Multi-coal seam mining could lead to water and sand inflow risks
The study used computer simulations to understand how mining multiple coal seams can cause cracks in the surrounding rock. They found that stress is highest on the roof, bottom, and sides of the coal seams, with the most stress on the coal walls. The area where rocks collapse and water flows was calculated to be 32m and 81.5m deep. As more coal seams are mined, more cracks form in the rock, especially with wider mining. This could lead to water and sand entering the mine, so precautions should be taken to prevent this.