Home ⟩ Research ⟩ Research Projects ⟩ FLOw Pathways within faults and associated fracture systems in crystalline bedrock (FLOP)
FLOw Pathways within faults and associated fracture systems in crystalline bedrock (FLOP)
- Project research area
- Energy Transition
- Project duration
- 01.02.2023 - 31.01.2026
Introduction
As part of the SAFER research programme, the FLOP project will focus on studying the flow of water in rock fractures. In crystalline rocks, such as the Finnish bedrock, water flow occurs mainly in channels formed by fractures. Understanding the flow of water is critical for applications such as nuclear waste disposal and rock geothermal energy.
The FLOP project will investigate the formation and properties of three-dimensional networks of fractures and the role of these networks in the formation of water conducting channels. The research will be carried out at multiple scales and using state-of-the-art methods. Data from outcrops include structural geological observations, orthophotos and digitised fractures. Computed tomography (CT) images based on X-rays will be taken from rock samples taken from the outcrops. CT images allow the three-dimensional characteristics of the fracture network to be accurately determined. The project continues research started in the KYT KARIKKO and MIRA-3D projects.
Partners: University of Turku, University of Jyväskylä, Åbo Akademi, Geological Survey of Finland
The coordinator of the project: University of Turku
Funding authority: Nuclear Waste Management Fund (VYR)
Contact person: Nikolas Ovaskainen
