High Pressure Storage of Gas in Lined Shallow Rock Caverns — Results from Field Tests

Abstract At the Grängesberg Research Plant field tests have been performed regarding storage of gas at very high pressures in lined shallow rock caverns. The surrounding rock mass (granite) has proven to be very capable of withstanding loads at levels far above the initial rock stresses. No tendency of vertical uplift has been recorded. At an internal pressure of 52 MPa the maximum registered radial deformation in the rock was 5.65 mm, corresponding to a tangential strain of 2 per mille. The combined construction element liner-concrete-rock has fulfilled its main purpose, i.e. to confine the gas, throughout a tough load history. Leakage tests at high pressures have indicated that even a large failure in the liner can be controlled without any severe consequences.