An experimental life-saving capsule for miners passed a simulation test in which four "trapped" men stayed unharmed in the capsule for 96 hours in northern China's Shanxi Province, Xinhua news agency reported on Monday.

Four staff workers take part in an experiment inside a life-saving capsule on July 2.

The test was carried out in simulation tunnels set up by Lu'an Group, a mining group that operates a major coal production base in southern Shanxi.

The capsule will serve as a refuge point for trapped miners in cases of misplaced blasts, toxic smoke, and extreme temperatures. Oxygen, food and water are stored in the capsule to buy more time for trapped miners.

The capsule is also equipped with a communication system to call for help and guide rescuers.

Staff workers celebrate a successful simulation in the capsule. [Photo: Xinhua]   Staff workers conduct final tests before the test subjects make their safe exit from the capsule in this photo published on July 14. [Photo: Xinhua]

This capsule is designed to reduce mining deaths. [Photo: cnsphoto]

(Xinhua News Agency, CRI July 15, 2008)