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Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.1007/s10040-007-0254-1
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Title (Primary) Numerical modeling of stress-permeability coupling in rough fractures
Author Walsh, R.; McDermott, C.; Kolditz, O. ORCID logo
Source Titel Hydrogeology Journal
Year 2008
Department ENVINF
Volume 16
Issue 4
Page From 613
Page To 627
Language englisch
Keywords Fractured rocks; Numerical modeling; Hydromechanical coupling; Discrete fracture model; Fracture surface topography
Abstract A numerical model is described for coupled flow and mechanical deformation in fractured rock. The mechanical response of rock joints to changes in hydraulic pressure is strongly influenced by the geometric characteristics of the joint surfaces. The concept of this work is to combine straightforward finite element solutions with complex and realistic fracture surface geometry in order to reproduce the non-linear stress-deformation-permeability coupling that is commonly observed in fractures. Building on the numerous studies that have expanded the understanding of the key parameters needed to describe natural rough-walled fractures, new methods have been developed to generate a finite element mesh representing discrete fractures with realistic rough surface geometries embedded in a rock matrix. The finite element code GeoSys/Rockflow was then used to simulate the coupled effects of hydraulic stress, mechanical stress, and surface geometry on the evolving permeability of a single discrete fracture. The modeling concept was experimentally verified against examples from the literature. Modeling results were also compared to a simple interpenetration model.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=1551
Walsh, R., McDermott, C., Kolditz, O. (2008):
Numerical modeling of stress-permeability coupling in rough fractures
Hydrogeol. J. 16 (4), 613 - 627 10.1007/s10040-007-0254-1