GMIG is developing a family of novel, comprehensive mathematical models and analyses (energy estimates) integrating geomechanics, flow, contact mechanics, fractures, friction and generation of elastic waves. This analysis provides understanding, adaptation and guarantees. The models play a key role in EOR, EGR, carbon capture and carbon sequestration monitoring.

GMIG investigates the ways in which anthropogenic resource-management activities, such as injecting or extracting fluids beneath Earth’s surface, impact subsurface pressure and seismic activities. Areas of subsurface containing fractures or fault zones can be particularly vulnerable to slips, earthquakes, or mechanical instability. These abundant features also impact subsurface flow and are therefore crucial to understanding the risks and benefits of geothermal energy sources. predictive understanding of the thermally driven coupling between rock stresses, fluid pressure, and reactive fluid transport through thermal factures with associated dynamic permeability changes and microseismicity.

In parallel to its numerical analysis, GMIG represents its models with neural operators and in the context of deep learning, interpretability, and data. At the same time, GMIG is analyzing predictive UQ for geothermal models.

Demand from industry leaders, interest from government agencies worldwide, and the prioritization of renewable energy in many parts of the scientific community will help make carbon sequestration and geothermal energy some of GMIG’s chief areas of inquiry for years to come. Breakthroughs have led to recognition and practical applications in other fields, positioning GMIG to increase its impact.

Further reading: Coupling of flow and generation of elastic waves in a fractured porous medium