Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (315)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = Mn0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4/Fe2O3

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
32 pages, 11474 KB  
Article
In Search of Ultra-Black Ceramic Pigments Using Microwaves: Delafossite Cuprates CuMO2 (M = Mn, Fe, Cr)
by Guillermo Monrós, Vicente Esteve, Carolina Delgado, Guillem Monrós-Andreu and Mario Llusar
Materials 2025, 18(21), 4910; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18214910 (registering DOI) - 27 Oct 2025
Abstract
Cuprate delafossite phases such as CuMnO2 (crednerite) and CuFeO2, as well as iron- and manganese-doped mcconnellite composites, were investigated as candidates for producing intense black ceramic pigments via conventional solid-state synthesis. Both electric kiln and fast dielectric (microwave) firing methods [...] Read more.
Cuprate delafossite phases such as CuMnO2 (crednerite) and CuFeO2, as well as iron- and manganese-doped mcconnellite composites, were investigated as candidates for producing intense black ceramic pigments via conventional solid-state synthesis. Both electric kiln and fast dielectric (microwave) firing methods were employed, with mcconnellite (CuCrO2) used as a reference pigment. Microwave firing led to a marked improvement in sample blackness compared to conventional electric firing. Among the delafossite phases, only mcconnellite subjected to microwave-assisted firing (RVis = 1.40%, corresponding to 98.60% visible light absorption) emerges, pending further optimization, as a promising candidate for an ultra-black ceramic pigment (RVis < 1%) under optimized glaze conditions (ZnO-free) and a firing temperature of 1000 °C. Considering the pigments in powder form, microwave-fired crednerite (RVis = 4.85%, 95.15% absorption) and iron- and iron–manganese-doped mcconnellite composites (RVis = 3.27% and 3.23%, respectively) appear as potential candidates for deep-black pigments (RVis < 3%), benefiting from the composite effect between the delafossite phase and the associated chromium spinel. Moreover, microwave-fired crednerite also demonstrates noteworthy potential for deep-black coloration in glazed samples (RVis = 4.27%, 95.73% absorption). Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2949 KB  
Article
Artificial Aggregates from Metallurgical Waste as a Potential Source of Groundwater and Soil Contamination
by Katarzyna Nowińska, Jacek Nowak, Aleksandra Bartyzel, Magdalena Kokowska-Pawłowska and Krzysztof Kuliński
Minerals 2025, 15(10), 1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15101082 - 17 Oct 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
Highly developed countries generate large volumes of industrial waste, the type and quantity of which are strongly linked to the characteristics of the industries that produce it. Industrial waste can adversely affect the environment, so its disposal and management are a major challenge. [...] Read more.
Highly developed countries generate large volumes of industrial waste, the type and quantity of which are strongly linked to the characteristics of the industries that produce it. Industrial waste can adversely affect the environment, so its disposal and management are a major challenge. Understanding the characteristics of a given waste type (e.g., its chemical and phase composition, technical parameters and likelihood of releasing constituents into aquatic and soil environments) allows its potential economic applications to be determined. A simple application of mineral waste is in the production of artificial aggregates, which are increasingly used as a substitute for natural aggregates. In Poland, artificial aggregates are widely produced from metallurgical waste from steel and non-ferrous metallurgy, which may contain numerous components that are potentially environmentally damaging. Depending on their occurrence form (i.e., mineral composition), these contaminants have varying potential to be released into aquatic and soil environments. This study presents the results of mineral and chemical composition analyses and leachability tests conducted on aggregates produced from metallurgical waste, including slags from blast furnaces, steelmaking, Zn and Pb production, and Ni production. The studied aggregates are characterised by chemical and phase composition differences, resulting from the type of slag from which they originate. The chemical composition of blast furnace slag is dominated by CaO, SiO2, Fe2O3, and MgO; steelmaking slag by CaO, Fe2O3, and SiO2; Zn and Pb production slag by SiO2, Fe2O3, SO3, and CaO; and Ni production slag by SiO2, Fe2O3, CaO, and Al2O3. The phase composition of all the tested aggregates is dominated by silicates resistant to leaching (weathering), which results in low levels of Al, Ca, Cr, Mn, Zn, Pb, Cu, As, Sr and Ni leaching, not exceeding 1.6%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Reuse of Slag)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2671 KB  
Article
Mechanisms of Thermal Color Change in Brown Elbaite–Fluorelbaite Tourmaline: Insights from Trace Elements and Spectral Signatures
by Kun Li and Suwei Yue
Minerals 2025, 15(10), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15101032 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
This study investigates the mechanism behind the heat-induced color change (brown to yellowish green) in Mn- and Fe-rich elbaite tourmaline under reducing atmosphere at 500 °C. A combination of analytical techniques including gemological characterization, electron microprobe analysis (EMPA), laser ablation inductively coupled plasma [...] Read more.
