Surface Water Control for Mining Thick, Relatively Shallow Coal Seams in the Loess Area of Western China

Disastrous surface water incursions can easily occur during mining in the loess area of western China because of the shallow depth and great thickness of the coal seams there. Effective water control and drainage measures are essential to prevent such disasters. Using panels 90102 and 90103 of the Antaibao Mine of the Pingshuo mining area, Shanxi Province, as a case study, we analyzed the causes of the problem and the risk of surface water infiltration. Based on the vertical zoning features of the predicted deformation of the overburden strata and ground movement, the water-conductive fracture zone was 149.7 m thick, which means that mining could induce the inrush of surface water into the mining areas. A comprehensive set of methods was proposed, including excavation of drainage ditches, backfilling of subsiding areas, and construction of underground drainage channels. While these modifications were made in response to the geological and topographical conditions and surface drainage patterns of this site, similar methods can be used for other mines in loess areas.