New Research in Geomechanics and Geophysics Reduces Mine Pressure Risks

Strategic Insights -

China University of Mining and Technology researchers have presented data on geomechanics and geophysics, highlighting the effectiveness of a new method to control mine pressure caused by structural instability in multi-layer thick and hard rock formations. The study integrates theoretical analysis, numerical modeling, and engineering validation to analyze the overlying rock structure. Financial support for the research came from The National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that a regionalized control method using high-low three-dimensional synergistic directional hydraulic fracturing can effectively weaken thick hard roof rock layers, reducing the number of microseismic events by 77.0% and 78.5% in the middle and late stages of fracturing, respectively.
  • The method was tested on the ZF1407 working face, achieving 3381 m3 fracturing volume with 141 segments, with an average spacing of 24 m and total number of fracturing segments being 141.
  • On-site monitoring results show that the resistivity of rock formations increased by about 50%, and the local resistivity was as high as 90, due to the large number of cracks generated in the rock formations after fracturing.
  • The ground sound energy in the fracturing process can better reflect the energy release of rock formation rupture and crack extension through high-pressure water.
  • The study's results can provide a reference for solving mine pressure control disasters caused by structural instability in multi-layer thick and hard rock formations in similar longwall workings.

Statistics:

  • 1602 m: strike length of the ZF1407 working face.
  • 634-794 m: burial depth of the ZF1407 working face.
  • 3381 m3: fracturing volume achieved through the regionalized control method.
  • 141 segments: total number of fracturing segments within the ZF1407 working face.
  • 24 m: average spacing of fracturing holes within the ZF1407 working face.
  • 77.0%: reduction in microseismic events in the middle stage of fracturing.
  • 78.5%: reduction in microseismic events in the late stage of fracturing.
  • 50%: increase in resistivity of rock formations after fracturing.
  • 90: local resistivity in rock formations after fracturing.

Sources:

  • Three-dimensional collaborative hydraulic fracturing control for thick hard roofs: mechanism, simulation, and field application in Yadian Coal Mine. Geomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources, 2025,11(1):1-23. The publisher for Geomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources is Springer.
  • NewsRx. China University of Mining and Technology Researchers Publish New Studies and Findings in the Area of Geomechanics and Geophysics (Three-dimensional collaborative hydraulic fracturing control for thick hard roofs: mechanism, simulation, and ...). Physics Week. October 21, 2025; p 13.