Anisotropic Evolution of Permeability in Compacted Rock Block Assemblies: A Quantitative Research Based on CT Imaging
摘要
In recent years, carbon dioxide sequestration in mine goaf areas has been proposed as a strategy to promote low-carbon development in the coal industry. The internal void distribution of rubble accumulations in these areas exhibits significant spatial and directional heterogeneity, which leads to substantial errors in gas flow modeling based on isotropic assumptions. This study investigates the variation in rock block size, void distribution, and the anisotropic evolution of permeability in block assemblies with different gradations during compaction. Using a custom-made loading mold and industrial CT scanning equipment, compaction experiments were conducted, with CT scans taken at various stages. The data were then processed with self-developed scripts and imaging technology to simulate anisotropic permeability changes in COMSOL software. The results show that as compaction progresses, particle size variations in different gradations follow distinct patterns, with horizontal permeability changes generally being greater than vertical ones. The direction of principal permeability gradually aligns with the XYZ axes, and the maximum permeability direction shifts from horizontal to vertical. For log-normal distributed particles, the vertical-to-horizontal permeability ratio reached 3.21 at the final stage of compaction, indicating significant anisotropy that cannot be overlooked. Compared to intact strata, block assemblies in the goaf generally exhibit higher permeability, which plays a dominant role in gas flow analysis. The findings of this study provide valuable insights and offer essential guidance for accurately assessing the CO