Direct numerical simulations of the breakup of porous media in laminar duct flow

Abstract This paper uses a novel numerical approach to investigate the fracture of porous media in laminar duct flow. Combining Peridynamics with Navier–Stokes equations through an Immersed Boundary Method (IBM), we achieve a comprehensive analysis of fluid dynamics while considering fracture mechanics. The study presents results from numerical simulations exploring the breakup of six distinct configurations of porous media, varying in porosity from 0.55 to 0.8 and considering different fracture energy releases. Phenomenologically, we observe that fluid-induced stress lead to the breakup of the solid matrix, initiating rapid crack propagation and fragment generation. Detailed analyses of temporal evolution, including porosity and permeability, are provided, alongside Probability Density Functions (PDFs) of an equivalent stress distribution within the porous material. Additionally, a criterion for porous media breakup under laminar duct flow is proposed, employing Griffith’s theory of fracture mechanics. The authors believe that these results contribute to a deeper understanding of such complex multiphysical phenomena and offer insights into fracture mechanics within porous media in duct flow.