Thermo-hydro-mechanical interactions in porous media: Implications on thermo-active retaining walls

Thermo-active structures exchange heat with the ground to provide thermal energy buildings. Consequently, is subjected changes in temperature, inducing thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) interactions within soil. To insights into origin and manifestations of main mechanisms taking place complex fully THM-coupled finite element (FE) analyses, simple, one-dimensional problems are firstly analysed this paper compared analytical expressions developed for determining thermally-induced excess pore water pressures undrained different displacement restraints. Subsequently, various dimensionless parameters established evaluate impact varying properties on observed THM their evolution time. Finally, findings from simple verified context modelling thermo-active retaining walls, where structural response walls shown be highly transient influenced by phenomena prevailing over periods involving expansion soils, volumetric deformations due generation dissipation, mechanical boundary conditions. The results also highlight importance performing coupled analyses a correct estimation hydraulic guarantee safe design structures.