New Publication: Methane Emissions from Underground Coal Mines
Our group is excited to share our newest article published in ACS ES&T Air (March 2026), titled “Methane Emissions from Underground Coal Mines.” The study provides the first coordinated, multiplatform evaluation of methane emissions from underground coal mines across Kentucky. Between 2021 and 2022, the team surveyed 14 active, 4 inactive, and 4 abandoned mines using vehicle‑mounted near‑infrared spectrometers, GHGSat aircraft overflights, and a small uncrewed aerial system (sUAS). These complementary methods were deployed to evaluate detection performance, quantify methane emissions, and compare results with historical EPA and MSHA data.
Vehicle-based surveys proved highly effective, detecting methane anomalies at 9 of 13 accessible mines, with emissions reaching up to 665 ± 229 kg h⁻¹ at major ventilation fans. In contrast, aircraft surveys detected anomalies at only 3 of 14 mines, largely due to complex terrain and horizontally oriented fans that weaken vertical column signals. sUAS measurements at the Straight Creek mine quantified emissions of 64.8 ± 22.5 kg h⁻¹, below EPA’s reporting threshold but consistent with predictions based on coal production.
Cross-platform comparisons revealed systematic biases, highlighting how terrain, weather, and sampling geometry influence detection success. The work emphasizes that no single approach captures all emissions; instead, integrated multiplatform monitoring is essential, especially as reporting declines and small mines represent a growing share of methane output.
Authors: Marcelo I. Guzman, Thomas M. Parris, Stephen F. Greb, Cortland F. Eble, and Sean C. C. Bailey
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