Modeling of the establishment and stability of gel barriers in main cracks

A quasi-one-dimensional nonstationary model for the waterproofing of main cracks using Herschel–Bulkley viscoplastic fluid is presented. The mathematical model developed in a one-dimensional isothermal approximation with the hydrodynamic parameters (pressure and velocity) averaged over the cross section of the crack can be used to determine the optimal technological parameters of the waterproofing process and the size of gel barriers to ensure their stability on exposure to an intense filtration flow after crack waterproofing. The ranges of flow rates which provide waterproofing of a crack of fixed width for the selected gel are determined. The stability of the established gel barriers is estimated.