Analysis of Multiphysics Problems Related to Energy Piles

E. Evgin[1], J.A.I. Sedano [1], Z. Fu[1]
[1]University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Published in 2012

Energy piles transfer the mechanical loads from buildings to the ground and serve as heat exchangers. Temperature changes in the ground influence its moisture content. This paper examines the effect of soil moisture content on the shaft resistance of a pile. Tests were carried out in the laboratory to determine the mechanical properties of an interface corresponding to various soil moisture contents. COMSOL is used to model the load-deformation behavior of a 10m long pile embedded in soil with variable moisture contents.