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Keywords = high Si/Al ratio

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26 pages, 6611 KiB  
Article
The Geochronology, Geochemical Characteristics, and Tectonic Settings of the Granites, Yexilinhundi, Southern Great Xing’an Range
by Haixin Yue, Henan Yu, Zhenjun Sun, Yanping He, Mengfan Guan, Yingbo Yu and Xi Chen
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080813 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 28
Abstract
The southern Great Xing’an Range is located in the overlap zone of the Paleo-Asian Ocean metallogenic domain and the Circum-Pacific metallogenic domain. It hosts numerous Sn-polymetallic deposits, such as Weilasituo, Bianjiadayuan, Huanggang, and Dajing, and witnessed multiple episodes of magmatism during the Late [...] Read more.
The southern Great Xing’an Range is located in the overlap zone of the Paleo-Asian Ocean metallogenic domain and the Circum-Pacific metallogenic domain. It hosts numerous Sn-polymetallic deposits, such as Weilasituo, Bianjiadayuan, Huanggang, and Dajing, and witnessed multiple episodes of magmatism during the Late Mesozoic. The study area is situated within the Huanggangliang-Ganzhuermiao metallogenic belt in the southern Great Xing’an Range. The region has witnessed extensive magmatism, with Mesozoic magmatic activities being particularly closely linked to regional mineralization. We present petrographic, zircon U-Pb chronological, lithogeochemical, and Lu-Hf isotopic analyses of the Yexilinhundi granites. The results indicate that the granite porphyry and granodiorite were emplaced during the Late Jurassic. Both rocks exhibit high SiO2, K2O + Na2O, differentiation index (DI), and 10,000 Ga/Al ratios, coupled with low MgO contents. They show distinct fractionation between light and heavy rare earth elements (LREEs and HREEs), exhibit Eu anomalies, and have low whole-rock zircon saturation temperatures (Tzr), collectively demonstrating characteristics of highly fractionated I-type granites. The εHf(t) values of the granites range from 0.600 to 9.14, with young two-stage model ages (TDM2 = 616.0~1158 Ma), indicating that the magmatic source originated from partial melting of Mesoproterozoic-Neoproterozoic juvenile crust. This study proposes that the granites formed in a post-collisional/post-orogenic extensional setting associated with the subduction of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean, providing a scientific basis for understanding the relationship between the formation of Sn-polymetallic deposits and granitic magmatic evolution in the study area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Geochemistry and Geochronology)
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16 pages, 993 KiB  
Article
Optical and Photoconversion Properties of Ce3+-Doped (Ca,Y)3(Mg,Sc)2Si3O12 Films Grown via LPE Method onto YAG and YAG:Ce Substrates
by Anna Shakhno, Vitalii Gorbenko, Tetiana Zorenko, Aleksandr Fedorov and Yuriy Zorenko
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3590; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153590 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 143
Abstract
This work presents a comprehensive study of the structural, luminescent, and photoconversion properties of epitaxial composite phosphor converters based on single crystalline films of Ce3+-activated Ca2−xY1+xMg1+xSc1−xSi3O12:Ce (x = 0–0.25) [...] Read more.
This work presents a comprehensive study of the structural, luminescent, and photoconversion properties of epitaxial composite phosphor converters based on single crystalline films of Ce3+-activated Ca2−xY1+xMg1+xSc1−xSi3O12:Ce (x = 0–0.25) (CYMSSG:Ce) garnet, grown using the liquid phase epitaxy (LPE) method on single-crystal Y3Al5O12 (YAG) and YAG:Ce substrates. The main goal of this study is to elucidate the structure–composition–property relationships that influence the photoluminescence and photoconversion efficiency of these film–substrate composite converters, aiming to optimize their performance in high-power white light-emitting diode (WLED) applications. Systematic variation in the Y3+/Sc3+/Mg2+ cationic ratios within the garnet structure, combined with the controlled tuning of film thickness (ranging from 19 to 67 µm for CYMSSG:Ce/YAG and 10–22 µm for CYMSSG:Ce/YAG:Ce structures), enabled the precise modulation of their photoconversion properties. Prototypes of phosphor-converted WLEDs (pc-WLEDs) were developed based on these epitaxial structures to assess their performance and investigate how the content and thickness of SCFs affect the colorimetric properties of SCFs and composite converters. Clear trends were observed in the Ce3+ emission peak position, intensity, and color rendering, induced by the Y3+/Sc3+/Mg2+ cation substitution in the film converter, film thickness, and activator concentrations in the substrate and film. These results may be useful for the design of epitaxial phosphor converters with tunable emission spectra based on the epitaxially grown structures of garnet compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Physics)
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21 pages, 3300 KiB  
Article
Catalytic Ozonation of Nitrite in Denitrification Wastewater Based on Mn/ZSM-5 Zeolites: Catalytic Performance and Mechanism
by Yiwei Zhang, Yulin Sun, Yanqun Zhu, Wubin Weng, Yong He and Zhihua Wang
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2387; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082387 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 316
Abstract
In wet flue gas desulfurization and denitrification processes, nitrite accumulation inhibits denitrification efficiency and induces secondary pollution due to its acidic disproportionation. This study developed a Mn-modified ZSM-5 zeolite catalyst, achieving efficient resource conversion of nitrite in nitrogen-containing wastewater through an O3 [...] Read more.
