Flood detection in mines using gas concentration anomalies in the air ventilation system

Abstract

Flooding in two mercury mines, both characterised by a continuous emanation of a CO₂−H₂S gas mixture, has been investigated and previously reported by the author. The investigations suggest a definite correlation between variations in the gas flow-rate and mixture concentration ratio and fluctuations in the piezometric level. This correlation is attributed to changes in the compressibility and solubility of the two gases. This technical note contains the pertinent results and conclusions of these investigations.