Energy performance assessment of thermo-active micro-piles via numerical modeling and statistical analysis

Energy micro-piles (EMPs) constitute a promising emerging technology, able to provide both energy and structural retrofitting existing buildings. Although number of studies have been published on the performance standard piles (EPs), bespoke analysis is required for EMPs due their different geometry peculiar design site constraints. In this work, parametric study carried out by means numerical Finite Element simulations complemented statistical analysis, aimed at identifying dominant parameters in maximizing EMP thermal efficiency. Two categories parameters, namely design-dependent site-dependent ones, are separately considered guidance practitioners detailed geothermal sizing overall feasibility assessment. The parameter space efficiently explored resorting Taguchi Experimental Design tools. Results show that criteria those EPs should be used EMPs. Notably latter, contrary former, diameter heat exchanger pipes emerges as one most important factors promoting efficiency, while being single easiest engineer. On other hand, U-pipes pile crucial EPs, it does not impact EMPs, constraints expected occurrence interferences. Among factors, large ground conductivity confirmed an feature ensure high performance, interesting insights obtained about role basement insulation long-term output.