Dilatant hydro-shearing fracture growth ??' theory & observations

This talk explores the mechanics of fluid-driven frictional ruptures, accounting for frictional weakening, dilation, and permeability changes. While primarily occurring during hydraulic stimulation of geothermal reservoirs, these processes also impact fault stability, landslides, and glacier mechanics. Assuming a circular rupture geometry, we examine how the rupture propagation behavior can widely varies with rock properties, in-situ conditions, and injection protocols. Finally, we revisit the Basel-1 well stimulation, presenting a dilatant hydro-shearing model that replicates the injection sequence. We discuss the model's agreement with observed pressure and microseismic evolution, while addressing uncertainties in key parameters like horizontal stress and frictional properties.

Speaker: Brice Lecampion, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland

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Room 350/372