1 - Underground Coal Mine Atmosphere

Abstract

Fossil fuels comprise nearly 90% of the proved reserve of global energy. Coal is the major component of fossil fuels, containing nearly 90% of the total fossil fuel energy. In spite of some environmental concerns, global coal production will continue to rise to meet the rising demand for electricity, especially in developing countries such as India and China. The provision of an adequate air environment in underground coal mines to promote the health, safety, and comfort of mine workers has always been and will continue to be a prime requisite for successful mining operations. The chapter identifies the main air pollutants in coal mine air and lists their threshold limit values. Because ventilation of the mine workings by forced air is the primary method of diluting the contaminants in mine air, the properties of air are discussed in detail. Gas laws controlling the behavior of air are discussed. A pollution control strategy is developed for major pollutants, such as respirable dust, methane, and diesel exhaust components. The three E's of safety, namely, Engineering, Education, and Enforcement, are listed. The enforcement of mine ventilation regulations is briefly discussed. Finally, air(gas) properties that will be frequently mentioned later in the book are clearly defined.