Numerical modelling of thermo-hydromechanical (THM) in deforming porous media for subsurface systems

Abstract

The study of multiphase flow and heat flow in partially saturated porous media is important in environmental geomechanics engineering because of its relevance to consolidation of porous media in unsaturated zone. A numerical model which describes the thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) coupled problems in deformable porous material with two-phase flow has been developed. The relationships between capillary pressure, saturation of water and relative permeabilities of water and gas, proposed by Brooks and Corey was used. An extended study of the numerical model, based on the COMES-GEO code was conducted recently to solve unsaturated problems in local condition of Kg. Puteh wellfield, Kota Bharu. This site is a potential shallow aquifer which contribute to the largest groundwater supply in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Some numerical investigation on the proposed formulation is discussed with illustrative example problems to demonstrate solution procedures and validating of the model.