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Search Results (1,878)

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Keywords = clay minerals

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14 pages, 1570 KiB  
Article
Effect of Sulfoaluminate Clinker Addition on Boron Removal During Water Softening
by Marco Tagliabue, Alessandra de Folly d’Auris, Andrea Pacini, Michela Bellettato, Gianluigi Marra, Sara Perucchini, Cinzia Mazzara, Emanuele Lagrotta and Marco Vocciante
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(16), 8890; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15168890 (registering DOI) - 12 Aug 2025
Abstract
Boron is frequently present in saline water (e.g., seawater, geothermal water, and hydrocarbon production water) due to the natural release of boric acid from minerals. While essential to life, excess boron is toxic, particularly to citrus plants, necessitating its regulation for safe water [...] Read more.
Boron is frequently present in saline water (e.g., seawater, geothermal water, and hydrocarbon production water) due to the natural release of boric acid from minerals. While essential to life, excess boron is toxic, particularly to citrus plants, necessitating its regulation for safe water use. Current boron removal methods, such as reverse osmosis, chelating resin adsorption, and magnesium-based precipitation softening, increase water treatment complexity and cost. Ettringite, (Ca6Al2(SO4)3(OH)12·26H2O), is a clay and an effective anion adsorbent. It is also a key hydration product of Portland cement. This study explores boron removal via precipitation softening using sulfoaluminate clinker as an ettringite precursor. Raw water, a first-stage reverse-osmosis permeate from an Italian oil-and-gas site, contained approximately 15.0 mg/L of boron. Optimal removal required sulfoaluminate clinker in excess with respect to the stoichiometric dose and 150 min of contact time. The preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, offering a viable alternative to existing methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Approaches to Water Treatment: Challenges and Trends, 2nd Edition)
28 pages, 2543 KiB  
Article
Chemical Fractions of Soil Organic Matter and Their Interactions with Cu, Zn, and Mn in Vineyards in Southern Brazil
by Guilherme Wilbert Ferreira, Samya Uchoa Bordallo, Lucas Dupont Giumbelli, Zayne Valéria Santos Duarte, Gustavo Brunetto, George Wellington Bastos de Melo, Deborah Pinheiro Dick, Tadeu Luis Tiecher, Tales Tiecher and Cledimar Rogério Lourenzi
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1937; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081937 - 12 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the impact of vineyard cultivation time and the use of metal-based fungicides on the chemical fractions of soil organic matter (SOM) as well as their interactions with Cu, Zn, and Mn in vineyard soils from Southern Brazil with [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the impact of vineyard cultivation time and the use of metal-based fungicides on the chemical fractions of soil organic matter (SOM) as well as their interactions with Cu, Zn, and Mn in vineyard soils from Southern Brazil with varying histories of fungicide application. Soil samples were collected in 2017 from vineyards aged 35, 37, and 39 years in the Serra Gaúcha region and 13, 19, and 36 years in the Campanha Gaúcha. In each region, samples were also collected from a non-anthropized reference area. In the oldest vineyards, sampling was conducted both within and between the rows of planting. Chemical fractionation of SOM was performed: non-humic substances (nHSs), particulate organic matter (POM), fulvic acid (FA), humic acid (HA), and humin (Hu). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra were obtained for the HA, from which the aromaticity index (AI) and relative intensities (RIs) were calculated. In each SOM fraction, total organic carbon and the concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Mn were determined. Changes in land use alter the forms and distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) and, consequently, of metals. Elemental and spectroscopic analyses of HS revealed that HA in the reference areas (forest and native grassland) was more aliphatic and had higher concentrations of polysaccharides, indicating fractions with a lower degree of stabilization. However, in vineyard areas, HA exhibited greater humification and aromaticity. Increasing cultivation time gradually increased soil carbon content, indicating that viticultural agroecosystems can sequester carbon in the soil over time, reaching levels similar to those observed in the reference areas. When comparing vineyard areas alone, with row collections and inter-row collections, we observed an increase in SOC levels in areas managed with cover crops, demonstrating the importance of conservation management in these areas. When evaluating the distribution of metals in these soils, we could observe the high affinity of Cu for the functional groups of SOM, with FA and HA responsible for the complexation of these elements in the soil. For Zn and Mn, the greatest accumulations were observed in the Hu fraction due to their greater affinity for soil clay minerals. This shows that soil organic matter is a key component in the complexation of metals in soils, reducing their availability and potential toxicity to cultivated plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Organic Matter and Tillage)
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22 pages, 4572 KiB  
Article
Effects of Organic Matter Volume Fraction and Fractal Dimension on Tensile Crack Evolution in Shale Using Digital Core Numerical Models
by Xin Liu, Yuepeng Wang, Tianjiao Li, Zhengzhao Liang, Siwei Meng and Licai Zheng
Fractal Fract. 2025, 9(8), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract9080518 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 188
Abstract
Organic matter plays a vital role in shale reservoirs as both a hydrocarbon storage medium and migration pathway. However, the quantitative relationship between the microstructural features of organic matter and the macroscopic mechanical and failure behaviors of shale remains unclear due to rock [...] Read more.
