Stress-dependent permeability of fractured rock masses: a numerical study

We investigate the stress-dependent permeability issue in fractured rock masses considering the effects of nonlinear normal deformation and shear dilation of fractures using a two-dimensional distinct element method program, UDEC, based on a realistic discrete fracture network realization. A series of “numerical” experiments were conducted to calculate changes in the permeability of simulated fractured rock masses under various loading...