Hydro-mechanical simulation and analysis of induced seismicity for a hydraulic stimulation test at the Reykjanes geothermal field, Iceland

The combination of seismic analysis with advanced physics-based simulation provides an opportunity to further understand injection-induced fault reactivation, including the hydro-mechanical interplay between different faults and the rock where they reside. Here, this is investigated based on data from hydraulic stimulation of a well at the Reykjanes geothermal field. Central is the development of an interdisciplinary framework for integration of different data types towards a 3D, hydro-mechanical and faulted geothermal reservoir simulation model. This work shows how seismic interpretations can improve simulation models and, reciprocally, how fully coupled physics-based modeling can add to seismic interpretations in analysis of fault reactivation.

Automated summary

By combining seismic analysis with physics-based simulation, this study delves into injection-induced fault reactivation, focusing on the hydro-mechanical interplay between different faults and their host rocks. Conducted at the Reykjanes geothermal field, the research aims to develop an interdisciplinary framework for integrating various data types into a 3D, hydro-mechanical, faulted geothermal reservoir simulation model. The work demonstrates how seismic interpretations can enhance simulation models and vice versa, showcasing the value of fully coupled physics-based modeling in analyzing fault reactivation.