Application of Neutron Imaging to Investigate Flow through Fractures for EGS

There is an ongoing effort at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to develop a unique experimental capability for investigating flow through porous and fractured media using neutron imaging techniques. This capability is expected to support numerous areas of investigation associated with flow processes relevant to EGS including, but not limited to: experimental visualization and measurement of velocity profiles and other flow characteristics to better inform reduced-order modeling of flow through fractures; laboratory scale validation of flow models and simulators; and a 'real-time' tool for studying geochemical rock/fluid interactions by noninvasively measuring material effects such as precipitation and dissolution in EGS-representative conditions.

Demonstrating the ability of the technique to generate useful quantitative data is the primary focus at this stage of the effort. Details of the experimental setup and neutron imaging technique will be discussed in this communication, including the description of a custom designed, high pressure, neutron scattering and imaging compatible triaxial flow cell.