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Approaching a universal scaling relationship between fracture stiffness and fluid flow

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  • Laura J. Pyrak-Nolte

    (Purdue University
    Lyle School of Civil Engineering, Purdue University
    Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Purdue University)

  • David D. Nolte

    (Purdue University)

Abstract

A goal of subsurface geophysical monitoring is the detection and characterization of fracture alterations that affect the hydraulic integrity of a site. Achievement of this goal requires a link between the mechanical and hydraulic properties of a fracture. Here we present a scaling relationship between fluid flow and fracture-specific stiffness that approaches universality. Fracture-specific stiffness is a mechanical property dependent on fracture geometry that can be monitored remotely using seismic techniques. A Monte Carlo numerical approach demonstrates that a scaling relationship exists between flow and stiffness for fractures with strongly correlated aperture distributions, and continues to hold for fractures deformed by applied stress and by chemical erosion as well. This new scaling relationship provides a foundation for simulating changes in fracture behaviour as a function of stress or depth in the Earth and will aid risk assessment of the hydraulic integrity of subsurface sites.

Suggested Citation

  • Laura J. Pyrak-Nolte & David D. Nolte, 2016. "Approaching a universal scaling relationship between fracture stiffness and fluid flow," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 7(1), pages 1-6, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:7:y:2016:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms10663
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10663
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    1. Vafaie, Atefeh & Cama, Jordi & Soler, Josep M. & Kivi, Iman R. & Vilarrasa, Victor, 2023. "Chemo-hydro-mechanical effects of CO2 injection on reservoir and seal rocks: A review on laboratory experiments," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 178(C).

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