Influence of precipitation reaction on fracture dynamics

Geological storage is a common strategy for carbon dioxide mitigation, providing effective long-term storage near production sites. In low-permeability rocks, the fluid injection can lead to the formation of fractures. In this study, we consider the injection of two reacting fluids to form a precipitate in the fracture, and study its impact on the fracture dynamics. Indeed, the solubility and reactivity of each fluid determine the amount of precipitate, modeling the amount of CO2 that can be safely stored. Our model experimental system is composed of gelatin, which is initially fractured with a reactive fluid, and then forms a precipitate upon the injection of a regent. We vary the mechanical properties of the gelatin and the injection conditions. We report the fracture dynamics and rationalize our findings by considering the effects of elasticity, viscosity, and precipitation.