Large scale numerical investigation on methane explosion and propagation process in complicated laneway

In this paper a high-resolution, large-scale and parallel software is used to simulate methane explosion resulting from methane outburst in complicated laneway. Numerical results show that due to diffraction and reflection interaction in complicated laneway, the complicated wave structure can be formed. Explosion wave diffracts at the turning of laneway and strong rarefaction effect results in its strength weakness, leading to formation of the low pressure region at the location. This zone can be selected as a temporary place of refuge and setting place of an explosion-proof device. However, reflection of explosion wave on the wall and collision between explosion waves from the different lane way lead to the formation of high temperature and pressure region which causes second explosion. The explosion waves propagating in different laneway collide with each other at certain site and a high temperature region can be formed. The high temperature blocks the roadway and causes great difficulties of rescue in case of methane explosion. In the long and straight laneway, the explosion wave can propagate stably. So at this site, we can set an explosion-proof device which can play a better role in weakening the explosion wave. All the results above can provide important basis for the design and optimization of the mine laneway.