As well as flow through joints, 3DEC 5.2 is capable of simulating fluid flow through the blocks or the matrix (i.e., between the joints). It is assumed that the blocks represent a saturated, permeable solid, such as soil or fractured rock mass.
The flow in the matrix is coupled to the flow in the joints such that fluid in the joints can flow into the surrounding matrix (i.e., leak-off). As with the joint flow, the matrix flow modeling may be done independently of the usual 3DEC mechanical calculations or, in order to capture the effects of fluid/solid interaction, it may be done in conjunction (i.e., coupled) with the mechanical modeling.
3DEC Project: Leakoff