Selection of Material Used for Thermopiles for Recycling Heat within a Building

Tests using thermocouple embedded in concrete cubes and embedded in the circulating liquids in the model thermopiles were used to identify the most suitable concrete mix and circulating fluid for energy piles. Three concrete mix designs were prepared for comparison. The sample cement mix contained a) 100% Portland cement b) Portland cement and pulverised fly ash and 3) Portland cement and ground granulated blast furnace slag. Water, glycol solution and a saline solution were tested for their thermal properties on each sample concrete mix. Temperature recordings were taken until equilibrium was achieved and data was analysed giving concluding remarks and recommendations.