Numerical modelling of in situ behaviour of the Callovo–Oxfordian argillite subjected to the thermal loading

To enhance the understanding of thermal impact on the in situ behaviour of the Callovo–Oxfordian argillite, this paper presents an interpretation of an in situ heating experiment carried out in the Meuse/Haute Marne Underground Research Laboratory (M/HM URL). The argillite was heated successively by two constant heating powers: 277 W and 925 W. When subjected to thermal loading, the argillite exhibits an important volume change and a strong pore pressure response that significantly affect its hydraulic and mechanical behaviour. Numerical analysis has been performed by using a coupled theoretical formulation that incorporates a constitutive model especially developed for this material. Based on Biot's theory, this model includes the influence of interstitial pressure on the mechanical behaviour. The simulation obtained reproduces satisfactorily the results of the in situ experiment and the main observed patterns of behaviour. The interpretation and discussion of numerical results provide additional data that can help us to understand the thermo-hydromechanical behaviour concepts of saturated argillite formation.