Acoustic properties of hydrate-bearing sediments in permafrost from hydrate formation to shear processes

Under depressurization, the hydrate reservoirs undergo complex mechanical behaviors such as consolidation or shear. To deeply understand the evolution in the mechanical properties of soil, triaxial equipment with an ultrasonic system was used to detect the shear wave velocity in hydrate-bearing sediments. The effects of hydrate saturation, water, and stress state on shear-wave velocity are studied. The experimental results show that: The hydrate saturation significantly affects the wave velocity in the hydrate formation stage, while the water content has little influence on it. During the consolidation period, the notable increase in shear wave velocity indicates a decrease in soil void ratio, which means the soil has significant settlement deformation. With continuous shearing, the soil elastic modulus is damaged, and finally, the maximum damage can reach 35%. The conclusions can deepen understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of hydrate-bearing sediments in permafrost, and provide a reference for predicting the stratum stability during hydrate exploitation.