Physical model test and numerical simulation for the stability of a lined rock cavern for compressed air energy storage

To evaluate the stability of a lined rock cavern (LRC) for compressed air energy storage (CAES), a similar physical model test was designed and conducted. The thermodynamic responses and deformation characteristics of the LRC under both saturated and cycle air pressure conditions were analyzed. Influences of the cavern diameter, air pressure, elastic modulus of surrounding rock, thickness of concrete lining, strength of concrete on the sealing and stability of the LRC were discussed by the numerical simulation method. The results indicate that the distribution of air temperature inside the chamber is uneven and the pressure at the bottom of the chamber is significantly greater than that at the top of the chamber. The surrounding rock exhibits plastic deformation, which reduces the contact pressure between the lining and the surrounding rock. Notably, cumulative deformation of the surrounding rock is observed during the cyclic inflation and deflation process. It is not recommended to use excessively thick linings or high-strength concrete, such as C50 or C60, in the design of the LRC. In particular, the rubber sealing layer demonstrates superior performance for the LRC, due to its high deformation capacity. These findings provide valuable insights for the construction of the LRC, which is conducive to the promotion of CAES technology.