Numerical modeling of three-phase dissolution of underground cavities using a diffuse interface model

摘要: Natural evaporite dissolution in the subsurface can lead to cavities having critical dimensions sense of mechanical stability. Geomechanical effects may be significant for people and infrastructures because underground subsidence or collapse (sinkholes). The knowledge cavity evolution space time is thus crucial many cases. In this paper, we describe use a local nonequilibrium diffuse interface model solving problems involving multimoving interfaces within three phases, that is, solid–liquid–gas as found superficial aquifers karsts. This paper generalizes developments achieved fluid–solid case, saturated case [1]. On one hand, porous medium theory allows solid–liquid layer characterized by phase indicator (e.g., porosity). other liquid–gas computed using classical two-phase flow saturation, generalized Darcy’s laws. Such formulation suitable implementation finite element volume numerical on fixed grid without an explicit treatment movement. A has been implemented with adaptive meshing mesh refinement), which improves significantly computational efficiency accuracy fine gridding attached front. Finally, some examples three-phase including density are also provided illustrate interest proposed theoretical framework.