Project PHYSALIS is funded by the German Research Foundation as a Walter-Benjamin-Position. It aims at estimation of reliable subsurface initial stress predictions using 3D geomechanical-numerical models to be used as initial conditions in Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical (THM) reservoir forward modelling. The initial stress field before any anthropogenic interventions is a critical component in all assessments of the impact of THM processes in a reservoir. The uncertainties in the available information on stress magnitudes are known to be large. In association with additionally relevant sources of uncertainties such as in rock properties the significance of 3D stress field models is limited.

PHYSALIS aims at improving the reliability of initial stress field models by a comprehensive quantification and reduction of uncertainties. Within the project, the sources for uncertainties are evaluated. Methods and tools to improve and extend state-of-the-art modelling workflows are developed. Eventually, the updated workflow is demonstrated in a 3D geomechanical-numerical model of the Bavarian Molasse Basin.