An Overview of Coal spontaneous Combustion Studies in China
Jerry Tien, Monash University
Nearly 95% of Chinas 3.8 billion tonnes of coal produced annually is mined underground and longwall mining is the most common extraction method used because of its enhanced safety and superior productivity. Despite its advantages, challenges remain and because of the uniqueness of Chinas coal reserves, spontaneous combustion (SponCom) is among some of the most studied areas in China. This article attempts to review current SponCom issues in the coal field, and the most recent developments in SponCom studies in the countrys laboratories, research centers and universities, as well as newly proposed lab procedures and combustion method in China.
