Geological Aspects Research Articles

Institution, Human Capital and Economic Development — Comment on Theories of Daron Acemoglu and Edward Glaeser

Institution and economy, two fields on which the operation of modern human society depends, and the various elements related to them, have always been the subject of much discussion. Daron Acemoglu argues that institutions lead to a logical chain of causality for economic development, and Edward L. Glaeser argues that it is human capital, not institutions, that lead to economic conditions after regions are colonized. This paper compares its conclusion with the interactive model of geographical development put forward by scholars in different periods, and analyzes its formation, evolution logic, and impact on economic performance. In the aspects of climate, local epidemiology, land quality, geology and landform, geographical location, natural resources, etc., many studies lack the causal logical chain. Therefore, this paper, from the perspective of comparative economics, analyzes the different interaction and iterative effects of these factors on the development of colonial economy in different regions.

Advancing groundwater vulnerability assessment in Bangladesh: a comprehensive machine learning approach

In response to Bangladesh's severe water shortages, this research delves into the intricate dynamics of groundwater vulnerability. Integrating often-overlooked factors such as topography, meteorology, socio-economic conditions, and land use & geology, the study employs advanced Random Forest (RF) modeling. Rigorously analyzing 200 strategically chosen sample points, the research uncovers critical areas like Rajshahi, Nawabganj, Naogaon, and Dhaka, constituting 21% of the land, as highly vulnerable. In contrast, regions like Rangpur, Mymensingh, and Barisal, encompassing 31% of the area, exhibit lower vulnerability. Topographic factors, accounting for 45% of the vulnerability, including aspect, drainage density, and slope, significantly influence susceptibility. Socio-economic elements contribute 22%, particularly population density and industrial activities. The RF model achieves exceptional accuracy (over 90%), emphasizing the complexity of groundwater dynamics. By integrating geological, social, and economic aspects, the study provides actionable insights for nuanced and sustainable management strategies. This research not only unveils a highly accurate groundwater vulnerability map, enriching scientific understanding, but also offers a unique approach by incorporating often-overlooked variables and leveraging machine learning. These insights empower policymakers and urban planners to craft targeted and sustainable groundwater management strategies, ensuring a resilient water supply system for Bangladesh's growing population. Through this work, the aim is to significantly contribute to the scientific community while providing data-driven solutions for the nation's pressing water challenges.

The Role of Geological Methods in the Prevention and Control of Urban Flood Disaster Risk: A Case Study of Zhengzhou

The frequent occurrence of urban flood disasters is a major and persistent problem threatening the safety of cities in China and elsewhere in the world. As this issue is so pervasive, exploring new methods for more effective risk prevention and urban flood disaster control is now being prioritized. Taking the case of the city of Zhengzhou as an example, this paper proposes using geological, hydrogeological, ecological, and environmental conditions together with appropriate engineering designs to address the problem of urban flooding. The strategy includes integrating urban sponge–hydrogeological conditions, ecological engineering, and the construction of deep underground water storage facilities. Field investigations, data collection and analysis, in situ observations, testing, and laboratory experiments, are analyzed to explain the formation mechanism and means to mitigate flood disasters in Zhengzhou. Our results suggest that the appropriate use of geological, ecological, and hydrogeological aspects, combined with effective engineering practices, can significantly improve the city’s flood control capacity. These measures can solve the problem of the “once-in-a-millennium” occurrence of torrential rain disasters such as the “720” torrential rainstorm that has affected the city of Zhengzhou.

