Broadband Elastic Wave Propagation in Intact Rocks (Quasi-static to MegaHertz)

Elastic wave propagation in saturated porous rocks reflects the fluid and mineral stiffness and their frequency-dependent interaction. Seismic imaging and borehole measurements in the field use low-frequency, long-wavelength signals (Hz-to-kHz), while standard laboratory-measurements operate in the MHz range. This thesis advances broadband elastic wave propagation methods (quasi-static, cyclic loading, first-mode resonance, and ultrasonic) to characterize intact rocks in order to gather laboratory data relevant to field conditions. Results show the critical effect of surface roughness at the specimen-endcap interfaces on stiffness measured under quasi-static conditions; local strain measurements using specimen-bonded strain gauges avoid seating effects. Multi-mode low-frequency resonant column testing provides the most reliable assessment of attenuation; attenuation increases and resonant frequency decreases with vibration amplitude for all vibration modes (longitudinal, torsional, and flexural). Ultrasonic P and S-wave velocities increase as a function of conf fining pressure and during early stages of deviatoric loading; trends follow a Hertzian power law. The corresponding -factors and -exponents exhibit a strong correlation with specimen type. The combination of ultrasonic measurement and coda wave analysis allows us to detect minute velocity changes during fluid invasion and damage evolution. Differences in P-wave velocity in specimens saturated with brine and supercritical CO2 are higher at seismic frequencies than in ultrasonic frequencies. 5 The new experimental methods implemented in this research and the comprehensive characterization studies provide new tools into intact rock characterization and contribute new insights on the physical properties of intact rocks and fluid-matrix interaction. Results highlight critical differences between field values and standard laboratory measurements