Numerical simulation of surface movement laws under different unconsolidated layers thickness

Based on specific geology and mining conditions of certain coal working face in China, a series of numerical models under different unconsolidated layers thickness were respectively established by employing FLAC3D. The relationship between the unconsolidated layers thickness and surface movement laws was studied. Maximum surface subsidence, Maximum horizontal displacement and surface subsidence degree were obtained. Contours of surface subsidence/horizontal displacement and curves were drawn. Some laws of surface subsidence/horizontal displacement were analyzed. The role of the unconsolidated layers in surface subsidence was revealed. It is significant to predict surface subsidence of thick unconsolidated layers for coal mine and take effective measures to control surface subsidence.