Experimental and 3D numerical study on the damage and fracture mechanisms of hot dry rock cores under microwave irradiation

Key Points

• Damage mechanisms emerge significantly with microwave irradiation, indicating potential effects on rock stability.
• Fracture analysis revealed that temperature variations influenced crack development patterns in the rock.
• Numerical modeling and experimental methods validated the observed fracture mechanics related to microwave energy.
• Findings suggest enhancements in geothermal energy strategies through deeper understanding of these processes.