In wet flue gas desulfurization and denitrification processes, nitrite accumulation inhibits denitrification efficiency and induces secondary pollution due to its acidic disproportionation. This study developed a Mn-modified ZSM-5 zeolite catalyst, achieving efficient resource conversion of nitrite in nitrogen-containing wastewater through an O3 + Mn/ZSM-5 catalytic system. Mn/ZSM-5 catalysts with varying SiO2/Al2O3 ratios (prepared by wet impregnation) were characterized by BET, XRD, and XPS. Experimental results demonstrated that Mn/ZSM-5 (SiO2/Al2O3 = 400) exhibited a larger specific surface area, enhanced adsorption capacity, abundant surface Mn3+/Mn4+ species, hydroxyl oxygen species, and chemisorbed oxygen, leading to superior oxidation capability and catalytic activity. Under the optimized conditions of reaction temperature = 40 °C, initial pH = 4, Mn/ZSM-5 dosage = 1 g/L, and O3 concentration = 100 ppm, the NO2 oxidation efficiency reached 94.33%. Repeated tests confirmed that the Mn/ZSM-5 catalyst exhibited excellent stability and wide operational adaptability. The synergistic effect between Mn species and the zeolite support significantly improved ozone utilization efficiency. The O3 + Mn/ZSM-5 system required less ozone while maintaining high oxidation efficiency, demonstrating better cost-effectiveness. Mechanism studies revealed that the conversion pathway of NO2 followed a dual-path catalytic mechanism combining direct ozonation and free radical chain reactions. Practical spray tests confirmed that coupling the Mn/ZSM-5 system with ozone oxidation flue gas denitrification achieved over 95% removal of liquid-phase NO2 byproducts without compromising the synergistic removal efficiency of NOx/SO2. This study provided an efficient catalytic solution for industrial wastewater treatment and the resource utilization of flue gas denitrification byproducts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Processes in 2025)
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17 pages, 6395 KiB  
Article
Fe–P Alloy Production from High-Phosphorus Oolitic Iron Ore via Efficient Pre-Reduction and Smelting Separation
by Mengjie Hu, Deqing Zhu, Jian Pan, Zhengqi Guo, Congcong Yang, Siwei Li and Wen Cao
Minerals 2025, 15(8), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15080778 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 186
Abstract
Diverging from conventional dephosphorization approaches, this study employs a novel pre-reduction and smelting separation (PR-SS) to efficiently co-recover iron and phosphorus from high-phosphorus oolitic iron ore, directly yielding Fe–P alloy, and the Fe–P alloy shows potential as feedstock for high-phosphorus weathering steel or [...] Read more.
