Abstract

A new method for ground improvement is being developed: BioGrout, a method based on microbial-induced carbonate precipitation. The feasibility of this method was tested in a field scale experi-ment: within 12 days 40 m3 of sand was biologically cemented stretching over a length of 5 m between three injection and three extraction points. In this paper we present the mechanical characteristics of the biologically cemented sand, based on strength tests on the cores collected from the field scale experi-ment. The results are compared with other natural and artificially cemented sandstones. Correlations could be established between CaCO3 content, dry density and strength at several confining stresses. From the strength tests the parameters describing the failure criterion—cohesion and friction angle- could be derived, which enable engineering design.

Keywords:
Reservoir Characterization, failure criteria, correlation, biologically, Upstream Oil & Gas, caco 3, sandstone, strength, heterogeneity, peak strength
Subjects:
Reservoir Characterization, Reservoir geomechanics
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2009. Taylor and Francis Group. Permission to Distribute - International Society for Rock Mechanics
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