Project Title

Utilization of a Small Unmanned Aircraft System for Direct Sampling of Nitrogen Oxides Produced by Full-Scale Surface Mine Blasting

Trainee

Robert Brendan McCray

Summary

Emerging health concern for gaseous nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted during surface mine blasting has prompted mining authorities in the United States to pursue new regulations. NOx is comprised of various binary compounds of nitrogen and oxygen. Nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) are the most prominent. Modern explosive formulations are not designed to produce NOx during properly-sustained detonations, and researchers have identified several causes through laboratory experiments; however, direct sampling of NOx following full-scale surface mine blasting has not been accomplished.  The purpose of this thesis is to demonstrate a safe, innovative method of directly quantifying NOx concentrations in a full-scale surface mining environment. A small, unmanned aircraft system is used with a continuous gas monitor to sample concentrated fumes. Three flights were completed – two in the Powder River Basin. Results from a moderate NOx emission showed peak NO and NO₂ concentrations of 257 ppm and 67.2 ppm, respectively. The estimated NO₂ presence following a severe NOx emission was 137.3 ppm. Dispersion of the gases occurred over short distances, and novel geometric models were developed to describe emission characteristics. Overall, the direct sampling method was successful, and the data collected are new to the body of scientific knowledge.

Project Title

Development of an Edge Effect Offset Algorithm for Subsidence Calculations

Trainee

Josh Hescock

Summary

This project includes an improvement of the Surface Deformation Prediction System (SDPS) program created by Dr. Zach Agioutantis. This program uses previous research, theories and equations to predict surface deformation as a result of underground mining operations. The current stage consists of creating code in Matlab to improve the accuracy of certain processes within SDPS. The code will then be analyzed for correctness and accuracy and implemented into the SDPS program.

Project Title

Automating Fan Ventilation and Measurement as a Means of Ensuring Proper Air Flow in Coal Mining Operations

Trainee

Kayla Mayfield – graduated with MS in August 2015, pursuing PhD in program

Summary

Coal mines are required to be ventilated.  Not only does ventilation bring fresh air to the workers but also removes contaminants such as coal and silica dust, methane, and diesel particulates which are harmful to workers.  This project automated a fan and measurements along a ventilation network at the ventilation lab in UK's Mining and Mineral Resources Building.  Then, using computer software, created an algorithm that can automatically adjust the fan for highest efficiency/performance at various ventilation network conditions. This work will result in upgrades to the University of Kentucky ventilation lab.  In a full scale mine, this work has the potential to allow fans to adjust to changes in the mine environment in order to ensure proper air flow to the workers.

Project Title

Coal mine dust mitigation through novel scrubber development and numerical modeling

Trainee

Gregory Brenner (graduated July 2016 and is employed in an Occupational Health and Safety-related job)

Summary:

This project developed a scale model of a three entry room and pillar mine.  The primary purpose was to investigate dust settling behavior in a coal mine.  The secondary purpose was to develop an educational aid for demonstrating U-type ventilation patterns and the inherent leakages associated with that design.  Brenner constructed a 1:20 scale model of a mine return entry for conducting experiments on dust deposition in mine airways.