Virginia Tech to study mine ventilation systems

Blacksburg (WBQB/WFVA/AP)  -- Researchers at Virginia Tech will study how explosions and other serious accidents affect ventilation systems at underground mines.  Tech officials say its mining and minerals engineering department received a $1.24 million, five-year
contract from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to conduct the study.  Assistant professor Kray Luxbacher will be the principal investigator.   Luxbacher says the project is a proactive step by NIOSH to increase expertise in mine ventilation as the industry's work force ages and it loses experienced personnel.