This paper presents a modeling approach for studying hydro-mechanical coupled
processes, including fracture development, within geological formations. This is
accomplished through the novel linking of two codes: TOUGH2, which is a widely used
simulator of subsurface multiphase flow based on the finite volume method; and an
implementation of the Rigid-Body-Spring Network (RBSN) method, which provides a
discrete (lattice) representation of material elasticity and fracture development. The …