Geometric Methods in the Analysis on Non-linear Flows in Porous Media (Preliminary Version)

Abstract

Over the past few years, we developed a mathematically rigorous method to study the dynamical processes associated to nonlinear Forchheimer flows for slightly compressible fluids. We have proved the existence of a geometric transformation which relates constant mean curvature surfaces and time-invariant pressure distribution graphs constrained by the Darcy-Forchheimer law. We therein established a direct relationship between the CMC graph equation and a certain family of equations which we call $g$-Forchheimer equations. The corresponding results, on fast flows and their geometric interpretation, can be used as analytical tools in evaluating important technological parameters in reservoir engineering.