High-level radioactive waste repository: How Geology combined with societal principles can lead to public acceptance—the German experiment

Using nuclear power for civil energy generation was a promising idea in the second half of the 20th century. Compared to fossil fuels, nuclear power results in almost no CO 2 bearing emissions, which are known to have triggered and enhanced the global climate change. However, nuclear power bears other risks, e.g. environmental and health damage caused by radiation, unwanted release of nuclides being transported by water, accidents of nuclear power plants, and not to mention the possibility of non-intended military use. In any case, generating power from nuclear fission will always produce radiating waste, albeit in small amounts. Due to its longevity, this waste is a significant challenge for scientists, politicians and for the international social community to find a repository, which can be considered safe for millions of years and is accepted by the public. As the general consensus is that the rocks of earth crust’s are the best option for a controlled storage, scientists including geologists, geophysicists and hydrogeologists are looking worldwide for safe underground repository sites. Given different political preconditions, the nations, especially in the European Union, have developed different strategies. The following article intends to describe the current strategy in Germany, which is based on a specific “Act on the search for and selection of a site for a final repository for highly radioactive waste” (in short: Site Selection Act) and attempts to learn from mistakes in the seventies. It is our strong conviction that fundamental geological aspects are as important as essential societal principles in order to gain maximum public acceptance.

Geophysical Subsurface Mapping Using the Electrical Resistivity Technique: A Comprehensive Study of the Petroleum Training Institute Main Campus in Effurun

The electrical resistivity method was used to conduct a detailed examination of subsurface geology and hydrogeological parameters at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Main Campus in Effurun, Nigeria. The research includes field data collecting, sounding curve interpretation, and dipole-dipole data processing. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed to gain a complete understanding of the hydrogeophysical features of the research area. The analysis revealed A and AK formations, which include four, five, and six-layer structures, highlighting the subsurface's intricacy. A frequency table was utilised to categorise the distribution of VES curves within the study area into three major groups. This classification was critical for characterising and comprehending the area's hydrogeological and geological complexity. Geo-electric sections were created to illustrate the different underlying layers, such as topsoil, clayey sand, sand, sandstone, and fracture. The study analyzed geoelectric properties and aquifer zones using resistivity isopach maps in 2D and 3D formats. The northeastern part of the study area had higher resistivity values, indicating geological variables affecting rock composition and groundwater supply. The findings are crucial for effective groundwater resource management, environmental assessments, and regional development planning. The geological model, combining data from dipole-dipole, geo-electric, and VES sections, accurately characterized subsurfaces in the PTI Campus area. The study identified six subsurface layers, providing baseline data for future infrastructure development. Recommendations include using advanced geophysical methods and a more detailed assessment of subsurface geology in the Warri region. This study adds to our understanding of the hydrogeological and geological aspects of the PTI Campus area, allowing us to make more informed judgements concerning environmental and infrastructure design. The study offers a comprehensive analysis of subsurface geology and hydrogeological parameters at PTI Main Campus, contributing valuable insights for groundwater management, environmental assessments, and regional development planning.

Hydrogen Storage in Porous Rocks: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends

Currently, there is an increasing number of research studies on underground storage of hydrogen in porous rocks (aquifers and depleted hydrocarbon fields). An important aspect of this process is the efficiency of hydrogen storage, which is defined as the correct operation of a storage facility (the ability to inject and withdraw an appropriate quantity of gas) and the safety of storage, which is influenced by numerous factors, including geological factors. With an increasing number of publications, gathering knowledge and keeping track of scientific progress is becoming increasingly complex. In addition to the technical interdependence of the parameters analysed, there are also interrelationships between scientific publications addressing issues related to underground hydrogen storage in porous rocks. The aim of this paper is to analyse the literature on hydrogen storage efficiency in porous rocks and, on the basis of the analysis, to identify the most important research trends and issues relevant to their implementation. This article presents an analysis of publications indexed in the SCOPUS database. The analysis included publications that contained expressions related to the relevant search phrases in their title, abstract or keywords. The dynamics of changes in the interest of researchers on the problem of hydrogen storage in porous rocks and the distribution of studies by geographical location (countries) are presented. Based on an analysis of the number of citations, the most influential publications were identified. Using the VOSviewer version 1.6.19 software, clusters reflecting research sub-areas were identified based on co-occurrence analysis, such as geological and reservoir aspects, reservoir engineering aspects, hydrogeological aspects and petrophysical aspects. Bibliometric methods have great potential for performing quantitative confirmation of subjectively delineated research fields and/or examining unexplored areas. The literature on underground hydrogen storage in porous rocks has been growing rapidly since at least 2018, with researchers conducting their studies in four major research streams: geological and reservoir aspects, reservoir engineering aspects, hydrogeological aspects and petrophysical aspects.

