In the depths of coal mines, where the earth’s pressures are immense and the geological structures are complex, a new method to predict and prevent catastrophic water inrush events is emerging, thanks to the pioneering work of Shunfeng Zhang from Shenhua Geological Exploration Co., Ltd. in Beijing. Zhang’s research, recently published in the journal ‘Meikuang Anquan’ (which translates to ‘Mining Safety’), offers a groundbreaking approach to assessing the risk of fault water inrush in pressured areas, a critical concern for the energy sector.
The mining environment of deep coal seams is notoriously challenging, characterized by high confined water pressure, high ground stress, and significant geological disturbances. These conditions can trigger high-pressure karst water to surge into mines along fault lines, posing severe risks to both personnel and operations. Zhang’s study focuses on the 6 upper coal seam of Huangyuchuan Coal Mine, employing advanced geophysical methods such as three-dimensional seismic and transient electromagnetic surveys to map fault distributions and determine fault locations and water conductivity.
“The integration of these geophysical methods allows us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subsurface conditions, which is crucial for accurate risk assessment,” Zhang explains. This detailed mapping is just the first step in Zhang’s innovative approach. To quantify and predict the potential water inrush risk, Zhang developed a sophisticated evaluation model that combines the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and grey correlation analysis (GRA).
The FAHP-GRA coupling model evaluates 10 critical factors affecting fault stability, assigning weights to each factor based on their significance. Confined water pressure emerged as the most influential factor, with a weight of 0.1467, while mining depth and fault water conductivity were found to be the least influential, with a weight of 0.02934. The grey correlation analysis then determines the correlation degree of each index, providing a clear picture of the risk level.
“The results of our study show that the NNE-NE trending faults in the pressured zone are primarily high-risk and relatively dangerous, while the NNW-NW trending faults are mainly relatively safe and safe,” Zhang notes. This distinction is vital for mining operations, as it allows for targeted risk management strategies.
The implications of Zhang’s research are significant for the energy sector. By providing a robust and accurate method for assessing water inrush risk, mining operations can enhance safety measures, reduce the likelihood of catastrophic events, and minimize downtime. This not only protects personnel and equipment but also ensures the continuity of coal production, a critical energy source for many regions.
Moreover, the FAHP-GRA coupling model developed by Zhang is versatile and can be applied to other coal mines with complex geological structures. “Our evaluation model is suitable for the investigation of water inrush risk in coal mines with complex geological structures, realizing the purpose of ‘effective evaluation, rapid diagnosis, and precise prevention’ of fault water inrush,” Zhang states.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for advanced risk assessment methods will only grow. Zhang’s research represents a significant step forward in this field, offering a powerful tool for ensuring the safety and efficiency of mining operations. With the increasing demand for energy and the ongoing exploration of deep coal seams, the insights provided by this study will be invaluable for shaping future developments in the mining industry.
In the quest for safer and more efficient mining practices, Shunfeng Zhang’s work stands as a beacon of innovation, guiding the way towards a more secure and sustainable future for the energy sector.