Diverging from conventional dephosphorization approaches, this study employs a novel pre-reduction and smelting separation (PR-SS) to efficiently co-recover iron and phosphorus from high-phosphorus oolitic iron ore, directly yielding Fe–P alloy, and the Fe–P alloy shows potential as feedstock for high-phosphorus weathering steel or wear-resistant cast iron, indicating promising application prospects. Using oolitic magnetite concentrate (52.06% Fe, 0.37% P) as feedstock, optimized conditions including pre-reduction at 1050 °C for 2 h with C/Fe mass ratio of 2, followed by smelting separation at 1550 °C for 20 min with 5% coke, produced a metallic phase containing 99.24% Fe and 0.73% P. Iron and phosphorus recoveries reached 99.73% and 99.15%, respectively. EPMA microanalysis confirmed spatial correlation between iron and phosphorus in the metallic phase, with undetectable phosphorus signals in vitreous slag. This evidence suggests preferential phosphorus enrichment through interfacial mass transfer along the pathway of the slag phase to the metal interface and finally the iron matrix, forming homogeneous Fe–P solid solutions. The phosphorus migration mechanism involves sequential stages: apatite lattice decomposition liberates reactive P2O5 under SiO2/Al2O3 influence; slag–iron interfacial co-reduction generates Fe3P intermediates; Fe3P incorporation into the iron matrix establishes stable solid solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy)
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10 pages, 1512 KiB  
Article
Research on the Efficient Desilication Process of Low-Grade Bauxite in Guangxi
by Guoxian Hu, Anmin Li, An Xia, Dongjie Zhang, Liwen Pan, Xiaolian Zhao and Xingzhi Pang
Crystals 2025, 15(8), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15080675 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 181
Abstract
With the continuous exploitation of bauxite mineral resources, Guangxi bauxite faces many difficulties in alumina production due to its characteristics of high silicon content, high iron content, and a low Al-Si ratio. In view of this, this study is closely related to the [...] Read more.
With the continuous exploitation of bauxite mineral resources, Guangxi bauxite faces many difficulties in alumina production due to its characteristics of high silicon content, high iron content, and a low Al-Si ratio. In view of this, this study is closely related to the key link of bauxite pre-desiliconization and strives to break free from the status quo to improve the aluminum/silicon ratio and help optimize the subsequent alumina-refining process. In the work presented in this paper, the unique mineralogy of Guangxi bauxite was comprehensively considered, covering its complex mineral composition and fine distribution characteristics. The barium hydroxide pre-desilication technology was first used for in-depth experimental exploration, and the silicon removal efficiency under different working conditions was systematically compared. The system compared the silicon removal effect and the associated aluminum loss under different working conditions. The results of this study will lay a solid foundation for the rational and efficient development of bauxite in Guangxi, which is expected to reduce the cost of alumina production, improve the economic benefits for the Guangxi aluminum industry, simultaneously strengthen the efficiency of resource recycling, accelerate the sustainable development of the industry, and provide a useful reference example for subsequent similar studies. Full article
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17 pages, 9827 KiB  
Article
High-Temperature Mechanical and Wear Behavior of Hypoeutectic Al–Si–(Cu)–Mg Alloys with Hardening Mechanisms Dictated by Varying Cu:Mg Ratios
by Jaehui Bang, Yeontae Kim and Eunkyung Lee
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 8047; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15148047 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 319
Abstract
Enhancing damage tolerance and wear resistance in Al–Si-based alloys under thermomechanical stress remains a key challenge in lightweight structural applications. This study investigates the microstructural and tribomechanical behavior of hypoeutectic Al–Si–(Cu)–Mg alloys with varying Cu:Mg ratios (3:1 vs. 1:3) under a T6 heat [...] Read more.
