Content
Many coupled numerical groundwater flow and heat transfer models focus on groundwater hydraulic conditions and thermal parameters in the subsurface that can be easily measured on site. Less is known about the field thermal dispersivity. Thermal dispersivity is based on the fact that heat transfer occurs by conduction, through both the matrix and fluid, and convection that occurs only through the fluid. It can be determined in nature through experiments that use heat as a tracer. Therefore, the main objective of the proposed research project is to define the thermal dispersivity on a natural scale with the field experiment in the selected intergranular aquifer in Slovenia and to further calibrate and validate the numerical groundwater flow and heat transfer model based on the obtained data. In the first phase of the project, we will establish an experimental field laboratory in nature with at least 5 research wells in the area of the selected intergranular aquifer with favorable conditions for the use of shallow geothermal potential. In the second phase, thermal dispersivity measurements will be carried out in the field, and in the third phase, the establishment of a calibrated and validated numerical 3D geological, hydrogeological, and geothermal model of the research area will be carried out. With new scientific research on the impact of natural-scale thermal dispersivity on heat transfer in the subsurface, we will help ensure optimal use of shallow geothermal potential and prevent potential future interactions between newly installed shallow geothermal systems.