Organic matter plays a vital role in shale reservoirs as both a hydrocarbon storage medium and migration pathway. However, the quantitative relationship between the microstructural features of organic matter and the macroscopic mechanical and failure behaviors of shale remains unclear due to rock heterogeneity and opacity. In this study, high-resolution three-dimensional digital core models of shale were reconstructed using Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) imaging. The digital models captured the spatial distribution of silicate minerals, clay minerals, and organic matter. Numerical simulations of uniaxial tensile failure were performed on these models, considering variations in the organic matter volume fraction and fractal dimension. The results indicate that an increased organic matter volume fraction and fractal dimension are associated with lower tensile strength, simpler fracture geometry, and reduced acoustic emission activity. Tensile cracks preferentially initiate at interfaces between minerals with contrasting elastic moduli, especially between organic matter and clay, and then propagate and coalesce under loading. These findings reveal that both the volume fraction and fractal structure of organic matter are reliable predictors of tensile strength and damage evolution in shale. This study provides new microscale insights into shale failure mechanisms and offers guidance for optimizing hydraulic fracturing in organic-rich formations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Fractal Dimensions in Rock Mechanics and Geomechanics)
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21 pages, 1811 KiB  
Article
Exploring Residual Clays for Low-Impact Ceramics: Insights from a Portuguese Ceramic Region
by Carla Candeias, Sónia Novo and Fernando Rocha
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8761; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158761 - 7 Aug 2025
Viewed by 152
Abstract
This study investigates the potential of residual clays from a traditional ceramic-producing region in southern Portugal as raw materials for red ceramic applications. This work aims to support more sustainable ceramic practices through the local valorization of naturally available, underutilized clay resources. A [...] Read more.
This study investigates the potential of residual clays from a traditional ceramic-producing region in southern Portugal as raw materials for red ceramic applications. This work aims to support more sustainable ceramic practices through the local valorization of naturally available, underutilized clay resources. A multidisciplinary approach was employed to characterize clays, integrating mineralogical (XRD), chemical (XRF), granulometric, and thermal analyses (TGA/DTA/TD), as well as technological tests on plasticity, extrusion moisture, shrinkage, and flexural strength. These assessments were designed to capture both the intrinsic properties of the clays and their behavior across key ceramic processing stages, such as shaping, drying, and firing. The results revealed a broad diversity in mineral composition, particularly in the proportions of kaolinite, smectite, and illite, which strongly influenced plasticity, water demand, and thermal stability. Clays with higher fine fractions and smectitic content exhibited excellent plasticity and workability, though with increased sensitivity to drying and firing conditions. Others, with coarser textures and illitic or feldspathic composition, demonstrated improved dimensional stability and lower shrinkage. Thermal analyses confirmed expected dehydroxylation and sintering behavior, with the formation of mullite and spinel-type phases contributing to densification and strength in fired bodies. This study highlights that residual clays from varied geological settings can offer distinct advantages when matched appropriately to ceramic product requirements. Some materials showed strong potential for direct application in structural ceramics, while others may serve as additives or tempering agents in formulations. These findings reinforce the value of integrated characterization for optimizing raw material use and support a more circular, resource-conscious approach to ceramic production. Full article
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18 pages, 1861 KiB  
Article
Clay Nanomaterials Sorbents for Cleaner Water: A Sustainable Application for the Mining Industry
by María Molina-Fernández, Albert Santos Silva, Rodrigo Prado Feitosa, Edson C. Silva-Filho, Josy A. Osajima, Santiago Medina-Carrasco and María del Mar Orta Cuevas
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(15), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15151211 - 7 Aug 2025
Viewed by 247
Abstract
The increasing shortage of drinking water, driven by reduced rainfall and the intensification of industrial and agricultural activities, has raised justified concerns about the quantity and quality of available water resources. These sectors not only demand high water consumption but also discharge large [...] Read more.
