Fracture Mechanics Analysis of Massive Hydraulic Fracturing Containment

by Er-Ping Chen, Sandia Natl Lab, Applied Mechanics, Div II, Albuquerque, NM, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Rock Masses: Modeling of Underground Openings/Probability of Slope Failure/Fracture of Intact Rock

Abstract:

The hydraulic fracturing containment problem is the subject of the present investigation. Unlike previous studies, the interface crack geometry with the correct crack tip singularity was modeled. To accomplish this purpose, analytical interfacial crack tip stress and displacement expressions were derived and implemented into the finite element code PAPST via the enriched element technique. The accuracy of this technique was validated through comparisons with analytical and other numerical solutions. Parametric studies were then carried out to determine the relative importance of in-situ stress and material property difference on fracture containment. A Maximum Stress Fracture Criterion was defined for this purpose.

Subject Headings: Hydraulic fracturing | Stress analysis | Material properties | Cracking | Wells (water) | Parameters (statistics) | Geometrics

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