Concealed hazards (e.g., hidden goafs, water-bearing faults, weak rock zones) are major threats to underground metal mine safety, often causing collapse and water inrush due to their concealment and sensitivity to mining disturbance. This study addresses low detection accuracy and untargeted prevention by integrating field investigation, laboratory tests, and engineering application. First, via surveys of 3 typical mines, concealed hazards were categorized into geological origin and engineering-induced types. An AHP-based risk classification was established. Second, formation mechanisms were analyzed: goafs form via historical mining and collapse under stress release; water-bearing faults activate when mining-induced stress difference >12 MPa; weak rock zones degrade (UCS -58% in 30-day water soaking). Third, an integrated detection scheme (optimized BHR + drilling verification) was proposed—BHR with 600 MHz antenna and adaptive filtering improved accuracy, and drilling confirmed hazards, achieving 78% total accuracy. Targeted prevention included cemented filling for goafs, segmented grouting for faults, and bolt-shotcrete support for weak rock zones. Engineering application in a Henan iron mine identified 7/8 hazards, reduced displacement, and saved 820,000 RMB. This study provides practical support for medium-sized metal mine safety.

Li Xiaoyong, Yu Jianhua, Qu Weigui, Yang Zhuang. Research on Concealed Hazard-Prone Factors and Prevention-Control Methods in Metal Mines. Academic Journal of Environment & Earth Science (2025), Vol. 7, Issue 5: 24-30. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJEE.2025.070504.

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