Bulk Chemical Composition Research Articles

Surface Structure Dependent Activation of Hydrogen over Metal Oxides during Syngas Conversion.

Despite the extensive studies on the adsorption and activation of hydrogen over metal oxides, it remains a challenge to investigate the structure-dependent activation of hydrogen and its selectivity mechanism in hydrogenation reactions. Herein we take spinel and solid solution MnGaOx with a similar bulk chemical composition and study the hydrogen activation mechanism and reactivity in syngas conversion. The results show that MnGaOx-Solid Solution (MnGaOx-SS) is a typical Mn-doped hexagonal close-packed (HCP) Ga2O3 with a Ga-rich surface. Upon exposure to hydrogen, Ga-H and O-H species are simultaneously generated. Ga-H species are highly active but unselective in CO activation, forming CHxO, and ethylene hydrogenation, forming ethane. In contrast, MnGaOx-Spinel is a face-centered-cubic (FCC) spinel phase featuring a Mn-rich surface, thus effectively suppressing the formation of Ga-H species. Interestingly, only part of the O-H species are active for CO activation while the O-H species are inert for olefin hydrogenation over MnGaOx-Spinel. Therefore, MnGaOx-Spinel exhibits a higher activity and higher light-olefin selectivity than MnGaOx-SS in combination with SAPO-18 during syngas conversion. These fundamental understandings are essential to guide the design and further optimization of metal oxide catalysts for selectivity control in hydrogenations.

Enhancing the Potential of PHAs in Tissue Engineering Applications: A Review of Chemical Modification Methods

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are a family of polyesters produced by many microbial species. These naturally occurring polymers are widely used in tissue engineering because of their in vivo degradability and excellent biocompatibility. The best studied among them is poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and its copolymer with 3-hydroxyvaleric acid (PHBV). Despite their superior properties, PHB and PHBV suffer from high crystallinity, poor mechanical properties, a slow resorption rate, and inherent hydrophobicity. Not only are PHB and PHBV hydrophobic, but almost all members of the PHA family struggle because of this characteristic. One can overcome the limitations of microbial polyesters by modifying their bulk or surface chemical composition. Therefore, researchers have put much effort into developing methods for the chemical modification of PHAs. This paper explores a rarely addressed topic in review articles—chemical methods for modifying the structure of PHB and PHBV to enhance their suitability as biomaterials for tissue engineering applications. Different chemical strategies for improving the wettability and mechanical properties of PHA scaffolds are discussed in this review. The properties of PHAs that are important for their applications in tissue engineering are also discussed.

Triple-oxygen isotopes of stony micrometeorites by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS): Olivine, basaltic glass and iron oxide matrix effects for sensitive high-mass resolution ion microprobe-stable isotope (SHRIMP-SI).

Micrometeorites are extraterrestrial particles smaller than ~2mm in diameter, most of which melted during atmospheric entry and crystallised or quenched to form 'cosmic spherules'. Their parentage among meteorite groups can be inferred from triple-oxygen isotope compositions, for example, by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). This method uses sample efficiently, preserving spherules for other investigations. While SIMS precisions are improving steadily, application requires assumptions about instrumental mass fractionation, which is controlled by sample chemistry and mineralogy (matrix effects). We have developed a generic SIMS method using sensitive high-mass resolution ion micro probe-stable isotope (SHRIMP-SI) that can be applied to finely crystalline igneous textures as in cosmic spherules. We correct for oxygen isotope matrix effects using the bulk chemistry of samples obtained by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and model bulk chemical compositions as three-component mixtures of olivine, basaltic glass and Fe-oxide (magnetite), finding a unique matrix correction for each target. Our first results for cosmic spherules from East Antarctica compare favourably with established micrometeorite groups defined by precise and accurate but consumptive bulk oxygen isotope methods. The Fe-oxide content of each spherule is the main control on magnitude of oxygen isotope ratio bias, with effects on δ18O up to ~6‰. Our main peak in compositions closely coincides with so-called 'Group 1' objects identified by consumptive methods. The magnitude of SIMS matrix effects we find is similar to the previous intraspherule variations, which are now the limiting factor in understanding their compositions. The matrix effect for each spherule should be assessed quantitatively and individually, especially addressing Fe-oxide content. We expect micrometeorite triple-oxygen isotope compositions obtained by SIMS to converge on the main clusters (Groups 1 to 4) after correction firstly for magnetite content and secondarily for other phases (e.g., basaltic glass) in each target.

