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Porous media equivalent for networks of discontinuous fractures

Journal Article · · Water Resour. Res.; (United States)
The theory of flow through fractured rock and homogeneous anisotropic porous media is used to determine when a fractured rock behaves as a continuum. Field studies of fracture geometry are reviewed and a realistic, two-dimensional fracture system model is developed. The shape, size, orientation, and location of fractures in an impermeable matrix are random variables in the model. These variables are randomly distributed according to field data currently available in the literature. The fracture system models are subjected to simulated flow tests. The results of the flow tests are plotted as permeability 'ellipses.' 36 refs.
Research Organization:
Lawrence Berkeley Lab, CA, USA
OSTI ID:
6706520
Journal Information:
Water Resour. Res.; (United States), Journal Name: Water Resour. Res.; (United States) Vol. 18:3; ISSN WRERA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English