TxDOT Research Library - TxDOT Research Project

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Use of Geothermal Energy for De-icing Approach Pavement Slabs and Bridge Decks, Phase I

What Was the Need?

Deicing using geothermal energy can provide TxDOT a better alternative than the existing method of using deicing with sands and/or salts.

Project Summary

This research project will address this topic with a primary focus of comprehensive synthesis study. As a part of this synthesis, the available literature on geothermal energy along with success application case studies in the world on the use of geothermal energy for bridge decks and pavement deicing applications will be compiled. The review of geothermal underground structures will be focused on Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) which is used to inject or extract heat into/from underground soil for seasonal cooling and heating needs.

A preliminary finite element analysis of bridge deicing using geothermal energy will also be performed using typical Texas soil and climate conditions to demonstrate feasibility along with potential cost-benefit analysis of the recommended geothermal deicing system for field application. Recommendations will be made on candidate geothermal structures and bridge deck/pavement heating systems for field demonstration studies as a part of follow up validation studies.

Project Number

0-6872

Status

Completed

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