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Modeling of multiphase fluid motion in fracture intersections and fracture networks
Author(s) -
Huang Hai,
Meakin Paul,
Liu Moubin,
McCreery Glenn E.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2005gl023899
Subject(s) - volume of fluid method , fracture (geology) , wetting , mechanics , complex fracture , geology , interface (matter) , computer science , materials science , geotechnical engineering , physics , composite material , breakup , sessile drop technique
A two‐dimensional volume of fluid (VOF) method was used to simulate liquid movement within unsaturated fracture intersections and fracture networks. Fragmentation and merging of liquid interfaces are automatically handled, without resorting to adaptive mesh refinement or interface repairing algorithms. Wetting effects are modeled by imposing different contact angles depending on whether the liquid interface is advancing, receding, or essentially stationary. The numerical examples and experimental validation presented in this study clearly demonstrate the potential value of the VOF method for the modeling of liquid motion in unsaturated fractures, fracture junctions and fracture networks.