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Explosion barriers represent an integral part of the protection in the mining industry both against the transfer and the explosion of methane and coal dust. In 1926, when they were introduced in Germany, their construction underwent a number of modifications and changes. The article lists these changes, as they are reflected in the individual countries' regulations. The comparison may be used to enhance the mutual utilization in the respective countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mine gases it is mainly methane that is the only one dangerous component within the OKR. Its general effect on the environment during ascending to the surface and on the public safety is very specific. In the Ostrava-Karvina district, the mine gases in coal seams and accompanying minerals remained preserved in a certain volume. Methane is the main component of the mine gases. With regard to the transfer of methane during the historical geological period it is possible to make only a rough estimation of the primary content of methane in the coal seams of the particular coal basin. The estimation can be carried out only indicatively as a model using results of a laboratory high-pressure sorption of methane in the coal of the particular and humidity level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents evaluation of the impact of shale gas mining on the consumption of coal. In some countries, notably the U.S. A., shale gas mining has been developed to such a level that gas is considered to be a significant energy source. Shale gas has also replaced coal consumption, so there has been a surplus of coal in world markets. This was also reflected in the Czech Republic and other countries, and it will probably result in closing some underground mines. To reduce the economic impact of mines closing down, the paper suggests to use mines for mining methane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]