A group invariant solution for a pre-existing fluid-driven fracture in permeable rock

作者：Fareo A G; Mason D P^*

来源：Nonlinear Analysis: Real World Applications , 2011, 12(1): 767-779.

DOI：10.1016/j.nonrwa.2010.08.004

• Lie point symmetry
• Similarity solution
• Fluid-solid interaction
• Lubrication theory
• Nonlinear diffusion
• PKN hydraulic fracture
• Leak-off velocity

The propagation of a two-dimensional pre-existing fracture in permeable rock by the injection of a viscous, incompressible Newtonian fluid is considered. The fluid flow in the fracture is laminar. By the application of lubrication theory, a partial differential equation relating the half-width of the fracture to the fluid pressure and leak-off velocity is derived. The model is closed by the adoption of the PKN formulation in which the fluid pressure is proportional to the fracture half-width. The partial differential equation admits four Lie point symmetries provided the leak-off velocity satisfies a first order linear partial differential equation. The solution of this equation yields the leak-off velocity as a function of the distance along the fracture and time. The group invariant solution is derived by considering a linear combination of the Lie point symmetries. The boundary value problem is reformulated as a pair of initial value problems. The model in which the leak-off velocity is proportional to the fracture half-width is considered. The working condition of constant pressure at the fracture entry is analysed in detail.

• 出版日期2011-2