Countermeasures against coal spontaneous combustion: a review

ABSTRACT

Spontaneous combustion (SPONCOM) is a complex physical and chemical process involving several known and unknown variables which necessitates experimental detection methods and prediction hypotheses to minimize significant environmental pollution. Coal SPONCOM results in severe environmental pollution, safety threats, and substantial economic losses. This phenomenon has not only resulted into significant degradation of coal resources but also released a host of toxic substances, affecting both ecological integrity and human health in fire zones. Coal fire emissions have become a global concern and nearly all coal-producing nations have faced this problem for many years. Hence, it is important to monitor coal toward SPONCOM to prevent environmental contamination and possible safety hazards, as well as to avoid persistent and serious environmental pollution. This study discusses general questions on SPONCOM, such as: understanding, monitoring, preventions and management of SPONCOM on a global scale. Some remedial measures that are applicable to manage SPONCOM are reviewed. This will provide a learning exercise aimed to extend existing knowledge, current practice, and improving safety of the coal industry on an ongoing basis.

KEYWORDS:

• Coal fire
• spontaneous combustion
• environment
• monitoring
• prevention
• control