INCREASING THE ENERGY POTENTIAL OF COAL WHILE DEVELOPMENT OF LOW-THICKNESS RESERVES IN THE WESTERN DONBAS MINES

Abstract

Purpose. Development and generalisation of a set of key elements for a non-waste technology concept of mining high-quality coal from thin coal seams, based on the processes of backfilling the mined-out space with waste rocks from stope and tunnelling operations. Methods. A comprehensive methodical approach, containing the systematisation and generalisation of the constituent elements of a non-waste coal mining technology based on the implementation of theoretical studies and substantiations, is used in the research. Findings. The main hypothesis of a new approach to non-waste coal mining has been formed, in which the priority is not only the process of leaving the maximum waste rock volume in underground cavities, but also its use to form backfill mass, thereby improving the geomechanical conditions for mining thin coal seams. A wide range of mining tasks has been formulated and systematised for using a non-waste coal mining technology. The conditions for the harmonious functioning of the proposed conceptual scheme of a non-waste coal mining technology within the extraction field boundaries have been determined and substantiated. The conceptual foundations for the functioning of a new highly efficient non-waste technology for mining high-quality thermal coal from thin coal seams have been developed. Originality. The scientific novelty is in revealing the mechanism for the effective logistic functioning of rock-transport systems for the accumulation of waste rocks in the underground space using a non-waste technology of coal mining from thin coal seams. Practical implications. The research results can be used in planning non-waste technological schemes for mining the coal with an increased energy potential.