Model concepts

Model concepts

For the modeling of flow and transport in fractured porous media, different kinds of model concepts have been developed. Here is an overview of the major groups.

Equivalent porous-medium model (EPM)

An equivalent porous-medium model (EPM) uses usually Darcy's law for the flow calculations. Fractures are not resolved in EPMs and average parameters are used (f.e. mean hydraulic conductivity, mean porosity etc.)

Discrete-fracture model (DFM)

Discrete-fracture models (DFM) discretize the (major) fractures as well as the matrix between them.

Example of a DFM simulation.

Dual-continuum model

A dual-continuum model uses two or more coupled continua. One is usually the matrix and the other one the fracture continuum. Different parameters and equations are used in the continua.

Available software

• Comsol Multiphysics
• FEFlow
• HydroGeoSphere

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