Expertise
Experimental geomechanics
Design and coordination of laboratory campaigns, multiphysical testing and data validation for shales, clays, bentonite, salt rock and complex geological formations.
Overview
A model is only as good as its parameters. Reliable parameters start in the laboratory
We define testing programmes and procedures, coordinate laboratories, and analyse and validate the results, with the numerical model that will use them already in mind.
Our experience ranges from running our own tests to coordinating campaigns across five laboratories in Europe and the USA, where sound procedures delivered high test repeatability.
Typical deliverables
What we provide
- Testing programme and procedures
- Coordination of external laboratories
- Validated datasets with quality checks
- Parameter sets ready for model calibration
Scope
What we test
- Shales and claystonestriaxial testing; effect of handling, swelling, temperature, brine and shearing rate
- Bentonite buffersthermal conductivity, unsaturated permeability, non-isothermal hydration
- Acoustic propertiesP-wave velocity versus density, hydration and temperature
- Salt and soft rockscreep tests with dedicated set-ups
Applications
Where our laboratory work feeds in
AGeological storageNuclear waste disposal · CO₂ storage · Geo-energyHost rocks, engineered barriers and reservoirs: demonstrating and optimising their coupled behaviour over very long time scales.CComplex ground & site characterisationSoluble & creeping ground · Field tests · Geological historySoluble, creeping or unusually pressured ground: turning boreholes, field tests and geological history into reliable parameters.
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