Granite Fracturing Mechanisms Under Compressive–Shear Loads | Advancing Hot Dry Rock Geothermal Research

 

1. Introduction

Granite plays a pivotal role as the primary reservoir rock in Hot Dry Rock geothermal systems, where its fracture behavior governs permeability enhancement and heat extraction efficiency. Investigating granite under compressive–shear loading conditions provides critical insights into subsurface stress responses encountered during hydraulic stimulation. This research-driven introduction establishes the relevance of fracture mechanics to sustainable geothermal exploitation, emphasizing the need for controlled fracturing to minimize environmental risks while maximizing energy output.

2. Stress Interaction in Granite Under Compressive–Shear Conditions

This topic focuses on how combined compressive and shear stresses interact within granite matrices, altering crack initiation thresholds and fracture angles. Experimental observations reveal that stress coupling significantly affects failure modes, transitioning from tensile-dominated cracking to shear-driven fracture networks. Such insights are essential for predicting rock mass behavior during geothermal reservoir stimulation and deep subsurface operations.

3. Crack Initiation and Propagation Mechanisms

Understanding where and how cracks originate in granite under complex loading is fundamental to fracture mechanics research. This section examines microcrack evolution, coalescence patterns, and energy dissipation during progressive loading. The findings provide a scientific basis for optimizing fracture control in HDR geothermal reservoirs to enhance permeability without compromising structural stability.

4. Experimental Methods in Granite Fracture Research

Advanced laboratory techniques, including triaxial loading and acoustic emission monitoring, are central to investigating granite fracturing behavior. This topic highlights experimental setups, data interpretation methods, and reproducibility considerations that ensure accurate characterization of rock failure mechanisms relevant to geothermal engineering research.

5. Implications for Hot Dry Rock Geothermal Exploitation

Granite fracture behavior directly influences reservoir connectivity, heat transfer efficiency, and long-term system performance in HDR geothermal projects. This research topic connects laboratory-scale findings to field-scale applications, demonstrating how controlled fracturing strategies can improve energy recovery while supporting sustainable geothermal development.

6. Future Research Directions in Sustainable Geothermal Rock Mechanics

Future investigations should integrate numerical modeling, field validation, and multi-physics coupling to further refine predictions of granite fracture behavior. This topic emphasizes interdisciplinary research opportunities aimed at reducing uncertainty in geothermal reservoir design, supporting global clean energy transitions through scientifically informed engineering solutions.
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