Experimental and Simulation Study on the Explosion of a Coal/Methane Mixed System

This study investigates the microscale suppression mechanisms of four powder explosion suppressants on coal dust/methane (CH₄) mixed system explosions. Combining experimental and numerical simulation methods, we explore the gas-phase reaction processes and the role of free radicals in the explosion suppression. Results show that all suppressants reduce the maximum explosion pressure and pressure rise rate, with MPP being the most effective, reducing pressure by 38%. Suppressants inhibit explosions through physical (heat absorption) and chemical (free-radical consumption) mechanisms. Phosphorus-containing intermediates from NH₄H₂PO₄ and MPP react with free radicals, while NaHCO₃ and MCA decompose to produce inert gases and consume O• and H• radicals. This work provides a theoretical foundation for optimizing explosion suppressants in mining safety applications.