This study investigates the mechanism behind the heat-induced color change (brown to yellowish green) in Mn- and Fe-rich elbaite tourmaline under reducing atmosphere at 500 °C. A combination of analytical techniques including gemological characterization, electron microprobe analysis (EMPA), laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy was employed. Chemical analysis confirmed the samples as intermediate members of the elbaite–fluorelbaite series, with an average formula of X(Na0.660.26 Ca0.08) Σ1.00Y(Li1.29Al1.10Mn0.31 Fe2+0.15Ti0.01Zn0.01) Σ2.87 ZAl6T[Si6O18] (BO3)3V(OH)3.00W(OH0.51F0.49) Σ1.00, enriched in Mn (17,346–20,669 μg/g) and Fe (8396–10,750 μg/g). Heat treatment enhanced transparency and induced strong pleochroism (yellowish green parallel c-axis, brown perpendicular c-axis). UV-Vis spectroscopy identified the brown color origin in the parallel c-axis direction: absorption bands at 730 nm (Fe2+ dd transition, 5T2g5Eg), 540 nm (Fe2+→Fe3+ intervalence charge transfer, IVCT), and 415 nm (Fe2+→Ti4+ IVCT + possible Mn2+ contribution). Post-treatment, the 540 nm band vanished, creating a green transmission window and causing the color shift parallel the c-axis. The spectra perpendicular to the c-axis remained largely unchanged. The disappearance of the 540 nm band, attributed to the reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+ eliminating the Fe2+–Fe3+ pair interaction required for IVCT, is the primary color change mechanism. The parallel c-axis section of the samples shows brown and yellow-green dichroism after heat treatment. A decrease in the IR intensity at 4170 cm−1 indicates a reduced Fe3+ concentration. The weakening or disappearance of the 4721 cm−1 absorption band of the infrared spectrum and the near-infrared 976 nm absorption band of the ultraviolet–visible spectrum provides diagnostic indicators for identifying heat treatment in similar brown elbaite–fluorelbaite. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 6097 KB  
Article
Hexavalent Chromium Induces Defense Responses, Hepatocellular Apoptosis, and Lipid Metabolism Alterations in New Zealand Rabbit Livers
by Junzhao Yuan, Lei Zhang, Xiuqing Li, Xinfeng Li, Pandeng Zhao, Xiaoli Ren and Yuzhen Song
Metabolites 2025, 15(10), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15100637 - 23 Sep 2025
Viewed by 473
Abstract
Background: Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) can migrate into soil and water, posing risks to animal health. However, it remains unclear whether Cr(VI) perturbs essential trace elements and antioxidant gene expression, triggers apoptosis, or disrupts hepatic lipid metabolism in New Zealand rabbits. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) can migrate into soil and water, posing risks to animal health. However, it remains unclear whether Cr(VI) perturbs essential trace elements and antioxidant gene expression, triggers apoptosis, or disrupts hepatic lipid metabolism in New Zealand rabbits. Methods: To address this knowledge gap, twenty-four 30-day-old New Zealand rabbits were randomly allocated to one control and three Cr(VI)-treated groups (differing in Cr(VI) concentration) and maintained for 28 days. Livers were then harvested for analysis. Total Cr and essential trace elements were quantified by ICP-OES. Hematoxylin–eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy were employed to assess histopathological and ultrastructural alterations, respectively. Hepatic lipid accumulation was visualized with Oil Red O staining. QRT-PCR was used to determine the expression of antioxidant and lipid-metabolism-related genes. Results: Cr(VI) was detectable in liver tissue at all exposure levels and was accompanied by significant decreases in four essential trace elements (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Se); Cu displayed a biphasic response, rising at lower Cr(VI) doses before declining at higher doses. Histopathological and ultrastructural analyses revealed overt hepatic injury. Notably, all Cr(VI) treatments elevated antioxidant gene expression, indicating activation of hepatic defense pathways. Lipid metabolism was also disrupted, evidenced by increased lipid deposition and up-regulation of genes governing hepatic fat metabolism. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings demonstrate that Cr(VI) elicits dose-dependent activation of hepatic antioxidant defenses, promotes apoptosis, and induces lipid-metabolic disorders in New Zealand rabbit hepatocytes. This study provides novel mechanistic insights into Cr(VI)-induced hepatotoxicity and offers a valuable reference for evaluating the hepatic risks of environmental Cr(VI) exposure in this species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Nutritional Metabolism and Toxicosis Disease, 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 3334 KB  
Article
Integrated Alkali Gradient pH Control Purification of Acidic Copper-Containing Etching Waste Solution and Cu2(OH)3Cl Conversion-Calcination Process for High-Purity CuO
by Dengliang He, Song Ren, Shuxin Liu and Shishan Xue
Processes 2025, 13(9), 2807; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13092807 - 2 Sep 2025
Viewed by 630
Abstract
With the rapid advances of the electronics industry, a large amount of acidic etching waste solutions (AEWS) for etching Printed Circuit Board (PCB) are generated, which require complete remediation and sustainable recycling to avoid environmental pollution and wasting of resources. Herein, the novel [...] Read more.
