Improved Resource Characterization for Coal Mining (Geophysics and Drilling Technology). Final Technical Report

摘要

Improvements in drilling and geophysical technology have developed to the point where the most cost-effective programs for coal exploration/characterization can best be accomplished through a combination of techniques. The high resolution seismic reflection technique offers the potential for significantly extending the knowledge of deep coal beyond what can be obtained from borings alone and other surface techniques have limited, but significant applications for shallow coal, such as magnetic measurements to map clinker. Borehole applications, particularly the use of natural gamma and density sondes, are sufficiently effective so as to greatly reduce the need for cored boreholes. A great potential exists for applying geophysical technology underground, but the seam wave seismic method has not been developed in the US and the range of radar is limited. Existing geophysical technology is still underutilized in the coal industry. Specific equipment and data processing improvements can be recommended, but this need is overshadowed by the greater need for more interaction between the geophysical and coal mining industries.