A Meshfree Generalized Finite Difference Method for Solution Mining Processes

TL;DR

This paper introduces a meshfree generalized finite difference method for simulating solution mining processes, enabling detailed 3D modeling across different scales to improve planning and understanding of salt cavern creation.

Contribution

It presents a novel meshfree GFDM framework capable of simulating solution mining on multiple scales using Lagrangian, Eulerian, and ALE formulations.

Findings

Effective simulation of microscopic and macroscopic scales

Supports industrial planning with virtual prototypes

Flexible formulations for diverse process conditions

Abstract

Experimental and field investigations for solution mining processes have improved intensely in recent years. Due to today's computing capacities, three-dimensional simulations of potential salt solution caverns can further enhance the understanding of these processes. They serve as a "virtual prototype" of a projected site and support planning in reasonable time. In this contribution, we present a meshfree Generalized Finite Difference Method (GFDM) based on a cloud of numerical points that is able to simulate solution mining processes on microscopic as well as macroscopic scales, which differ significantly in both the spatial and temporal scale. Focusing on anticipated industrial requirements, Lagrangian and Eulerian formulations including an Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) approach are considered.