Lithogeochemistry of upper precambrian terrigenous rocks of Belarus. Communication 1. Bulk chemical composition, general features and anomalies

The first of two publications is devoted to the lithogeochemical features study of the pilot collection of the Upper Precambrian sandstones and siltstones samples, selected from four boreholes: Bogushevskaya 1, Bykhovskaya, Lepel 1 and Korminskaya (Belarus). This article analyzes the general features of their bulk chemical composition and shows the possibilities and limitations for further reconstructions. It has been established that the Riphean and the Vendian rocks included in the pilot collection, visually identified as sandstones, are actually quartz, feldspathic-quartz and arkose varieties with different cement types. The Vendian “siltstones” in their geochemical characteristics correspond to coarse- and fine-grained siltstones and, to a greater extent, mudstones with a predominance of illite, as well as various admixtures of berthierine, kaolinite and smectite. Considering the trace elements enrichment factors of these rocks a number of dissimilarities were identified, caused both by the source rocks composition and sedimentary environments changes. The data point position of the studied samples on the Zr/Sc–Th/Sc diagram suggests that the composition of all the Riphean and the Vendian rocks is dominated by first sedimentation cycle material. This suggests that the lithogeochemical characteristics of the rocks of the pilot collection quite correctly reflect similar features of the source rock complexes and can be used to reconstruct the paleogeodynamic and paleoclimatic factors that controlled the accumulation of the Riphean and the Vendian sedimentary sequences of Belarus.

Petrological characterization for material provenance of haniwa earthenware from mounded tombs in the Kibi region, Japan

To determine the provenance of the materials used in the production of haniwa earthenware unearthed from mounded tombs (kofun) in the Kibi region (modern Okayama Prefecture) during the Kofun period (late 3rd – 6th century CE) of Japan, we carried out petrological analyses of haniwa sherds, including optical microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, and electron-probe analysis. The 25 haniwa sherds analyzed from 12 representative mounded tombs are composed of mineral and rock inclusions with variable grain size set in a clay matrix. The dominant inclusions are quartz, K-feldspar, and plagioclase, associated with minor amounts of amphibole, volcanic glass, and granitic rocks in all the haniwa sherds, and small amounts of hornfels, quartz rock, and accessory minerals, including mica, ilmenite, and chromite, in some of the sherds. Amphibole and plagioclase have compositional variations indicative of the mixing of tephra and granitic components. The compositions of volcanic glass inclusions are similar to those of the Aira-Tanzawa and Kikai-Akahoya tephras widely distributed in southwestern Japan. Bulk chemical compositions show magmatic differentiation trends, which are variable between individual tombs. From these results, it is concluded that the paste materials of haniwa in the Kibi region were commonly derived from weathered granitic rocks mixed with minor amounts of three widespread tephras. The variations of chemical and mineralogical compositions are probably the reflection of local geologic settings, suggesting the presence of specific mining sites of paste materials around each tomb. The mining sites could be located at the bases of hills of granitic rocks covered by widespread tephras and in some cases, near the flood plain of big river systems.

Chemical Differences between Phenolic Secondary Organic Aerosol Formed through Gas-Phase and Aqueous-Phase Reactions.

Phenolic compounds, which are significant emissions from biomass burning (BB), undergo rapid photochemical reactions in both gas and aqueous phases to form secondary organic aerosol, namely, gasSOA and aqSOA, respectively. The formation of gasSOA and aqSOA involves different reaction mechanisms, leading to different product distributions. In this study, we investigate the gaseous and aqueous reactions of guaiacol-a representative BB phenol-to elucidate the compositional differences between phenolic aqSOA and gasSOA. Aqueous-phase reactions of guaiacol produce higher SOA yields than gas-phase reactions (e.g., roughly 60 vs 30% at one half-life of guaiacol). These aqueous reactions involve more complex reaction mechanisms and exhibit a more gradual SOA evolution than their gaseous counterparts. Initially, gasSOA forms with high oxidation levels (O/C > 0.82), while aqSOA starts with lower O/C (0.55-0.75). However, prolonged aqueous-phase reactions substantially increase the oxidation state of aqSOA, making its bulk chemical composition closer to that of gasSOA. Additionally, aqueous reactions form a greater abundance of oligomers and high-molecular-weight compounds, alongside a more sustained production of carboxylic acids. AMS spectral signatures representative of phenolic gasSOA have been identified, which, together with tracer ions of aqSOA, can aid in the interpretation of field observation data on aerosol aging within BB smoke. The notable chemical differences between phenolic gasSOA and aqSOA highlighted in this study also underscore the importance of accurately representing both pathways in atmospheric models to better predict the aerosol properties and their environmental impacts.

