Robust Output Tracking for an Uncertain and Nonlinear 3D PDE-ODE System: Preventing Induced Seismicity in Underground Reservoirs

Abstract: This paper presents a robust control strategy for output tracking of a nonlinear 3D PDE-ODE system, where the ODE has logistic-like dynamics. The output feedback control was developed by bounding the solution and its time derivative for both the infinite-dimensional system and the nonlinear ODE. These bounds were then leveraged to ensure the boundedness of the control coefficient and the perturbations in the error dynamics. The mathematical framework proves the controller's ability to manage two output types within the system, overcoming model uncertainties and heterogeneities, using minimal system information, and a continuous control signal. A case study addressing induced seismicity mitigation while ensuring energy production in the Groningen gas reservoir highlights the control's effectiveness. The strategy guarantees precise tracking of target seismicity rates and pressures across reservoir regions, even under parameter uncertainties. Numerical simulations validate the approach in two scenarios: gas extraction while not exceeding the intrinsic seismicity of the region and the addition of CO2 injections, achieving net-zero environmental impact.