Recent research led by Xiaoze Wen from the College of Mining Technology at Taiyuan University of Technology has unveiled crucial insights into the behavior of high-stress sandstone under low-frequency disturbance loads. Published in the journal “Journal of the Coal Science and Engineering,” this study is particularly relevant for the energy sector, especially in mining operations where the stability of rock layers is vital.
The research highlights how sandstone, a common rock type found in coal-bearing sedimentary formations, responds to low-frequency disturbances—such as those caused by mining activities. The team conducted dynamic uniaxial compression tests on sandstone subjected to high stress, revealing that under small amplitude disturbances, the rock does not fail dynamically. However, when the disturbance load exceeds a specific threshold of 15% of its unconfined compressive strength (UCS), the likelihood of failure increases significantly.
Wen notes, “The number of disturbance load cycles before the failure of high-stress sandstone decreases exponentially with the increase of amplitude.” This finding is critical for mining engineers and operators, as it suggests that understanding the thresholds of rock stability can help in designing safer mining practices and mitigating risks associated with dynamic failures.
The research also found that the evolution of microcracks within the sandstone significantly impacts its mechanical properties. As these microcracks accumulate, they affect various parameters, including the dynamic secant modulus and energy dissipation characteristics. Particularly, the study identifies a clear inflection point in the strain evolution curve before failure, which could serve as an early warning system for potential dynamic instability.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. By leveraging the insights from this research, companies can enhance their predictive maintenance strategies and improve the safety protocols in mining operations. Wen emphasizes that “the magnitude of the RA value in the initial stage of disturbance load can be used to predict the dynamic failure of sandstone in advance,” providing a potential tool for risk assessment in real-time.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, understanding the mechanical response of geological formations under various stress conditions is essential. This research not only contributes to academic knowledge but also opens up opportunities for the development of advanced monitoring technologies that can enhance safety and efficiency in mining operations. The findings from Xiaoze Wen and his team could lead to significant advancements in how the industry approaches rock stability and dynamic risk management, ultimately contributing to more sustainable mining practices.
