A geometry-based adaptive unstructured grid generation algorithm for complex geological media

• A novel unstructured grid generation algorithm is presented that considers the effect of geological features and well locations in grid resolution.
• Strategy for definition and construction of initial grid based on geological models.
• Grid resolution control based on geometrical and geological (permeability) factors.
• Geometry adaptation based on geological data.

In this paper a novel unstructured grid generation algorithm is presented that considers the effect of geological features and well locations in grid resolution. The proposed grid generation algorithm presents a strategy for definition and construction of an initial grid based on the geological model, geometry adaptation of geological features, and grid resolution control. The algorithm is applied to seismotectonic map of the Masjed-i-Soleiman reservoir. Comparison of grid results with the “Triangle” program shows a more suitable permeability contrast. Immiscible two-phase flow solutions are presented for a fractured porous media test case using different grid resolutions. Adapted grid on the fracture geometry gave identical results with that of a fine grid. The adapted grid employed 88.2% less CPU time when compared to the solutions obtained by the fine grid.