In the heart of China’s Shanbei Jurassic coalfield, a silent menace lurks beneath the surface, threatening the safety of miners and the stability of coal operations. Skylights, or hidden voids, are a significant hazard in the Yushen mining area, and until recently, their distribution and characteristics remained largely unknown. However, a groundbreaking study led by Mintao Dong of CCTEG Xi’an Research Institute (Group) Co., Ltd., has shed new light on these elusive geological features, offering a pathway to safer and more efficient mining practices.
Skylights, formed by the collapse of underground voids, pose a substantial risk to mining operations. They can cause sudden collapses, trapping miners and damaging equipment. The challenge lies in detecting these hidden hazards, as they are often obscured by layers of sediment and soil. Dong and his team set out to change this, focusing on a typical mine in the Yushen mining area to understand the spatial distribution and types of skylights.
The researchers employed a novel approach, integrating geological analysis, scientific assessment, and engineering exploration. This geological-engineering integrated reconnaissance survey technology combines the best of both worlds, leveraging geological insights with practical engineering solutions. “By combining these methods, we were able to gain a comprehensive understanding of the skylights’ distribution and characteristics,” Dong explained.
The study revealed that the formation and evolution of skylights in the area are primarily governed by paleochannels, with some influence from modern rivers. The team used high-density direct current electric methods and micromotion exploration to detect distinct resistivity and acoustic signals of skylights. These signals, characterized by significantly high resistivity and anomalous wave velocities, provided a clear indication of the presence of skylights.
The findings have significant implications for the energy sector. By accurately identifying and mapping skylights, mining operations can avoid these hazardous areas, reducing the risk of collapses and enhancing overall safety. This not only protects miners but also ensures the stability of mining infrastructure, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.
Moreover, the study’s results can guide the development of new technologies for skylight detection and treatment. The permeability coefficients of loess and laterites, for instance, suggest that laterites have a higher capacity to block water flow, a crucial factor in preventing further collapse and ensuring mine stability.
The research, published in ‘Meitian dizhi yu kantan’ (translated to English as ‘Geology and Prospecting’), marks a significant step forward in the field of mining safety. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the integration of advanced geological and engineering techniques will be crucial in addressing hidden hazards and ensuring the sustainability of mining operations.
Dong’s work underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling complex geological challenges. By bridging the gap between geological analysis and engineering solutions, the study paves the way for future developments in skylight detection and treatment, ultimately contributing to safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly coal mining practices.
