Prediction Method of Coal Fracture Based on Failure Approach Index and Hoek-Brown Criterion

According to Mohr-Coulomb criterion, the yield approach index (YAI) of Hoek-Brown criterion is derived. The rock-mass intact coefficient KV is introduced, and coal failure approach index is defined by combining failure degree. On the basis of logging data and stratified in-site stress model, the failure approach index and yield approach index are calculated in wellbore direction. Based on FAI values, coal fracture degree is divided four grades of A, B, C, D, and coal fracture classification method is proposed. Taking ZP-1 Well in QinShui basin as an example, the distribution regularity of coal fracture degree is predicted by the method. The results indicate that failure approach index of ZP-01 well is between 0.8-1.2; the section of 551-552.7m of coal seam is fractured (grade A), and the rest section of coal seam is regarded as grade B. Through electron microscope to scan coal sample structure, the results agree well with the prediction results, therefore the classification method is reliable. Depending on theory results, computer program is corresponding developed.