Fluid Overpressurization of Rock Fractures: Experimental Investigation and Analytical Modeling

Fluid-induced seismicity in tectonically inactive regions has been attributed to fluid overpressurization of rock fractures during natural resource extraction and storage. We conducted a series triaxial shear-flow experiments on sawcut granite showed that the fracture responses can be dissimilar under various pressurization conditions. For pressure-controlled pressurization, uniform pressure distribution promoted by lowering rate enhancing permeability. However, volume-controlled high causes drastic increase before failure. In this case, our analytical model reveals area normal stiffness also influence variations. The maximum seismic moment predicted is well validated experimental data for cases with low rates. discrepancy between increases higher overpressure ratio owing assumption model. sensitivity analysis demonstrates importance size estimation prediction. Our potentially applied control mitigate risks fluid-induced seismicity.