LAUSR

The underground mining is the only potential way for the utilization of the lignite reserves from an open pit exploitation which could remain unexploited due to high stripping ratios. This paper is dealing with the findings of a pilot scale underground exploitation that was developed in the Prosilio open pit coal mine in Northern Greece. The method used is the room and pillar mining method where the initial entry galleries are driven into the coal seam starting from the surface excavation face, as used in the highwall mining cases. The design of the mining scheme is presented in detail along with the building of the 3D numerical model which simulates the overall development of the pilot mine. The evaluation of the stability conditions is further discussed and analysed with the use of the results of the numerical model and through their validation with the findings and observations of the actual excavation’s response. The mine scheme selected exhibited its flexibility in coping with the prevailing conditions and its performance, in terms of the stability conditions attained, further supporting the development of a large scale underground coal excavation.