With the rapid advances of the electronics industry, a large amount of acidic etching waste solutions (AEWS) for etching Printed Circuit Board (PCB) are generated, which require complete remediation and sustainable recycling to avoid environmental pollution and wasting of resources. Herein, the novel purification technology for the acidic copper-containing etching waste solution was exploited via integrated alkali gradient pH control (3.0, 3.2, and 3.5). At pH 3.0, the system demonstrated selective metal removal with 94.02% efficiency for Fe and 82.60% for Mn. Elevating the pH to 3.2 enabled effective elimination of Zn (59.32%), Cr (59.46%), and Al (33.24%), while maintaining minimal copper loss (8.16%). Further pH adjustment to 3.5 achieved enhanced removal efficiencies of 97.86% (Fe), 91.30% (Mn), 59.38% (Zn), 62.10% (Cr), 21.66% (Ca), 34.05% (Al), and 26.66% (Co), with copper retention remaining high at 70.83% (29.17% loss). Furthermore, using the purified AEWS (pH 3.2) as precursor, high-purity nano-CuO was successfully synthesized through a Cu2(OH)3Cl conversion-calcination process, exhibiting 99.20% CuO purity with 0.0012% chlorine content and <0.1% metallic impurities. The development and application of the purification technology for AEWS containing copper, along with the production methodology for high-purity CuO, were significant to the fields of electronic information industry, environmental engineering, green industry and sustainable development of the ecological environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Processes and Systems)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 7186 KB  
Article
Tuning High-Entropy Oxides for Oxygen Evolution Reaction Through Electrocatalytic Water Splitting: Effects of (MnFeNiCoX)3O4 (X = Cr, Cu, Zn, and Cd) on Electrocatalytic Performance
by Milad Zehtab Salmasi, Amir Narimani, Ali Omidkar and Hua Song
Catalysts 2025, 15(9), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15090827 - 1 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1069
Abstract
This research presents the development of spinel-type high-entropy oxide (HEO) catalysts with the general composition (MnFeNiCoX)3O4, where X represents Cr, Cu, Zn, and Cd, synthesized through a solution combustion method. The impact of the fifth metal element on the [...] Read more.
This research presents the development of spinel-type high-entropy oxide (HEO) catalysts with the general composition (MnFeNiCoX)3O4, where X represents Cr, Cu, Zn, and Cd, synthesized through a solution combustion method. The impact of the fifth metal element on the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) was systematically explored using structural, morphological, and electrochemical characterization techniques. Among the various compositions, the Cr-containing catalyst, (MnFeNiCoCr)3O4, displayed outstanding electrocatalytic behavior, delivering a notably low overpotential of 323 mV at a current density of 10 mA/cm2 in 1.0 M KOH—surpassing the performance of benchmark RuO2. Additionally, this material exhibited the smallest Tafel slope (56 mV/dec), the greatest double-layer capacitance (3.35 mF/cm2), and the most extensive electrochemically active surface area, all indicating enhanced charge transfer capability and high catalytic proficiency. The findings highlight the potential of element tailoring in HEOs as a promising strategy for optimizing water oxidation catalysis. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 8738 KB  
Article
Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Properties of Cation-Substituted Ba0.5Sr0.5Zn2−xMexFe16O27 (Me = Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Mn) W-Type Hexagonal Ferrites
by Jae-Hee Heo and Young-Min Kang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9586; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179586 - 30 Aug 2025
Viewed by 558
Abstract
W-type hexaferrites with compositions Ba0.5Sr0.5Zn2-xMexFe16O27 (Me = Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Mn; x = 1) and Ba0.5Sr0.5Zn2−xMnxFe16O27 (x [...] Read more.
