Scientific program

The workshop focuses on describing the propagation of fractures with thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling. Understanding this phenomenon plays a crucial role in modeling natural processes (such as volcano dykes, tectonic faults, etc.), reducing of the risk of natural and industrial disasters, improving technology for oil and gas production, tunnel and dam construction, enhanced geothermal energy, and block cave mining. These and many other examples represent coupled problems in fracture mechanics, because the propagation of a hydraulic fracture is governed by the viscous fluid flow within the fracture, exchange of fluid and heat with the rock formation, and failure of the solid material. Mathematical analysis of the coupled problems presents an interesting challenge since the problem involves solving a system of integro-differential equations, which are degenerate, nonlinear, nonlocal, time dependent, and feature a singular moving boundary problem. Despite of this complexity, the models are still relatively simplistic and are not always able to capture all the physical mechanisms that occur underground. Therefore, one of the goals of the meeting is to identify the gaps between the models, and experimental and field observations. In addition, fluids with complex rheology are typically pumped to induce fractures. The complexity comes from using chemicals to control fluid rheology and solid particles to prevent fractures from closing, which may lead to time-dependent slurry properties and two-phase features of the flow. Understanding all these phenomena is essential for an accurate description of the coupled problems. Therefore, this meeting aims to bring experts from all around the world to exchange experience and ideas on how to fill the current gaps in knowledge and how to proceed with effective solutions for practical applications.

 

Topics

  •     Numerical methods for fracture propagation
  •     Analytical and asymptotic solutions for the coupled fracture problems
  •     Solid-fluid-thermo-chemical interactions
  •     Multiple fractures, fracture networks and interaction with existing fractures
  •     Complex fluid rheology and its influence on fracture’s development
  •     Innovative approaches in modeling
  •     Laboratory experiments and field observations
  •     Multiphase flow in fractured rocks