Reduction of the Electrical Resistance of Grounding Devices by the Use of a Soil Replacement Mixture Based on Graphite and Hydrogel to Stabilize the Electrophysical Parameters of the Soil

This article discusses the factors that affect the electrical resistance of the current spreading of the grounding device. The issue of the electrophysical parameters of the soil that affect its resistivity and the consideration of such parameters in the design of grounding devices is considered. It is shown that keeping moisture in the near-electrode space of the grounding electrode, as well as maintaining it at a certain level, facilitates improving the quality and reliability of the grounding. A relationship has been established between the ability to retain moisture and the magnitude of seasonal fluctuations in the electrical resistance of the soixl, and also the season factor, which takes into account changes under different climatic environmental conditions. The issues of application of various methods of reducing the resistivity of the soil during mounting of grounding devices are considered. One of the main ways to reduce ground resistance is the use of solutions of various mineral salts. This method is not optimal, as it accelerates the corrosion processes in the materials of the ground electrodes. Therefore, the paper also considers other ways to reduce the resistance of the ground loop; in particular, the authors propose a method for reducing the resistance of a grounding device based on the method of partial replacing the soil in the near-electrode region with a mixture with a lower resistivity capable of collecting moisture based on graphite and hydrogel. This type of mixture is environmentally friendly when used, as well as it is non-aggressive to the material of the ground loop. The principle of operation of this mixture is based on the fact that the hydrogel makes it possible to stabilize the moisture at the site of laying the circuit, while graphite increases the overall conductivity of the mixture. The paper presents the results of laboratory studies, which have been carried out in accordance with GOST 9.602–2016. For this purpose, control samples were placed in containers made of a non-conductive material (plexiglas) and dependence of resistivity on moisture, temperature, specific content of graphite and hydrogel was measured. The article presents graphs of the dependences of the mixture specific resistance on moisture, temperature, and the quantitative content of the hydrogel. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that the mixture in can be used in the energy sector to improve the reliability of electrical installations and ensure electrical safety.