Supercontinents, orogenesis and magmatism: a tribute to the career of J. Brendan Murphy

Abstract Special Publication 542 is a tribute to the remarkable career of J. Brendan Murphy and features 32 articles by 134 authors from 17 different countries; a testament to the high-profile and far-reaching influence of Brendan's work. The topics are wide-ranging in accord with Brendan's diverse research interests, but fall into three broad categories that encompass Brendan's main fields of influence: (i) supercontinents and the supercontinent cycle, including reconstructions and modelling, (ii) orogenesis and terranes, with a focus on the Appalachian–Variscan and Central Asian orogenic belts and the oceans with which they are associated and (iii) magmatism and magmatic processes, with an emphasis on the geochemistry and isotopic compositions of magmas in arc and rift settings. Like Brendan's own research, the scope of the papers spans the globe from Canada to China and ranges from regional field-based studies to conceptual global analyses. All of the articles, however, are focused on unravelling some critical aspect of geology or aimed at clarifying some crucial geologic process. Hence they also share a theme common to Brendan's many contributions in emphasizing the importance of process-oriented research.

Geodiversity in the Iraqi Western Desert. A Critical Discussion

The Iraqi Western Desert (IWD) is characterized by enormous geodiversity types in different geological aspects; including geomorphology, lithology, structural geology, mineral deposits, karst forms, and geological hazards. Within each of the mentioned aspects, different forms of different shapes, sizes, and origins can be seen in different parts of the IWD, which we divided into 4 parts, among them 11 main types and 25 sub-types. We have studied geological maps of different scales (1:100000 and 1:250000), interpreted satellite images, and reviewed tens of published articles, books, and scientific reports, besides field visits which lasted for tens of years to conduct the current research. Tens of examples are presented, which confirm geological Geodiversity in the IWD including many field photos and satellite images, as best available. We also presented a satellite image of the IWD and marked 54 locations of different types of geodiversity including ex-situ and in-situ. Locally, detailed explanations are given for some significant forms and/ or features to present their types, origins, and modes of development.

Optimization Of Drilling Strategies To Increase Production Efficiency In The Field Of Production Geology

This research aims to investigate and optimize drilling strategies as an effort to increase production efficiency in the geological context of oil and gas production. Effective drilling is a key element in the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources, and this research combines geological analysis and drilling techniques to achieve optimal results. This study begins with an in-depth characterization of the physical and chemical properties of the reservoir rocks to understand the geological challenges faced. Next, existing drilling techniques are evaluated and analyzed in the context of a particular production field. The results of this analysis are the basis for developing an integrative model that combines aspects of geology and drilling techniques.Through this approach, this research aims to identify potential improvements in drilling strategies that could significantly increase production. Simulation and modeling results illustrate the positive impact of implementing optimized drilling strategies on production efficiency and hydrocarbon recovery. The conclusions of this research provide a new perspective on the importance of integration between geological science and drilling techniques in achieving efficient production goals. It is hoped that these findings will provide practical guidance for the production geology industry to increase the sustainability of oil and gas production.

Academician Vladimir Laskarev (1868-1954) and Paratethys

Vladimir Laskarev (1868?1954) Russian and Serbian geologist strongly influenced geological literature by introducing a scientific term Paratethys for the series of intercontinental water basins separated from the Mediterranean Sea and the World Ocean by the Alpine orogeny. Laskarev?s scientific activity in the Russian Empire (1890?s ? 1919) was based in the University of Odessa. As an active university professor Vladimir Laskarev contributed to the geological mapping of the western provinces of Imperial Russia and to regional Neogene geology and paleontology of the Odessa and Bessarabian regions. Several of Laskarev?s students became well?known geologists and paleontologists during the Soviet era. Vladimir Laskarev?s contribution to geological studies in Serbia between 1920?1953 is extremely important. During his life in Belgrade, he published twice as many papers on various aspects of Neogene and Quaternary geology and paleontology. His most important contribution is certainly the official introduction of the term Paratethys into geological science. The steady spread of this term in scientific literature began in the early 1940?s and reached its peak in 1970?1980?s during international Neogene correlation and mapping projects.

