Geological disaster detection in underground mining tunnels using a new electromagnetic method: Theoretical modeling and experimental evaluation

Abstract

Geophysical methods, especially the transient electromagnetic method (TEM), are vital tools for identifying geological hazards, especially water leaks in underground mines. However, traditional TEM methods employing small coils face challenges from metal structures common in tunnels, and their depth penetration remains limited. To address these limitations, this study presents a novel galvanic-source TEM approach. By employing electrodes as sensors, this new method eliminates metal interference and allows for long-distance detection. A mathematical model elucidates the propagation mechanism of the electromagnetic field in this technique. Numerical simulations and real-world experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, showcasing its capability to accurately detect and identify disaster water within underground tunnels. This innovative technique holds significant promise for practical application in underground mining, enhancing water detection capabilities and ensuring safer working environments.