Ethylene is a key spontaneous combustion indicator monitored in underground coal mine atmospheres. Ethylene is significant as it is traditionally considered confirmation of a coal heating. It is commonly used as a trigger for coal mine worker evacuation in spontaneous combustion Trigger Action Response Plans (TARPs).

On occasion, elevated concentrations of ethylene have been detected in the absence of other indicators of oxidation. Contamination of the mine atmosphere with an alternative source of ethylene has been suspected, potentially from timber supports.

This presentation investigates the potential, timeframes, and circumstances for timber to produce ethylene in an underground environment. The findings lead to the required management of timber supports, to avoid ethylene contamination, underground and increase confidence in mine gas analysis systems.