Characterizing rock fractures and physical properties for Experiment 2 of the EGS Collab Project, Sanford Underground Research Facility

C. Ulrich, P. F. Dobson, T. J. Kneafsey, W. M. Roggenthen, N. Uzunlar, T. W. Doe, G. Neupane, T. Artz, K. Dobler, P. Schwering, M. Smith, J. A. Burghardt

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

The EGS Collab project is focused on understanding and predicting permeability enhancement and evolution in crystalline rocks to support geothermal energy production. To support this effort, the project is creating a suite of intermediate-scale test beds coupled with stimulation and interwell flow tests that will provide a basis to better understand the fracture geometries and processes that control heat transfer between rock and stimulated fractures. Therefore, high level site characterization is paramount for building models to estimate potential interwell flow rates and heat exchanges. For the second experimental testbed, the EGS Collab team visually mapped the distribution, orientation, and nature of open and healed fractures exposed along the drift wall in the Sanford Underground Research Facility 4100 feet below ground surface, and within the eleven boreholes drilled for this test bed. Continuous core logging of each borehole and a suite of geophysical wireline logs was collected to characterize the spatial variability of rock properties and fracture orientations. All of the data were then compiled into multiple 3D visualization software packages for interpretation and further analyzed for slip and dilation tendencies that will be incorporated into coupled-process geomechanical flow and transport models to better constrain the planned flow and tracer tests.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication56th U.S. Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium
PublisherAmerican Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA)
ISBN (Electronic)9780979497575
StatePublished - 2022
Event56th U.S. Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium - Santa Fe, United States
Duration: Jun 26 2022Jun 29 2022

Publication series

Name56th U.S. Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium

Conference

Conference56th U.S. Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySanta Fe
Period06/26/2206/29/22

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