Empirical equations for bulk and shear moduli of dry sandstones based on grain-scale numerical simulations

Abstract

Elastic properties of rocks are largely controlled by parameters of grain contacts. In this paper, many computer 3D models of grain aggregates are generated for different parameters of grain contacts. Then, for each of these models, elastic properties are computed using finite element simulations. Finally, empirical fits are proposed that define elastic moduli of these sandstones as functions of grain contact parameters. The results show good agreement between the numerical simulations and predictions of the empirical fit.