As Associate Research Fellow in Mineral Resources Engineering at the University of Wollongong (UOW), Dr Xiaohan Yang dedicates himself to the mitigation and prevention of dynamic hazards in underground coal mines.
Xiaohan’s ambition flows from his earlier doctoral research at UOW where, under the supervision of Professor Ting Ren and Professor Alex Remennikov, he helped develop a new protective system for continuous miners (machines that both cut and load coal).
Supported by the Nanocomm Hub, Xiaohan has investigated the energy and mechanical mechanisms behind the fracture of brittle rocks under stress. By quantitatively defining the energy scale of underground dynamic effects, he has produced an important scientific reference to inform both the design and verification of protective devices and other control measures.
Reflecting on his experience at the Hub, Xiaohan says, “It’s an excellent platform for young researchers to expand their interdisciplinary knowledge, enjoy a multicultural environment and get comprehensive academic training.”
Prior to his arrival at UOW, Xiaohan earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Mining Engineering at the China University of Mining and Technology.
Xiaohan has now set his sights on analysing rock failure under extreme conditions. He hopes this exploration will lead to more sustainable underground storage of mining waste and nuclear wastewater, contributing to a circular economy.
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