Improving the efficiency of coal seam degassing during its preparation for safe extraction based on the use of the sorption deformation effect

The article examines an innovative approach to improving the efficiency of coal seam degassing aimed at ensuring the safety of mining operations in areas prone to hazardous geodynamic phenomena. The proposed method is based on the use of the sorption deformation effect that occurs during coal degassing and includes comprehensive technological operations for managing methane emission from coal seams. The methodology involves drilling degassing boreholes, periodically closing and opening them, and utilizing the mechanism of auto-pneumatic treatment of the seam. This approach creates zones of increased gas permeability around the boreholes due to micro cracks caused by the sorption-induced stresses, which significantly increases methane flow rates. The analysis shows that the proposed method reduces material costs, ensures a stable increase in the borehole output by several times, and contributes to the relaxation of anomalous stresses in the coal seams. Experimental tests conducted at coal mines in the Kuzbass and Karaganda coal basins confirmed high efficiency of the technology, making it promising for use in the development of gas-rich coal seams with high outburst hazards. The research results can be applied to improve the technical and economic performance of mining coal deposit.