Effects of confining pressure and temperature on mixed-mode (I–II) fracture toughness of a limestone rock

Studying fracture toughness behavior at elevated temperatures and confining pressures is valuable for a number of practical situations such as hydraulic fracturing used to enhance oil and gas recovery from a reservoir, and the disposal or safe storage of radioactive waste in underground cavities. Mixed-mode (I–II) fracture toughness under simulated reservoir conditions of high temperature and confining pressure was studied using straight notched...