Authors:

Reagan John Thompson

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About Paper:

Understanding the response of fracture networks under shear stress is crucial for applications concerning subsurface fluid flow where shear stimulation is often used to enhance fluid permeability. This study presents a laboratory method for examining the response of various pre-existing fracture topologies to vertical shearing while under constant horizontal confinement. 3D printed PMMA samples are subjected to controlled shearing with a Deben CT5000 in-situ uniaxial stress rig during X-ray microscopy (Zeiss Versa 510). 3D tomographic reconstructions are used to quantify and visualize the changes in fracture apertures as a function of loading. Data collected by these experiments will serve as a reference in the ongoing development of computational models of fracture dynamics and deformation. The combined result of this work will enable improved designs and efficiency in hydraulic fracturing systems through the optimization of shearing to enhance fluid flow. Keywords: Geophysics; Fractures; Mechanics; Deformation

Source:

Purdue University / 2024

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Co-authors:

Reagan John Thompson