Abstract: With the analysis of front abutment pressure distribution and mining-induced mechanical behavior of surrounding rock under the condition of relief failure, rock permeability changes in the front bearing stress environment are studied in the method of laboratory testing. Fracture development and evolution law of overlying strata under mining condition is revealed. The paper points out that the main cause of fracture development in front of the work face is strength failure, and the zone is divided into three parts: the original rock fissure zone, the stress concentration and fracture inoculation zone, the pressure relief and shear fracture development zone. The zone which has a better permeability accords with the plastic zone.

Key words: mining-induced overlying strata, evolution of fracture, permeability