A finite element porothermoelastic model for dual-porosity media

Abstract

An existing dual-porosity finite element model has been extended to include thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling in both media. The model relies on overlapping distinct continua for the fluid and solid domains. In addition, conductive and convective heat transfers are incorporated using a single representative thermodynamics continuum. The model is applied to the problem of an inclined borehole drilled in a fractured formation subjected to a three-dimensional state of stress and, a temperature gradient between the drilling fluid and the formation. A sensitivity analysis has been carried out to study the impact of thermal loading, effect of heat transport by pore fluid flow and, the effect of parameters of the secondary medium used to represent the fractures. © 2004 John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.