Numerical and experimental study of the interaction between surface swelling soil and gas well casing, based on unsaturated soil mechanics

Abstract

This research presents an in-depth analysis of the volumetric and mechanical behavior of expansive soils surrounding the Khangiran gas well in Sarakhs, emphasizing the effects of matric suction and confining pressures on soil mechanical properties. The study employs both laboratory and numerical approaches, utilizing an unsaturated triaxial apparatus and GeoStudio software, to assess (1) the influence of matric suction and confining pressure on volumetric deformation and shear strength, (2) the impact of annual precipitation on soil swelling, and (3) the tensile stresses exerted on the well casing due to soil expansion. Laboratory results reveal that shear strength increases from 195 kPa to 235 kPa as confining stress rises from 100 to 200 kPa, while cohesion climbs from 68 kPa in saturation to 95 kPa under 100 kPa of matric suction, signifying enhanced resistance in drier soil conditions. Numerical modeling indicates that annual precipitation induces a maximum tensile force of 163 kN at a depth of 13 m, with the expansive zone extending approximately 15 m from the well. The thickness of the steel used for tensile strength resistance against soil swelling is sufficient, and if extensive corrosion of the steel casing is not a concern, tensile strength failure will not occur. These findings offer critical insights into soil-structure interaction in expansive soils and provide practical guidance for the design of resilient gas well casings in similar geotechnical settings.

Keywords

• Unsaturated triaxial test
• Swelling soil
• Shear strength
• Unsaturated soil mechanics
• Matric suction