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16 pages, 2353 KB  
Article
Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia on Conductive Metal-Organic Frameworks with Varied Metal Centers
by Yanpeng Chen, Ran Mao, Rohit Kumar, Jianbo Shi and Li Yan
Separations 2026, 13(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations13020043 (registering DOI) - 25 Jan 2026
Abstract
Nitrate pollution in groundwater poses severe threats to ecosystems and human health, making the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) a promising remediation technology. Conductive metal–organic frameworks (cMOFs) with π-d conjugation, dispersed active sites, and tunable structures are ideal candidates for electrocatalysis. [...] Read more.
Nitrate pollution in groundwater poses severe threats to ecosystems and human health, making the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) a promising remediation technology. Conductive metal–organic frameworks (cMOFs) with π-d conjugation, dispersed active sites, and tunable structures are ideal candidates for electrocatalysis. Herein, we synthesized a series of cMOFs (M3(HHTP)2, M = Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Ni) via conjugated coordination between hexahydroxytriphenylene (HHTP) ligands and metal ions and systematically investigated their NO3RR performance. Electrochemical tests revealed that Fe3(HHTP)2 exhibits superior catalytic performance for nitrate reduction, achieving a high NH3 selectivity of 99.5% and a yield rate of 676.4 mg·gcat−1·h−1 at −1.0 V vs. RHE (reversible hydrogen electrode), along with excellent cyclic and structural stability. In situ attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy identified key intermediates (*NO2, *NH2OH) and proposed the reaction pathway: NO3 → *NO3 → *NO2 → *NO → *NOH → *NH2OH → *NH2 → *NH3. DFT calculations revealed that Fe center exhibited a lower energy barrier for NO3RR compared to other metal ions (Zn, Cu, Co, Ni). This study demonstrates the significant potential of Fe3(HHTP)2 for efficient NO3RR and provides new insights into the structure-function relationship of cMOF-based electrocatalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Removal of Organic Pollutants from Aqueous Systems)
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21 pages, 20103 KB  
Article
The Role of FeCoNiCrAl Particle Pretreatment in Interface Bonding and Properties of Cu/FeCoNiCrAl Composites
by Rui Zhu, Shaohao Zong, Xinyan Li, Jiacheng Feng and Wenbiao Gong
Materials 2026, 19(3), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19030472 (registering DOI) - 24 Jan 2026
Abstract
When fabricating high-entropy alloy particle-reinforced metal matrix composites via friction stir processing, the relatively low heat input led to insufficient interfacial diffusion between the particles and matrix, thereby compromising the composite properties. To address this issue, this study introduced an electroless copper plating [...] Read more.
When fabricating high-entropy alloy particle-reinforced metal matrix composites via friction stir processing, the relatively low heat input led to insufficient interfacial diffusion between the particles and matrix, thereby compromising the composite properties. To address this issue, this study introduced an electroless copper plating step followed by heat treatment to produce Cu-coated HEA particles with an interfacial diffusion layer. These modified particles were then incorporated into a copper matrix via friction stir processing to form composites with an intentionally designed interfacial diffusion layer. The results indicate that the diffusion layer structure contributed to excellent interfacial bonding. The resulting composite exhibited a simultaneous enhancement in both strength and ductility. The tensile strength and elongation reached 372.5 MPa and 34.2%, respectively, representing increases of 20.4% and 54% compared to pure copper. The wear rate of the composite reduced by 33.7% relative to pure copper. Quantitative analysis indicated that the contribution of fine-grain strengthening, Orowan strengthening, dislocation strengthening, and load transfer strengthening to the overall strength was 41.2 MPa, 0.3 MPa, 12.7 MPa, and 15.7 MPa, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Composites)
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22 pages, 6811 KB  
Article
Plant Accumulation of Metals from Soils Impacted by the JSC Qarmet Industrial Activities, Central Kazakhstan
by Bakhytzhan K. Yelikbayev, Kanay Rysbekov, Assel Sankabayeva, Dinara Baltabayeva and Rafiq Islam
Environments 2026, 13(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments13010064 (registering DOI) - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 19
Abstract
Metal pollution from metallurgical emissions poses serious environmental and public health risks in Kazakhstan. A replicated pot-culture experiment (n = 4) in a completely randomized design under controlled phytotron conditions evaluated biomass production and metal accumulation in six crop and forage species, alfalfa [...] Read more.
