Instrumentation and geotechnical monitoring techniques used in the Sydney Coalfield, Nova Scotia

Abstract

Since 1982, the Rock Mechanics Group of the Energy, Mines and Resources CANMET–CRL Cape Breton Coal Research Laboratory has been closely involved in assessing the behaviour of mine openings in the underground workings of the Sydney Coalfield, Nova Scotia. This paper examines a variety of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring techniques used to assess strata behaviour during the different phases of longwall mining operations: gateroad deformation, floor heave, intersections, gateside pack behaviour, and subsidence monitoring. Key words: instrumentation, coal mining, longwall mining, geotechnical monitoring, subsidence, tunnels, Sydney Coalfield.