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. This is the most advanced modeling approach, but comes with high numerical efforts and data requirements. The fractures have to be characterized by properties like aperture, lenght, spacing, main orientation. Fractures and matrix are usually coupled by flux continuity and continuity of the primary variables (hydraulic head, concentration).

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.

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