The increasing shortage of drinking water, driven by reduced rainfall and the intensification of industrial and agricultural activities, has raised justified concerns about the quantity and quality of available water resources. These sectors not only demand high water consumption but also discharge large amounts of toxic substances such as organic matter, metal ions and inorganic anions, posing risks to both public health and the environment. This study evaluated the effectiveness of clay-based nanomaterials in the treatment of contaminated industrial wastewater from the mining sector. The materials tested included montmorillonite, high-loading expandable synthetic mica, and their organically functionalized forms (MMT, Mica-Na-4, C18-MMT, and C18-Mica-4). The experimental results show that these clays had minimal impact on the pH of the water, while a notable decrease in the chemical oxygen demand (COD) was observed. Ion chromatography indicated an increase in nitrogen and sulfur compounds with higher oxidation states. Inductively coupled plasma analysis revealed a significant reduction in the calcium concentration and an increase in the sodium concentration, likely due to cation exchange mechanisms. However, the removal of copper and iron was ineffective, possibly due to competitive interactions with other cations in the solution. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the structural modifications and interlayer spacing changes in the clay materials upon exposure to contaminated water. These findings demonstrate the potential of clay minerals as effective and low-cost materials for the remediation of industrial wastewater. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-Friendly Nanomaterials: Innovations in Sustainable Applications)
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23 pages, 4687 KiB  
Article
Mineralogical and Geochemical Characterization of the Benavila (Portugal) Bentonites
by Javier García-Rivas, Maria Isabel Dias, Isabel Paiva, Paula G. Fernandes, Rosa Marques, Emilia García-Romero and Mercedes Suárez
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 836; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080836 - 7 Aug 2025
Viewed by 179
Abstract
This work aims to perform a detailed mineralogical, crystal-chemical, and geochemical characterization of bentonites from the Benavila outcrop, the largest known deposit of bentonites in continental Portugal. Bulk samples and different size fractions were characterized through X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Structural formulae of the [...] Read more.
This work aims to perform a detailed mineralogical, crystal-chemical, and geochemical characterization of bentonites from the Benavila outcrop, the largest known deposit of bentonites in continental Portugal. Bulk samples and different size fractions were characterized through X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Structural formulae of the smectites were fitted from point analyses acquired by analytical electron microscopy (AEM) with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Smectites are the major component with variable amounts of calcite and minor amounts of quartz, feldspar, illite, and chlorite. Occasionally, amphiboles and dolomite have also been identified. The high content of carbonates in different parts of the sampling area is related to the circulation of carbonate-rich fluids. The smectites present high-layer charge, are intermediate terms of the montmorillonite–beidellite series, and also show an intermediate cisvacant–transvacant configuration. Major and trace elements concentrations were determined by ICP-MS. The geochemical analysis of the samples indicates an enrichment in SiO2 and Al2O3 and a depletion of the more clayey materials in REE, HFSE, and Y, among others. The calculation of the PIA and CIA alteration indices, along with other parameters observed, shows the possible alteration pathways of the Benavila deposit. Research to evaluate the ability of these bentonites to be used as engineering barrier systems (EBS) and sealing materials for radioactive waste repositories is ongoing. Full article
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17 pages, 1097 KiB  
Review
Natural Feed Additives in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review of Efficiency and Sustainability in Ruminant Production
by Zonaxolo Ntsongota, Olusegun Oyebade Ikusika and Thando Conference Mpendulo
Ruminants 2025, 5(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/ruminants5030036 - 6 Aug 2025
Viewed by 172
Abstract
Ruminant livestock production plays a crucial role in the agricultural systems of Sub-Saharan Africa, significantly supporting rural livelihoods through income generation, improved nutrition, and employment opportunities. Despite its importance, the sector continues to face substantial challenges, such as low feed quality, seasonal feed [...] Read more.
