Real-time monitoring may improve understanding of fracture dynamics

Fractures in Earth's subsurface play an important role in our energy systems—from providing pathways to extract fossil fuel from rock deep underground to supporting emerging green technologies like carbon storage and enhanced geothermal heat—but predicting the properties of these fractures remains challenging. A new method developed by a Penn State-led team of scientists may paint a clearer picture of fractures as they open and close in real time.