Ash-Based Grout for Control of Underground Mine Subsidence
Western Research Institute, under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Energy is developing grout formulations and application methods for backfilling abandoned underground mines.
Along the Front Range in Colorado, where WRI is working, abandoned underground mines underlay an estimated 50,000 acres. The potential for subsidence has restricted development and devalued prime properties. Many of the abandoned mines are flooded, which complicates both the grout design and the injection process. WRI has formulated a grout using ashes from coal-fired power plants that can be used to stabilize both dry and flooded mines.
- For mine operators, landowners and property developers, alleviating subsidence with WRI’s ash-based grout restores and protects the value of surface lands.
- For landowners, property developers, public road and highway departments, and construction contractors, alleviating subsidence protects and promotes investment in surface improvements.
- For public agencies, commercial entities, and landowners involved in abandoned mine lands remediation, alleviating subsidence with WRI’s ash-based grout helps restore environmental integrity and safety.
- For ash marketers and utilities, WRI’s ash-based grout offers a beneficial use for coal ash waste.
Licensing opportunities and technical services are available.