The fluid flow through rock fractures and fracture networks can influence the mechanical behaviors of rock masses, and in turn, the deformation of rock masses can change the aperture of fractures and then impact the hydraulic properties. Therefore, it is important to study the coupled hydro-mechanical behaviors of rock fractures/fracture networks.

In previous studies, linear flow through simplified fractures such as smooth parallel-plate models has been extensively investigated. However, the linear/nonlinear flow through 2D/3D fractures and fracture networks with realistic surface morphology, as well as their interactions with mechanical processes subjected to normal and/or shear stresses under different boundary conditions, have not been systematically estimated. Recently, with the development of computational techniques, methods for such complex multiphysics simulations are available and some new findings have been reported.

This Special Issue aims to collect recent advances in hydro-mechanical behaviors of rock fractures/fracture networks. We invite you to submit comprehensive review papers and original articles.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Stress-flow
• Linear/nonlinear flow
• Fluid flow in fracture networks
• Predictive models for permeability of rock fractures
• Effect of freeze-thaw cycles on mechanical behaviors of rocks
• Unsaturated flow through fractures