Polymeric alternative to steel mesh for underground coal mine roadway support

摘要

The search for an alternative material to mesh,the installation of which can be automated along with bolting,has led to the development of a rapid-set polymer-based teelmology that can be spray-applied. A study of the role of mesh has identified some of the physical and material constraints to be endured by any new polymeric system. Based upon this understanding,viable polymer-based materials that are suitable to replace mesh in underground roadway support applications have been developed.These materials will allow the face support cycle to be fully automated,remove personnel from the immediate face area,and substantially improve underground roadway development rates.