Influence of Ventilation and Air Leakage on Low-Oxygen Conditions and Spontaneous Combustion Hazards in Shallow-Buried Coal Seam Goafs

This study investigates how ventilation and surface air leakage affect low-oxygen conditions and spontaneous combustion in the shallow-buried S1204 goaf of the Ningtiaota Coal Mine. A multi-field coupled model of airflow, coal oxidation, and heat transfer was built in COMSOL to simulate oxygen and temperature evolution. Results show that leakage intensity, ventilation rate, and airflow resistance markedly shape oxygen distribution and thermal behavior. Strong leakage accelerates oxygen decline and heating, heightening combustion risk, while excessive ventilation can also promote oxidation. The findings support ventilation optimization and hazard mitigation in shallow-buried coal seams.