Metal pollution from metallurgical emissions poses serious environmental and public health risks in Kazakhstan. A replicated pot-culture experiment (n = 4) in a completely randomized design under controlled phytotron conditions evaluated biomass production and metal accumulation in six crop and forage species, alfalfa (Medicago sativa), amaranth (Amaranthus spp.), corn (Zea mays), mustard (Brassica juncea), rapeseed (Brassica napus), and sunflower (Helianthus annuus); three ornamental species, purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), marigold (Tagetes spp., ‘Tiger Eyes’), and sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima); and three native wild plants, greater burdock (Arctium lappa), horse sorrel (Rumex confertus), and mug wort (Artemisia vulgaris). Plants were grown in soils collected from the Qarmet industrial zone in Temirtau, central Kazakhstan. Initial soil analysis revealed substantial mixed-metal contamination, ranked as Mn > Ba > Zn > Sr > Cr > Pb > Cu > Ni > B > Co. Mn reached 1059 mg·kg−1, ~50-fold higher than B (22.7 mg·kg−1). Ba (620 mg·kg−1) exceeded FAO/WHO limits sixfold, Zn (204 mg·kg−1) surpassed the lower threshold, and Pb (41.6 mg·kg−1) approached permissible levels, while Cr, Cu, Ni, Co, and Sr were lower. Biomass production varied markedly among species: corn and sunflower produced the highest shoot biomass (126.8 and 60.9 g·plant−1), whereas horse sorrel had the greatest root biomass (54.4 g·plant−1). Root-to-shoot ratios indicated shoot-oriented growth (>1–8) in most species, except horse sorrel and burdock (<1). Metal accumulation was strongly species-specific. Corn and marigold accumulated Co, Pb, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, B, and Ba but showed limited translocation (transfer function, TF < 0.5), whereas sunflower, amaranth, and mug wort exhibited moderate to high translocation (TF > 0.8 to <1) for selected metals. Corn is recommended for high-biomass metal removal, marigold for stabilization, sunflower, horse sorrel, and mug wort for multi-metal extraction, and amaranth and coneflower for targeted Co, Ni, and Cu translocation, supporting sustainable remediation of industrially contaminated soils. Full article
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14 pages, 5865 KB  
Article
Microwave Synthesis of Transition Metal (Fe, Co, Ni)-Supported Catalysts for CO2 Hydrogenation
by Anna A. Strekalova, Anastasiya A. Shesterkina, Kirill A. Beresnev, Petr V. Pribytkov, Gennadiy I. Kapustin, Igor V. Mishin, Leonid M. Kustov and Alexander L. Kustov
Catalysts 2026, 16(1), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16010111 - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 21
Abstract
To improve the efficiency of CO2 hydrogenation, it is essential to develop new catalysts as well as new methods of producing them. In our work, we propose a new Fe-, Co-, Cu-containing catalyst preparation technique based on depositing the active component through [...] Read more.
To improve the efficiency of CO2 hydrogenation, it is essential to develop new catalysts as well as new methods of producing them. In our work, we propose a new Fe-, Co-, Cu-containing catalyst preparation technique based on depositing the active component through urea hydrolysis using microwave heating. We also compare catalysts produced with microwave synthesis to samples obtained through traditional synthesis methods, including impregnation and thermal deposition. The obtained catalysts were characterized by XRD, low-temperature N2 adsorption, SEM., and UV-VIS methods. The catalytic properties of the catalysts depend not only on the nature of the active component, but also on the preparation method. The best results for CO2 hydrogenation were achieved with Ni-containing catalysts produced by the impregnation method and microwave synthesis. Full article
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21 pages, 4581 KB  
Article
The Link Between Stemflow Chemistry and Forest Canopy Condition Under Industrial Air Pollution
by Vyacheslav Ershov, Nickolay Ryabov and Tatyana Sukhareva
Forests 2026, 17(1), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/f17010147 - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 10
Abstract
Rainfall is an essential component of boreal forest ecosystems. Aerotechnogenic pollution significantly affects the composition of rainfall. To predict the dynamics of biogeochemical cycles and develop strategies to enhance forest resilience in the Arctic zone, it is necessary to study the composition and [...] Read more.