W-type hexaferrites with compositions Ba0.5Sr0.5Zn2-xMexFe16O27 (Me = Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Mn; x = 1) and Ba0.5Sr0.5Zn2−xMnxFe16O27 (x = 0–2.0) were synthesized via solid-state reaction and optimized using a two-step calcination process to obtain single-phase or nearly single-phase structures. Their electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption properties were investigated by fabricating composites with 10 wt% epoxy and measuring the complex permittivity and permeability across two frequency bands: 0.1–18 GHz and 26.5–40 GHz. Reflection loss (RL) was calculated and visualized as two-dimensional (2D) maps with respect to frequency and sample thickness. In the 0.1–18 GHz range, only the Co-substituted sample exhibited strong ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) and broadband absorption, achieving a minimum RL of −41.5 dB at 4.84 GHz and a −10 dB bandwidth of 11.8 GHz. In contrast, the other Ba0.5Sr0.5Zn2-xMexFe16O27 samples (Me = Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu) showed no significant absorption in this range due to the absence of FMR. However, all these samples clearly exhibited FMR characteristics and distinct absorption peaks in the 26.5–40 GHz range, particularly the Mn-substituted series, which demonstrated RL values below −10 dB over the 32.0–40 GHz range with absorber thicknesses below 1 mm. The FMR frequency varied depending on the substitution type and amount. In the Mn-substituted series, the FMR frequency was lowest at x = 1.0 and increased as x deviated from this composition. This study confirms the potential of Co-free W-type hexaferrites as efficient, cost-effective, and broadband EM wave absorbers in the 26.5–40 GHz range. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Composite Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3882 KB  
Article
Olivine and Whole-Rock Geochemistry Constrain Petrogenesis and Geodynamics of Early Cretaceous Fangcheng Basalts, Eastern North China Craton
by Qiao-Chun Qin, Lu-Bing Hong, Yin-Hui Zhang, Hong-Xia Yu, Dan Wang, Le Zhang and Peng-Li He
Minerals 2025, 15(9), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15090928 - 30 Aug 2025
Viewed by 555
Abstract
The profound Phanerozoic destruction of the eastern North China Craton (NCC) is well documented, yet its mechanism remains debated due to limited constraints on thermal state and lithospheric thickness during the Early Cretaceous—the peak period of cratonic destruction. We address this gap through [...] Read more.
The profound Phanerozoic destruction of the eastern North China Craton (NCC) is well documented, yet its mechanism remains debated due to limited constraints on thermal state and lithospheric thickness during the Early Cretaceous—the peak period of cratonic destruction. We address this gap through integrated geochemical analysis (major/trace elements, Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes, olivine chemistry) of Early Cretaceous (~125 Ma) Fangcheng basalts from Shandong. These basalts possess high MgO (8.14–11.31 wt%), Mg# (67.23–73.69), Ni (126–244 ppm), and Cr (342–526 ppm). Their trace elements show island arc basalt (IAB) affinities: enrichment in large-ion lithophile elements and depletion in high-field-strength elements, with negative Sr and Pb anomalies. Enriched Sr-Nd isotopic compositions [87Sr/86Sr(t) = 0.709426–0.709512; εNd(t) = −12.60 to −13.10], unradiogenic 206Pb/204Pb(t) and 208Pb/204Pb(t) ratios (17.55–17.62 and 37.77–37.83, respectively), and slightly radiogenic 207Pb/204Pb(t) ratios (15.55–15.57) reflect an upper continental crustal signature. Covariations of major elements, Cr, Ni, and trace element ratios (Sr/Nd, Sc/La) with MgO indicate dominant olivine + pyroxene fractionation. High Ce/Pb ratios and lack of correlation between Ce/Pb or εNd(t) and SiO2 preclude significant crustal contamination. The combined isotopic signature and IAB-like trace element patterns support a lithospheric mantle source that was metasomatized by upper crustal material. Olivine phenocrysts exhibit variable Ni (1564–4786 ppm), Mn (903–2406 ppm), Fe/Mn (56.63–85.49), 10,000 × Zn/Fe (9.55–19.55), and Mn/Zn (7.07–14.79), defining fields indicative of melts from both peridotite and pyroxenite sources. High-MgO samples (>10 wt%) in the Grossular/Pyrope/Diopside/Enstatite diagram show a clinopyroxene, garnet, and olivine residue. Reconstructed primary melts yield formation pressures of 3.5–3.9 GPa (110–130 km depth) and temperatures of 1474–1526 °C, corresponding to ~60 mW/m2 surface heat flow. This demonstrates retention of a ≥110–130 km thick lithosphere during peak destruction, arguing against delamination and supporting a thermo-mechanic erosion mechanism dominated by progressive convective thinning of the lithospheric base via asthenospheric flow. Our findings therefore provide crucial thermal and structural constraints essential for resolving the dynamics of cratonic lithosphere modification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Geochemistry and Geochronology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2397 KB  