Prospect forecast for drilling ultra-deep wells in difficult geological conditions of western Turkmenistan

The relevance of the study is related to the growing need for efficient production of hydrocarbons in the difficult geological conditions of western Turkmenistan to ensure energy security and economic development of the region in the changing global oil and gas market. The purpose of the study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the geological, technical, and economic aspects of drilling ultra-deep wells in difficult geological conditions of western Turkmenistan to assess their potential feasibility and contribution to the energy infrastructure of the region. The study used analytical, functional, and statistical methods, classification, and synthesis. The prospects for drilling wells in difficult and extreme geological conditions of western Turkmenistan were identified. The analysis of the current state of prospecting and exploration in this region was carried out, while the main attention was paid to the investigation of the main difficulties faced by drillers when working with deep horizons of the reedbeds. As a result of the conducted research, general principles and recommendations aimed at overcoming these problems were developed. Despite the successful introduction of modern technical and technological innovations that meet international standards when drilling deep and ultra-deep wells in the West Turkmen depression, the study emphasized that the existing drilling problems have not yet been eliminated. This study will provide valuable recommendations and information for making informed decisions when developing and implementing projects for drilling ultra-deep wells in difficult geological conditions, contributing to effective resource management and development of the oil and gas industry in western Turkmenistan.

Modeling of methane and carbon dioxide sorption capacity in tight reservoirs using Machine learning techniques

The viability of enhanced coalbed methane recovery (ECBM) and enhanced shale gas recovery (ESGR) are abundantly explored in various studies since they present a solution for ongoing energy demand and environmental crisis. As a matter of challenge, the prediction of the gas sorption profile poses a significant obstacle in the development of such resources. In this regard, mathematical models, numerical simulations, empirical correlations, and experimental measurements suffer from over-simplification, computationally extensive calculations, time-consuming, and costly processes. This work examines different machine learning methods, from shallow to deep learning, to investigate their capability to model 3804 data points of methane (CH4) and/or carbon dioxide (CO2) sorption capacity in shale and coal at different thermodynamic conditions. Percentage of CO2 in injection gas, rock type, total organic carbon (TOC), moisture, temperature, and pressure were taken as input. Hyperparameter tuning was executed by Optuna optimizer. According to the results, the random forest (RF) was the most proficient predictor for both test subsets of CH4 (MAE = 0.0864, MSE = 0.0231, RMSE = 0.1520) and CO2 (MAE = 0.0529, MSE = 0.0533, RMSE = 0.2308) sorption capacity. Based on the trend prediction simulation, RF predictors were able to properly capture the single and binary sorption capacities. More importantly, they successfully predict the abnormal descending behavior of CO2 sorption in high pressures. In addition, a sensitivity analysis was carried out to acquire the importance of input features and model hyperparameters in the training process. Input feature impacts were consistent with technical expectations of geology and reservoir engineering aspects. Both models are capable of being applied to lab scale and further developed for their application in reservoir scale simulators.

Geological energy storage in Aotearoa New Zealand a technical, geological and social overview

ABSTRACT Aotearoa New Zealand is transitioning to a low emissions economy with an aspirational target of 100% renewable electricity production by 2030. The renewable energy sources that are increasingly relied upon bring with them challenges relating to intermittency of supply over the short term as well as over the medium to long term (as a result of varying rainfall impacting hydro generation). Long-term and high-capacity energy storage solutions are therefore critical to the government’s Just Transitions renewable energy strategy. Geological Energy Storage (GES) is a potential solution for Aotearoa New Zealand’s energy storage needs. The geological subsurface is an efficient long-term and high-capacity energy storage medium for compressed gas or fluids which can be stored and later decompressed and used to regenerate energy. GES has been proven to be feasible in natural and manmade underground voids (i.e. salt caves, mine shafts, tunnels, and boreholes), and in subsurface pore spaces (i.e. saline aquifers and depleted gas and oil reservoirs) where the highest storage potential is found. This work provides a high-level overview of technical, geological, and social aspects of this alternative energy storage solution, focusing on the Taranaki region and the Just Transitions energy action plan as it may be implemented there.

