Experimental study on coal oxidation and temperature rise under different air leakage modes due to atmospheric pressure changes

Abstract

ABSTRACT The spontaneous combustion of residual coal in enclosed goafs may induce coupled thermodynamic disasters with severe consequences. To study the dynamic characteristics of coal oxidation and temperature increase in an enclosed goaf under varying atmospheric pressure conditions, the air leakage model was analyzed through theoretical derivation. The resistance, temperature, and CO concentration during coal oxidation under different air leakage modes were further studied using a self-built experimental system. The results indicated three air leakage modes of coal oxidation in an enclosed goaf: constant, intermittent, and reciprocating. The resistance of the three modes increased from 5 Pa to 7 Pa with time. Compared to constant air leakage, the time of resistance change was advanced by 1428 s and 1897 s under intermittent and reciprocating air leakage, respectively. Additionally, both intermittent and reciprocating air leakage promote coal oxidation and produce higher CO levels compared to constant air leakage. However, intermittent air leakage is more likely to produce higher temperature points, while reciprocating air leakage is more likely to cause large areas of coal oxidation. The order of the promoting effect of the intermittent and reciprocating half cycle on coal oxidation is 60 s, 300 s, 600 s, and 1200 s. These results are significant for understanding coal spontaneous combustion and efficiently managing enclosed goafs.