Research on the effect of groundwater flow in underground storage caverns

Abstract

Cai Mep underground storage cavern was constructed at a depth of approximately 150 meters in hard rock in Ba Ria - Vung Tau province, Vietnam. Geological analyses of the site were conducted by the Korean company HYOSUNG, which was also responsible for the construction. The site consists primarily of granite, present in various conditions, ranging from class 1 (very good condition) to class 5 (poor condition) on the RMR scale. The result of this paper estimates stress and displacements of surrounding rock and rock support of the (LPG) storage cavern by FEM analysis. The pattern of deformation, stress state, and distribution of plastic areas are analyzed by RocScience - RS2 software. The study result provides a reliable way to analyze the effect of Groundwater Flow in the (LPG) storage cavern and also will help to design or optimize the subsequent support.