Abstract

• We present a novel reaction-cross-diffusion (RXD) approach, unifying observed compaction band modes: discrete, diffuse, and heterogeneity-induced. • RXD focuses on the dissipative mechanism and its control over mode switching, highlighting the importance of free energy minimization during compaction. • RXD introduces nonlocal interactions and cross-diffusion phenomena to capture the evolutionary interplay between the solid matrix and pore fluid pressure. • Cross-diffusion regularizes the solution and unlocks a richer solution space for forecasting compaction band behavior.