Navigate the Geomechanics and Rock Physics (GaRP) Laboratory
In addition to the capabilities outlined below, we integrate all geomechanics and petrophysical data, where possible, with petrographic thin-section, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis.
The laboratory houses a sophisticated servo-controlled triaxial apparatus with the following specifications:
Servo‐controlled pore and confining pressures up to 200 MPa (29000 Psi)
Servo‐controlled differential load capacity up to 955 MPa (138500 Psi, 300 kN).
Cylindrical plug of size of up to 20 mm diameter by 50 mm length.
Strain rates from 10E-8 per sec to 10E-5 per sec.
Temperature up to 200°C.
Permeability measurement from 10E-16 to 10E-23 squared meters.
Monitor porosity change.
P‐wave, S‐wave, and S‐wave splitting data measurements (velocity and attenuation) at 1.5 MHz.
Electrical resistivity measurements.
4 independent strain gauge attached to plugged specimen to measure deformation.
Direct shear sliders to measure friction coefficient.
(ABOVE) Main components of the Triaxial apparatus showing servo-controller boxes and ultrasonic system: switchbox, oscilloscope and pulser/receiver.
(ABOVE) Axial loading system showing the loading mechanism (motor, gear box, worm drive and high torque ball spline).
(ABOVE) Inside view of triaxial apparatus showing the confining and pore pressure servo-controller systems, confining pressure generator, and pressure vessel with external heaters.
(ABOVE) Sandard Sample Assembly that is used in the measurment of unconfined compressive strength, confined compressive strength, yield curve, low permeability, and friction coefficient.
(ABOVE) In addition to the measurements that can be conducted with the Standard Sample Assembly, the Seismic Sample Assembly can also measure P- and S-wave velocities and attenuations, static elastic properties, and electrical resistivity. NB: The star indicates the housing location of the P- and S-wave piezoelectric ceramics.
(ABOVE) Direct shear sliders and accessories that are used in the Standard Sample Assembly to measure friction coefficient.
(ABOVE) Tensile strength can be measured indirectly using the Brazilian Testing Method.
(BELOW) We also house poro-perm equipment that measures porosity and high permeability (10E-12 to 10E-18 squared meters).
