In this paper, an
active colloid (AC) with a three-dimensional
network framework, prepared from stimulated fly ash (FA) component
by an acid–base compound chemical method, was proposed for
prevention of coal mine fire. During the stimulation process, the
active substance in fly ash can be released and transformed into effective
components for fire prevention. Research results show that Al3+, Fe3+, and Ti4+ from FA can serve
as metal cross-linking agents to graft-copolymerize with sodium carboxymethyl
cellulose. Mg2+ and Ca2+ can be formed into
halogenated salts that are encapsulated by composite colloids and
cooperate with them to participate in fire prevention. The remaining
fly ash solid particles served as an inert component can be fixed
in the framework to encapsulate more water, improving the colloid’s
strength and water retention. The content of the active component
was measured by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) emission spectroscopy
to evaluate the stimulation effect of fly ash. The gel time, viscosity,
water retention, and other performance parameters were determined
for evaluation of physical characteristics. The fire-prevention performances
of AC were also determined by the inhibition performance test, thermogravimetric
analysis, and infrared spectroscopy. Moreover, the fire-prevention
mechanism of AC was also explored. These results showed that the AC
prepared from the stimulated fly ash component can greatly inhibit
the spontaneous combustion of coal and can be chosen as a potential
material for prevention of coal mine fire caused by spontaneous combustion
of coal.