?

?

Methane, frequently found alongside coal deposits, presents a unique opportunity across various stages of a coal seam’s lifecycle – whether unmined (Coal Seam Methane/Coal Bed Methane), actively mined (Coal Mine Methane), or in abandoned mines (Abandoned Mine Methane). The gas extracted from these sources holds significant potential for power generation, transforming a potential hazard into a valuable resource. Utilizing coal gas, often through efficient cogeneration systems that produce both electricity and heat, not only prevents harmful methane emissions but also delivers essential on-site power. Advanced techniques, such as in-situ gasification, further expand the possibilities by creating synthetic gases for energy production.

Historically, coal mine degasification focused on enhancing worker safety. Without capture, methane-laden air is typically vented into the atmosphere via exhaust fans. However, recent international studies highlight that 30-40% of coal mines globally produce gas suitable for power generation using specialized gas engines. Coal mine gas, or firedamp, is notorious in mining for its potential to form explosive air mixtures, underscoring the critical need for effective management. The primary coal seam gas, rich in methane (90-95%), forms during the natural geochemical process of coal formation (carbonisation). This gas resides both freely in geological fissures and adsorbed onto the coal and surrounding rock surfaces, representing a substantial, yet often untapped, energy reserve.