Evaluation of the feasibility of using 3D LCD-Printed samples as rock analogs in geomechanical studies

3D printing has emerged as a valuable tool for studying the mechanical behavior of rock replicas under various stress−strain states. This technique enables the creation of an unlimited number of replicas with predetermined properties and a homogeneous structure. Among various 3D printing methods, liquid crystal display (LCD)-based printing offers a cost-effective and high-quality approach for rapid prototyping of rock samples. This study investigates the feasibility of using 3D LCD printing to create rock analogs for geomechanical investigations. We evaluate the microstructure of LCD-printed samples and its influence on their elastic and mechanical properties. To assess these properties, we subjected cylindrical samples to elastic wave propagation and uniaxial compression tests. Our results demonstrate that LCD-printed samples exhibit high homogeneity of elastic properties. The velocities of elastic wave propagation across and along the layers are essentially identical, differing only by the error value. Moreover, Young's moduli obtained under uniaxial loading are in good agreement with non-destructive test results, indicating a high degree of homogeneity in elastic properties up to 20 MPa. These findings suggest that 3D LCD-printed rock analogs are well-suited for investigating processes in rocks under purely elastic loading. Additionally, the technology's versatility allows for the creation of rock replicas with various features, providing researchers with the ability to study the mechanical behavior of rocks with specific characteristics. We demonstrate the potential of 3D LCD-printed rock analogs through a case study investigating the impact of cyclic deformations on the conductivity of thin capillaries in a porous medium. Our results provide a strong foundation for utilizing 3D LCD printing to advance our understanding of geomechanical processes in rocks.