Potential of Breakthroughs of Impounded Coal Refuse Slurry into Underground Mines

摘要: On October 11, 2000, an estimated 306 million gallons of water and fine coal refuse slurry broke through a bedrock barrier from impoundment in Martin County, eastern Kentucky, into adjacent underground mine. Approximately 260 the discharged two mine portals affected over 75 miles streams Kentucky West Virginia. As result this several other breakthroughs just half decade, U.S. Office Surface Mining Reclamation Enforcement (OSM) institutions undertook investigations to assess causes events, potential for additional future, available methods preventing them. In addition needed improvements design, construction, inspection facilities, studies have addressed issues pertaining flow characteristics slurry, not only impoundments still receiving pumped but also “idle” reclaimed facilities. Related questions concern: (1) effects on breakthrough abandonment process construction cells top capped structures; (2) appropriate measures that may be used ensure mines or underlying are known accurately located. Current information engineering properties existing facilities provides no assurance against flowability during any stage reclamation after has been completed. Due uncertainty, thorough site conservative reclamation, quality control paramount importance.