A TIN-GTP algorithm-based technique for 3D geological modeling of coal mines

Background A 3D geological model of a coal mine serves as an essential prerequisite to guiding the safe and efficient production of coal mines, holding great significance for precise coal mining and geological guarantee. Especially in complex geologic conditions, the failure of geological models to accurately describe the relationship between structures and strata will affect the mining area planning, mining processes, and production efficiency during the production of coal mines. Methods With the Qipanjing coal mine in the Zhuozishan coalfield as an example, this study investigated the technology for high-accuracy 3D geological modeling of coal mines based on field geological data, fault results, and verification outcomes. First, geological data were integrated using methods like spatial registration, cross-validation, and joint inversion to obtain more accurate modeling data. Second, the sedimentary evolutionary characteristics and structural developmental patterns were determined by investigating the sedimentary tectonic patterns. Third, 3D geological models were constructed using the triangulated irregular network - generalized tri-prism (TIN-GTP) algorithm. Results and Conclusions The results show that the TIN-GTP algorithm-based technique for modeling can simulate any complex geological bodies in an effective, accurate, and rapid manner, creating favorable conditions for addressing issues such as stratigraphic unconformities, stratigraphic pinch-out, coal seam bifurcation, and fault cutting. Furthermore, geological models on varying scales like the mine, mining area, and mining face combined with its roof and floor were built for the Qipanjing coal mine, providing significant data for the geological transparency and intelligent mining of coal mines. It has been verified that the errors of all the models are below 0.2 m, with 95% falling within the range of 0 to 0.1 m, demonstrating the advanced and rational nature of the modeling technique. The research findings are of significant importance for enhancing the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of coal mining operations, providing strong support for technological advancement and transformation in the coal industry.