ISSN:
1432-0495
Keywords:
Key words Pillar failure
;
Void migration
;
Burning coal seams
;
Spoil heaps
;
Acid mine drainage
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
Notes:
Abstract Mining in the Witbank Coalfield commenced at the turn of the century. Initially there was little environmental degradation associated with mining activities; however, in the late 1930s and early 1940s a pillar-robbing programme commenced. At one particular mine this has had marked effects on the environment. Primary effects include subsidence, the appearance of tension cracks at the surface and crownhole development. Secondary effects include spontaneous combustion of the coal worked, as air has been provided with ready access to the mine, accelerated subsidence due to the strength of many pillars being reduced by burning, and a marked deterioration in groundwater quality in the area. Spoil heaps also form blemishes on the landscape. These contain significant amounts of coal and have undergone spontaneous combustion. The deterioration in the water quality has led to the decimation of vegetation in some areas and the eradication of aquatic flora and fauna in a nearby stream.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002540050225
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