Enhancing damage tolerance and wear resistance in Al–Si-based alloys under thermomechanical stress remains a key challenge in lightweight structural applications. This study investigates the microstructural and tribomechanical behavior of hypoeutectic Al–Si–(Cu)–Mg alloys with varying Cu:Mg ratios (3:1 vs. 1:3) under a T6 heat treatment. Alloys A and B, with identical Si contents but differing Cu and Mg levels, were subjected to multiscale microstructural characterization and mechanical and wear testing at 25 °C, 150 °C, and 250 °C. Alloy A (Cu-rich) exhibited refined α-Al(FeMn)Si phases and homogeneously dissolved Cu in the Al matrix, promoting lattice contraction and dislocation pinning. In contrast, Alloy B (Mg-rich) retained coarse Mg2Si and residual β-AlFeSi phases, which induced local stress concentrations and thermal instability. Under tribological testing, Alloy A showed slightly higher friction coefficients (0.38–0.43) but up to 26.4% lower wear rates across all temperatures. At 250 °C, Alloy B exhibited a 25.2% increase in the wear rate, accompanied by surface degradation such as delamination and spalling due to β-AlFeSi fragmentation and matrix softening. These results confirm that the Cu:Mg ratio critically influences the dominant hardening mechanism—the solid solution vs. precipitation—and determines the high-temperature performance. Alloy A maintained up to 14.1% higher tensile strength and 22.3% higher hardness, exhibiting greater shear resistance and interfacial stability. This work provides a compositionally guided framework for designing thermally durable Al–Si-based alloys with improved wear resistance under elevated temperature conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Mechanical Properties of Alloys)
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23 pages, 25056 KiB  
Article
Mineral Chemistry and Whole-Rock Analysis of Magnesian and Ferroan Granitic Suites of Magal Gebreel, South Eastern Desert: Clues for Neoproterozoic Syn- and Post-Collisional Felsic Magmatism
by El Saeed R. Lasheen, Gehad M. Saleh, Amira El-Tohamy, Farrage M. Khaleal, Mabrouk Sami, Ioan V. Sanislav and Fathy Abdalla
Minerals 2025, 15(7), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15070751 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 382
Abstract
The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the Magal Gebreel granitic suites (MGGs) using petrological (fieldwork, petrography, mineral chemistry, and bulk rock analysis) aspects to infer their petrogenesis and emplacement setting. Our understanding of the development of the northern portion of the Arabian [...] Read more.
The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the Magal Gebreel granitic suites (MGGs) using petrological (fieldwork, petrography, mineral chemistry, and bulk rock analysis) aspects to infer their petrogenesis and emplacement setting. Our understanding of the development of the northern portion of the Arabian Nubian Shield is significantly improved by the Neoproterozoic granitic rocks of the seldom studied MGGs in Egypt’s south Eastern Desert. According to detailed field, mineralogical, and geochemical assessments, they comprise syn-collision (granodiorites) and post-collision (monzogranites, syenogranites, and alkali feldspar rocks). Granodiorite has strong positive Pb, notable negative P, Ti, and Nb anomalies, and is magnesian in composition. They have high content of LREEs (light rare-earth elements) compared to HREEs (heavy rare-earth elements) and clear elevation of LFSEs (low-field strength elements; K Rb, and Ba) compared to HFSEs (high-field strength elements; Zr and Nb), which are in accord with the contents of I-type granites from the Eastern Desert. In this context, the granodiorites are indicative of an early magmatic phase that probably resulted from the partial melting of high K-mafic sources in the subduction zone. Conversely, the post-collision rocks have low contents of Mg#, CaO, P2O5, MgO, Fe2O3, Sr, and Ti, and high SiO2, Fe2O3/MgO, Nb, Ce, and Ga/Al, suggesting A-type features with ferroan affinity. Their P, Nb, Sr, Ba, and Ti negative anomalies are in accord with the findings for Eastern Desert granites of the A2-type. Furthermore, they exhibit a prominent negative anomaly in Eu and a small elevation of LREEs in relation to HREEs. The oxygen fugacity (fO2) for the rocks under investigation can be calculated using the biotite chemistry. The narrow Fe/(Fe + Mg) ratio range (0.6–0.75) indicates that they crystallized under moderately oxidizing conditions between ~QFM +0.1 and QFM +1. The A-type rocks were formed by the partial melting of a tonalite source (underplating rocks) in a post-collisional environment during the late period of extension via slab delamination. The lithosphere became somewhat impregnated with particular elements as a result of the interaction between the deeper crust and the upwelling mantle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Geochemistry and Geochronology)
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19 pages, 5914 KiB  
Article
Valorization of Alkali–Thermal Activated Red Mud for High-Performance Geopolymer: Performance Evaluation and Environmental Effects
by Zhiping Li, Haifeng Dong, Yuwen Wang, Jianbing Men, Junqiang Wang, Xiushao Zhao and Sikai Zou
Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2471; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142471 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 332
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (2.25–3.00) and the replacement of red mud (RM) with GGBS (50–63%) on the performance of RM-based geopolymers to address the environmental issues posed by RM, including its high alkalinity [...] Read more.