Ruminant livestock production plays a crucial role in the agricultural systems of Sub-Saharan Africa, significantly supporting rural livelihoods through income generation, improved nutrition, and employment opportunities. Despite its importance, the sector continues to face substantial challenges, such as low feed quality, seasonal feed shortages, and climate-related stresses, all of which limit productivity and sustainability. Considering these challenges, the adoption of natural feed additives has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance animal performance, optimise nutrient utilisation, and mitigate environmental impacts, including the reduction of enteric methane emissions. This review underscores the significant potential of natural feed additives such as plant extracts, essential oils, probiotics, and mineral-based supplements such as fossil shell flour as sustainable alternatives to conventional growth promoters in ruminant production systems across the region. All available documented evidence on the topic from 2000 to 2024 was collated and synthesised through standardised methods of systematic review protocol—PRISMA. Out of 319 research papers downloaded, six were included and analysed directly or indirectly in this study. The results show that the addition of feed additives to ruminant diets in all the studies reviewed significantly (p < 0.05) improved growth parameters such as average daily growth (ADG), feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the control group. However, no significant (p > 0.05) effect was found on cold carcass weight (CCW), meat percentage, fat percentage, bone percentage, or intramuscular fat (IMF%) compared to the control. The available evidence indicates that these additives can provide tangible benefits, including improved growth performance, better feed efficiency, enhanced immune responses, and superior meat quality, while also supporting environmental sustainability by reducing nitrogen excretion and decreasing dependence on antimicrobial agents. Full article
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28 pages, 4848 KiB  
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 126
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
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17 pages, 591 KiB  
Article
Influence of Partial Vermicompost Tea Substitution for Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizers on Yield and Nutrient Content of Wheat Cultivars
by Hashim Abdel-Lattif and Mohamed Abbas
Crops 2025, 5(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/crops5040051 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 181
Abstract
Chemical fertilizers pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. To investigate the effect of substituting nitrogen fertilizer with vermicompost tea on wheat yield, shoot chemical constituents, and grain quality under clay-loam soil conditions, two field experiments were conducted at the [...] Read more.
