How can geosynthetic support the energy transition?
Action is urgently needed in the energy sector to achieve decarbonization.
The burning of fossil fuels for energy is a major source of carbon dioxide and contributes to greenhouse gases (GHGs) responsible for global warming. Decarbonizing our energy systems to produce zero greenhouse gases is key to reducing the damage caused by global climate change.
The market for sustainable energy solutions is growing rapidly and geosynthetics play an important role in it.
The objective is to set up large efficient seasonal or multifunctional storage systems that are as economical as possible. These storage systems supply entire residential areas or neighborhoods with green district heating from renewable or climate-neutral heat sources. This means storing excess energy in the summer and using it in the winter.
Storing solar thermal energy in the summer to power district heating networks in the winter is an incredibly efficient way of heating. The heating sector consumes almost twice as much energy as the electricity sector. Large amounts of renewable or climate-neutral heat can be stored in different heat storage systems such as a PTES. This allows for a more flexible supply of renewable heat sources and helps to stabilize heating prices. Waterproofing systems and floating covers can be constructed with geosynthetics, creating a durable and cost-effective solution.
Supported by its installation teams, it has been building heat storage systems for mines all over the world for several years. The High-Temperature Liner series is resistant to high temperatures and offers a long service life.
The efficient Pit research team studies materials and works to optimize the design of floating PTES covers. The four-year research project – funded by the German federal government – includes real-time exposure procedures and laboratory tests to further improve geosynthetic components for all conditions. This is how users perceive how temperature-resistant waterproof plastic films degrade over time and in response to high pressures and temperatures in autoclaves and ovens. The EfficientPit team also performs deformation tests to examine the stability of artificially damaged materials.
Geosynthetic solutions make various district heating projects as sustainable as possible. The thermal transition is essential for the success of the energy transition. Germany’s first geothermal storage pit is being built in the town of Meldorf. In the future, several buildings in the city will be equipped with climate-friendly district heating, including public properties such as schools, swimming pools, and museums.
Also read about the variety of Polymeric Rods based on PE and other common polymers in different thicknesses and colors that we produce according to customer needs.
