Approach to the Estimation of Geothermal Reservoir Permeability by Tectonic Simulation

Abstract

Through assuming a model of the geologic structure development process of geothermal field, numerical experiments have been conducted by employing the three dimensional elastoplastic finite element method based on the virtual basement displacement method. These experiments have enabled us to achieve analyses of stratigraphic displacement, strain and stress, as well as fracture systems. Then, we studied relations between the data obtained by our analyses and water permeability. As a result of the study, it was observed that the output fracture systems very closely represent the fault systems estimated from surface mapping. Also, satisfactory correlative relations have been clarified between the strain amount and the hydraulic conductivity collected form the drill hole data. Consequently, the conclusion has been reached that numerical analysis through employing this type of tectonic simulate technique seems highly effective to achieve evaluations of fracture type geothermal reservoirs.