Experimental Proof of a Solar-powered Heat Pump System for Permafrost Thermal Stabilization

Abstract

We have suggested earlier a new sustainable method for permafrost thermal stabilization that combines passive screening of solar radiation and precipitation with active solar-powered cooling of the near-surface soil layer thus preventing heat penetration in depth. Feasibility of this method has been shown by calculations, but needed experimental proof. In this article, we are presenting the results of soil temperature measurements obtained at the experimental implementation of this method outside of the permafrost area which actually meant higher thermal loads than in Polar Regions. We have shown that near-surface soil layer is kept frozen during the whole summer, even at air temperatures exceeding +30°C. Therefore, the method has been experimentally proven to be capable of sustaining soil frozen even in more extreme conditions than expected in permafrost areas. In addition to usual building and structure thermal stabilization, the method could be used to prevent the development of thermokarst, gas emission craters, and landslides; greenhouse gases, chemical, and biological pollution from the upper thawing layers at least in the area of human activities; protection against coastal erosion; and permafrost restoration after wildfires. Using commercially widely available components, the technology can be scaled up for virtually any size objects.

Permafrost thermal stabilization using renewable energy sources

“…We suggested an approach that combines minimizing heat flow into the soil by shielding solar radiation and liquid precipitation, and making a near-surface solar-powered heat diversion layer to stop heat penetration in soil depth (Loktionov et al 2022). This concept has been patented (Sharaborova et al 2020) and proven experimentally (Loktionov et al 2023;Loktionov et al 2024;). An example of such a heat diversion layer in the form of ground probe loops to be covered with 25 cm embankment is presented in Figure 1.…”