Rainfall is an essential component of boreal forest ecosystems. Aerotechnogenic pollution significantly affects the composition of rainfall. To predict the dynamics of biogeochemical cycles and develop strategies to enhance forest resilience in the Arctic zone, it is necessary to study the composition and characteristics of rainfall. The objective of this study is to evaluate the variation in the chemical composition of stemflow in the most typical pine and spruce forests of Fennoscandia under conditions of aerotechnogenic pollution based on long-term monitoring data from 1999 to 2022. The research was carried out in forests exposed to atmospheric industrial pollution from the largest copper–nickel smelter in northern Europe (Murmansk Region, Russia). The study of rainwater composition was conducted in four microsites: open areas (OA), between crowns (BWC), below crowns (BC) and stemflow (SF). A significant influence of the tree canopy on the rainfall composition was noted. Stemflow was found to have the highest concentration of pollutants, indicating a significant biochemical role of this type of precipitation. The results showed an increase in the concentrations of heavy metals and sulfates in rainwater as we moved closer to the pollution source. Below crowns and in the stemflow of spruce forests, element concentrations are higher compared to pine forests. The highest concentrations of major pollutants in stemflow (Ni, Cu and SO42−) are observed in June—at the beginning of the growing season. Long-term dynamics reveal a decrease in the concentrations of Cu, Cd and Cr in defoliated forests and technogenic sparse forests. Stemflow volume rises from background to technogenic sparse forests due to deteriorating tree-crown conditions. This is associated with the deteriorating condition of tree stands, as manifested by reductions in tree height, diameter and needle cover. It has been established that under pollution conditions, trees’ assimilating organs actively accumulate heavy metals, thereby altering the composition of precipitation passing through the canopy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Meteorology and Climate Change)
31 pages, 4217 KB  
Review
Overview of Platinum Group Minerals (PGM): A Statistical Perspective and Their Genetic Significance
by Federica Zaccarini, Giorgio Garuti, Maria Economou-Eliopoulos, John F. W. Bowles, Hannah S. R. Hughes, Jens C. Andersen and Saioa Suárez
Minerals 2026, 16(1), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16010108 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2026
Viewed by 56
Abstract
The six platinum group elements (PGE) are among the rarest elements in the upper continental crust of the earth. Higher values of PGE have been detected in the upper mantle and in chondrite meteorites. The PGE are siderophile and chalcophile elements and are [...] Read more.
The six platinum group elements (PGE) are among the rarest elements in the upper continental crust of the earth. Higher values of PGE have been detected in the upper mantle and in chondrite meteorites. The PGE are siderophile and chalcophile elements and are divided into the following: (1) the Ir subgroup (IPGE) = Os, Ir, and Ru and (2) the Pd subgroup (PPGE) = Rh, Pt, and Pd. The IPGE are more refractory and less chalcophile than the PPGE. High concentrations of PGE led, in rare cases, to the formation of mineral deposits. The PGE are carried in discrete phases, the platinum group minerals (PGM), and are included as trace elements into the structure of base metal sulphides (BM), such as pentlandite, chalcopyrite, pyrite, and pyrrhotite. Similarly to PGE, the PGM are also divided into two main groups, i.e., IPGM composed of Os, Ir, and Ru and PPGM containing Rh, Pt, and Pd. The PGM occur both in mafic and ultramafic rocks and are mainly hosted in stratiform reefs, sulphide-rich lenses, and placer deposits. Presently, there are only 169 valid PGM that represent about 2.7% of all 6176 minerals discovered so far. However, 496 PGM are listed among the valid species that have not yet been officially accepted, while a further 641 are considered as invalid or discredited species. The main reason for the incomplete characterization of PGM resides in their mode of occurrence, i.e., as grains in composite aggregates of a few microns in size, which makes it difficult to determine their crystallography. Among the PGM officially accepted by the IMA, only 13 (8%) were discovered before 1958, the year when the IMA was established. The highest number of PGM was discovered between 1970 and 1979, and 99 PGM have been accepted from 1980 until now. Of the 169 PGM accepted by the IMA, 44% are named in honour of a person, typically a scientist or geologist, and 31% are named after their discovery localities. The nomenclature of 25% of the PGM is based on their chemical composition and/or their physical properties. PGM have been discovered in 25 countries throughout the world, with 64 from Russia, 17 from Canada and South Africa (each), 15 from China, 12 from the USA, 8 from Brazil, 6 from Japan, 5 from Congo, 3 from Finland and Germany (each), 2 from the Dominican Republic, Greenland, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea each, and only 1 from