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Multiscale modelling and simulation of solid-fluid interactions in porous media

Summary

The aim of this project is to develop computational tools for modelling the coupled fluid transport-solid deformation behaviour in porous media at micro-, meso- and macro-scales.

Supervisor

Associate Professor Luming Shen.

Research location

Civil Engineering

Program type

PHD

Synopsis

Significant portion of the world's water and energy resources are stored in fractured rocks, many of which contain characteristic pores with size ranging from nanometres to millimetres. The aim of this project is to develop computational tools for modelling the coupled fluid transport-solid deformation behaviour in porous media at micro-, meso- and macro-scales. In particular, multiple research students will be needed in order to study solid-fluid interactions at micro-scale using coarse-grained molecular dynamics, at meso-scale using smoothed particle dynamics and at macro-scale using material point method. Additional research students will be needed to perform related experiments such as Hopkinson bar tests on partially saturated porous media, core flooding tests, and so on in order to validate the abovementioned computational tools.The proposed research will help better understand and control fluid flow through these fractured porous media that underpin the performance of diverse energy and environmental systems including carbon geo-sequestration, unconventional oil and gas recovery, enhanced geothermal energy generation and groundwater contamination.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 2753

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