Influence of fracture nucleation and propagation rates on fracture geometry: insights from geomechanical modelling

摘要

We combine a power-law microfracture size distribution function with an expression for fracture propagation rate derived from subcritical fracture propagation theory and linear elastic fracture mechanics, to derive a geomechanically based deterministic model for the growth of a network of layer-bound fractures. This model also simulates fracture termination due to intersection with perpendicular fractures or stress-shadow interaction. We use this model to examine key controls on the emergent geometry of the fracture network.