Argentine, Australia, Bulgaria, Colombia, Czech Republic, England, Ethiopia, Guyana, Mexico, Serbia, and Tanzania each. Most PGM phases contain Pd (82 phases, 48% of all accepted PGM), followed, in decreasing order of abundances, by those of Pt 35 phases (21%), Rh 23 phases (14%), Ir 18 phases (11%), Ru 7 phases (4%), and Os 4 phases (2%). The six PGE forming the PGM are bonded to other elements such as Fe, Ni, Cu, S, As, Te, Bi, Sb, Se, Sn, Hg, Ag, Zn, Si, Pb, Ge, In, Mo, and O. Thirty-two percent of the 169 valid PGM crystallize in the cubic system, 17% are orthorhombic, 16% hexagonal, 14% tetragonal, 11% trigonal, 3% monoclinic, and only 1% triclinic. Some PGM are members of a solid-solution series, which may be complete or contain a miscibility gap, providing information concerning the chemical and physical environment in which the mineral was formed. The refractory IPGM precipitate principally in primitive, high-temperature, mantle-hosted rocks such as podiform and layered chromitites. Being more chalcophile, PPGE are preferentially collected and concentrated in an immiscible sulphide liquid, and, under appropriate conditions, the PPGM can precipitate in a thermal range of about 900–300 °C in the presence of fluids and a progressive increase of oxygen fugacity (fO2). Thus, a great number of Pt and Pd minerals have been described in Ni-Cu sulphide deposits. Two main genetic models have been proposed for the formation of PGM nuggets: (1) Detrital PGM represent magmatic grains that were mechanically liberated from their primary source by weathering and erosion with or without minor alteration processes, and (2) PGM reprecipitated in the supergene environment through a complex process that comprises solubility, the leaching of PGE from the primary PGM, and variation in Eh-pH and microbial activity. These two models do not exclude each other, and alluvial deposits may contain contributions from both processes. Full article
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16 pages, 1288 KB  
Article
Genome Mining of Acinetobacter nosocomialis J2 Using Artificial Intelligence Reveals a Highly Efficient Acid Phosphatase for Phosphate Solubilisation
by Kaixu Chen, Huiling Huang, Xiao Yu, Jing Zhang, Chunming Zhou, Zhong Yao, Zheng Xu, Yang Liu and Yang Sun
Fermentation 2026, 12(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12010064 - 21 Jan 2026
Viewed by 61
Abstract
Excessive application of chemical fertilisers has led to soil phosphorus immobilisation and aquatic eutrophication, making the development of highly efficient acid/neutral phosphatases crucial for sustainable phosphorus utilisation. In this study, we systematically investigated strain J2, which was isolated from phosphate-contaminated soil in Laoshan, [...] Read more.
Excessive application of chemical fertilisers has led to soil phosphorus immobilisation and aquatic eutrophication, making the development of highly efficient acid/neutral phosphatases crucial for sustainable phosphorus utilisation. In this study, we systematically investigated strain J2, which was isolated from phosphate-contaminated soil in Laoshan, Nanjing, China. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis identified this strain as Acinetobacter nosocomialis J2, with 99.78% sequence similarity. Whole-genome sequencing generated a 3.83 Mb genome with a GC content of 38.59%, revealing multiple phospho-metabolism-related enzyme genes, including phospholipase C and α/β-hydrolases. A large language model–based protein representation learning strategy was employed to mine acid/neutral phosphatase genes from the genome, in which the model learned contextual and functional features from known phosphatase sequences and was used to identify semantically similar genes within the J2 genome. This approach predicted nine phosphatase candidate sequences, including AnACPase, a putative acid/neutral phosphatase. Biochemical characterisation showed that AnACPase exhibits optimal activity at pH 6.0 and 50 °C, with a Km value of 0.2454 mmol/L for the p-NPP substrate, indicating high substrate affinity. Mn2+ and Ni2+ significantly enhanced enzyme activity, whereas Cu2+ and Zn2+ strongly inhibited it. Soil remediation experiments further validated the application potential of AnACPase, which solubilised 171.56 mg/kg of phosphate within seven days. Overall, this study highlights the advantages of deep learning-assisted genome mining for functional enzyme discovery and provides a novel technological pathway for the bioremediation of phosphorus-polluted soils. Full article
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10 pages, 3936 KB  
Brief Report
Insights into the Performance of CusF as a Solubility Tag for Recombinant Protein Expression
by Igor P. Oscorbin, Maria A. Smertina, Maria S. Kunova and Maxim L. Filipenko
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 1057; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27021057 - 21 Jan 2026
Viewed by 64
Abstract
The metal-binding periplasmic protein CusF has been proposed as a bifunctional tag that enhances the solubility of recombinant proteins and enables purification using Cu affinity chromatography. However, evidence for its performance remains limited to a few model proteins. Here, we evaluated CusF as [...] Read more.
