How Heat Transfer Fluids Can Boost Your Sustainability in 2024

Numbers on a wooden box on a stone background. Entering the year 2024.

As we enter another year filled with possibilities, decision-makers across the geothermal sector are exploring new ways of bringing the US closer towards its objective of reaching a carbon neutral   future. In a new learning resource from the experts at CORECHEM, we explore the various ways that sustainable Heat Transfer Fluids can play a key role in driving a green transition.

Despite the US geothermal’s modest contribution of 0.4% to utility-scale electricity generation in 2022, the industry stands on the brink of a significant transformation. The untapped potential of over 99% of geothermal resources  sets the stage for a paradigm shift in 2024 propelled by advanced, bio-based Heat Transfer Fluids.

Heat Transfer Fluids: The Future is Bio-Based

Geothermal Piping and Coils at the bottom of a Trench

A global transition towards cleaner, greener processes in the geothermal sector has led to an increased uptake of bio-based propylene glycol: a solution that meets the industry’s twin objectives of operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Derived from renewable sources like vegetable oils and organic matter, this product’s natural origin – contrary to any misconceptions – doesn’t compromise its effectiveness.

At the forefront of innovation in this area is CORECHEM’s GlycoChill+ P-Series. Its certification as a 100% USDA Certified Biobased product underlines its commitment to sustainability and a geothermal industry that poses a minimal impact to the world around us.

GlycoChill+® P200HD: A USDA Certified Innovation

Unlike any other heat transfer solution, GlycoChill+® P200HD provides a new and exciting opportunity for organizations across the USA to boost their green credentials. While this Heat Transfer Fluid offers many features that are comparable to a typical inhibited propylene glycol solution, GlycoChill+® P200HD sets itself apart from the alternatives thanks to its USDA Biobased certification.

Those responsible for the procurement of Heat Transfer Fluids will understand the impact of this certification, both in terms of the benefits it can provide to geothermal processes and how it can transform sustainability pledges for companies on an individual level. Aside from helping companies establish themselves as green pioneers in their space, using GlycoChill+® P200HD provides a range of benefits. We’ve highlighted just a few of them below:

Environmental friendliness

Derived from renewable sources, GlycoChill+® P200HD yields a smaller carbon footprint than traditional heat transfer methods, aligning with the global shift towards sustainable energy sources. This not only facilitates the path towards carbon net zero for the industry as a whole, but also companies on an individual level. Where sustainability is your organizational priority, using this product is essential.

Safety and biodegradability

Biodegradable Heat Transfer Fluids such as GlycoChill+® P200HD are non-toxic, minimizing the risk of environmental damage to the aquifer in the event of system leakage. This is particularly relevant in terms of contamination, where the risk of soil and water contamination is virtually eliminated.

A green end-of-life

Disposal processes are some of the most common areas where our natural world comes under threat. Fortunately, CORECHEM’s GlycoChill+® P series greatly simplify disposal processes, breaking down into environmentally harmless substances when it reaches the end of its life cycle. Indeed, this means that while  the waste itself is reduced in terms of the harm it presents, this Heat Transfer Fluid also eases the burden on waste management systems across the board. 

Environmental compliance

2024 will see geothermal boreholes for ground-source heat pumps (GSHPs) face greater expectations in terms of meeting increasingly stringent environmental regulations. GlycoChill+® P200HD offers a solution that aligns with these regulations, ensuring compliance and mitigating the risk of legal and reputational pitfalls should something go wrong.

Thermal conductivity

Efficiency in heat transfer is not just about operational performance; it’s a crucial component of sustainability. Enhanced thermal conductivity means quicker temperature regulation using less energy. This means less exhaustion of natural resources, reduced operational costs and enhanced sustainability credentials for your organization.

As we move into 2024, CORECHEM’s focus remains steadfast on providing solutions that support a greener future, ensuring that our role in the geothermal sector contributes positively to both the environment and industry standards. For more guidance on how our products can chart a cleaner, greener future in geothermal energy, contact one of our heat transfer experts today.

 

Sustainability in 2024: Lead the Way with CORECHEM

Electricity generated from geothermal plants is projected to increase from 17 billion kWh in 2022 to 37.2 billion kWh in 2050. Here at CORECHEM, we’re inviting geothermal pioneers to join us in ensuring this growth is done in a way that’s environmentally sustainable. To get started, reach out today. Alternatively, use our free Concentration Calculators for further guidance on your purchase.