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Engineering Subsurface Reservoirs for Geo-Energy Production and Minerals Recovery
Zhi Ye, Ph.D.
Zhi Ye, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Geology and Geological Engineering
501 East St. Joseph Street, Rapid City, SD 57701
zhi.ye@sdsmt.edu, (605)394-2461
About SGL Group
About SGL Group
Welcome to the Subsurface Geomechanics Laboratory (SGL) at South Dakota Mines. Our research lies at the intersection of reservoir geomechanics, rock physics, and reservoir/wellbore engineering, with the goal of understanding and engineering subsurface reservoirs for geo-energy production and critical minerals recovery. We study the coupled THMC processes that control how rocks and fractures deform, slip, and interact with fluids during injection and production, and how these processes influence stimulation effectiveness, fracture conductivity, and induced seismicity. Our program integrates high-fidelity laboratory experiments under representative THMC conditions with physics-informed modeling, machine learning, sensing technologies, and field constraints. We also design and develop laboratory and wellbore sensing tools to improve characterization of rocks/fractures and minerals and to capture the signals needed to evaluate competing physical mechanisms. Our work spans both fundamental and applied problems in geothermal energy, critical minerals, unconventional petroleum systems, hydraulic fracturing, induced seismicity, rock friction, and related subsurface engineering challenges.
About South Dakota Mines
About South Dakota Mines
South Dakota Mines is a leading science and engineering university in South Dakota, specializing in STEM education and research. We have a diverse student body of approximately 2,500 students from 45 states and 37 countries. Our university provides individualized attention and valuable research opportunities, resulting in a remarkable 97% placement rate and a strong return on investment. Situated in Rapid City, the second largest city in South Dakota, South Dakota Mines is conveniently located just 20 minutes away from the breathtaking Black Hills National Forest. This area offers an array of popular attractions, including Mt. Rushmore, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and other state parks.
SD Mines Campus
SD Mines Campus
Nucor Mineral Industries Building
Nucor Mineral Industries Building
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park
Black Hills National Forest
Black Hills National Forest
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