Fracture size and transmissivity correlations: Implications for transport simulations in sparse three‐dimensional discrete fracture networks following a truncated power law distribution of fracture size

摘要: We characterize how different fracture size-transmissivity relationships influence flow and transport simulations through sparse three-dimensional discrete networks. Although it is generally accepted that there a positive correlation between fracture's size its transmissivity/aperture, the functional form of relationship remains matter debate. Relationships assume perfect correlation, semi-correlation, non-correlation two have been proposed. To study impact adopting one these has on properties, we generate multiple networks composed circular fractures whose radii follow truncated power law distribution. The distribution transmissivities are selected so mean transmissivity same distributions aperture in models include stochastic term also same. observe leads to earlier breakthrough times higher effective permeability when compared where no used. While network geometry plays principal role determining occurs within network, controls speed. These observations indicate DFN modelers should be aware permeabilities can strongly influenced by such addition statistics. This article protected copyright. All rights reserved.