A physically based fault conceptual model is presented for modeling multiphase flow and transport processes in fractured rock of fault zones. In particular, we discuss a general mathematical framework model for dealing with fracture-matrix interactions, which is applicable to both continuum and discrete fracture conceptualization in fault zones. In this conceptual model, faults or fault zones o...

The optimal design of production in fractured geothermal reservoirs requires knowledge of the resource’s connectivity, therefore making fracture characterization highly important. This study aims to develop methodologies to use resistivity measurements to infer fracture properties in geothermal fields. The resistivity distribution in the field can be estimated by measuring potential differences...

A suite of numerical modules has been developed, specifically devoted to the understanding of flow through faulted and fractured deep rock masses. The present application concerns the geothermal project developed at the Soultz sous Forêts site (France) in the Rhine graben geological setting. This area seems well suited for such a project, since most of the faults and fractures are nearly optima...

three-dimensional surface geometry of rock discontinuities and its evolution with shearing are of great importance in understanding the deformability and hydro-mechanical behavior of rock masses. in the present research, surfaces of three natural rock fractures were digitized and studied before and after the direct shear test. the variography analysis of the surfaces indicated a strong non-line...

In a low permeability formation, connectivity of natural and induced fractures determines overall hydraulic diffusivity in fluid flow through this formation defines effective rock permeability. Efficient evaluation fracture is nontrivial task. Here, we utilize topological concept global efficiency to evaluate connectivity. We address the impact key geometrical properties stochastic networks (fr...

A physically based numerical approach is presented for modeling multiphase flow and transport processes in fractured rock. In particular, a general framework model is discussed for dealing with fracture-matrix interactions, which is applicable to both continuum and discrete fracture conceptualization. The numerical modeling approach is based on a general multiple-continuum concept, suitable for...

Cement grouting is an operation often carried out to consolidate and seal the rock mass in dam sites and tunnels. The quality and efficiency of a grouting operation depends on various factors such as water take, grout properties and grouting pressure. One of the parameters which have the highest effect is pressure since the application of excessive pressure causes the hydraulic fracture phenome...

assessment of the correlation between rock brittleness and rock fracture toughness has been the subject of extensive research works in the recent years. unfortunately, the brittleness measurement methods have not yet been standardized, and rock fracture toughness cannot be estimated satisfactorily by the proposed indices. in the present study, statistical analyses are performed on some data col...

and become focused. The focused unsaturated flow will increase relative permeability of its path, and cause flow A numerical modeling study is presented to investigate flow– further focusing. Focused flow paths exist in the unsatufocusing phenomena in a large-scale fracture network, constructed rated rock of the Yucca Mountain site. For example, using field data collected from the unsaturated z...