the Dinaric karst area of Croatia were investigated in the context of its utilization for ground- and water-source heat pumps (GSHPs and WSHPs). The research encompassed four 100 m deep boreholes with GSHP installations in both coastal and inland Dinaric karst (different lime- stones and evaporitic rocks at one location), and a set of six exploratory boreholes, abstraction and reinjection wells for WSHP heating and cooling using seawater on the coast (fractured and karstified limestones). It was determined that rock thermal conductivities are favourable for GSHP utilization, but dependent on the wider rock mass characteristics which are hard to predict (size of karst voids and their saturation status). In addition, wells with high enough yield and stabile seawater or groundwater temperatures for WSHP utilization can be designed in appropriate structural settings (tensional fractures and fracture set intersections). Advantages and disadvantages of the utilized methodology have been pointed out, as well as methods which should prove useful in the future, especially if larger systems are planned. Hydrogeological, geotechnical, and thermal risks expected during the drilling, installation, and operational phases have also been identified. Presented case studies have given the insight into heat pump installation options and conditions in Croatian part of the Dinarides, but can be useful to other researchers and engineers both in the Dinarides and in similar karst regions.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Rudarstvo, nafta i geološko inženjerstvo

POVEZANOST RADA