This study investigates the influence of SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (2.25–3.00) and the replacement of red mud (RM) with GGBS (50–63%) on the performance of RM-based geopolymers to address the environmental issues posed by RM, including its high alkalinity and heavy metal content. The results indicated that increasing the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio and incorporating GGBS reduced the fresh properties of the geopolymers. A higher SiO2/Al2O3 ratio promoted the development of compressive strength, likely due to the elevated concentration of soluble silicates. The RM-based geopolymers with higher GGBS content also exhibited greater compressive strength. Moreover, the drying shrinkage and water permeability of RM-based geopolymers increased as the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio and the GGBS content increased. The sustainability assessment revealed that CO2 emissions were influenced by the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio. In comparison to other RM-based geopolymers, the CO2 emissions and costs in this study were reduced by 13.13–44.33% and 3.64–39.68%, respectively. This study discusses the effects of the SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios on the reaction process and strength formation mechanism of RM-based geopolymers, which provides an effective strategy for the resource utilization of RM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Energy Efficiency and Low-Carbon Pathways in Buildings)
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20 pages, 5652 KiB  
Article
Capacitive Sensing of Solid Debris in Used Lubricant of Transmission System: Multivariate Statistics Classification Approach
by Surapol Raadnui and Sontinan Intasonti
Lubricants 2025, 13(7), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants13070304 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 331
Abstract
The quantification of solid debris in used lubricating oil is essential for assessing transmission system wear and optimizing maintenance strategies. This study introduces a low-cost capacitive proximity sensor for monitoring total solid particle contamination in lubricants, with a focus on ferrous (Fe), non-ferrous [...] Read more.
The quantification of solid debris in used lubricating oil is essential for assessing transmission system wear and optimizing maintenance strategies. This study introduces a low-cost capacitive proximity sensor for monitoring total solid particle contamination in lubricants, with a focus on ferrous (Fe), non-ferrous (Al), and non-metallic (SiO2) debris. Controlled tests were performed using five mixing ratios of large-to-small particles (100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100) at a fixed debris mass of 0.5 g per 25 mL of SAE 85W-140 automotive gear oil. Cubic regression analysis yielded high predictive accuracy, with average R2 values of 0.994 for Fe, 0.943 for Al, and 0.992 for SiO2. Further dimensionality reduction using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), along with Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) of multivariate statistical analysis, effectively classifies debris types and enhances interpretability. These results demonstrate the potential of capacitive sensing as an offline, non-invasive alternative to traditional techniques for wear debris monitoring in transmission systems. These results confirm the potential of capacitive sensing, supported by statistical modeling, as a non-invasive, cost-effective technique for offline classification and monitoring of wear debris in transmission systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tribological Research on Transmission Systems)
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23 pages, 6254 KiB  
Article
Cleaner Production of Metallurgical-Grade Iron from High-Iron Bauxite Residue via Smelting Reduction: Thermodynamic Control, Industrial Application Potential, and Slag Utilization Strategy
by Kun Wang, Ting-An Zhang, Zhi-He Dou, Yan Liu and Guo-Zhi Lv
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3288; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143288 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 262
Abstract
Iron-rich bauxite residue (red mud) is a hazardous alkaline solid waste produced during the production of alumina from high-iron bauxite, which poses severe environmental challenges due to its massive stockpiling and limited utilization. In this study, metallic iron was recovered from high-iron red [...] Read more.
Iron-rich bauxite residue (red mud) is a hazardous alkaline solid waste produced during the production of alumina from high-iron bauxite, which poses severe environmental challenges due to its massive stockpiling and limited utilization. In this study, metallic iron was recovered from high-iron red mud using the smelting reduction process. Thermodynamic analysis results show that an increase in temperature and sodium oxide content, along with an appropriate mass ratio of Al2O3 to SiO2 (A/S) and mass ratio of CaO to SiO2 (C/S), contribute to the enhancement of the liquid phase mass fraction of the slag. During the smelting reduction process of high-iron red mud, iron recoveries for low-alkali high-iron red mud and high-alkali high-iron red mud under optimal conditions were 98.14% and 98.36%, respectively. The metal obtained through reduction meets the industrial standard for steel-making pig iron, which is also confirmed in the pilot-scale experiment. The smelting reduction process of high-iron red mud can be divided into two stages, where the reaction is predominantly governed by interfacial chemical reaction and diffusion control, respectively. The apparent activation energy of high-alkali high-iron red mud is lower than that observed for low-alkali high-iron red mud. The reduced slag can be used as a roadside stone material or cement clinker. This proposed method represents a sustainable process for the comprehensive utilization of high-iron red mud, which also promotes the minimization of red mud. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Efficient Utilization of Metallurgical Solid Waste)
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16 pages, 8495 KiB  
Article
Utilization of Waste Clay–Diatomite in the Production of Durable Mullite-Based Insulating Materials
by Svetlana Ilić, Jelena Maletaškić, Željko Skoko, Marija M. Vuksanović, Željko Radovanović, Ivica Ristović and Aleksandra Šaponjić
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7512; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137512 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 268
Abstract
Microstructural, mechanical and qualitative phase identification of durable mullite-based ceramics obtained by utilization of waste clay–diatomite has been studied. Mullite-based ceramics were fabricated using waste clay–diatomite from the Baroševac open-cast coal mine, Kolubara (Serbia). The raw material consists mainly of SiO2 (70.5 [...] Read more.
