Evaluation of Water Inrush Vulnerability from Aquifers Overlying Coal Seams in the Menkeqing Coal Mine, China

The vulnerability of the C2-1 and C3-1 coal seams to water inrush from overlying aquifers was evaluated for a portion of the Menkeqing coal mine. Geological and hydrogeological data were used to develop a conceptual model. Using the ‘three maps-two predictions’ method, an index model of water abundance (yield) of the overlying aquifers was constructed and overlain on a map that indicates potential fractured zone connections to the overlying aquifers. Superposition of the two zoning maps allowed development of a comprehensive inrush vulnerability map. Mine discharges were predicted under both natural and mining conditions using Visual Modflow, and appropriate prevention and control measures are proposed.