Thermal Properties of Rocks and Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Sustainable environments and the pursuit of alternative energy supplies are central to modern societies. At the
same time the global warming is emerging as a serious issue for all nations. In contrast to the physical and mechanical
properties of rocks, the thermal properties of rocks provide information on its potential for alternative thermal energy
sources. This study examines the earlier research studies on the evaluation of rocks' thermal properties, with a particular
emphasis on geothermal potential, dimension stone thermal comfort, and indirect evaluation utilizing characteristics
including porosity, moisture content, p-wave velocity, and mineral composition. The transient approach and steady
state technique were used to evaluate thermal characteristics of rocks. Given that Pakistan is among the nations
adversely affected by global warming, it is imperative to investigate alternative energy sources and sustainable
materials. This study tries to provide directions to enhance the knowledge base for future research to analyze the
thermal properties of rocks originating from Pakistan and how strategically these rocks may be utilized to lessen global
warming through environment sustainability and zero carbon emissions and to achieve sustainable development goals.