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Distributed fiber-optic in situ inversion method for ground thermal conductivity based on thermal perturbation of pile foundation engineering

Author

Listed:
  • Song, Xiaojin
  • Han, Heming
  • Zha, Fusheng
  • Wu, Shan
  • Kang, Bo
  • Xu, Long
  • Shun, Heng

Abstract

Soil thermal conductivity is a key thermophysical parameter in the synergistic development of urban subsurface space and geothermal energy. However, existing studies lack a mapping between thermal response temperature and soil parameters, and interference with the construction process. In this study, a distributed fiber-optic in situ inversion method for ground thermal conductivity is proposed based on the thermal perturbation generated during pile foundation engineering, which organically integrates construction with geothermal parameter testing. A distributed fiber optic sensing network is employed to monitor the heat diffusion process of hydration in grouted piles in real time. The mapping relationship between the distribution of ground thermal conductivity and the temperature gradient is derived using an analytical model of the temperature field under variable heat source conditions. The reliability of the heat conduction inverse inversion algorithm is verified through numerical simulations, and a field trial was conducted at an underground comprehensive project in Anhui. The results demonstrate that the diffusion boundary of the hydration heat of the piles is 2.4 m. The maximum deviation between the field-measured and laboratory-tested thermal conductivity values is only 0.029 W/(m·K). This study offers a cost-effective and innovative solution for the thermophysical investigation of underground spaces in smart cities.

Suggested Citation

  • Song, Xiaojin & Han, Heming & Zha, Fusheng & Wu, Shan & Kang, Bo & Xu, Long & Shun, Heng, 2026. "Distributed fiber-optic in situ inversion method for ground thermal conductivity based on thermal perturbation of pile foundation engineering," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 260(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:260:y:2026:i:c:s0960148126000418
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2026.125216
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    References listed on IDEAS

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