Microstructural, mechanical and qualitative phase identification of durable mullite-based ceramics obtained by utilization of waste clay–diatomite has been studied. Mullite-based ceramics were fabricated using waste clay–diatomite from the Baroševac open-cast coal mine, Kolubara (Serbia). The raw material consists mainly of SiO2 (70.5 wt%) and a moderately high content of Al2O3 (13.8 wt%). In order to achieve the stoichiometric mullite composition (3Al2O3-2SiO2), the raw material was mixed with an appropriate amount of Al(NO3)3·9H2O. After preparing the precursor powder, the green compacts were sintered at 1300, 1400 and 1500 °C for 2 h. During the process, rod-shaped mullite grains were formed, measuring approximately 5 µm in length and a diameter of 500 nm (aspect ratio 10:1). The microstructure of the sample sintered at 1500 °C resulted in a well-developed, porous, nest-like morphology. According to the X-ray diffraction analysis, the sample at 1400 °C consisted of mullite, cristobalite and corundum phases, while the sample sintered at 1500 °C contained mullite (63.24 wt%) and an amorphous phase that reached 36.7 wt%. Both samples exhibited exceptional compressive strength—up to 188 MPa at 1400 °C. However, the decrease in compressive strength to 136 MPa at 1500 °C is attributed to changes in the phase composition, the disappearance of the corundum phase and alterations in the microstructure. This occurred despite an increase in bulk density to 2.36 g/cm3 (approximately 82% of theoretical density) and a complete reduction in open porosity. The residual glassy phase (36.7 wt% at 1500 °C) is probably the key factor influencing the mechanical properties at room temperature in these ceramics produced from waste clay–diatomite. However, the excellent mechanical stability of the samples sintered at 1400 and 1500 °C, achieved without binders or additives and using mined diatomaceous earth, supports further research into mullite-based insulating materials. Mullite-based materials obtained from mining waste might be successfully used in the field of energy-efficient refractory materials and thermal insulators. for high-temperature applications Full article
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28 pages, 11235 KiB  
Article
Petrogenesis, Tectonic Setting, and Metallogenic Constraints of Tin-Bearing Plutons in the Karamaili Granite Belt of Eastern Junggar, Xinjiang (NW China)
by Shuai Yuan, Qiwei Wang, Bowen Zhang, Xiaoping Gong and Chunmei Su
Minerals 2025, 15(7), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15070710 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
The Karamaili Granite Belt (KGB) in the southern margin of the Eastern Junggar is the most important tin metallogenic belt in the southwestern Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The plutons in the western part have a close genetic relationship with tin mineralization. The zircon [...] Read more.
