TITLE:
Research Progress of Geophysical Exploration on Goaf Areas in Shanxi Coal Mines
AUTHORS:
Jonathan Molo Jojo, Ngambua Ngambua Rene, Nathan Saye Teah, Pengfei Wang, Xintong Tian
KEYWORDS:
Geophysical Exploration, Goaf, Shanxi Coal Mines, Sustainable Development
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.12 No.2,
February
10,
2025
ABSTRACT: Shanxi Province, a leading coal-producing region in northern China, holds abundant reserves of bituminous and sub-bituminous coal critical to the nation’s energy sector. However, extensive coal mining has left behind Goaf areas underground voids and fractured zones that pose serious safety hazards and environmental risks. These challenges require innovative approaches to ensure sustainable resource management and ecological protection. This work aims to enhance the exploration and management of Goaf areas using advanced geophysical technologies, such as seismic, electrical resistivity tomography, magnetic, and gravity surveys, to identify subsurface fractures and voids. Cutting-edge tools like the full-waveform airborne electromagnetic system and machine learning techniques improve the accuracy and efficiency of these investigations. The focus is on estimating storage capacity, constructing stable coal pillars, and monitoring water quality to mitigate risks. By integrating environmental and economic feasibility studies, this research seeks to balance coal industry growth with ecological stewardship, fostering a safer and more sustainable future.