(GB2326658-A)      This new method recovers methane from subterranean coal formations. It involves penetrating the coal seam (10) by a number of boreholes (14).    In the new process, gaseous oxidant is injected into the formations. Oxidant is left in the formations over a chosen interval, to stimulate fissuring in the coal formations. Methane is then extracted at an increased rate.    USE -   To fissure coal formations to increase rate of methane recovery.    ADVANTAGE -   Underground rock structure is disrupted, causing fissuring and enlargement of both total surface area and cavities. Method is suitable for differing types of coal, ranging from porous, water-filled structures, through to near-impermeable ranks. Fissuring assists penetration and dewatering, which in turn increase permeability to methane. Treatment also assists borehole and cavity formation. Heating is to be anticipated, during oxidant enclosure.    (US5865248-A)      This new method recovers methane from subterranean coal formations. It involves penetrating the coal seam (10) by a number of boreholes (14).    In the new process, gaseous oxidant is injected into the formations. Oxidant is left in the formations over a chosen interval, to stimulate fissuring in the coal formations. Methane is then extracted at an increased rate.    USE -   To fissure coal formations to increase rate of methane recovery.    ADVANTAGE -   Underground rock structure is disrupted, causing fissuring and enlargement of both total surface area and cavities. Method is suitable for differing types of coal, ranging from porous, water-filled structures, through to near-impermeable ranks. Fissuring assists penetration and dewatering, which in turn increase permeability to methane. Treatment also assists borehole and cavity formation. Heating is to be anticipated, during oxidant enclosure.    (ZA9803627-A)      This new method recovers methane from subterranean coal formations. It involves penetrating the coal seam (10) by a number of boreholes (14).    In the new process, gaseous oxidant is injected into the formations. Oxidant is left in the formations over a chosen interval, to stimulate fissuring in the coal formations. Methane is then extracted at an increased rate.    USE -   To fissure coal formations to increase rate of methane recovery.    ADVANTAGE -   Underground rock structure is disrupted, causing fissuring and enlargement of both total surface area and cavities. Method is suitable for differing types of coal, ranging from porous, water-filled structures, through to near-impermeable ranks. Fissuring assists penetration and dewatering, which in turn increase permeability to methane. Treatment also assists borehole and cavity formation. Heating is to be anticipated, during oxidant enclosure.