Node-centered finite volume discretizations for the numerical simulation of multiphase flow in heterogeneous porous media

Three node-centered finite volume discretizations for multiphase porous med ia flow are presented and compared. By combination of these methods two add itional discretization methods are generated. The ability of these schemes to describe flows at textural interfaces of different geologic formations i s investigated. It was found that models with nonzero-entry pressures for t he capillary pressure-saturation relationship in conjunction with the Box d iscretization may give rise to spurious oscillations for flows around low p ermeable lenses. Furthermore, the applicability and sensitivity of the disc retization methods with regard to the used computational grids is discussed . The schemes are used for the numerical study of two-phase flow in porous media with zones of different material properties.