Chapter 11 - Multiphase Fluid and Heat Flow Coupled with Geomechanics

Abstract

This chapter focuses on physical processes and modeling approaches for fluid flow and geomechanical coupling in reservoirs. It presents a multiphase-fluid and heat-flow model, coupled with geomechanics, based on generalized Hooke’s law, mean stress, and volumetric strain. This chapter provides mathematical and numerical models for coupled THM processes in porous and fractured reservoirs. The geomechanical equations relating stresses and displacements are in terms of mean stress with pore pressure, temperature, and volumetric strain. The coupling of fluid and heat flow with geomechanics is based on theory of thermo-poroelasticity using effective stress concept. Then, mutual impacts of fluid flow, heat transfer, and rock deformation are described by correlating rock and fluid properties. This chapter presents general numerical formulation for fluid flow, heat transfer, and geomechanical equations using the same grid. Simulation examples are given for model verification and application.