Flow-Induced Compaction Localization in a Rock-Like Medium

Abstract

Fluid injection into underground rocks plays a crucial role in various geoengineering applications. While injection-induced deformation is often associated with tensile and shear failures, the feasibility of flow-driven compaction localization remains largely unexplored. In this study, we investigate the formation of compaction localizations in a rock-like porous medium composed of sintered polymethyl methacrylate beads, using high-resolution image analysis. By tracking deformation in real-time, we reveal a complex localization process that couples compaction with shear. Moreover, following the initial localization, we observe a transient loss and subsequent recovery of stiffness within the medium. These findings suggest that flow-induced compaction localizations likely play a significant role in field-scale deformation processes, particularly in high-porosity rock formations subjected to pressurized flow.