Group invariant solution for a pre-existing fluid-driven fracture in impermeable rock (Q2461533)

The authors analyze the propagation of two-dimensional fluid-driven fracture in impermeable rocks. Applying lubrication theory, they derive a partial differential equation relating the half-width of the fracture to the fluid pressure. Using similarity solutions, the authors derive further a nonlinear diffusion equation, which is solved via Lie point symmetry generator method. Applications in which the rate of fluid injection into the fracture and the pressure at the fracture entry are independent are considered.