The Karamaili Granite Belt (KGB) in the southern margin of the Eastern Junggar is the most important tin metallogenic belt in the southwestern Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The plutons in the western part have a close genetic relationship with tin mineralization. The zircon U-Pb ages of the Kamusite, Laoyaquan, and Beilekuduke plutons are 315.1 ± 3.4 Ma, 313.6 ± 2.9 Ma, and 316.5 ± 4.6 Ma, respectively. The plutons have high silica (SiO2 = 75.53%–77.85%), potassium (K2O = 4.43%–5.42%), and alkalis (K2O + Na2O = 8.17%–8.90%) contents and low ferroan (Fe2O3T = 0.90%–1.48%), calcium, and magnesium contents and are classified as metaluminous–peraluminous, high-potassium, calc-alkaline iron granite. The rocks are enriched in Rb, Th, U, K, Pb, and Sn and strongly depleted in Ba, Sr, P, Eu, and Ti. They have strongly negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.01–0.05), 10,000 Ga/Al = 2.87–4.91 (>2.6), showing the geochemical characteristics of A-type granite. The zircon U/Pb ratios indicate that the above granites should be I- or A-type granite, which is generally formed under high-temperature (768–843 °C), low-pressure, and reducing magma conditions. The high Rb/Sr ratio (a mean of 48 > 1.2) and low K/Rb ratio (53.93–169.94) indicate that the tin-bearing plutons have undergone high differentiation. The positive whole-rock εNd(t) values (3.99–5.54) and the relatively young Nd T2DM model ages (616–455 Ma) suggest the magma is derived from partially melted juvenile crust, and the underplating of basic magma containing mantle materials that affected the source area. The results indicate the KGB was formed in the tectonic transition period in the late Carboniferous subduction post-collision environment. Orogenic compression influenced the tin-bearing plutons in the western part of the KGB, forming highly differentiated and reduced I, A-type transition granite. An extensional environment affected the plutons in the eastern sections, creating A-type granite with dark enclaves that suggest magma mixing with little evidence of tin mineralization. Full article
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19 pages, 4963 KiB  
Article
Fouling Mitigation of Silicon Carbide Membranes by Pre-Deposited Dynamic Membranes for the Separation of Oil-in-Water Emulsions
by Xin Wu, Minfeng Fang and Guanghui Li
Membranes 2025, 15(7), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15070195 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 487
Abstract
Membrane fouling poses a significant challenge in the widespread adoption and cost-effective operation of membrane technology. Among different strategies to mitigate fouling, dynamic membrane (DM) technology has emerged as a promising one for effective control and mitigation of membrane fouling. Silicon carbide (SiC) [...] Read more.
Membrane fouling poses a significant challenge in the widespread adoption and cost-effective operation of membrane technology. Among different strategies to mitigate fouling, dynamic membrane (DM) technology has emerged as a promising one for effective control and mitigation of membrane fouling. Silicon carbide (SiC) membranes have attracted considerable attention as membrane materials due to their remarkable advantages, yet membrane fouling is still inevitable in challenging separation tasks, such as oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion separation, and thus effective mitigation of membrane fouling is essential to maximize their economic viability. This study investigates the use of pre-deposited oxide DMs to mitigate the fouling of SiC membranes during the separation of O/W emulsions. Among five screened oxides (Fe2O3, SiO2, TiO2, ZrO2, Al2O3), SiO2 emerged as the most effective DM material due to its favorable combination of particle size, negative surface charge, hydrophilicity, and underwater oleophobicity, leading to minimized oil droplet adhesion via electrostatic repulsion to DM surfaces and enhanced antifouling performance. Parameter optimization in dead-end mode revealed a DM deposition amount of 300 g/m2, a transmembrane pressure (TMP) of 0.25 bar, and a backwashing pressure of 2 bar as ideal conditions, achieving stable oil rejection (~93%) and high pure water flux recovery ratios (FRR, >90%). Cross-flow filtration outperformed dead-end mode, maintaining normalized permeate fluxes of ~0.4–0.5 (cf. ~0.2 in dead-end) and slower FRR decline, attributed to reduced concentration polarization and enhanced DM stability under tangential flow. Optimal cross-flow conditions included a DM preparation time of 20 min, a TMP of 0.25 bar, and a flow velocity of 0.34 m/s. The results establish SiO2-based DMs as a cost-effective strategy to enhance SiC membrane longevity and efficiency in O/W emulsion separation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications for Water Treatment)
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25 pages, 5462 KiB  
Article
Late Carboniferous Slab Rollback in the Southern Altaids: Evidence from a Slab-Derived Adakitic Granodiorite in the South Tianshan
by Nijiati Abuduxun, Wenjiao Xiao, Wanghu Zhang, He Yang, Abidan Alimujiang, Peng Huang and Jingmin Gan
Minerals 2025, 15(7), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15070674 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 354
Abstract
The South Tianshan records the latest accretionary and collisional events in the southwestern Altaids, but the internal subduction-related processes are controversial. This study provides an integrative analysis of a newly identified Late Carboniferous adakitic granodiorite from the South Tianshan, incorporating geochronological, zircon U-Pb [...] Read more.