Multi‐Elemental Statistical Features of Early Paleogene Sediments From the Mid‐Latitude Eastern Indian Ocean

AbstractThe early Paleogene, including the Paleocene and Eocene, is characterized by Warmhouse and Hothouse climate states with superimposed transient warming events known as hyperthermals. While these paleoenvironmental changes are well‐documented in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, records of such changes in the Indian Ocean are limited. Here, we present a new data set of bulk chemical composition and stable isotopic ratios from the late Paleocene to middle Eocene sediments on the Exmouth Plateau in the mid‐latitude eastern Indian Ocean. The bulk δ13C and δ18O suggest a warming period called the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (EECO) and cooling toward the middle Eocene in a long‐term perspective. In the short‐term, we identified at least six hyperthermals (Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum, H2, I1, J, ETM3, and L) in the studied sections. By applying independent component (IC) analyses (ICA) to the bulk chemical composition data, we identified six ICs corresponding to sediment source materials and post‐depositional processes. The ICA result infers an increase in detrital materials or a decrease in carbonate rain flux, and an increased population of higher‐order consumers in the oceanic ecosystem during both long‐term (EECO) and short‐term (hyperthermal) warmings around the Exmouth Plateau. Furthermore, ICs representing diagenetic processes and post‐depositional remobilization of elements showed excursions across the hyperthermal horizons, indicating that changes in the redox state of pore or bottom water are associated with hyperthermals. This study provides critical insights into the paleoceanography of the Indian Ocean, highlighting the response of marine environments to both long‐term and short‐term climatic events during the early Paleogene.

Anatomy of a fumarole field: drone remote-sensing and petrological approaches reveal the degassing and alteration structure at La Fossa cone, Vulcano, Italy

Abstract. Hydrothermal alteration and mineralization processes can affect the physical and chemical properties of volcanic rocks. Aggressive acidic degassing and fluid flow often also lead to changes in the appearance of a rock, such as changes in surface coloration or intense bleaching. Although hydrothermal alteration can have far-reaching consequences for rock stability and permeability, limited knowledge exists on the detailed structures, extent, and dynamic changes that take place near the surface of hydrothermal venting systems. By integrating drone-based photogrammetry with mineralogical and chemical analyses of rock samples and surface gas flux, we investigate the structure of the evolving volcanic degassing and alteration system at the La Fossa cone on the island of Vulcano, Italy. Our image analysis combines principal component analysis (PCA) with image classification and thermal analysis through which we identify an area of approximately 70 000 m2 that outlines the maximum extent of hydrothermal alteration effects at the surface, represented by a shift in rock color from reddish to gray. Within this area, we identify distinct gradients of surface coloration and temperature that indicate a local variability in the degassing and alteration intensity and define several structural units within the fumarole field. At least seven such larger units of increased activity could be constrained. Through mineralogical and geochemical analysis of samples from the different alteration units, we define a relationship between surface appearance in drone imagery and the mineralogical and chemical composition. Gradients in surface color from reddish to gray correlate with a reduction in Fe2O3 from up to 3.2 % in the unaltered regime to 0.3 % in the altered regime, and the latter coincides with the area of increased diffuse acid gas flux. As the pixel brightness increases towards higher alteration gradients, we note a loss of the initial (igneous) mineral fraction and a change in the bulk chemical composition with a concomitant increase in sulfur content from close to 0 % in the unaltered samples to up to 60 % in samples from the altered domains. Using this approach of combined remote-sensing and in situ analyses, we define and spatially constrain several alteration units and compare them to the present-day thermally active surface and degassing pattern over the main crater area. The combined results permit us to present a detailed anatomy of the La Fossa fumarole field, including high-temperature fumaroles and seven larger units of increased alteration intensity, surface temperature, and variably intense surface degassing. Importantly, we also identify apparently sealed surface domains that prevent degassing, likely as a consequence of mineral precipitation from degassing and alteration processes. By assessing the thermal energy release of the identified spatial units quantitatively, we show that thermal radiation of high-temperature fumaroles accounts for < 50 % of the total thermal energy release only and that the larger part is emitted by diffuse degassing units. The integrated use of methods presented here has proven to be a useful combination for a detailed characterization of alteration and activity patterns of volcanic degassing sites and has the potential for application in alteration research and for the monitoring of volcanic degassing systems.

