Numerical analysis of anisotropic stiffness and strength for geomaterials

In numerical modelling, selection of the constitutive model is a critical factor in predicting actual response geomaterial. The use oversimplified or inadequate models may not be sufficient to reproduce geomaterial behaviour. That especially relevant case anisotropic rocks, and particularly for shales slates, whose behaviour affected, e.g. well stability geothermal oil gas production operations. this paper, an alternative has been implemented finite element method software CODE_BRIGHT, which able account anisotropy slates terms both deformability strength. For purpose, transversely isotropic version generalised Hooke's law adopted represent stiffness anisotropy, while nonuniform scaling stress tensor introduced plastic strength anisotropy. Furthermore, detailed approach proposed determine parameters based on stress–strain results laboratory tests. Moreover, analyses are performed uniaxial triaxial tests Vaca Muerta shale, Bossier shale slate from northwest Spain (NW slate). experimental data have recovered literature and, slate, by authors stress-strain curves strengths. A good agreement can generally observed between results, hence showing potential applicability studies. Therefore, presented promising analysing rocks its impact other geomechanical problems rocks.