Article
Electromagnetic Field Shielding Using Interior Paints Enhanced with Metal Powders
by Ján Zbojovský and Pavol Liptai
Materials 2025, 18(16), 3916; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18163916 - 21 Aug 2025
Viewed by 785
Abstract
This article deals with the issue of electromagnetic radiation, specifically methods of eliminating radiation using protective coatings. Protective coatings were created from commercially available fabricated but also recycled metal powders and commonly available interior paint. The aim of the experiments was to produce [...] Read more.
This article deals with the issue of electromagnetic radiation, specifically methods of eliminating radiation using protective coatings. Protective coatings were created from commercially available fabricated but also recycled metal powders and commonly available interior paint. The aim of the experiments was to produce protective coatings with different qualitative and quantitative compositions and subsequently test their shielding effects. For the preparation of the coatings, mixtures in the form of commercially produced powder with a particle size of <10 μm were used, namely aluminum oxide (Al2O3), manganese dioxide (MnO2), and graphite (C). Recycled powders are powdered iron (Fe) and zinc oxide (ZnO) with a particle size of <50 μm. The powders were mixed in various ratios and compounds into a commercially available white interior paint. Measurements were performed in the frequency range of 0.9–9 GHz with a step of 0.1 GHz, evaluating the shielding effectiveness, absorption, and reflection. The best shielding values were achieved for samples containing 100 g of carbon powder, 100 g of iron powder, and 100 g of manganese dioxide, ranging from 0.38 to 6.2 dB in the full measured frequency range. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

33 pages, 5982 KB  
Review
Sol–Gel-Synthesized Metal Oxide Nanostructures: Advancements and Prospects for Spintronic Applications—A Comprehensive Review
by Kais Iben Nassar, Sílvia Soreto Teixeira and Manuel P. F. Graça
Gels 2025, 11(8), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080657 - 19 Aug 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2649
Abstract
Spintronics, an interdisciplinary field merging magnetism and electronics, has attracted considerable interest due to its potential to transform data storage, logic devices, and emerging quantum technologies. Among the materials explored for spintronic applications, metal oxide nanostructures synthesized via sol–gel methods offer a unique [...] Read more.
Spintronics, an interdisciplinary field merging magnetism and electronics, has attracted considerable interest due to its potential to transform data storage, logic devices, and emerging quantum technologies. Among the materials explored for spintronic applications, metal oxide nanostructures synthesized via sol–gel methods offer a unique combination of low-cost processing, structural tunability, and defect-mediated magnetic control. This comprehensive review presents a critical overview of recent advances in sol–gel-derived magnetic oxides, such as Co-doped ZnO, La1−xSrxMnO3, Fe3O4, NiFe2O4, and transition-metal-doped TiO2, with emphasis on synthesis strategies, the dopant distribution, and room-temperature ferromagnetic behavior. Key spintronic functionalities, including magnetoresistance, spin polarization, and magnetodielectric effects, are systematically examined. Importantly, this review differentiates itself from the prior literature by explicitly connecting sol–gel chemistry parameters to spin-dependent properties and by offering a comparative analysis of multiple oxide systems. Critical challenges such as phase purity, reproducibility, and defect control are also addressed. This paper concludes by outlining future research directions, including green synthesis, the integration with 2D materials, and machine-learning-assisted optimization. Overall, this work bridges sol–gel synthesis and spintronic material design, offering a roadmap for advancing next-generation oxide-based spintronic devices. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 2246 KB  
Article
Enhancing the Structural Stability and Electrochemical Performance of δ-MnO2 Cathodes via Fe3+ Doping for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
by Pengfei Wang, Haiyang Yu, Chengyan Zou, Yuxue Wu and Zhengfei Chen
Solids 2025, 6(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/solids6030045 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 700
Abstract
Due to its unique layered structure that facilitates ion intercalation and deintercalation, δ-MnO2 has emerged as a promising cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs). However, its structural collapse and Mn dissolution during prolonged cycling significantly limit its practical application. In this [...] Read more.
