Permeability Characteristics and Classification of Coal Seams in Nigeria

Abstract

In this work, the permeability characteristics of Nigerian coal seams were determined and these properties were used to investigation the applicability of water infusion in the coal seams to solve coal-mining problems. The experimental work was conducted with Triaxial Compression Machine adapted for the permeability test comprising of Hoek cell, a self- developed water piston, pressure gauge and an overhead water tank. The results of the investigation showed that the permeability measurements of the coals were consistent at the different sites and locations of the coalmines. It also revealed that the difference in coal seam permeability was relatively small in Nigeria.