EXPLODING THE GAS RISKS UNDERGROUND

There is growing recognition that methane poses a serious risk to the construction and operation of underground structures and tunnels. Sources include carbonaceous or coal-bearing rocks where ancient thermogenic methane may be present, a variety of rock and soil conditions where methane-bearing ground water may occur, alluvial silts and muds and 'made' ground where recently derived gas may occur. The properties of methane are listed. The author assesses the impact of methane on the three phases of any project - pre-construction, construction and post-construction and operation. Techniques for assessing methane levels are outlined before and during construction and procedures which may be necessary described. A flexible approach is required from the engineer and contractor to contain the methane hazard and allow for the integration of any new factors determined during construction. The author suggests that there is no simple model for dealing with the methane problem as each situation will provide its own range of problems.

  • Availability:
  • Corporate Authors:

    Reed Business Information, Limited

    Quadrant House, The Quadrant
    Brighton Road
    Sutton, Surrey  United Kingdom  SM2 5AS
  • Authors:
    • Pearson, F
  • Publication Date: 1989-5

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Pagination: p. 39-40
  • Serial:
    • CONTRACT JOURNAL
    • Publisher: Reed Business Information, Limited
    • ISSN: 0010-7859

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00498132
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: Transport and Road Research Laboratory (TRRL)
  • Files: ITRD, TRIS
  • Created Date: Sep 30 1990 12:00AM