Chemical fertilizers pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. To investigate the effect of substituting nitrogen fertilizer with vermicompost tea on wheat yield, shoot chemical constituents, and grain quality under clay-loam soil conditions, two field experiments were conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Egypt, during the winter seasons of 2021–2022 and 2022–2023. A split-plot design in randomized complete blocks with three replications was employed. Vermicompost tea was assigned to the main plots, while wheat cultivars were assigned to the subplots. The cultivars were evaluated under four treatments involving partial substitution of mineral nitrogen (recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN%, 190 kg N ha−1): a control (90% of RDN + 25 kg vermicompost tea), 80% of RDN + 37.5 kg vermicompost tea, and 70% of RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea. Nitrogen fertilizer (RDN%) was applied at rates of 190 (control), 170 (90%), 150 (80%), and 130 (70%) kg N ha−1. The results indicated that partially substituting mineral nitrogen with vermicompost tea significantly increased grain weight/Ha, chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, carotenoids, nitrogen, phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) content in shoots, as well as ash, crude protein, crude fiber, total sugar, and N, P, and K content in wheat grains. The grain weight/Ha of the Sakha-95, Giza-171, and Sads-14 cultivars increased by 38.6%, 33.5%, and 39.3%, respectively, when treated with 70% RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea. The combination of the Sads-14 cultivar and 70% RDN + 50 kg vermicompost tea resulted in the highest values for grain weight/ha (9.43 tons ha−1), chlorophyll A (1.39 mg/g), chlorophyll B (1.04 mg/g), N (5.08%), P (1.63%), and P (2.43%) content in shoots. The same combination also improved ash (2.89%), crude fiber (2.84%), and K (6.05%) content in grains. In conclusion, the application of vermicompost tea in conjunction with chemical fertilizers offers a viable alternative to using chemical fertilizers alone, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving wheat production. It is recommended that mineral nitrogen fertilizer be partially replaced with vermicompost tea to enhance both the productivity and grain quality of wheat while minimizing environmental pollution. Full article
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27 pages, 11202 KiB  
Article
Durability Analysis of Brick-Faced Clay-Core Walls in Traditional Residential Architecture in Quanzhou, China
by Yuhong Ding, Ruiming Guan, Li Chen, Jinxuan Wang, Yangming Zhang, Yili Fu and Canjin Zhang
Coatings 2025, 15(8), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080909 - 3 Aug 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
This study analyzes the durability of brick-faced clay-core walls (BCWs) in the traditional residential architecture of Quanzhou—a UNESCO World Heritage City. Taking the northern gable of Ding Gongchen’s former residence as an example, the mechanical properties, microscopic structure, and changes in chemical symbol, [...] Read more.
This study analyzes the durability of brick-faced clay-core walls (BCWs) in the traditional residential architecture of Quanzhou—a UNESCO World Heritage City. Taking the northern gable of Ding Gongchen’s former residence as an example, the mechanical properties, microscopic structure, and changes in chemical symbol, oxides and minerals of the red bricks and clay-cores were analyzed using finite element mechanics analysis (FEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicate a triple mechanism: (1) The collaborative protection and reinforcement mechanism of “brick-wrapped-clay”. (2) The infiltration and destruction mechanism of external pollutants. (3) The material stability mechanism of silicate minerals. Therefore, the key to maintaining the durability of BCWs lies in the synergistic effect of brick and clay materials and the stability of silicate mineral materials, providing theoretical and methodological support for sustainable research into brick and clay constructions. Full article
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29 pages, 30467 KiB  
Article
Clay-Hosted Lithium Exploration in the Wenshan Region of Southeastern Yunnan Province, China, Using Multi-Source Remote Sensing and Structural Interpretation
by Lunxin Feng, Zhifang Zhao, Haiying Yang, Qi Chen, Changbi Yang, Xiao Zhao, Geng Zhang, Xinle Zhang and Xin Dong
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080826 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 380
Abstract
With the rapid increase in global lithium demand, the exploration of newly discovered lithium in the bauxite of the Wenshan area in southeastern Yunnan has become increasingly important. However, the current research on clay-type lithium in the Wenshan area has primarily focused on [...] Read more.
