Compaction Bands in Sandstone
Northwestern University
Problems
Evidence from recent laboratory experiments and field observations on porous rocks (and other materials) has indicated that compaction does not necessarily occur homogeneously, but, instead, is localized in narrow planar zones. These zones are typically nearly perpendicular to the maximum compressive stress. Because the permeability of these zones is reduced by several orders of magnitude, they present barriers to fluid flow across them. Hence their formation in reservoirs or aquifers can adversely affect attempts to inject or withdraw fluids, and are relevant to diverse applications such as sequestration of carbon dioxide, energy recovery and storage, aquifer management and waste isolation Because the zones are narrow, they will be difficult to detect from the surface and, as a result, it is important to understand the conditions for their formation and extension.
Approach
We have combined analytical, computational and observational approaches to better understand the structure and formation of compaction bands. An analytical approach, similar to that used for shear bands, has identified the range of material parameters for band formation that is consistent with experimental observations. A simple model for band extension as an "anti-crack" yields a length vs. thickness relation that agrees with field observations. This model also yields an energy required for advance of the band a unit area that is consistent with laboratory observations. Although the results for band formation are qualitatively consistent with observations, quantitative comparison depends on details of material parameters that are difficult to determine from experiments. Consequently, we are combining very detailed measurements with computational multiscale methods to relate macroscopic material and transport properties to pore structure. Of particular interest are changes in key macroscopic properties such as permeability and strength due to changes in microstructure.
Findings
Pore-scale tomography images with micron resolution have been obtained using synchrotron rays to quantify topological features of the material that can then be linked to macroscopic properties. The micron-resolution images are used to construct faithful representations of the 3D porous network on samples of Aztec sandstone from the Valley of Fire, NV, where natural compaction bands are found. Preliminary calculations using the lattice Boltzmann method show a contrast in permeability of several orders of magnitude between the inside and outside of compaction bands. These changes are not captured by classical methods, such as Kozeny-Carman. These findings will allow us, for the first time, to directly link the changes imposed on continuum properties due to 3D micromechanical changes.
Impact
The presence or formation of compaction bands in porous formations intended for sequestration of CO2 could be a serious impediment to economic and efficient use of this technology to mitigate adverse effects on the climate.
Core competencies
- Inelastic behavior and fracture of geomaterials
- Multiscale mechanical modeling of porous sandstones
- Coupling of pore fluid flow with deformation
- Computational geomechanics
- Mechanics of earthquake faulting
Current research team members
- Li Yunzhen (Graduate student)
- WaiChing Sun (Graduate student)
- Dr. Nicolas Lenoir (Post-doctoral researcher)
Recent graduates
- E. Grueschow (Ph.D. 2005) Exxon-Mobil
- X. Tu (Postdoc 2009) Zhejiang University
- K. Ellison (M.S. 2008) Cambridge University
Current research collaborations
- Interpretation of true triaxial tests on porous rocks (Bezalel Haimson, University of Wisconsin)
- Localization in undrained, adiabatic shearing of fault zones (James R. Rice, Harvard University)
- Multiscale flow in deformable porous rocks (Pete Eichhubl, University of Texas, Austin)