Predicting zones of increased water inflows in local folded structures

Abstract

Purpose. To predict zones of increased water inflows based on geological exploration and mining-geological data in the real conditions of an operating coal mine using the method of predictive evaluation of prospects of local structures for the presence of gas accumulations. Methodology. The research was carried out by constructing a map of local structures using trend analysis. The synclinal fold is allocated in the plan and its main parameters – amplitude and width – are determined. Based on these parameters of the structure, the authors performed calculations of relative linear deformations and relative volume deformation of the studied fold. Findings. According to the deviation of the hyposometry of layer (“Samarska” mine) from the approximating surface, a local synclinal structure is allocated on the map. Based on calculated data on the volumetric deformation of rocks (siltstones and sandstones) and average values of open porosity, fracture porosity and absolute permeability were calculated. The obtained data indicate the formation of a fractured zone with improved filtration and capacity properties of rocks within the studied area. According to the actual mining and geological data, within the defined area, there are increased water inflows into the mine workings, which further confirms the results of the prediction. Originality. For the first time, the algorithm of predictive evaluation of the prospects of local anticlinal structures for the presence of gas accumulations was used to predict areas of increased water inflows. Practical values. In the real conditions of an operating mine, in the area of mining operations, the method for predicting zones of increased water inflows was tested according to a predictive evaluation of the prospects of local folds for the presence of gas accumulations.