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An experiment in earthquake control at rangely, colorado
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 26, 1976
Summary
Scientists demonstrated earthquake control by manipulating fluid pressure in an active oil field. This research shows that controlling fluid pressure in fault zones can potentially manage seismic activity.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Earthquake Science
- Petroleum Engineering
Background:
- Seismicity in the Rangely oil field, Colorado, is linked to fluid pressure from secondary recovery operations.
- Earthquakes in the area cluster around a fault zone with elevated pore pressure.
- Previous research suggests a correlation between fluid pressure and earthquake triggering.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the feasibility of earthquake control through fluid pressure manipulation.
- To investigate the relationship between controlled fluid pressure variations and seismicity.
- To validate predictive models for fluid-induced earthquakes.
Main Methods:
- Controlled injection and recovery of water into a seismically active zone.
- Precise monitoring of fluid pressure in observation wells.
- In situ stress measurements and laboratory rock friction analysis.
- Computer modeling to infer fluid pressure distribution.
Main Results:
- Controlled fluid pressure variations successfully altered seismicity.
- Observed earthquake activity matched predictions based on rock friction and stress measurements.
- The experiment confirmed that fluid pressure can trigger earthquakes on existing fractures.
Conclusions:
- Earthquake control is feasible by managing fluid pressure within fault zones.
- This methodology offers a potential method for mitigating seismic hazards in similar geological settings.
- Further research can refine fluid pressure control strategies for earthquake management.
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