Simulation of spontaneous combustion, to study the causes of coal fires in the Rujigou Basin

The paper discusses the development of a numerical simulation model “COALTEMP” to study the oxidation and possible spontaneous combustion of coal, that is exposed to the atmosphere and the daily cycle of solar irradiation. First the differential equations that describe heat flow, oxygen flow and oxidation in the coal matrix, and the equations describing the exchange of heat, radiation and oxygen with the atmosphere, are presented. Then the numerical solution is briefly discussed. The model is then used to study the spontaneous combustion of coal in general, and in the Rujigou Coal Basin in particular. The role of spontaneous combustion and mining activities in the development of coal fires is analysed and conclusions are drawn with respect to coal fire prevention.