Harnessing the Earth's Hidden Power: Illuminating the Human Geography Nexus of Geothermal Power in the Western Pacific Countries

Geothermal energy, being a renewable energy source with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, has garnered significant international attention. In contrast to previous research primarily focused on the geological and natural scientific aspects of geothermal resources, this study adopts a perspective from the humanities and social sciences. The study delves into examining the correlation between geothermal development and human geography in Western Pacific countries: Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Taiwan. These countries, located in geothermally active zones, offer compelling case studies for unraveling this relationship. Four representative factors, namely population density, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), land prices, and transportation, have been selected for analysis. By utilizing geographic information systems (GIS), correlation coefficient formula, and questionnaire surveys (in the case of Taiwan), the research investigates the spatial distribution and conducts quantitative analysis of the correlation. The primary objective of this research is to enhance the understanding of the present condition and trends in geothermal development within Western Pacific countries. It underscores the significance of incorporating local human geographical considerations during the formulation and execution of geothermal energy plans.

Geological Aspects of the Formation and Distribution of Gas Anomalies in Bottom Sediments of the New Siberian Sedimentary Basin and Adjacent Geostructures of the East Siberian Sea

Abstract —In bottom sediments of the New Siberian sedimentary basin and adjacent geostructures of the East Siberian Sea, we identified СН4, as well as its limit and unsaturated homologues (up to and including C5H12), CO2, CO, H2, He, H2S, O2, N2, and Ar. Isotope-gas-geochemical parameters δ13С СО2, СН4 and С2Н6, of the molecular mass of hydrocarbon fraction and genetic coefficients indicate the presence of both syngenetic and epigenetic gases of various gas sources in sediments, including recent sediments, peatlands, coal-bearing and gas-bearing formations, solid bitumen, igneous formations, accumulations of gas hydrates and prognostic condensate-gas, condensate, oil-and-gas and gas-and-oil reservoirs. Concentrations of CO2 and CO reach 29.25 and 0.06 cm3/kg, CH4 and the sum of its homologues – 5.93 and 0.031, Н2 and He – 0.78 and 0.318, H2S – 0.092 cm3/kg; this indicates that gas-geochemical anomalies, exceeding the anomaly criteria by 6–124 times, form in bottom sediments. The formation and distribution of abnormal concentrations of natural gases depend on the complex influence of gas-controlling factors – geological structure, fold and fault tectonics, magmatism, coal-oil-gas content, bituminous content, organic saturation, lithological composition, water-physical and reservoir properties of sediments, hydrogeological, geocryological and other conditions for accumulation of natural gases or their degassing.

Enrichment characteristics and metallogenic significance of rare elements in Zambia: Based on 1:1,000,000 geochemical mapping

The Sino–Zambian Cooperation Project has filled the gap in Zambia national‐scale geochemical mapping, providing basic geochemical guarantees for Zambia's basic geology, mineral development, environmental protection, agricultural production and other aspects. This article aims to reveal the distribution characteristics of its rare elements (Li, Be, Nb, Rb, Sr). The median value of Li, Be, Nb, Rb and Sr is 4.94 × 10−6, 0.65 × 10−6, 7.50 × 10−6, 33.00 × 10−6 and 21.90 × 10−6, respectively. The median and average values of the Irumide Belt, Zambezi Belt, Choma‐Kalomo Block and Hook Granite Complex are higher than other tectonic belts, showing that rare elements are enriched in those areas. The distribution of element anomaly areas is mainly related to the distribution characteristics of granite type rare metal mineralization occurrences, and a small number of anomaly areas are controlled by salt lake brine‐type mineralization occurrences. A total of five rare metal geochemical anomalies have been delineated respectively based on the 85% cumulative percentage of rare elements (Li, Be, Nb, Rb, Sr). The metallogenic prospective area delineated based on the comprehensive anomaly area of rare elements will provide an important reference for searching for rare metal deposits in this area.