With the rapid increase in global lithium demand, the exploration of newly discovered lithium in the bauxite of the Wenshan area in southeastern Yunnan has become increasingly important. However, the current research on clay-type lithium in the Wenshan area has primarily focused on local exploration, and large-scale predictive metallogenic studies remain limited. To address this, this study utilized multi-source remote sensing data from ZY1-02D and ASTER, combined with ALOS 12.5 m DEM and Sentinel-2 imagery, to carry out remote sensing mineral identification, structural interpretation, and prospectivity mapping for clay-type lithium in the Wenshan area. This study indicates that clay-type lithium in the Wenshan area is controlled by NW, EW, and NE linear structures and are mainly distributed in the region from north of the Wenshan–Malipo fault to south of the Guangnan–Funing fault. High-value areas of iron-rich silicates and iron–magnesium minerals revealed by ASTER data indicate lithium enrichment, while montmorillonite and cookeite identification by ZY1-02D have strong indicative significance for lithium. Field verification samples show the highest Li2O content reaching 11,150 μg/g, with six samples meeting the comprehensive utilization criteria for lithium in bauxite (Li2O ≥ 500 μg/g) and also showing an enrichment of rare earth elements (REEs) and gallium (Ga). By integrating stratigraphic, structural, mineral identification, geochemical characteristics, and field verification data, ten mineral exploration target areas were delineated. This study validates the effectiveness of remote sensing technology in the exploration of clay-type lithium and provides an applicable workflow for similar environments worldwide. Full article
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29 pages, 4812 KiB  
Article
Geochemical Assessment of Long-Term CO2 Storage from Core- to Field-Scale Models
by Paa Kwesi Ntaako Boison, William Ampomah, Jason D. Simmons, Dung Bui, Najmudeen Sibaweihi, Adewale Amosu and Kwamena Opoku Duartey
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4089; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154089 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Numerical simulations enable us to couple multiphase flow and geochemical processes to evaluate how sequestration impacts brine chemistry and reservoir properties. This study investigates these impacts during CO2 storage at the San Juan Basin CarbonSAFE (SJB) site. The hydrodynamic model was calibrated [...] Read more.
Numerical simulations enable us to couple multiphase flow and geochemical processes to evaluate how sequestration impacts brine chemistry and reservoir properties. This study investigates these impacts during CO2 storage at the San Juan Basin CarbonSAFE (SJB) site. The hydrodynamic model was calibrated through history-matching, utilizing data from saltwater disposal wells to improve predictive accuracy. Core-scale simulations incorporating mineral interactions and equilibrium reactions validated the model against laboratory flow-through experiments. The calibrated geochemical model was subsequently upscaled into a field-scale 3D model of the SJB site to predict how mineral precipitation and dissolution affect reservoir properties. The results indicate that the majority of the injected CO2 is trapped structurally, followed by residual trapping and dissolution trapping; mineral trapping was found to be negligible in this study. Although quartz and calcite precipitation occurred, the dissolution of feldspars, phyllosilicates, and clay minerals counteracted these effects, resulting in a minimal reduction in porosity—less than 0.1%. The concentration of the various ions in the brine is directly influenced by dissolution/precipitation trends. This study provides valuable insights into CO2 sequestration’s effects on reservoir fluid dynamics, mineralogy, and rock properties in the San Juan Basin. It highlights the importance of reservoir simulation in assessing long-term CO2 storage effectiveness, particularly focusing on geochemical interactions. Full article
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17 pages, 13918 KiB  
Article
Occurrence State and Controlling Factors of Methane in Deep Marine Shale: A Case Study from Silurian Longmaxi Formation in Sichuan Basin, SW China
by Junwei Pu, Tongtong Luo, Yalan Li, Hongwei Jiang and Lin Qi
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 820; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080820 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
Deep marine shale is the primary carrier of shale gas resources in Southwestern China. Because the occurrence and gas content of methane vary with burial conditions, understanding the microscopic mechanism of methane occurrence in deep marine shale is critical for effective shale gas [...] Read more.
