Control of contour evolution, burn rate variation, and reaction channel formation in coal gasification

This research examines the dynamics of contour evolution, burn-through rate, and reaction channel formation during the gasification of thin coal seams through a series of bench-scale experiments. Utilizing an underground gas generator within a coal-rock mass, the study employs a hydrofracture profile model to analyze key parameters. Critical aspects such as the burn-through face, fire-face contour, and support zone were meticulously monitored. The rate of advance and reaction channel transformations were evaluated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the gasification process in thin seams. The results indicate that initial seam properties-such as thickness, porosity, and mineral content-significantly influence the burn-through rate and the evolving gasifier contour, particularly in the early stages. Reaction channel formation is characterized by gradual widening, driven by thermal gradients and reactive gas flow dynamics. These findings contribute to optimizing underground coal gasification processes by improving efficiency, stability, and environmental sustainability. Future research will focus on scaling these findings to field applications and investigating the impact of different gasifying agents on process dynamics to enhance energy recovery from thin coal seams. Additionally, these results have key implications for economic efficiency and industrial process management, offering potential for substantial energy and cost savings.