Stimulation effect of pulsed ultrasonic excitation on coal pores with full-scale pore sizes

This study aims to further investigate the stimulation effect of pulsed ultrasonic excitation on coal pore structures. Using an ultrasonic excitation test system for gas-containing coals, this study conducted ultrasonic excitation tests on coals under continuous and interactive pulses with ultrasonic power of 800 W and 1000 W. Through low-pressure CO₂ adsorption tests, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption tests, and the mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) tests, this study explored the evolutionary patterns of parameters of various coal pores with full-scale pore sizes, including macropores (> 50 nm), mesopores (2‒50 nm), and micropores (< 2 nm). The test results are as follows: (1) Pulsed ultrasonic waves can expand coal pores. The pore volume of coals was primarily provided by micropores and macropores, with mesopores representing a small proportion. The specific surface area of various coal pores was in the order of micropores > mesopores > macropores. (2) Compared with those having undergone continuous or no ultrasonic excitation, coal samples that experienced pulsed ultrasonic excitation exhibited increased pore volumes and specific surface areas of various core pores. (3) With an increase in the number of pulsed ultrasonic excitation, the increased amplitude of the pore volume and specific surface area of coal pores increased linearly. Most especially, macropores presented significantly high increased amplitude. Pulsed ultrasonic excitation caused the continuous transformation between the water hammer pressure stage and the stagnation pressure stage, which increased the level of damage to coal pore structures. Developing pulsed ultrasonic emitters, combined with hydraulic technology, can improve the developmental degree of coal pores, coal permeability, and gas drainage efficiency.