Mechanical Damage to Coal and Increased Coal Permeability Caused by Water-Based Ultrasonic Cavitation

Abstract

Coalbed methane (CBM), recognized as a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy source, plays a crucial role in mitigating global climate change and advancing low-carbon energy solutions. However, the prevalence of low-permeability coal seams poses a significant challenge to effective CBM extraction. Improving coal permeability has emerged as a viable strategy to address the issue of low-permeability coal. Conventional CBM stimulation methods fall short in overcoming this obstacle. In contrast, the enhanced technique of CBM extraction by water-based ultrasonic cavitation holds great promise due to its use of high energy intensity, safety, and efficiency. Nevertheless, the inadequate theoretical framework for managing this technology impedes its widespread adoption for large-scale applications. This study investigated the impact of water-based ultrasonic cavitation treatment on coal’s properties and permeability through mechanical testing and permeability measurements conducted before and after treatment. This study also explored the process by which this technology, known as WUC-ECBM, improves coal’s mechanical properties and permeability. The findings suggest a potential stimulation technique (WUC-ECBM) for use in CBM extraction, and its physical mechanism.