Characterization of Aquifer Hydrochemistry from the Operation of a Shallow Geothermal System

The use of shallow geothermal energy systems utilizing groundwater temperature for the air-conditioning of buildings is increasing worldwide. The impact of these systems on groundwater quality has become crucial for environmental regulations and system design. For the long-term operation of geotherm...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Hanna Choi, Jaeyeon Kim, Byoung Ohan Shim, Dong-hun Kim
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2020-05-01
Series:Water
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/12/5/1377
Description
Summary:The use of shallow geothermal energy systems utilizing groundwater temperature for the air-conditioning of buildings is increasing worldwide. The impact of these systems on groundwater quality has become crucial for environmental regulations and system design. For the long-term operation of geothermal systems, it is important to evaluate their influence on the geochemical properties of groundwater, including precipitation and dissolution of secondary minerals. This research was conducted in a real-scale geothermal system, consisting of a groundwater heat pump (GWHP). Hydrochemical data were obtained from samples collected from an aquifer before heating, during heating, and before cooling operations of the GWHP. The Langelier Saturation Index and Ryznar Stability Index were calculated, and the saturation index was simulated with the PHREEQC program. Evidence from water table variation, temperature change, and <inline-formula> <math display="inline"> <semantics> <msup> <mrow></mrow> <mn>87</mn> </msup> </semantics> </math> </inline-formula>Sr/<inline-formula> <math display="inline"> <semantics> <msup> <mrow></mrow> <mn>86</mn> </msup> </semantics> </math> </inline-formula>Sr isotope distribution showed that groundwater flows from a well located on the northwest side of the geothermal well. The saturation index values showed that the pristine groundwater favors carbonate dissolution, however, manganese oxides are more sensitive to temperature than carbonate minerals. In addition, mineral precipitation and dissolution were found to vary with depth and temperature.
ISSN:2073-4441