Sealing, grouting, and mechanical-hydraulic methods of extinguishing burning coal-refuse banks were evaluated through 15 demonstration grants in three states of the Appalachian region of the United States. The primary purpose of the demonstration grant program was to evaluate various techniques for extinguishing culm-bank fires. Both effectiveness and unit cost were major considerations in the evaluation. Mechanical-hydraulic methods were the most successful procedures used in terms of effectiveness and economy. These methods, however, require large quantities of water and a large disposal area--requirements that are not always present at burning culm-bank sites. The wide diversity of coal-refuse-bank sizes, shapes, compositions, and locations makes selection of a universally recommended control method impossible. (Modified author abstract)

"July 1973." Includes bibliographical references (p. 11). "APTD-1518." PB-222 836.