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Geometric modelling and object-oriented software concepts applied to a heterogeneous fractured network from the Grimsel rock laboratory

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Abstract

Discrete fracture network simulations are computationally intensive and usually time-consuming to construct and configure. This paper presents a case study with techniques for building a 3D finite element model of an inhomogeneous fracture network for modelling flow and tracer transport, combining deterministic and stochastic information on fracture aperture distributions. The complex intersected fractures represent a challenge for geometrical model design, mesh quality requirements and property allocations. For the integrated and holistic modelling approach, including the application of numerical and analytical simulation techniques, new object-oriented concepts in software engineering are implemented to ensure a resourceful and practicable software environment.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Center for Applied Geoscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany

    Thomas Kalbacher, Chris McDermott, Wenqing Wang & Olaf Kolditz

  2. Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen PSI, Switzerland

    Ralph Mettier & Georg Kosakowski

  3. Graduate School of Environmental Science, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan

    Takeo Taniguchi

  4. Center for Applied Geoscience (ZAG), Sigwartstr. 10, D-72076, Tübingen, Germany

    Thomas Kalbacher

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  1. Thomas Kalbacher
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  2. Ralph Mettier
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  4. Wenqing Wang
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  5. Georg Kosakowski
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  6. Takeo Taniguchi
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  7. Olaf Kolditz
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Correspondence to Thomas Kalbacher.

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Kalbacher, T., Mettier, R., McDermott, C. et al. Geometric modelling and object-oriented software concepts applied to a heterogeneous fractured network from the Grimsel rock laboratory. Comput Geosci 11, 9–26 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10596-006-9032-8

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