Effect of chemical corrosion on propagation of complex fracture networks under different hydraulic pressures in enhanced geothermal systems

Abstract Chemical corrosion and hydraulic fracturing are important ways to improve the permeability of enhanced geothermal systems. In this work, we developed a discrete element code for simulating three different fracture network models after chemical corrosion. Mechanisms crack extension coalescence in field-scale with were systematically revealed, which effects time, inclination ( γ ), pH value pressure considered. The results show that simulated cracking behaviors granites agree well those obtained through Brazilian tests triaxial compression tests, verifying validity code. During fracturing, impact on connectivity increases increment P ). With increase pressure, propagation accelerates whereas decreases. reasons excessive causes spread an unfavorable direction effect networks. As from 2 12, growth rate first decreases subsequently raises. numbers cracks per time step sparse mixed networks artificial fractures (SM), dense (DM) without (NDM) ranges 0.06601–0.1259, 0.05176–0.2072 0.1727–0.6846, respectively. SM is better than NDM under same conditions, indicating can greatly utilization efficiency EGS.