Influence of Interlayers on the Stability of Salt Caverns in Stratified Formations
Please login to view abstract download link
Salt caverns are currently one of the alternatives for mass storage of green hydrogen. More specifically, stratified salt formations represent a significant proportion of the possible sites for locating this type of infrastructure worldwide. This study analyses the effect of rigid strata intercalated in stratified salt formations on stresses and deformations. The presence of non-saline layers in the cavern area can influence the evolution of plastic deformations, so it is of interest to analyse their impact in order to determine favourable locations for the construction of caverns. To carry out this analysis, a set of numerical models has been developed using the finite element method. In these models, which are linear elastic, creep has been incorporated as an inelastic phenomenon. The study covers a period of 30 years, which allows for the evaluation of long-term behaviour. Mudstone has been considered as the material present in the interlayers, as it is commonly found in non-saline layers [1]. These mudstone interlayers have been disposed in different configurations, thus allowing us to conclude the most favourable disposition for the construction of salt caverns. This work has made it possible to deduce the parameters that are most relevant to ensuring the safety and functionally of the cavern. In this way, design and location criteria have been established for real-world cases of salt formations and caverns for hydrogen storage.