Guo, L; Latham, JP; Xiang, J; Lei, Q; (2013) A Numerical Investigation of Fracture Pattern and Fracture Aperture Development in Multi-layered Rock using a Combined Finite-Discrete Element Method. In: Proceedings of the 47th U.S. Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. (pp. pp. 2013-686). ARMA: American Rock Mechanics Association: San Francisco, California, USA.

Text Paper686_final.pdf - Accepted Version Access restricted to UCL open access staff until 12 February 2026. Download (6MB)

Abstract

Naturally fractured reservoirs are an important source of hydrocarbons. Fracture patterns characterising such reservoirs can be generated stochastically, but these have limited ability to capture realistic cross-cutting, branching and truncation relations. Computational models capable of generating fracture geometries according to geomechanical principles offer a means to create a numerical representation of a more realistic rock mass structure. In this work, the fractures initiate and propagate discretely using the combined finite-discrete element method. The fracturing behaviour is modelled by a combined single and smeared crack model. A seven-layer limestone model is simulated under various loading conditions, including direction tension parallel to the layering with different vertical pressures, and bending with clamped and supported boundaries. The aim is to illustrate fracture pattern and fracture aperture development in stratified systems. The results show higher vertical pressures enabled fractures to propagate across layer interfaces to form through-going fractures. Delamination at layer interfaces occurred after fracture initiation had taken place on each side of the interface.

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