Work

A Multi-Scale Suitability Assessment Framework for Deep Geological Storage of High-Salinity Mine Water in Coal Mines

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Deep well injection and storage (DWIS) technology provides an effective alternative to address the high cost, energy intensity, and limited scalability of conventional treatments for high-salinity mine water from coal mines. However, the absence of a dedicated site suitability evaluation framework remains a major gap. Unlike previous approaches that directly applied CO2 storage criteria, this study refines and restructures the framework based on a systematic analysis of the fundamental differences in mechanisms and risk characteristics unique to mine water storage. Building on the experience of CO2 geological storage assessment, this study analyzes the key differences in fluid properties and storage mechanisms between water and CO2 and, for the first time, establishes a comprehensive site suitability evaluation framework for mine water geological storage. The framework integrates three main dimensions—stability and safety, effectiveness, and socio-economic factors—covering 80 key parameters. The indicator system is organized hierarchically at the basin, target-area, and site levels, and incorporates a multi-scale weight adaptation mechanism that assigns scale-dependent weights to the most influential indicators at each evaluation level. An innovative evaluation methodology combining a “one-vote veto” mechanism, progressive filtering, and multi-factor weighted superposition is proposed to determine storage suitability. This work fills a critical research gap in systematic site selection for deep mine water storage in China. It offers theoretical guidance and an engineering paradigm for overcoming technological bottlenecks in high-salinity water treatment, enabling efficient and low-carbon disposal. The study has important implications for promoting the green transformation of the mining industry and achieving national carbon peaking and neutrality goals.

Source: Water

DOI: 10.3390/w17233407

Authors: Zhe Jiang, Song Du, Songyu Ren, Qiaohui Che, Xiao Zhang, Yinglin Fan

Institution: China National Administration of Coal Geology

Language: English

Topic: CO2 Sequestration and Geologic Interactions

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Climate action, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137