Coupled Geomechanical Simulations of UCG Cavity Evolution
This paper presents recent work from an ongoing project to develop predictive tools for cavity/combustion-zone growth and to gain quantitative understanding of the processes and conditions (both natural and engineered) affecting underground coal gasification (UCG). In this paper we will focus upon the development of coupled geomechanical capabilities for simulating the evolution of the UCG cavity using discrete element methodologies. The Discrete Element Method (DEM) has unique advantages for facilitating the prediction of the mechanical response of fractured rock masses, such as cleated coal seams. In contrast with continuum approaches, the interfaces within the coal can be explicitly included and combinations of both elastic and plastic anisotropic response are simulated directly. Additionally, the DEM facilitates estimation of changes in hydraulic properties by providing estimates of changes in cleat aperture. Simulation of cavity evolution involves a range of coupled processes and the mechanical response of the host coal and adjoining rockmass plays a role in every stage of UCG operations. For example, cavity collapse during the burn has significant effect upon the rate of the burn itself. In the vicinity of the cavity, collapse and fracturing may result in enhanced hydraulic conductivity of the rock matrix in the coal and caprock above the burn chamber. Even far from the cavity, stresses due to subsidence may be sufficient to induce new fractures linking previously isolated aquifers. These mechanical processes are key in understanding the risk of unacceptable subsidence and the potential for groundwater contamination. These mechanical processes are inherently non-linear, involving significant inelastic response, especially in the region closest to the cavity. In addition, the response of the rock mass involves both continuum and discrete mechanical behavior. We have recently coupled the LDEC (Livermore Distinct Element Code) and NUFT (Non-isothermal Unsaturated Flow and Transport) codes to investigate the interaction between combustion, water influx and mechanical response. The modifications to NUFT are described in detail in a companion paper. This paper considers the extension of the LDEC code and the application of the coupled tool to the simulation of cavity growth and collapse. The distinct element technology incorporated into LDEC is ideally suited to simulation of the progressive failure of the cleated coal mass by permitting the simulation of individual planes of weakness. We will present details of the coupling approach and then demonstrate the capability through simulation of several test cases.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 966555
- Report Number(s):
- LLNL-CONF-414700; TRN: US200921%%655
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Presented at: International Pittsburgh Coal Conference, Pittsburgh, PA, United States, Sep 20 - Sep 23, 2009
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Geomechanical Simulations Related to UCG Activities
Fully Coupled Geomechanics and Discrete Flow Network Modeling of Hydraulic Fracturing for Geothermal Applications