Explore the Energy Glossary

Look up terms beginning with:

fracture porosity

1. n. [Geology]

A type of secondary porosity produced by the tectonic fracturing of rock. Fractures themselves typically do not have much volume, but by joining preexisting pores, they enhance permeability significantly. In exceedingly rare cases, nonreservoir rocks such as granite can become reservoir rocks if sufficient fracturing occurs.

See: fractureplate tectonicsporesecondary porosity

Photomicrograph of fracture porosity.