Influence of the particle size distribution on the explosion severity of coal dust

To precisely identify the critical particle size components affecting coal dust explosions and thereby effectively mitigate explosion risk, this study employed Pearson correlation analysis to statistically examine the relationships between 14 particle size parameters and 5 explosion severity indices. Additionally, stepwise regression was used to identify key particle size parameters affecting coal dust explosion severity, resulting in regression equations for explosion severity indicator models. The results indicate that, according to the Pearson correlation analysis, the particle size parameters with the greatest impact on explosion severity are D₁₀, D₂₀, D₃₀, D_3,2, and SSA. According to stepwise regression, the particle size parameters that most affect the explosion severity are D₁₀, D₂₀, D_3,2, and SSA. Combining both analytical results, the particle size parameters with the greatest influence on explosion severity are D₁₀, D₂₀, D_3,2, and SSA. Therefore, when developing explosion prevention and mitigation strategies for coal dust from the perspective of explosion severity, attention should be given to particle size parameters such as D₁₀–D₃₀, D_3,2, and SSA.