Deep marine shale is the primary carrier of shale gas resources in Southwestern China. Because the occurrence and gas content of methane vary with burial conditions, understanding the microscopic mechanism of methane occurrence in deep marine shale is critical for effective shale gas exploitation. The temperature and pressure conditions in deep shale exceed the operating limits of experimental equipment; thus, few studies have discussed the microscopic occurrence mechanism of shale gas in deep marine shale. This study applies molecular simulation technology to reveal the methane’s microscopic occurrence mechanism, particularly the main controlling factor of adsorbed methane in deep marine shale. Two types of simulation models are also proposed. The Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) method is used to simulate the adsorption behavior of methane molecules in these two models. The results indicate that the isosteric adsorption heat of methane in both models is below 42 kJ/mol, suggesting that methane adsorption in deep shale is physical adsorption. Adsorbed methane concentrates on the pore wall surface and forms a double-layer adsorption. Furthermore, adsorbed methane can transition to single-layer adsorption if the pore size is less than 1.6 nm. The total adsorption capacity increases with rising pressure, although the growth rate decreases. Excess adsorption capacity is highly sensitive to pressure and can become negative at high pressures. Methane adsorption capacity is determined by pore size and adsorption potential, while accommodation space and adsorption potential are influenced by pore size and mineral type. Under deep marine shale reservoir burial conditions, with burial depth deepening, the effect of temperature on shale gas occurrence is weaker than pressure. Higher temperatures inhibit shale gas occurrence, and high pressure enhances shale gas preservation. Smaller pores facilitate the occurrence of adsorbed methane, and larger pores have larger total methane adsorption capacity. Deep marine shale with high formation pressure and high clay mineral content is conducive to the microscopic accumulation of shale gas in deep marine shale reservoirs. This study discusses the microscopic occurrence state of deep marine shale gas and provides a reference for the exploration and development of deep shale gas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Element Enrichment and Gas Accumulation in Black Rock Series)
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26 pages, 8845 KiB  
Article
Occurrence State and Genesis of Large Particle Marcasite in a Thick Coal Seam of the Zhundong Coalfield in Xinjiang
by Xue Wu, Ning Lü, Shuo Feng, Wenfeng Wang, Jijun Tian, Xin Li and Hayerhan Xadethan
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 816; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080816 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 235
Abstract
The Junggar Basin contains a large amount of coal resources and is an important coal production base in China. The coal seam in Zhundong coalfield has a large single-layer thickness and high content of inertinite, but large particle Fe-sulphide minerals are associated with [...] Read more.
The Junggar Basin contains a large amount of coal resources and is an important coal production base in China. The coal seam in Zhundong coalfield has a large single-layer thickness and high content of inertinite, but large particle Fe-sulphide minerals are associated with coal seams in some mining areas. A series of economic and environmental problems caused by the combustion of large-grained Fe-sulphide minerals in coal have seriously affected the economic, clean and efficient utilization of coal. In this paper, the ultra-thick coal seam of the Xishanyao formation in the Yihua open-pit mine of the Zhundong coalfield is taken as the research object. Through the analysis of coal quality, X-ray fluorescence spectrometer test of major elements in coal, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry test of trace elements, SEM-Raman identification of Fe-sulphide minerals in coal and LA-MC-ICP-MS test of sulfur isotope of marcasite, the coal quality characteristics, main and trace element characteristics, macro and micro occurrence characteristics of Fe-sulphide minerals and sulfur isotope characteristics of marcasite in the ultra-thick coal seam of the Xishanyao formation are tested. On this basis, the occurrence state and genesis of large particle Fe-sulphide minerals in the ultra-thick coal seam of the Xishanyao formation are clarified. The main results and understandings are as follows: (1) the occurrence state of Fe-sulphide minerals in extremely thick coal seams is clarified. The Fe-sulphide minerals in the extremely thick coal seam are mainly marcasite, and concentrated in the YH-2, YH-3, YH-8, YH-9, YH-14, YH-15 and YH-16 horizons. Macroscopically, Fe-sulphide minerals mainly occur in three forms: thin film Fe-sulphide minerals, nodular Fe-sulphide minerals, and disseminated Fe-sulphide minerals. Microscopically, they mainly occur in four forms: flake, block, spearhead, and crack filling. (2) The difference in sulfur isotope of marcasite was discussed, and the formation period of marcasite was preliminarily divided. The overall variation range of the δ34S value of marcasite is wide, and the extreme values are quite different. The polyflake marcasite was formed in the early stage of diagenesis and the δ34S value was negative, while the fissure filling marcasite was formed in the late stage of diagenesis and the δ34S value was positive. (3) The coal quality characteristics of the thick coal seam