Optimization of the operating parameters for radon reduction on brattice induced cavern ventilation using CFD

Abstract

Cavern is a place where workers often work in underground spaces, where radon is constantly released from surrounding rock surfaces. It is of great significance to develop effective ventilation to reduce radon in underground space for safe production and occupational health. For the purpose of controlling the radon concentration level in the cavern, the influence of upstream and downstream brattice length, upstream and downstream brattice to wall width on the volume average radon concentration and the plane average radon concentration at the height of the human respiratory zone (Z = 1.6 m) in the cavern, was studied by using the CFD (Computational fluid dynamics) method, and the operating parameters of ventilation induced by the brattice are optimized. The results show that the radon concentration in the cavern can be significantly reduced by using the brattice induced ventilation compared with no ventilation auxiliary facilities. This study provides a reference for local radon-reducing ventilation design of underground cavern.

Keywords: Brattice; CFD; Radon-reducing ventilation; Underground cavern.