Mechanism of Water Inrush and Controlling Techniques for Fault-Traversing Roadways with Floor Heave Above Highly Confined Aquifers

Abstract

Floor heave and water inrush accidents are likely in fault-traversing roadways above highly confined aquifers. In this paper, the deflection curve equation for the key floor stratum of a fault-traversing roadway in the Zhaogu no. 2 coal mine was derived based on the cantilever beam model, and the line strain in the failure zone, e, was introduced to characterize the relationship between floor heave and deformation of deep intact rock layers. Then, three- dimensional pre-grouting technology was established for floor reinforcement. Analysis indicated that the rock surrounding the fault-traversing roadway was highly fractured, increasing the risk of water hazards. Numerical UDEC simulations showed that the plastic zone of the roadway was greater due to the faults; the floor heave, in this case, was 2.6 times greater than without faults. However, water pressure applied to the floor had a limited impact on deformation of the surrounding rock. The measured maximum deflection of the stratum was 644 mm, and the line strain e in the failure zone in the floor was 67 mm, which resulted in a difference of 3.5% compared with the modelled results. The apparent resistivity in the grouted areas, observed through comprehensive geophysical explorations, was increased, suggesting that the grouting reinforcement had been successful.