The metal-binding periplasmic protein CusF has been proposed as a bifunctional tag that enhances the solubility of recombinant proteins and enables purification using Cu affinity chromatography. However, evidence for its performance remains limited to a few model proteins. Here, we evaluated CusF as a solubility tag for two heterologous proteins: a putative poly(A)-polymerase from Enterococcus faecalis (Efa PAP) and the red fluorescent protein mCherry. The proteins were fused to CusF, expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) pLysS and Rosetta 2 (DE3) strains, and assessed for solubility and IMAC binding. Native Efa PAP was completely insoluble under all tested conditions, and fusion to CusF did not improve its solubility. Similarly, CusF–mCherry accumulated predominantly in the insoluble fraction, with only trace amounts detectable in soluble lysates. Soluble CusF–mCherry did not bind Cu2+-charged IMAC resin, while moderate binding to Ni2+-charged resin was attributable to the vector-encoded His tag rather than CusF. These results indicate that CusF does not universally enhance protein solubility and may not consistently bind Cu-based IMAC resin. Our findings expand empirical knowledge of solubility tag performance and emphasize the necessity of testing multiple tags to identify optimal strategies for recombinant protein production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry)
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35 pages, 8482 KB  
Article
Circular Reuse of Onshore Oil and Gas Produced Water for Bioenergy Crop: Phytoextraction Using Nopalea cochenillifera for Recovery of Degraded Semi-Arid Lands in Brazil
by Danielly de Oliveira Costa, Hudson Salatiel Marques Vale, Tereza Amelia Lopes Cizenando Guedes Rocha, Talita Dantas Pedrosa, Silvanete Severino da Silva, Stefeson Bezerra de Melo, Jackson Silva Nóbrega, João Everthon da Silva Ribeiro, Cristina dos Santos Ribeiro Costa, Antônio Gustavo de Luna Souto and Rafael Oliveira Batista
AgriEngineering 2026, 8(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering8010037 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 114
Abstract
Facing water scarcity and environmental contamination, a sustainable approach combining bioeconomy and circular economy principles has emerged: the use of onshore oil and gas produced water (PW) to irrigate Nopalea cochenillifera. This study evaluated the ability of Nopalea cochenillifera to phytoextract contaminants, [...] Read more.
Facing water scarcity and environmental contamination, a sustainable approach combining bioeconomy and circular economy principles has emerged: the use of onshore oil and gas produced water (PW) to irrigate Nopalea cochenillifera. This study evaluated the ability of Nopalea cochenillifera to phytoextract contaminants, focusing on translocation and bioaccumulation factors for the recovery of degraded soils. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with five treatments (T1: 100% supply water; T2: 75% supply water + 25% PW; T3: 50% supply water + 50% PW; T4: 25% supply water + 75% treated PW; T5: 100% PW) and five replicates in 20 L pots. After 240 days, plant and soil samples were analyzed for micronutrients (Cu2+, Mn2+, Fe2+, Zn2+ and Na+) and heavy metals (Cr, Ni, Cd and Pb). The highest median TF was observed for Mn in treatment T3 (10.55), while the highest median BF occurred for Cu in treatment T2 (10.852). Nopalea cochenillifera effectively translocated Mn, Zn, Ni, Cd, and Pb from roots to shoots and bioaccumulated all analyzed nutrients, particularly Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn. PW irrigation altered elemental transport and intensified metals accumulation. Thus, Nopalea cochenillifera demonstrates strong phytoextraction potential for environmental remediation in semi-arid regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Irrigation Systems)
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44 pages, 5917 KB  
Article
Post-Collisional Cu-Au Porphyry and Associated Epithermal Mineralisation in the Eastern Mount Isa Block: A New Exploration Paradigm for NW Queensland
by Kenneth D. Collerson and David Wilson
Geosciences 2026, 16(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences16010046 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 81
Abstract
Post-collisional Cu-Au-Ni-Co-Pt-Pd-Sc porphyry [Duck Creek porphyry system (DCPS)] with overlying Au-Te-Bi-W-HRE epithermal mineralisation [Highway epithermal system (HES)] has been discovered in the core of the Mitakoodi anticline, southwest of Cloncurry. Xenotime and monazite geochronology indicate mineralisation occurred between ~1490 and 1530 Ma. Host [...] Read more.
