An energy-based simulation method for stratum damage characterization in underground coal mining

This paper presents an energy dissipation-based simulation method for quantitatively analyzing stratum damage in underground coal mining, essential for safe operations and panel parameterization. Grounded in energy dissipation theory, the study clarifies the energy evolution mechanism governing strata fracture, develops a 2D energy accumulation-dissipation model for the overburden, and derives a formula for rock unit dissipated energy. Implemented in FLAC3D via FISH scripting, the method is applied to Panel 1,101 (Zhundong No.2 Mine). Through integrated theoretical-numerical analysis using a defined energy damage degree metric, we demonstrate an S-shaped evolution of damage extent with increasing advance speed, pinpointing an optimal range of 2.934–6 m/d. Microseismic event patterns provide validation. The study further establishes a correlation between support resistance and overburden damage, showing that increased advance speed reduces periodic weighting intensity, interval distance, and dynamic loading coefficient – a trend well-captured by the simulation results. • Develops an energy dissipation-based simulation method for quantitative analysis of stratum damage in underground coal mining. • Identifies S-shaped evolution of overburden damage extent with increasing advance speed, pinpointing optimal range of 2.934-6 m/d. • Validates model via spatiotemporal microseismic patterns and support resistance-overburden damage correlation.