Algebraic Multiscale Solver for Flow Problems in Heterogeneous Porous Media

Advisors

Hamdi Tchelepi, primary advisor
Khalid Aziz, advisor
Hadi Hajibeygi, advisor

Abstract

Numerical simulations of multiphase flow in porous media lead to linear systems which are very large and fall beyond the scope of classical iterative solvers. This has motivated extensive research on the development of solution techniques for such systems, including multiscale methods to reduce the computational complexity. The objective of this dissertation is to develop an efficient and scalable linear solution strategy based on multiscale methods for flow problems (pressure equations) arising from reservoir simulation. This work consists of three parts. First, an Algebraic Multiscale Solver (AMS) framework for incompressible flow problems is described. Second, a monotone Multiscale Finite Volume method is proposed to achieve a physical and mass conservative pressure solution. Finally, AMS is extended to simulate flow in heterogeneous reservoirs with complex well configurations.