Post-collisional Cu-Au-Ni-Co-Pt-Pd-Sc porphyry [Duck Creek porphyry system (DCPS)] with overlying Au-Te-Bi-W-HRE epithermal mineralisation [Highway epithermal system (HES)] has been discovered in the core of the Mitakoodi anticline, southwest of Cloncurry. Xenotime and monazite geochronology indicate mineralisation occurred between ~1490 and 1530 Ma. Host rock lithologies show widespread potassic and/or propylitic to phyllic alteration. Paragenesis of porphyry sulphides indicates early crystallisation of pyrite, followed by chalcopyrite, with bornite forming by hydrothermal alteration of chalcopyrite. Cu sulphides also show the effect of supergene oxidation alteration with rims of covellite, digenite and chalcocite. Redox conditions deduced from the V/Sc systematics indicate that the DCPS contains both highly oxidised (typical of porphyries) and reduced lithologies, typical of plume-generated tholeiitic and alkaline suites. Ni/Te and Cu/Te systematics plot within the fields defined by epithermal and porphyry deposits. Duck Creek chalcophile and highly siderophile element (Cu, MgO and Pd) systematics resemble data from porphyry mineral systems, at Cadia, Bingham Canyon, Grasberg, Skouries, Kalmakyr, Elaisite, Assarel and Medet. SAM geophysical inversion models suggest the presence of an extensive porphyry system below the HES. A progressive increase in molar Cu/Au ratios with depth from the HES to the DCPS supports this conclusion. Three metal sources contributed to the linked DCPS-HES viz., tholeiitic ferrogabbro, potassic ultramafic to mafic system and an Fe and Ca-rich alkaline system. The latter two imparted non-crustal superchondritic Nb/Ta ratios that are characteristic of many deposits in the eastern Mount Isa Block. The associated tholeiite and alkaline magmatism reflect mantle plume upwelling through a palaeo-slab window that had accreted below the eastern flank of the North Australian craton following west-verging collision by the Numil Terrane. Discovery of this linked mineral system provides a new paradigm for mineral exploration in the region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Structural Geology and Tectonics)
13 pages, 3366 KB  
Article
A Multi-Technique Study of 49 Gold Solidi from the Late Antique Period (Late 4th–Mid 6th Century AD)
by Giovanna Marussi, Matteo Crosera, Stefano Fornasaro, Elena Pavoni, Bruno Callegher and Gianpiero Adami
Heritage 2026, 9(1), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9010038 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 184
Abstract
This study investigates 49 gold solidi issued between the 4th and 5th century AD to determine their chemical composition. The coins were first catalogued by recording mass, diameter, and thickness. All specimens underwent non-destructive µ-EDXRF analysis to identify main elements, followed by semi-quantitative [...] Read more.
This study investigates 49 gold solidi issued between the 4th and 5th century AD to determine their chemical composition. The coins were first catalogued by recording mass, diameter, and thickness. All specimens underwent non-destructive µ-EDXRF analysis to identify main elements, followed by semi-quantitative fineness evaluation. To validate these results, six coins were randomly micro-sampled: material was dissolved in aqua regia and analysed by ICP-AES for gold quantification and ICP-MS for high precision trace element determination. The non-destructive analyses showed consistently high gold percentages, confirming authenticity and the extensive use of this noble metal during the studied period. Two distinct groups were identified based on the XRF Pt/Pd ratio, suggesting the use of gold from different sources. Comparison of μ-EDXRF and ICP-AES gold contents shows no statistically significant differences; however, this apparent agreement should be interpreted cautiously, as it mainly reflects the limited resolving power of ICP-AES at very high gold concentrations rather than definitive evidence for the absence of surface-related effects. Trace elements analysis detected low concentrations of Cu, Sn, and Pb suggesting the use of alluvial gold for minting. The presence and correlation of terrigenous elements (Al, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Zn, Sr) indicate soil as the burial site. Full article
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17 pages, 2190 KB  
Article
New Strategy Based on Click Reaction for Preparation of 3-Acyl-4-hydroxycoumarin-Modified Silica as a Perspective Material for the Separation of Rare Earth Elements
by Dzhamilya N. Konshina, Ekaterina S. Spesivaya, Ida A. Lupanova, Anton S. Mazur and Valery V. Konshin
Molecules 2026, 31(2), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020369 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 116
Abstract
The separation of rare earth elements (REEs) with similar chemical properties remains a relevant challenge today, most often addressed using liquid–liquid and solid-phase extraction with various chelating agents. Excellent complexing agents for REEs are 1,3-diketones and their analogs. We have for the first [...] Read more.
