CO2 sorption induced damage in coals in unconfined and confined stress states: A micrometer to core scale investigation

Gas sorption in coal, in particular CO2, is known to cause swelling and internal structural change or damage. For instance, CO2 adsorption on coal causes swelling which in turn can close the fractures or cleats whereas its desorption can open pre-existing fractures as well as create new fractures, thus enhancing gas flow paths in coal seams. Gas release and the associated induced damage are relevant for several applications such as coal burst in...