Due to its unique layered structure that facilitates ion intercalation and deintercalation, δ-MnO2 has emerged as a promising cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs). However, its structural collapse and Mn dissolution during prolonged cycling significantly limit its practical application. In this study, we demonstrate that metal ion doping, particularly with Fe3+, can effectively stabilize the δ-MnO2 structure and enhance its electrochemical performance. Through a hydrothermal synthesis approach, δ-MnO2 materials with varying Fe3+ doping ratios are prepared and systematically investigated. Among them, the sample with a Mn:Fe molar ratio of 20:1 exhibits the best performance, maintaining the layered δ-MnO2 phase while significantly increasing Mn3+ content and promoting the formation of oxygen vacancies. At a current density of 0.5 A·g−1, the iron-doped sample exhibited an initial specific capacity of 116.24 mAh·g−1, with a capacity retention rate of 41.7% after 200 cycles. In contrast, the undoped δ-MnO2 showed an initial specific capacity of only 85.15 mAh·g−1, with a capacity retention rate of merely 19.9% after 200 cycles. The results suggest that Fe3+ doping not only suppresses Mn dissolution but also improves structural stability and Zn2+ transport kinetics. This work provides new insights into the development of durable Mn-based cathode materials for aqueous ZIBs. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 10413 KB  
Article
Metallogenic Mechanisms of the Lower Triassic Dongping Sedimentary Manganese Deposit in the South China Block: Mineralogical and Geochemical Evidence
by Rong-Zhi Li, Sha Jiang, Peng Long, Tao Long, Da-Qing Ding, Ling-Nan Zhao, Yi Zhang and Qin Huang
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080847 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 496
Abstract
The Dongping manganese (Mn) deposit, located within the Lower Triassic Shipao Formation of the Youjiang Basin, is one of South China’s most significant sedimentary Mn carbonate ore deposits. To resolve longstanding debates over its metallogenic pathway, we conducted integrated sedimentological, mineralogical, and geochemical [...] Read more.
The Dongping manganese (Mn) deposit, located within the Lower Triassic Shipao Formation of the Youjiang Basin, is one of South China’s most significant sedimentary Mn carbonate ore deposits. To resolve longstanding debates over its metallogenic pathway, we conducted integrated sedimentological, mineralogical, and geochemical analyses on three drill cores (ZK5101, ZK0301, and ZK1205) spanning the Mn ore body. X-ray diffraction and backscatter electron imaging reveal that the ores are dominated by kutnohorite, with subordinate quartz, calcite, dolomite, and minor sulfides. The low enrichment of U/Al, V/Al, and Mo/Al, as well as positive Ce anomalies, consistently suggest that Mn, in the form of oxides, was deposited in an oxic water column. Carbon isotope compositions of Mn carbonate ores (δ13CVPDB: −2.3 to −6.1‰) and their negative correlation with MnO suggest that Mn carbonate, predominantly kutnohorite, show a diagenetic reduction in pre-existing Mn oxides via organic-matter oxidation in anoxic sediments pore waters. Elemental discrimination diagramms (Mn-Fe-(Co+Ni+Cu) × 10 and Co/Zn vs. Co+Cu+Ni) uniformly point to a hydrothermal Mn source. We therefore propose that hydrothermal fluids supplied dissolved Mn2+ to an oxic slope-basin setting, precipitating initially as Mn oxides, which were subsequently transformed to Mn carbonates during early diagenesis. This model reconciles both the hydrothermal and sedimentary-diagenetic processes of the Dongping Mn deposit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Deposits)
Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 4848 KB  
Article
Mineralogical and Geochemical Features of Soil Developed on Rhyolites in the Dry Tropical Area of Cameroon
by Aubin Nzeugang Nzeukou, Désiré Tsozué, Estelle Lionelle Tamto Mamdem, Merlin Gountié Dedzo and Nathalie Fagel
Standards 2025, 5(3), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/standards5030020 - 6 Aug 2025
Viewed by 548
Abstract
Petrological knowledge on weathering processes controlling the mobility of chemical elements is still limited in the dry tropical zone of Cameroon. This study aims to investigate the mobility of major and trace elements during rhyolite weathering and soil formation in Mobono by understanding [...] Read more.