The separation of rare earth elements (REEs) with similar chemical properties remains a relevant challenge today, most often addressed using liquid–liquid and solid-phase extraction with various chelating agents. Excellent complexing agents for REEs are 1,3-diketones and their analogs. We have for the first time proposed a method for preparing a material consisting of a covalently immobilized 3-acyl-4-hydroxycoumarin ligand on silica. For its synthesis, we employed a strategy based on the “click” reaction of 3-azidopropyl silica with a propargyl-containing coumarin–chalcone conjugate—this approach is the most tolerant and does not affect the coordinationally active fragment of the ligand. The material was characterized by thermal analysis, IR spectroscopy, and 13C NMR. The potential of the synthesized material for REE preconcentration was demonstrated at pH 5–5.5: high extraction efficiency for Gd(III), Dy(III), Er(III), Eu(III), Sm(III), and Yb(III) was observed, with fast adsorption kinetics (30 min) and extraction degrees of ~98%. Under unified conditions of static and dynamic extraction for Gd(III), Dy(III), Er(III), Eu(III), Sm(III), and Yb(III), affinity series toward the surface were obtained as a function of the distribution coefficient. It was shown that 10-fold molar excesses of Fe(III), Al(III), Cu(II), Ni(II), and Co(II) allow retention of more than 95% extraction for Dy(III) and Er(III). After adsorption of Dy(III) and Er(III), shifts in the carbonyl group absorption bands are visible in the IR spectra of the material, indicating a chelating mechanism of sorption. Additional studies are required for implementation in analytical and preparative REE separation schemes; however, preliminary data show that the material is a highly active adsorbent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Chemistry)
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18 pages, 2998 KB  
Review
Pathways from Source to Human Exposure of Platinum, Palladium, and Rhodium: A Comprehensive Review
by Maria Economou-Eliopoulos, George Eliopoulos, Ioannis-Porfyrios Eliopoulos, Federica Zaccarini and Giorgio Garuti
Environments 2026, 13(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments13010053 - 19 Jan 2026
Viewed by 117
Abstract
The principal global sources of platinum-group elements (Os, Ir, Ru, Rh, Pt, Pd), collectively referred to as PGEs, are magmatic Ni-Cu sulfide deposits associated with large, layered intrusions, such as the Bushveld Complex. Recent exploration efforts have identified rock types with elevated PGE [...] Read more.
The principal global sources of platinum-group elements (Os, Ir, Ru, Rh, Pt, Pd), collectively referred to as PGEs, are magmatic Ni-Cu sulfide deposits associated with large, layered intrusions, such as the Bushveld Complex. Recent exploration efforts have identified rock types with elevated PGE concentrations, although their potential remains uncertain. This comprehensive review synthesizes the current knowledge regarding potential sources from both natural magmatic and anthropogenic activities, as well as the environmental risks associated with the Pt, Pd, and Rh sub-group, or PPGEs. The order of Pd > Pt > Rh content in emitted particulates has been documented in dust and soil along roadsides, whereas in Fe-Ni laterite, Pt tends to accumulate residually at the top of profiles due to the higher mobility of Pd compared to Pt and Rh. The greater mobility and transfer of Pd are evidenced by higher bioaccumulation factors for Pd in plants and crops, with a higher Pd content observed in roots than in shoots. The effects of chronic occupational exposure to Pt compounds, such as allergic reactions affecting the skin and respiratory system of workers, are well-documented. Although no established permissible limits for Pt, Pd, and Rh in soil, water, or plants exist within major regulatory frameworks, the increasing applications of PPGEs and the use of Pd in catalytic converters (due to its lower cost) underscore the need for further studies on the recycling of spent catalytic converters, health impacts, ecotoxicological assessments, and the application of current technological advances to mitigate exhaust emissions. Full article
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20 pages, 319 KB  
Article
Detecting Heavy Metal Pollution in an Organized Industrial Zone: Soil–Plant Accumulation Patterns in a Medicinal Plant (Calamintha nepeta subsp. glandulosa) and Associated Health and Environmental Risk Implications
by Ibrahim Ilker Ozyigit, Belma Gjergjizi Nallbani, Ibrahim Ertugrul Yalcin, Goksel Demir, Gulten Kasoglu and Bertug Sakin
Toxics 2026, 14(1), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14010089 (registering DOI) - 19 Jan 2026
Viewed by 230
Abstract
Dilovasi district of Kocaeli is one of the largest industrial regions, and due to its high production capacity and industrial waste, the soil heavy metal levels in this region are exceptionally high. Consequently, this study focuses on essential elements (B, Ca, Cr, Cu, [...] Read more.
