Influence of fracture nucleation and propagation rates on fracture geometry: Insights from geomechanical modelling

A 4-month (16 weeks) validation study to test the capabilities of the geomechanically based Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) model being developed as part of the AWF1 project, and to determine how well it replicates the fracture geometry observed in outcrop examples. The project has three stages: literature review and outcrop selection, sensitivity analysis and identification of key input parameters, and validation with selected outcrops.

We combine a power-law microfracture size distribution function with an expression for fracture propagation rate derived from subcritical fracture propagation theory and linear elastic fracture mechanics, to derive a geomechanically based
deterministic model for the growth of a network of layer-bound fractures. This model also simulates fracture termination due to intersection with perpendicular fractures or stress-shadow interaction. We use this model to examine key controls on the emergent geometry of the fracture network.

A 4-month (16 weeks) validation study to test the capabilities of the geomechanically based Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) model being developed as part of the AWF1 project, and to determine how well it replicates the fracture geometry observed in outcrop examples. The project has three stages: literature review and outcrop selection, sensitivity analysis and identification of key input parameters, and validation with selected outcrops.