Connectivity Anisotropy of fracture network: A connected branch approach

Fracture networks play a crucial role in various natural processes, including fluid flow in subsurface reservoirs, seismicity, and the overall mechanical behavior of rocks. Understanding the anisotropic nature of connectivity within these networks is essential for accurately modeling and predicting subsurface processes. By adopting a connected branch approach, the study explores the directional variation of branches within these networks which shed light on the preferential pathways and their impact on overall connectivity. This approach enables a comprehensive analysis of the network's structural complexities, providing valuable insights into the anisotropic behavior of fractures.

Our study employs fractal geometry to quantify the connectivity anisotropy of fracture networks. Fractal dimensions are a powerful tool to characterize the intricate and self-repeating patterns inherent in fracture distributions. By applying these dimensions in different orientations, we reveal the directional variations in connectivity, providing a comprehensive analysis of the network's anisotropic behavior. The results contribute to the fundamental understanding of geological processes and have practical implications for various industries, such as oil and gas exploration, geothermal energy extraction, and underground waste storage. This research presents a step forward in unraveling the complexities of fracture networks, offering valuable insights for improved reservoir characterization, enhanced resource recovery, and more accurate subsurface fluid flow predictions in geoscience and engineering applications.