Calculation of discrete fracture flow paths in dual-continuum models

摘要

Discrete fracture flow paths,referred to as "weeps",have been derived from dual-continuum models of fracture flow.The required parameters include the geometric fracture spacing,an assumed width of each weep,and a scaling factor that accounts for reduced flow between fracture and matrix elements in dual-continuum models.The formulation provides a convenient means to determine discrete weep spacing and flow rates that are mathematically consistent with the dual-continuum model.Specific applications and examples related to seepage into drifts are also discussed.