A model for the initiation of coal-gas outbursts

Abstract

In an attempt to model the initiation of a coal-gas outburst, the author discusses the mechanics of a porous rock medium in which the capillaries are filled with a gaseous substance. This gas can undergo capillary condensation, and thus the medium exists in a 3-phase state of solid, liquid and gas. The effect of a shock wave propagating in this medium is examined, and it is shown that in a rarefaction shock wave the skeleton of the medium is destroyed and an outburst initiated.