were analyzed. The organic components in the thick coal seam are mainly inertinite, and the inorganic components are mainly clay minerals and marcasite. (4) The difference between the element content in the thick coal seam of the Zhundong coalfield and the average element content of Chinese coal was compared. The major element oxides in the thick coal seam are mainly CaO and MgO, followed by SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3 and Na2O. Li, Ga, Ba, U and Th are enriched in trace elements. (5) The coal-accumulating environment characteristics of the extremely thick coal seam are revealed. The whole thick coal seam is formed in an acidic oxidation environment, and the horizon with Fe-sulphide minerals is in an acidic reduction environment. The acidic reduction environment is conducive to the formation of marcasite and is not conducive to the formation of pyrite. (6) There are many matrix vitrinite, inertinite content, clay content, and terrigenous debris in the extremely thick coal seam. The good supply of peat swamp, suitable reduction environment and pH value, as well as groundwater leaching and infiltration, together cause the occurrence of large-grained Fe-sulphide minerals in the extremely thick coal seam of the Xishanyao formation in the Zhundong coalfield. Full article
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17 pages, 6856 KiB  
Article
Selection of Optimal Parameters for Chemical Well Treatment During In Situ Leaching of Uranium Ores
by Kuanysh Togizov, Zhiger Kenzhetaev, Akerke Muzapparova, Shyngyskhan Bainiyazov, Diar Raushanbek and Yuliya Yaremkiv
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080811 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 219
Abstract
The aim of this study was to improve the efficiency of in situ uranium leaching by developing a specialized methodology for selecting rational parameters for the chemical treatment of production wells. This approach was designed to enhance the filtration properties of ores and [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to improve the efficiency of in situ uranium leaching by developing a specialized methodology for selecting rational parameters for the chemical treatment of production wells. This approach was designed to enhance the filtration properties of ores and extend the uninterrupted operation period of wells, considering the clay content of the productive horizon, the geological characteristics of the ore-bearing layer, and the composition of precipitation-forming materials. The mineralogical characteristics of ore and precipitate samples formed during the in situ leaching of uranium under various mining and geological conditions at a uranium deposit in the Syrdarya depression were identified using an X-ray diffraction analysis. It was established that ores of the Santonian stage are relatively homogeneous and consist mainly of quartz. During well operation, the precipitates formed are predominantly gypsum, which has little impact on the filtration properties of the ore. Ores of the Maastrichtian stage are less homogeneous and mainly composed of quartz and smectite, with minor amounts of potassium feldspar and kaolinite. The leaching of these ores results in the formation of gypsum with quartz impurities, which gradually reduces the filtration properties of the ore. Ores of the Campanian stage are heterogeneous, consisting mainly of quartz with varying proportions of clay minerals and gypsum. The leaching of these ores generates a variety of precipitates that significantly reduce the filtration properties of the productive horizon. Effective compositions and concentrations of decolmatant (clog removal) solutions were selected under laboratory conditions using a specially developed methodology and a TESCAN MIRA scanning electron microscope. Based on a scanning electron microscope analysis of the samples, the effectiveness of a decolmatizing solution based on hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids (taking into account the concentration of the acids in the solution) was established for the destruction of precipitate formation during the in situ leaching of uranium. Geological blocks were ranked by their clay content to select rational parameters of decolmatant solutions for the efficient enhancement of ore filtration properties and the prevention of precipitation formation. Pilot-scale testing of the selected decolmatant parameters under various mining and geological conditions allowed the optimal chemical treatment parameters to be determined based on the clay content and the composition of precipitates in the productive horizon. An analysis of pilot well trials using the new approach showed an increase in the uninterrupted operational period of wells by 30%–40% under average mineral acid concentrations and by 25%–45% under maximum concentrations with surfactant additives in complex geological settings. As a result, an effective methodology for ranking geological blocks based on their ore clay content and precipitate composition was developed to determine the rational parameters of decolmatant solutions, enabling a maximized filtration performance and an extended well service life. This makes it possible to reduce the operating costs of extraction, control the geotechnological parameters of uranium well mining, and improve the efficiency of the in situ leaching of uranium under complex mining and geological conditions. Additionally, the approach increases the environmental and operational safety during uranium ore leaching intensification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy)
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