Geological, legal and environmental aspects of lithium brine projects, NW Argentina

Lithium is crucial for the transition to green energy since Li-ion batteries are commonly used in consumer electronics, electrical vehicles and for storing electricity from renewable energy sources (wind and solar). In this scenery, the Li brine deposits located in Salta, Jujuy and Catamarca (NW Argentina) have a particular interest as they belong to the well-known “Lithium Triangle”. The issues related to the governance and sustainable development of Li resources are particularly challenging due to these Li brine deposits being constituted of dynamic fluids. Geological aspects of Li brine deposits are analyzed in the Argentinian legal framework that was conceived for solid ore deposits. The division of a salar into mining claims is very common in Argentina and this situation requires a specific definition of the boundaries of the mineralized body and the distribution of lithium grade. The understanding of the geological, legal, environmental and social aspects is crucial to address potential conflicts in simultaneous lithium extraction activities within one salar.

What did we learn from steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) applications in three decades, and what is next?

This paper evaluates and analyzes three decades of ongoing SAGD projects in Canada, examining their successes, failures, lessons learned, and limitations from multiple perspectives, including geological, technical, environmental, and operational aspects. The reasons for successful SAGD practices are also identified, and recommendations for designing new SAGD projects and future post-SAGD practices in matured fields are provided. The potential of mature SAGD projects was also explored, and new insights for the future of SAGD (new and matured fields), including “zero emission” applications using solvents and reduced emission using steam additives, are also presented. The conclusive analyses done and the recommendations made will lead to more efficient SAGD applications (new and matured) in Canada, also providing a useful road map for the other parts of the world.

Engineering geological characteristics and failure mechanics of Jure rock avalanche, Nepal

IntroductionThe rock avalanches are a frequent and disruptive phenomenon in the Himalayas and other mountain chains. To minimize future losses, it is essential to investigate the engineering geological causative factors and mechanism of these mass wasting events.Study areaThe present work is aimed at assessing the failure mechanism of the disastrous 2014 Jure rock avalanche along Araniko Highway, Northern Nepal. The event had blocked the Sunkoshi River and blocked an economically significant route to China.Geotechnical properties and analysisInitially, rockmass characterization and intact strength attribute were determined for the site to classify the failure zone. The parameters measured and obtained from the field and laboratory were integrated into the analytical models to obtain a conclusive interpretation of the failure mechanism. Structural, kinematic, and key block theory analyses have been carried out for decipher the evolution of the failure zone.Results and discussionRock mass was found to be of fair quality, however, the structural instabilities and the presence of water has led to a progressive failure. Movement of the key block and subsequent sliding of wedges and foot failure appears to be a possible failure mechanism.ConclusionThe present research explores the contributory engineering geological aspects of the Jure rock avalanche. The investigation results can be used to tackle similar large scale rock avalanches in similar geological terrains and thus minimizing the losses.

Exploring Greek UNESCO Global Geoparks: A Systematic Review of Grey Literature on Greek Universities and Future Research Avenues for Sustainable Development

The relationship between humans and the environment in the modern world is challenging. UNESCO Global Geoparks are current holistic approaches for protecting and managing geographical areas that emphasise local communities and sustainability. This paper attempts to review the grey literature of Greek universities through their academic repositories, regarding the research field referred to as Greek UNESCO Global Geoparks from 2000 to 2022 and using the keyword “Geopark” to determine possible future research directions. Through the systematic literature review methodology, from 138 bibliographic sources, 28 were selected, which met the predefined criteria. In general, there is a growing scientific–academic interest in Geoparks, which mainly concerns the aspects of geotourism (n = 7), geology (n = 6), management (n = 4), and education (n = 4). Future research directions may focus on promoting the socio-economic and cultural aspects of Geoparks, investing in collaborative management and governance of Geoparks, facing climate change and environmental challenges in Geoparks, and enhancing Geoenvironmental Education in Geoparks. Such approaches may serve the United Nation’s Seventeen Sustainable Development Goals and cultivate cognitive and emotional bonds between local populations and the geoenvironment.