Soil Heaving in Coal Mines: Causes and Mechanisms of Development

Floor heave in coal mines is a multifaceted problem caused by a combination of mineralogical, hydrogeological, and geomechanical factors. The article examines the causes of this phenomenon, detailed mechanisms (swelling of smectite clays, plastic flow, bending and buckling of the floor), the influence of mining depth and rock pressure, as well as the associated economic and production consequences. Particular attention is paid to water saturation conditions and changes in the stress state of the rock mass. Practical methods for diagnosing floor heave, engineering approaches to its prediction and control are presented. Characteristic examples of floor heave manifestations in mine workings are given, and recommendations are provided for numerical modeling, selection of support parameters, and improvement of roadway stability. The impact of floor heave on the safety of mining operations is also considered