Research on establishing appropriate industrial criteria in coal reserve/resource assessment in the Dong Bac coal basin, Vietnam

Abstract

Mineral coal stands as a non-renewable resource currently playing a pivotal role in the energy industry and is irreplaceable. Hence, beyond expanding exploration and prospecting, the challenge lies in enhancing the efficiency of exploiting existing coal mines. This task proves to be formidable in resource assessment, ensuring the sustainability of resource management and exploitation. The criteria previously used for estimating coal reserves in the Northeastern coal basin have not been truly suitable for the actual conditions and the varied industrial requirements for coal. Thus, there is a need to conduct research to establish appropriate industrial criteria for coal reserves/resources. The research employs a combination of synthesis methods, literature review, multivariate regression analysis, and modeling techniques to establish criteria for industrial coal reserve/resource estimation. The study's findings reveal that the increase in coal reserves/resources in the Northeastern coal basin closely depends on changes in the minimum thickness criterion (M_min) and the maximum ash content (A^K_max). Ash content and variations in coal ash content (σ_H) not only impact the results of reserve/resource estimation and result reliability but also significantly influence mining technology and screening processes. The industrial criteria used in coal reserve estimation should be adjusted, specifically the calorific value criterion (Q^d_gr) ≥ 3500 cal/g, corresponding to the maximum ash content, including impurities (A^K_max) ≤ 45-50%, minimum thickness, including the stone intercalation, should be ≥ 0.6-1.0, and the maximum depth to -700m. Regarding resources, the maximum ash content, including impurities (A^K_max), should be ≤ 50-60%, minimum thickness, including the stone intercalation, should be ≥ 0.5-0.6 m, and the maximum depth should be -1000m. The research results not only contribute to optimizing the management and exploitation of coal in the Northeastern basin but also establish theoretical foundations and policies supporting sustainable development in the coal industry for the future.