Dynamic Evolution and Quantitative Characterization of Fractures in Coal at the Eastern Edge of Ordos Basin under Axial Loading

Understanding the evolution of pore-fracture networks in coal during loading is of paramount importance for coalbed methane exploration. To shed light on these dynamic changes, this study undertook uniaxial compression experiments on coal samples collected from the eastern edge of the Ordos Basin, complemented by μ-CT scanning to obtain a 3D visualization of the crack network model. The compression process was divided into three stages, namely, micro-crack compaction, linear elasticity, and peak failure. An increase in stress resulted in greater concentration and unevenness in fractal dimensions, illustrating the propagation of initial cleats and micro-cracks in the dominant crack direction and the ensuing process of crack merging. These results provide valuable insights into the internal structure and behavior of coal under stress, informing more efficient strategies for coalbed methane extraction.