Convergent Flow in Unsaturated Fractured Chalk

Pore Connectivity, Episodic Flow, and Unsaturated Diffusion in Fractured Tuff

We use an integrated approach consisting of experiments and complementary pore-scale network modeling to investigate the occurrence of sparsely connected pore spaces in rock matrices at Yucca Mountain, Nevada, and their implications for matrix diffusion. Imbibition results indicate that pore spaces in devitrified tuff are not well-connected, and that this lack of connectivity is further compoun...

Liquid fragmentation and intermittent flow regimes in unsaturated fractured media

[1] Flow processes in unsaturated fractures considerably differ from flow in rock matrix because of the dominance of gravitational forces, accentuated by variations in fracture geometry. This gives rise to liquid fragmentation, fingering, and intermittent flow regimes that are not amenable to standard continuum representation. We develop an alternative modeling framework to describe the onset o...

The Mass Compressibili'iy of Fractured Chalk

Analysis of flow processes in fractured chalk under pumped and ambient conditions 1

A model for flow in the Chalk unsaturated zone incorporating progressive weathering

Groundwater from unconfined chalk aquifers constitutes a major water resource in the UK. The unsaturated zone in such systems plays a crucial role in the hydrological cycle, determining the timing and magnitude of recharge, and the transport and fate of nutrients. However, despite more than three decades of study, our physical understanding of this system is incomplete. In this research, state ...