Thermo-Hydro-Chemo-Mechanical Coupling in Geomaterials

Second International Conference
on Porous Media and its Applications
in Science, Engineering and Industry
June 17-22, 2007
Kauai, Hawaii
Special session:
Thermo-Hydro-Chemo-Mechanical Coupling
in Geomaterials
Organized by:
Tomasz Hueckel (Duke University, USA), Lyesse Laloui (EPFL, Switzerland)
& Dani Or (EPFL, Switzerland)
Modelling and measurement methods for coupled multi-physical processes in porous
media are gaining acceptance as evidenced by the rapid expansion of this field. An
important class of problems involves the study of thermal and mass content changes
that strongly affect deformation of the solid structure of the porous medium. Such
interacting phenomena increase the complexity of engineering problems, and require
examination of their impact over extended periods of time, especially concerning issues
of durability and performance assessment. Instances of complexity and interactions are
many due to the coexistence of several constituents and phases, with specific thermomechanical
interactions, reactivity, and their often non-linear character. Applications
include nuclear waste disposal technology, heat exchangers built-in in building
foundations, petroleum and other energy resource engineering, pavement thermochemo-mechanics,
dynamics of pore space in agricultural soils, soil and rock weathering,
and more.
Thermo-hydro-chemo-mechanical couplings in porous media require a multi-disciplinary
approach to make a rigorous study possible for both natural phenomena and man-made
systems. The emphasis in such studies is placed on understanding and simulation of the
mechanisms of the interactions between the various physical processes. These require
a re-evaluation of the mechanical, chemical and physical foundations of various
engineering and basic sciences such as civil and mechanical engineering, mechanics of
solids and fluids, material sciences, engineering geology, eco-hydrology, biomechanics
and geophysics. Examples of the mechanisms involved include thermal desorption of
adsorbed water in clay barriers against radioactive waste affecting their deformation and
permeability, change in capillary forces affecting soil strength, growth of biomass
clogging the pore spaces, dissolution of minerals affecting strength and elasticity moduli
of rocks, etc.
We encourage contributions in cutting-edge science and engineering developments in
coupled processes in porous media. The special session will include two keynote
lectures and five to seven contributing papers. The emphasis will be on fundamentals
and simulation of mechanisms of inter-phenomenon couplings and their role in specific
applications in natural systems and technologies.
Hueckel, Laloui, Or
Final version (May 7, 2006)
1
Special session on THM Coupling in Geomaterials

Hueckel, Laloui, Or
Final version (May 7, 2006)
2
Special session on THM Coupling in Geomaterials