Geomechanics Laboratory
Overview
We have a new Geomechanics Laboratory, featuring a triaxial rock deformation apparatus, Acoustic Emission (AE) system and a Double Torsion Rig.
The triaxial rock deformation apparatus can subject fluid-saturated cylindrical rock specimens to the same conditions of pressure, stress and temperature experienced at depths of up to 10 km (i.e., 250 MPa and 200° Celsius).
The apparatus allows us to measure:
- Stress-strain (axial & radial);
- Elastic moduli & poroelastic coefficients;
- P- and S-wave velocities;
- Permeability & pore volume changes up to rock failure.
The apparatus is built and supported by Sanchez Technologies, now part of Core Laboratories. The AE system was acquired from Applied Seismology Consultants and the Double Torsion Rig was funded by the Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics.
Application
The facility provide great opportunities for Masters by Research, PhD and postdoctoral projects, as well as new research collaborations and Joint Industry Projects on the geoscience underpinning the energy transition, decarbonisation, clean energy, hydrogen, and critical minerals.