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Some considerations regarding the steady-state response of shallow aquifers to underground mining

Conference · · Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)
OSTI ID:5672786
The effect of underground room and pillar mine development (first mining only) on shallow ground water aquifers is often difficult to predict. A hydrogeologic context that includes not only the underlying mine void, but also multiple aquifer-aquitard layers, and zones of rock fracturing is important to understanding the hydrologic effects of underground mining in eastern coal regions. Nested piezometers were installed at various depths above a mine void in western Pennsylvania. Piezometer measurements indicate a downward gradient in head in the rock units overlying the mine that is highly variable, depending on piezometer depth in relation to fractures and shale aquitard layers. While high permeability fracture zones are regions of increased vertical leakage into the mine, aquitard layers significantly retard the downward flow of ground water into the mine. Significant head loss was apparent in wells which, by design or by change, intercepted deep fractures. The higher piezometric surface that exists in shallow aquifer units is exploited best by wells in the area which do not penetrate the underlying aquitard layers. In general, well performance in the overlying aquifers decreases with increasing depth. 7 references, 4 figures, 1 table.
Research Organization:
Bureau of Mines, Minneapolis, MN
OSTI ID:
5672786
Report Number(s):
CONF-851213-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English