Research Interests
Hydraulic fracturing
Rock mechanics
Influence of fractures on the hydro-mechanical behavior of rockmasses
Flow and transport in fractured porous media
Rock physics visualization techniques (i.e., x-ray microCT, confocal microscopy)
Mining survey & 3D visualization
Rock supports

Professor Giovanni Grasselli is the NSERC-Energi Simulation Industrial Research Chair in Fundamental Rock Physics and Rock Mechanics. His work is concentrated in examining the development of rock fractures under a range of thermohydro-mechanical conditions. This involves fundamental lab studies using x-ray tomography, and advanced numerical modelling using hybrid finite element discrete element methods (fem-dem). Professor Grasselli’s lab is equipped with state of the art field measurement tools including the aforementioned point load tester, Schmidt hammer, and 3D laser scanner for rock fracture mapping.

By combining fundamental principles of rock physics and rock mechanics with seismic imaging, his research will help in the development of technology for smarter, unconventional petroleum production, while reducing environmental impacts and contributing towards safer field operations.