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Microstructure of laboratory and nuclear explosively deformed gas-bearing sandstones

Conference ·
OSTI ID:7213382
Pore structure and microfracturing is investigated in low permeability sandstones. An intricate network of clay minerals between grains causes the average pore size to be small in the undeformed rock. Laboratory loading causes sample compaction, short, unconnected cracks within grains, and frequent grain boundary cracks. Explosively deformed samples exhibit macroscopic fractures extending the length of the sample and occasional narrow transgranular cracks. In both, the clay matrix exhibits compaction parallel to the direction of maximum principal stress.
Research Organization:
California Univ., Livermore (USA). Lawrence Livermore Lab.
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
7213382
Report Number(s):
UCRL-79021; CONF-770706-29
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English