Petrological knowledge on weathering processes controlling the mobility of chemical elements is still limited in the dry tropical zone of Cameroon. This study aims to investigate the mobility of major and trace elements during rhyolite weathering and soil formation in Mobono by understanding the mineralogical and elemental vertical variation. The studied soil was classified as Cambisols containing mainly quartz, K-feldspar, plagioclase, smectite, kaolinite, illite, calcite, lepidocrocite, goethite, sepiolite, and interstratified clay minerals. pH values ranging between 6.11 and 8.77 indicated that hydrolysis, superimposed on oxidation and carbonation, is the main process responsible for the formation of secondary minerals, leading to the formation of iron oxides and calcite. The bedrock was mainly constituted of SiO2, Al2O3, Na2O, Fe2O3, Ba, Zr, Sr, Y, Ga, and Rb. Ce and Eu anomalies, and chondrite-normalized La/Yb ratios were 0.98, 0.67, and 2.86, respectively. SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, Na2O, and K2O were major elements in soil horizons. Trace elements revealed high levels of Ba (385 to 1320 mg kg−1), Zr (158 to 429 mg kg−1), Zn (61 to 151 mg kg−1), Sr (62 to 243 mg kg−1), Y (55 to 81 mg kg−1), Rb (1102 to 58 mg kg−1), and Ga (17.70 to 35 mg kg−1). LREEs were more abundant than HREEs, with LREE/HREE ratio ranging between 2.60 and 6.24. Ce and Eu anomalies ranged from 1.08 to 1.21 and 0.58 to 1.24 respectively. The rhyolite-normalized La/Yb ratios varied between 0.56 and 0.96. Mass balance revealed the depletion of Si, Ca, Na, Mn, Sr, Ta, W, U, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Gd and Lu, and the accumulation of Al, Fe, K, Mg, P, Sc, V, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Rb, Y, Zr, Nb, Cs, Ba, Hf, Pb, Th, Eu, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm and Yb during weathering along the soil profile. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 9486 KB  
Article
StMAPKK1 Enhances Thermotolerance in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) by Enhancing Antioxidant Defense and Photosynthetic Efficiency Under Heat Stress
by Xi Zhu, Yasir Majeed, Kaitong Wang, Xiaoqin Duan, Nengkang Guan, Junfu Luo, Haifei Zheng, Huafen Zou, Hui Jin, Zhuo Chen and Yu Zhang
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2289; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152289 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 630
Abstract
The functional role of MAPKK genes in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under high-temperature stress remains unexplored, despite their critical importance in stress signaling and yield protection. We characterized StMAPKK1, a novel group D MAPKK localized to plasma membrane/cytoplasm. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain [...] Read more.
The functional role of MAPKK genes in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under high-temperature stress remains unexplored, despite their critical importance in stress signaling and yield protection. We characterized StMAPKK1, a novel group D MAPKK localized to plasma membrane/cytoplasm. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) revealed cultivar-specific upregulation in potato (‘Atlantic’ and ‘Desiree’) leaves under heat stress (25 °C, 30 °C, and 35 °C). Transgenic lines overexpressing (OE) StMAPKK1 exhibited elevated antioxidant enzyme activity, including ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POD), mitigating oxidative damage. Increased proline and chlorophyll accumulation and reduced oxidative stress markers, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA), indicate improved cellular redox homeostasis. The upregulation of key antioxidant and heat stress-responsive genes (StAPX, StCAT1/2, StPOD12/47, StFeSOD2/3, StMnSOD, StCuZnSOD1/2, StHSFA3 and StHSP20/70/90) strengthened the enzymatic defense system, enhanced thermotolerance, and improved photosynthetic efficiency, with significant improvements in net photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (E), and stomatal conductance (Gs) under heat stress (35 °C) in StMAPKK1-OE plants. Superior growth and biomass (plant height, plant and its root fresh