Exploring the Use of Geothermal Piles as an Environmentally Sustainable Method to De-Ice Bridge Decks through Field-Scale Experiment

This study explores the application of a geothermal deicing system as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective method of reducing the dangers and hazards caused by frozen roadways during the winter season. The existing snow removal method of using chemical solutions and salts not only has significant environmental consequences but also degrades roadway surfaces. Concrete is also subject to freeze-thaw cycles, which can eventually lead to deterioration, and the life span of the concrete pavement can be shortened significantly. This study investigated the efficacy of a geothermal system that uses only geothermal energy to de-ice bridge decks. Two demo bridge decks were built with embedded heat exchanger tubes connected to geothermal boreholes. The experimental results showed that the shallow geothermal system helps heating and deicing the pavement's surface. The temperature inside and on the surface of the demo bridge decks remained less fluctuated during the winter, which helped to reduce the risks associated with freeze-thaw cycles.