FINITE-ELEMENT ANALYSES OF ANISOTROPIC POROELASTICITY - A GENERALIZEDMANDELS PROBLEM AND AN INCLINED BOREHOLE PROBLEM

The finite element equations for non-linear, anisotropic poroelasticit y are cast in the form of measurable engineering constants. Two proble ms of importance to the rock and petroleum industry are analysed by th e FEM. First, the classical Mandel's problem with an extension to tran sversely isotropic case is investigated. Second, the problem of an inc lined borehole is explored. In particular, the effect of material anis otropy on stress concentration near the wall with implication to boreh ole instability is examined in detail.