An experimental investigation of hydraulic behaviour of fractures and joints in granitic rock

Abstract

A method of measuring mean mechanical aperture of fractures based on gas volume balance is introduced. The effects of shear displacement and normal stress on mechanical and hydraulic behaviour of fractures are also investigated. The results obtained from tests conducted on granite samples from Olympic Dam (Central Australia) are compared with those calculated from existing shear dilation theories. It is found that hydraulic aperture is considerably narrower than the measured mean mechanical aperture. This highlights the need to consider tortuosity and surface roughness of fractures in the calculation of hydraulic aperture. It is also found that shear dilation angle decreases linearly with increases in confining pressure, as opposed to more rapid decreases predicted by existing empirical models. From the results of this study, a range of data describing the relationships between confining pressure, shear displacements, hydraulic aperture and permeability are presented, which could help to develop stimulation programs for geothermal reservoirs.