and dry weights, and tuber yield) accumulation, confirming the positive role of StMAPKK1 in thermotolerance. Conversely, RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated suppression of StMAPKK1 led to a reduction in enzymatic activity, proline content, and chlorophyll levels, exacerbating oxidative stress. Downregulation of antioxidant-related genes impaired ROS scavenging capacity and declines in photosynthetic efficiency, growth, and biomass, accompanied by elevated H2O2 and MDA accumulation, highlighting the essential role of StMAPKK1 in heat stress adaptation. These findings highlight StMAPKK1’s potential as a key genetic target for breeding heat-tolerant potato varieties, offering a foundation for improving crop resilience in warming climates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell Physiology and Stress Adaptation of Crops)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 7952 KB  
Article
Achyrophanite, (K,Na)3(Fe3+,Ti,Al,Mg)5O2(AsO4)5, a New Mineral with the Novel Structure Type from Fumarolic Exhalations of the Tolbachik Volcano, Kamchatka, Russia
by Igor V. Pekov, Natalia V. Zubkova, Natalia N. Koshlyakova, Dmitry I. Belakovskiy, Marina F. Vigasina, Atali A. Agakhanov, Sergey N. Britvin, Anna G. Turchkova, Evgeny G. Sidorov, Pavel S. Zhegunov and Dmitry Yu. Pushcharovsky
Minerals 2025, 15(7), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15070706 - 2 Jul 2025
Viewed by 588
Abstract
The new mineral achyrophanite (K,Na)3(Fe3+,Ti,Al,Mg)5O2(AsO4)5 was found in high-temperature sublimates of the Arsenatnaya fumarole at the Second scoria cone of the Northern Breakthrough of the Great Tolbachik Fissure Eruption, Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka, [...] Read more.
The new mineral achyrophanite (K,Na)3(Fe3+,Ti,Al,Mg)5O2(AsO4)5 was found in high-temperature sublimates of the Arsenatnaya fumarole at the Second scoria cone of the Northern Breakthrough of the Great Tolbachik Fissure Eruption, Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka, Russia. It is associated with aphthitalite-group sulfates, hematite, alluaudite-group arsenates (badalovite, calciojohillerite, johillerite, nickenichite, hatertite, and khrenovite), ozerovaite, pansnerite, arsenatrotitanite, yurmarinite, svabite, tilasite, katiarsite, yurgensonite, As-bearing sanidine, anhydrite, rutile, cassiterite, and pseudobrookite. Achyrophanite occurs as long-prismatic to acicular or, rarer, tabular crystals up to 0.02 × 0.2 × 1.5 mm, which form parallel, radiating, bush-like, or chaotic aggregates up to 3 mm across. It is transparent, straw-yellow to golden yellow, with strong vitreous luster. The mineral is brittle, with (001) perfect cleavage. Dcalc is 3.814 g cm–3. Achyrophanite is optically biaxial (+), α = 1.823(7), β = 1.840(7), γ = 1.895(7) (589 nm), 2V (meas.) = 60(10)°. Chemical composition (wt.%, electron microprobe) is: Na2O 3.68, K2O 9.32, CaO 0.38, MgO 1.37, MnO 0.08, CuO 0.82, ZnO 0.48, Al2O3 2.09, Fe2O3 20.42, SiO2 0.12, TiO2 7.35, P2O5 0.14, V2O5 0.33, As2O5 51.88, SO3 1.04, and total 99.40. The empirical formula calculated based on 22 O apfu is Na1.29K2.15Ca0.07Mg0.34Mn0.01Cu0.11Zn0.06Al0.44Fe3+2.77Ti1.00Si0.02P0.02S0.14V0.04As4.90O22. Achyrophanite is orthorhombic, space group P2221, a = 6.5824(2), b = 13.2488(4), c = 10.7613(3) Å, V = 938.48(5) Å3 and Z = 2. The strongest reflections of the PXRD pattern [d,Å(I)(hkl)] are 5.615(59)(101), 4.174(42)(022), 3.669(31)(130), 3.148(33)(103), 2.852(43)(141), 2.814(100)(042, 202), 2.689(29)(004), and 2.237(28)(152). The crystal structure of achyrophanite (solved from single-crystal XRD data, R = 4.47%) is unique. It is based on the octahedral-tetrahedral M-T-O pseudo-framework (M = Fe3+ with admixed Ti, Al, Mg, Na; T = As5+). Large-cation A sites (A = K, Na) are located in the channels of the pseudo-framework. The achyrophanite structure can be described as stuffed, with the defect heteropolyhedral pseudo-framework derivative of the orthorhombic Fe3+AsO4 archetype. The mineral is named from the Greek άχυρον, straw, and φαίνομαι, to appear, in allusion to its typical straw-yellow color and long prismatic habit of crystals. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop