Pablo F. Sanz Rehermann, P.E.
RESEARCH
Mathematical modeling of multi-scale phenomena during folding and
fracturing of sedimentary rocks
In this research project we intend to develop a novel mathematical model for capturing isothermal ductile and brittle folding processes and the accompanying fracturing of sedimentary rocks using nonlinear continuum mechanics and finite element modeling.
Although much progress has been made to model and understand the mechanics of rock folding and fracturing, we are not in a position to make reasonable estimates of stress states, let alone predict location, orientation and density of fractures within the fold. Investigation of this phenomenon requires a good understanding of the mechanical behavior of different rock types in order to develop and implement more realistic mechanical models. The constitutive laws should be capable of capturing features like: ductile and brittle response, elastic and plastic deformations, cohesion and frictional response, inherent anisotropy, onset of localized deformations, and initiation and propagation of fractures, among others.
Fractures initiate and propagate as a result of stress concentrations at flaws and fracture tips, hence, a good understanding of the stress distribution in deforming strata is indispensable to predict fractures. This study aims to predict the initiation, propagation, and density of fractures from the large-scale geometry of folded strata. For this reason, a key element to this project will be the development and implementation of adequate constitutive models which are essential to estimate meaningful stress states and therefore predict fractures. An additional challenging aspect of this project is the investigation of appropriate boundary conditions and the effect of relative displacements between neighboring rock layers.
The following is a summary of the main objectives to be completed:
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