Shandong Energy Group Unveils Breakthrough in Rockburst Safety Technology

In an innovative breakthrough for the mining industry, researchers have unveiled a new pressure-relief and anti-impact technology designed to combat the challenges posed by rockbursts, particularly in complex geological settings. This research, led by Ren Wentao from Shandong Energy Group, addresses a pressing issue in mining operations, where rockbursts can lead to significant safety risks and operational disruptions.

The study, based on extensive monitoring of microseismic events at Xinjulong Coal Mine, introduces a high-level blasting technique that aims to mitigate the risks associated with faults located in precarious positions. Ren emphasizes the importance of this advancement, stating, “Our new pressure-relief blasting technology not only reduces the risk of rockbursts but also enhances the overall safety of mining operations.” This is particularly relevant in deep pressure bumps mines, where traditional methods often fall short.

The findings reveal that the maximum expansion radius of the explosive fracture zone reached 1.5 meters, a crucial metric for ensuring the effectiveness of the blasting technique. The research highlights a significant decrease in microseismic events—those classified at an energy level of 104 dropped from 5.2% before the implementation of this technology to just 1.5% afterward. Notably, there were no recorded events at the 105 and 106 energy levels post-implementation, indicating a robust improvement in safety conditions.

Moreover, the study outlines how the new blasting method alters the stress dynamics within the mine. The deformation experienced in the roadway was notably greater than that of the roof and floor, leading to a more favorable distribution of stress across the mining structure. Ren notes, “By effectively severing the connection between faults and the overlying strata, we can significantly diminish the impact of the ‘seesaw’ effect that often exacerbates rockburst incidents.”

This research not only promises to enhance safety protocols but also has substantial commercial implications for the construction and mining sectors. By reducing the frequency and severity of rockbursts, companies can expect fewer disruptions, lower operational costs, and ultimately, a more profitable mining operation. As the industry grapples with the dual challenges of safety and efficiency, technologies like this one may well represent the future of mining practices.

The study was published in ‘矿业科学学报’, known in English as the Journal of Mining Science, and underscores the ongoing commitment to innovation in the field. For more insights into this groundbreaking research, you can visit Ren Wentao’s affiliation at Shandong Energy Group.

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