Dilovasi district of Kocaeli is one of the largest industrial regions, and due to its high production capacity and industrial waste, the soil heavy metal levels in this region are exceptionally high. Consequently, this study focuses on essential elements (B, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Zn) and non-essential elements that are considered toxic to humans (Al, Cd, Pb), covering a total of thirteen elements. Accordingly, this study aims to highlight the degree of pollution in a Turkish Organized Industrial Zone located in the Dilovasi district of Kocaeli by quantifying the concentrations of the aforementioned elements in Calamintha nepeta subsp. glandulosa plants and soil samples, and by assessing their potential implications for human health. Significant accumulation of heavy metals in both soils and plant parts suggests that metal contamination, especially that of Fe (up to 1009.2 mg kg−1), is a matter of great concern in the Dilovasi district. The results revealed that the concentrations (mg kg−1) of Cr (23.0 ± 0.1), Fe (1292.5 ± 5.6), Pb (36.9 ± 0.1), Zn (151.2 ± 0.8), and Cd (3.6 ± 0.1) were considerably higher. However, the concentrations of Cu, Mn, and Ni were found to be within the permissible limits in accordance with the American Herbal Products Association and the World Health Organization referenced guideline values. Furthermore, heavy metal concentrations in C. nepeta subsp. glandulosa were generally higher in areas characterized by elevated soil metal levels, indicating a clear correspondence between soil contamination and plant metal content. Based on these findings, C. nepeta subsp. glandulosa, a plant with culinary and medicinal value, can be considered a useful bioindicator for assessing local heavy metal contamination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ecotoxicology)
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23 pages, 4062 KB  
Review
Nanoscale Microstructure and Microbially Mediated Mineralization Mechanisms of Deep-Sea Cobalt-Rich Crusts
by Kehui Zhang, Xuelian You, Chao Li, Haojia Wang, Jingwei Wu, Yuan Dang, Qing Guan and Xiaowei Huang
Minerals 2026, 16(1), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16010091 - 17 Jan 2026
Viewed by 148
Abstract
As a potential strategic resource of critical metals, deep-sea cobalt-rich crusts represent one of the most promising metal reservoirs within oceanic seamount systems, and their metallogenic mechanism constitutes a frontier topic in deep-sea geoscience research. This review focuses on the cobalt-rich crusts from [...] Read more.
As a potential strategic resource of critical metals, deep-sea cobalt-rich crusts represent one of the most promising metal reservoirs within oceanic seamount systems, and their metallogenic mechanism constitutes a frontier topic in deep-sea geoscience research. This review focuses on the cobalt-rich crusts from the Magellan Seamount region in the northwestern Pacific and synthesizes existing geological, mineralogical, and geochemical studies to systematically elucidate their mineralization processes and metal enrichment mechanisms from a microstructural perspective, with particular emphasis on cobalt enrichment and its controlling factors. Based on published observations and experimental evidence, the formation of cobalt-rich crusts is divided into three stages: (1) Mn/Fe colloid formation—At the chemical interface between oxygen-rich bottom water and the oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), Mn2+ and Fe2+ are oxidized to form hydrated oxide colloids such as δ-MnO2 and Fe(OH)3. (2) Key metal adsorption—Colloidal particles adsorb metal ions such as Co2+, Ni2+, and Cu2+ through surface complexation and oxidation–substitution reactions, among which Co2+ is further oxidized to Co3+ and stably incorporated into MnO6 octahedral vacancies. (3) Colloid deposition and mineralization—Mn–Fe colloids aggregate, dehydrate, and cement on the exposed seamount bedrock surface to form layered cobalt-rich crusts. This process is dominated by the Fe/Mn redox cycle, representing a continuous evolution from colloidal reactions to solid-phase mineral formation. Biological processes play a crucial catalytic role in the microstructural evolution of the crusts. Mn-oxidizing bacteria and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) accelerate Mn oxidation, regulate mineral-oriented growth, and enhance particle cementation, thereby significantly improving the oxidation and adsorption efficiency of metal ions. Tectonic and paleoceanographic evolution, seamount topography, and the circulation of Antarctic Bottom Water jointly control the metallogenic environment and metal sources, while crystal defects, redox gradients, and biological activity collectively drive metal enrichment. This review establishes a conceptual framework of a multi-level metallogenic model linking macroscopic oceanic circulation and geological evolution with microscopic chemical and biological processes, providing a theoretical basis for the exploration, prediction, and sustainable development of potential cobalt-rich crust deposits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geochemistry and Mineralogy of Polymetallic Deep-Sea Deposits)
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