Development of strength of materials for underground energy systems

Abstract

In order to utilize underground space as a site for energy extraction and material circulation, it is a prerequisite to ensure the mechanical reliability of subsurface systems as well as aboveground systems. For this purpose, it is essential to address the issues related to strength of materials in rocks under the unique underground environment. In this presentation, research activities concerning the underground development, such as design and formation of engineered geothermal reservoirs by using hydraulic stimulation technology, are reviewed and future issues are discussed. The topics to be covered include modeling of the crack propagation behavior in underground systems under mechanical loads and characterization of subsurface complex crack systems using the fluid flow behavior in rocks.