Analysis of Methane Hazard Conditions in Mine Headings

Dear Colleagues,

Hard coal is still one of the basic energy raw materials in the world. Its exploitation is inseparably connected with the occurrence of various types of threats and hazards. One of the most common and dangerous issues occurring in a hard coal mine is methane hazard associated with the possibility of methane-air mixture ignition and/or explosion. Activation of methane hazard in underground excavations has a negative impact on both the working environment of the staff and the natural environment. This is caused by the emission of methane to the atmosphere, and harmful and poisonous gases released during the combustion reaction.

Therefore, to improve the safety of work in the mining industry, protect the environment, and improve the efficiency of mining operations, it is necessary to conduct research to limit possible hazards.

The main purpose of the Special Issue is to present the results of research on methane hazard in underground coal mines. This issue will be a great opportunity to exchange experiences between different research centers and specialists dealing with methane hazard. Published papers will be an excellent source of information on the state of knowledge in the field of methane hazard testing. I believe that the papers will also be an inspiration for further research, the results of which will enable a better understanding of the phenomena and will improve the means to limit any hazards in mining.

The Special Issue is, therefore, a platform to present the state of knowledge on methane hazard in underground coal mines from a scientific and practical point of view. In addition to the scientific works, papers of a utilitarian nature are also welcome.

The scope of papers in the Special Issue will cover the following issues:

• Methane hazard in mining excavations
• Influence of goafs on methane hazard
• Forecasting methane hazard
• Methane emission during coal mining
• Research on fires and methane explosions
• Ventilation systems for mining excavations
• Methodologies and/or case studies regarding methane hazard testing
• Methane hazard and the efficiency of the exploitation process
• Numerical/experimental studies on emissions and methane hazard
• Methane drainage systems
• Methane and the threat to the environment
• Other topics related to methane hazard

Original papers related to the above topics, as well as in general on methodology, numerical, and experimental research, and case studies on methane hazard in mines are welcome.

I hope that the global nature of the scope of this Special Issue will attract researchers and specialists from around the world. I invite all colleagues to publish your original papers in this Special Issue.

Thank you for your contributions.

Dr. Jarosław Brodny
Guest Editor

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