| Abstract |
A major portion of ground control problems encountered in underground coal mines can be attributed to geologic features in the strata surrounding the extracted coal seam. The U.S. Bureau of Mines has compiled information from several sources on the geological features that contribute to ground control problems in underground coal mines. The compilation includes sedimentary features such as paleochannels, crevasse splays, clastic dikes, mold and cast structures, concretions, lithologic factors, and structural features, such as folds, fractures, joints, cleat, and faults. The compiled information will aid in identifying the features, predicting their occurrence in advance of mining, and controlling or minimizing roof failure when these features are encountered in an underground coal mine. |
