Theoretical Analysis of Water Loss and Back Flow through a Prefractured Plane Intersecting a Borehole

Abstract

Theoretical analysis of water loss and back flow through a prefractured plane intersecting a borehole is made. Firstly we derive the equation of continuity in terms of the water pressure in the prefractured plane and its aperture. By solving the equation by means of the difference method, the influences of the water pressure in the borehole, tectonic stress and topography of the surface of the prefractured plane are clarified. The results are expected to be useful to estimate the topography and aperture of the prefractured plane and the tectonic stress normal to the prefractured plane.