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Title: Algebraically stabilized Lagrange multiplier method for frictional contact mechanics with hydraulically active fractures

Journal Article · · Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering

Accurate numerical simulation of coupled fracture/fault deformation and fluid flow is crucial to the performance and safety assessment of many subsurface systems. In this work, we consider the discretization and enforcement of contact conditions at such surfaces. The bulk rock deformation is simulated using low-order continuous finite elements, while frictional contact conditions are imposed by means of a Lagrange multiplier method. We employ a cell-centered finite-volume scheme to solve the fracture fluid mass balance equation. From a modeling perspective, a convenient choice is to use a single grid for both mechanical and flow processes, with piecewise-constant interpolation of Lagrange multipliers, i.e., contact tractions and fluid pressure. Unfortunately, this combination of displacement and multiplier variables is not uniformly inf–sup stable, and therefore requires a stabilization technique. Starting from a macroelement analysis, we develop two algebraic stabilization approaches and compare them in terms of robustness and convergence rate. The proposed approaches are validated against challenging analytical two- and three-dimensional benchmarks to demonstrate accuracy and robustness. These benchmarks include both pure contact mechanics problems and well as problems with tightly-coupled fracture flow.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC52-07-NA27344; AC52-07NA27344
OSTI ID:
1631478
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 1736336
Report Number(s):
LLNL-JRNL-801958; S0045782520303467; 113161; PII: S0045782520303467
Journal Information:
Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Journal Name: Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering Vol. 368 Journal Issue: C; ISSN 0045-7825
Publisher:
ElsevierCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
Netherlands
Language:
English

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