We focus on understanding the fundamental mechanics and hydraulic transport properties of the subsurface for risk mitigation and the safe development of geo-energies (Geothermal, CO2 sequestration, hydrogen storage).
We combine advanced experimental methods, natural observations (seismic, geodetic, geophysical), and analytical/numerical models to understand various hydro-mechanical couplings in faults and reservoirs.
News
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September, 2025
The inaugural Latin American Geothermal Congress ( www.latamgeothermal.com ) was a huge success. This is the first of its kind technical activity which evaluated the past, present and future of geothermal energy in the region. Prof. Acosta was a leader in the organizing commitee for this congress..
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September, 2025
Our large scale rock deformation apparatus is here. The device named HUMA (High stress Underground Mechanics Apparatus) allows 1. the study of fault mechanics at 30cm scale under perfectly controlled high stress conditions (up to 5km depth in the subsurface). We can inject and extract fluids from the fault/fault zone, and monitor it all with microseismometers in the nrea-fault region. HUMA also allows 2. studying the rock matrix and fault mechancis and physics through the use of a high stress triaxial cell (160 MPa confining pressure) with 24 electrical feedthroughs and fluid injection and extraction. This apparatus is unique in its kind due to its size, strength, stiffness, and mostly its versatility. We tested all of this and it's working like a charm! Thank you GCTS for the amazing and precise work. Stay tuned for the research coming out of this, it will be rather unique!
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August, 2025
Our undergrads, Maddie Benedetti, Seamus Chappell, and Gus Stach will be working on low and high stress fluid flow and wave propagation in the subsurface for geo-energy activities.
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August, 2025
Welcome to our new graduate student, Lily Maddox, who will be working on tracking fluid plumes and rock's physical properties for geo-energy operations.
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June, 2025
An awesome paper led by Taeho Kim on a controller for single-well based optimization of geothermal stimulation has been published in Geothermics. Read it here.
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May, 2025
Our latest paper on an extremely efficient model for forecasting induced seismicity both for fluid injection and extraction has been published in International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control. Read it here.
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March, 2025
Our paper on monitoring elastic and inelastic deformation in depleted reservoirs has been published in JGR: Solid Earth. Read it here.
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January, 2025
Welcome to our new graduate student, Rahi Abrar, who will be working on geothermal reservoir optimization.
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August 01, 2025
The EMES Lab has started at VT GEOS! Thanks all for the warm welcome.