Analytical and numerical analysis of coupled multi-physics processes in highly fractured geological formations: applications in mass transport

Performance assessment of disposal repository is computationally sophisticated on account of numerous discontinuities and multi-physics processes. This thesis develops equivalent discrete fracture approaches to alleviate the contradiction between results accuracy and computational costs when modelling contaminant propagation in highly fractured rock masses. Two models are developed: (1) the semi-continuum model completely avoids ill-conditioned mesh elements and improves result robustness; and (2) the E-DFN model preserves rock discontinuous characteristics and reduces computational complexity significantly. Research findings demonstrate the significance of considering fracture networks explicitly and improve the understanding of analytical and numerical methods in the development of geological disposal repository.