Analysis of pore-fluid pressure gradient and effective vertical-stress gradient distribution in layered hydrodynamic systems

Zhao, CB, Hobbs, BE and Muhlhaus, HB (1998) Analysis of pore-fluid pressure gradient and effective vertical-stress gradient distribution in layered hydrodynamic systems. Geophysical Journal International, 134 2: 519-526.

Author Zhao, CB
Hobbs, BE
Muhlhaus, HB
Title Analysis of pore-fluid pressure gradient and effective vertical-stress gradient distribution in layered hydrodynamic systems
Journal name Geophysical Journal International   Check publisher's open access policy
Publication date 1998
Sub-type Article
Volume number 134
Issue number 2
ISSN 0956-540X
Start page 519
End page 526
Total pages 8
Language eng
Abstract A theoretical analysis is carried out to investigate the pore-fluid pressure gradient and effective vertical-stress gradient distribution in fluid saturated porous rock masses in layered hydrodynamic systems. Three important concepts, namely the critical porosity of a porous medium, the intrinsic Fore-fluid pressure and the intrinsic effective vertical stress of the solid matrix, are presented and discussed. Using some basic scientific principles, we derive analytical solutions and explore the conditions under which either the intrinsic pore-fluid pressure gradient or the intrinsic effective vertical-stress gradient can be maintained at the value of the lithostatic pressure gradient. Even though the intrinsic pore-fluid pressure gradient can be maintained at the value of the lithostatic pressure gradient in a single layer, it is impossible to maintain it at this value in all layers in a layered hydrodynamic system, unless all layers have the same permeability and porosity simultaneously. However, the intrinsic effective vertical-stress gradient of the solid matrix can be maintained at a value close to the lithostatic pressure gradient in all layers in any layered hydrodynamic system within the scope of this study.
Keyword Geochemistry & Geophysics
Analytical Solution
Critical Porosity
Intrinsic Effective Vertical Stress
Intrinsic Pore-fluid Pressure
Lithostatic Pressure Gradient
Petroleum
Q-Index Code C1
Q-Index Status Provisional Code
Institutional Status Unknown

Document type: Journal Article
Sub-type: Article
Collection: Earth Systems Science Computational Centre Publications
 
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Created: Mon, 13 Aug 2007, 10:35:14 EST