Mine ventilation air methane as a sustainable energy source

Underground coal mines emitting large quantities of methane to atmosphere is one of the sources of methane. Approximately 70% of the methane emitted from coal mines is released as the ventilation air methane (VAM). Unfortunately, due to the low methane concentration (0.1-1.5%) in ventilation air, its effective utilization is considerably low. However, the global warming potential of methane can be reduced up to 95% by oxidizing the methane. Energy recovery may be possible as the products of oxidization. In this study, the existing and developing methods, based on the oxidation of methane, are introduced with a discussion of the features of the methods of the mitigation and utilization of VAM. The main operational parameters of the methods such as combustion method, technical feasibility and engineering applicability were also discussed. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.