In-situ evaluation of gas permeability in engineering rock masses: Theoretical model, equipment development and field pilot testing
LIU Jiangfeng*, ZHAO Yixu, WANG Zhipeng, NI Hongyang, MA Shijia, SUN Ruinian
(State Key Laboratory for Inteligent Construction and Healthy Operation and Maintenance of Deep Underground Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221116, China)
Abstract： In-situ permeability evaluation of rock masses at the engineering scale is crucial for deep energy extraction and subsurface energy material sequestration, including CO2, hydrogen, and nuclear waste storage. Compared to laboratory-scale tests, this approach more accurately reflects the seepage behavior of rocks under their original in-situ conditions. This study proposes a theoretical method for calculating the in-situ gas permeability of rock masses at the engineering scale, systematically analyzing key parameters that influence permeability results. Special emphasis is placed on determining and conducting sensitivity analyses of the effective testing radius. Through simulated engineering-scale permeability tests under in-situ conditions and comparative analysis with core-scale results, it is observed that permeability values differ by no more than a factor of three. This discrepancy is primarily attributed to the confining pressure of 0.8 MPa applied during core-scale tests and the presence of interconnected pores and microcracks induced by local air bubbles during the casting process. Based on these findings, a series of pilot field tests were conducted in a deep underground laboratory and in both coal and sandstone roadways of a coal mine in Shandong Province, utilizing a self-developed portable in-situ gas permeability testing system. The results demonstrate that the proposed method and integrated system exhibit strong adaptability, stability, and repeatability across diverse engineering scenarios, thereby facilitating effective evaluation of rock mass permeability and grouting effectiveness. This research offers a novel technical pathway and theoretical foundation for the in-situ assessment of reservoir exploitability and the sealing performance of barrier systems in deep subsurface energy material sequestration projects.
刘江峰*，赵一旭，王志鹏，倪宏阳，马士佳，孙瑞年. 工程岩体渗流演化原位评价：理论模型、装备研制与现场先导性试验[J]. 岩石力学与工程学报, 2026, 45(2): 366-380.
LIU Jiangfeng*, ZHAO Yixu, WANG Zhipeng, NI Hongyang, MA Shijia, SUN Ruinian. In-situ evaluation of gas permeability in engineering rock masses: Theoretical model, equipment development and field pilot testing. , 2026, 45(2): 366-380.
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2026, Vol. 45 
