A Numerical Study on the Influence of Fault Zone Heterogeneity in Fractured Rock Media

Abstract

The hydrologic significance of spatial variability and anisotropic permeability in fault zones has been studied through two sets of numerical experiments using a integrated model of fracture network model and porous medium model. The steady-state flow conditions were established for specific fluid flow and hydraulic head boundary conditions, after which particle migration was tracked through the model domain from the repository to the model boundaries. The first set is for a fractured rock mass overlain by an impermeable cover rock, and second set by a permeable cover rock. The particle travel paths and residence times were compared for different fault zone configurations.