Effect of composite stress arches evolution on abutment pressure distribution in repeated mining of close-distance coal seams

Abstract

Due to the unique geological structure in the Guizhou region, issues such as stress concentration and inefficient resource utilization efficiency arise during repeated mining of close-distance coal seam. This study focuses on the Longfeng Coal Mine in Guizhou, investigating the evolution of stress arches and abutment pressure distribution under repeated mining conditions through similarity simulations, numerical simulations, and theoretical analysis. The study introduces a novel composite stress arch model, which more accurately represents stress evolution under complex mining conditions compared to traditional single arch theories. The model highlights the gradual transformation of a single stress arch into a composite structure, accounting for the increasing complexity of the stress distribution. Based on these evolution characteristics, a mechanical model of composite arches under nonlinear loading was developed. The calculation results and field monitoring data show that after repeated mining, the stop-mining coal pillar width should be optimized between 65 and 70 m. The research reveals the coupling relationship between the evolution of composite arches and the distribution of abutment pressure, which aids in optimizing coal pillar design, enhancing resource recovery rates, and ensuring the stability of roadways and stopes.

Keywords

stress concentration / repeated mining / stress arch evolution / abutment pressure / composite arch / coal pillar design / resource recovery

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