Application of isotopic and hydro-geochemical methods in identifying sources of mine inrushing water

Isotopic and hydro-geochemical surveys were carried out to identify the source of mine inrushing water at the #73003 face in the Laohutai Mine. Based on the analysis of isotopes and hydro-chemical features of surface water, groundwater from different levels and the inrushing water, a special relationship between water at the #73003 face and cretaceous water has been found. The results show that the isotopic and hydro-chemical features of the inrushing water are completely different from those of other groundwater bodies, except for the cretaceous water. The isotopic and hydrochemical characteristics of cretaceous water are similar to the inrushing water of the #73003 face, which aided with obtaining the evidence for the possible source of the inrushing water at the #73003 face. The isotope calculations show that the inrushing water at the #73003 face is a mixture of cretaceous water and Quaternary water. Water from the cretaceous conglomerate is the main source, accounting for 67% of the inrushing water, while the Quaternary water accounts for 33%. The conclusion is also supported by a study of inrushing-water channels and an active fault near the inrushing-water plot on the #73003 face.