Frackita v1: a MATLAB® code for the 1D analysis of geological fractures

Abstract

This work presents Frackita-v1 code, written in MATLAB®. Frackita-v1 is a tool that automatizes the calculation of parameters, such as Box dimension, Correlation dimension, Lyapunov exponent, Coefficient of variation, and fracture intensity. These parameters are fundamental to knowing the fracture size distribution, density, and spatial arrangement. This last variable is important because it’s related to fluid flow process and strain localization. Frackita-v1 covers the current necessity of a 1D analysis software for education, research, and industry.

The code uses spacing data obtained from scanlines on thin sections, outcrops, and aerial photographs or satellite images. In addition, the Frackita-v1 code produces synthetic fracture patterns that help to understand the calculated parameters. The implemented methods are scale-independent and can be applied to spacing data from micro- to macro-scales.