Predicting changes in induced seismicity on the basis of estimated rock mass energy states

Seismic activity occurs during the extraction of a number of minerals in many countries. This phenomenon is one of the greatest natural threats in Polish hard-coal mines. Strong mine tremors can produce rock bursts and often cause easily noticeable ground vibrations. Moreover, induced seismicity can lead to the crumbling of coal seams, increasing the risk of endogenous fire or the release of methane, with a consequent risk of explosion. Here, Sanchez et al discuss the use of computed specific energy changes in predicting tremor energy output.