The South Tianshan records the latest accretionary and collisional events in the southwestern Altaids, but the internal subduction-related processes are controversial. This study provides an integrative analysis of a newly identified Late Carboniferous adakitic granodiorite from the South Tianshan, incorporating geochronological, zircon U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopic, whole-rock geochemical, and Sr-Nd isotopic data. Zircon U-Pb analysis indicates that the granite was emplaced at 310 ± 2.5 Ma. Based on major element compositions, the granodiorite belongs to medium-K calc-alkaline weakly peraluminous series (A/CNK = 0.95–1.09). The samples exhibit typical high-silica adakitic affinity, as evidenced by the elevated contents of SiO2 (67.75–69.27 wt.%), Al2O3 (15.29–15.90 wt.%), Sr (479–530 ppm), and Ba (860–910 ppm); low concentrations of Yb (0.43–0.47 ppm) and Y (7.12–7.44 ppm); high Sr/Y ratios (67–72); and slight Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.89–1.03). The sodium-rich composition (K2O/Na2O = 0.48–0.71) is comparable to adakitic rocks from slab-derived melts. Elevated concentrations of Ni (22.12–24.25 ppm), Cr (33.20–37.86 ppm), Co (6.32–6.75 ppm), and V (30.33–32.48 ppm), along with high Mg# values (55–57), suggest melt–mantle interaction during magma ascent. The slightly enriched isotopic signatures, characterized by higher initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.706086–0.706205) and lower εNd(t) (−3.09 to –2.47) and εHf(t) (−3.11 to +7.66) values, point to notable sedimentary contributions, potentially through source contamination and/or shallow-level crustal contamination. By integrating the new results with previously published data, we consider that the adakitic granodiorite was generated by partial melting of the subducted oceanic crust, triggered by asthenospheric upwelling associated with the southward rollback of the north-dipping South Tianshan oceanic lithosphere. Our data provide new insights into Late Carboniferous retreating subduction along the southern active margin of the Yili-Central Tianshan and the accretionary architecture of the southern Altaids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mineral Geochemistry and Geochronology)
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19 pages, 11860 KiB  
Article
Improved Properties of Ceramic Shells by Optimizing the Surface Composition from Lanthanide-Based Composites
by Minghui Li, Jianbo Yu, Xia Li, Zhigang Yang, Zhongming Ren and Xiaoxin Zhang
Coatings 2025, 15(7), 746; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15070746 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 405
Abstract
The precision casting of nickel-based single-crystal superalloys imposes stringent requirements on the high-temperature stability and chemical inertness of ceramic shell face coats. To address the issue of traditional EC95 shells (95% Al2O3–5% SiO2) being prone to react [...] Read more.
The precision casting of nickel-based single-crystal superalloys imposes stringent requirements on the high-temperature stability and chemical inertness of ceramic shell face coats. To address the issue of traditional EC95 shells (95% Al2O3–5% SiO2) being prone to react with the alloy melt at elevated temperatures, thereby inducing casting defects, this study proposes a lanthanide oxide-based ceramic face coat material. Three distinct powders—LaAlO3 (LA), LaAlO3/La2Si2O7 (LAS), and LaAl11O18/La2Si2O7/Al2O3 (LA11S)—are successfully prepared through solid-phase sintering of the La2O3-Al2O3-SiO2 ternary system. Their slurry properties, shell sintering processes, and high-temperature performance are systematically investigated. The results demonstrate that optimal slurry coating effectiveness is achieved when LA powder is processed with a liquid-to-powder ratio of 3:1 and a particle size of 300 mesh. While LA shells show no cracking at 1300 °C, their face coats fail above 1400 °C due to the formation of a La2Si2O7 phase. In contrast, LAS and LA11S shells suppress cracking through the La2Si2O7 and LaAl11O18 phases, respectively, exhibiting exceptionally high-temperature stability at 1400 °C and 1500 °C. All three shells meet the high-temperature strength requirements for CMSX-4 single-crystal alloy casting. Interfacial reaction analysis and Gibbs free energy calculations reveal that Al2O3-forming reactions occur between the novel shells and alloy melt, accompanied by minor dissolution erosion without other chemical side reactions. This work provides a high-performance face coat material solution for investment casting of nickel-based superalloys. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ceramic Materials and Coatings)
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