Geochemical-hydromechanical couplings during water-serpentinized harzburgite interactions at 20°C and 30 bars

Interaction of groundwater with the serpentinized harzburgites of the upper mantle plays an important role in the geologic carbon cycle and serpentinization processes. In this study, an intact serpentinized harzburgite with more than 60% lizardite from the Semail ophiolite in Oman was reacted with water at near neutral pH and low PCO2 to observe its dissolution behavior and reaction path within the CaO-MgO-SiO2-CO2-H2O system at 20 °C and 30 bars. In the experiment, mass (i.e. H2O, ions) transfer is by diffusion and the selected temperature and pressure conditions mimic water-rock interactions at the shallow portions of most ultramafic rock hosted aquifers. Equilibrium activity-activity diagrams and thermodynamic data were used to compare the experimentally determined reaction path with the theoretical stability boundaries for minerals involved to investigate the evolution of bulk chemical composition, mineralogy, and water composition. The experiments demonstrated that (i) the water-rock interactions increased the pH of the aqueous phase from 5.9 to 7.5 over a period of 18 weeks; (ii) the dissolution of lizardite, orthopyroxene (enstatite), and clinopyroxene (diopside and augite) increased the concentration of Mg, Ca, and Si in the aqueous phase; (iii) the dissolution was incongruent with respect to Mg and Si, favoring Si release at pH > 6 due to (a) breaking of more reactive cation‑oxygen bonds that is consistent with the stoichiometry of magnesium for proton exchange reaction which favors a surface that is enriched in Mg at basic conditions, and (b) preferential dissolution of clinopyroxene Mg1.30Ca0.52Fe0.06Si2O6; (iv) the aqueous phase was undersaturated with respect to carbonate (e.g. calcite, magnesite, and hydromagnesite) and hydrous (e.g. lizardite, chrysotile, brucite, and talc) minerals; (v) the bulk chemical composition and mineralogy of the intact serpentinized harzburgite matrix did not change; (vi) the thermodynamic data can successfully predict water-intact serpentinized harzburgite behavior if the water chemical composition can be constrained; and (vii) no detectable macroscopic form of damage (e.g. microcracks forming as a result of differential stress fields due to changes in volume during chemical reaction) was observed.

Tarda and Tagish Lake: Samples from the same outer Solar System asteroid and implications for D- and P-type asteroids

We report a comprehensive study of the ungrouped type 2 carbonaceous chondrite, Tarda, which fell in Morocco in 2020. This meteorite exhibits substantial similarities to Tagish Lake, Wisconsin Range 91600, and Meteorite Hills 00432, which are generally considered to have originated from a D-type asteroid(s). We constrain the compositions and petrologies of the materials present in a potential sample of a D-type asteroid by reporting the petrography, bulk chemical compositions, bulk H, C, N, Cr, and Ti isotopic compositions, reflectance spectra, and in situ chemical compositions of metals, sulfides, carbonates, and FeO-poor and FeO-rich chondrule silicates of Tarda. We also present new data for Tagish Lake. We then compare Tarda with the other Tagish Lake-like meteorites.Tarda and Tagish Lake appear to be from the same parent body, as demonstrated by their similar petrologies (modal abundances, chondrule sizes), mineral compositions, bulk chemical and isotopic compositions, and reflectance spectra. While the two other Tagish Lake-like meteorites, Wisconsin Range 91600 and Meteorite Hills 00432, show some affinities to Tagish Lake and Tarda, they also share similar characteristics to the Mighei-like carbonaceous (CM) chondrites, warranting further study. Similarities in reflectance spectra suggest that P-type asteroids 65 Cybele and 76 Freia are potential parent bodies of Tarda and the Tagish Lake-like meteorites, or at least have similar surface materials. Since upcoming spacecraft missions will spectrally survey D-type, P-type, and C-type Trojan asteroids (NASA's Lucy) and spectrally study and return samples from Mars' moon Phobos (JAXA's Martian Moons eXploration mission), which is spectrally similar to D-type asteroids, these meteorites are of substantial scientific interest. Furthermore, since Tarda closely spectrally matches P-type asteroids (but compositionally matches the D-type asteroid like Tagish Lake meteorite), P-type and D-type asteroids may represent fragments of the same or similar parent bodies.

Lithogeochemistry of Upper Precambrian Terrigenous Rocks in Belarus: Communication 1. Bulk Chemical Composition, General Features, and Anomalies

Lithogeochemistry of Upper Precambrian Terrigenous Rocks in Belarus: Communication 1. Bulk Chemical Composition, General Features, and Anomalies

Mineralogy of the Martian mantle inferred from bulk chemical compositions

AbstractUnderstanding the mineralogy of the Martian mantle is essential for constructing geochemical and geophysical models of Mars. This study employs the pMELTS program to determine the mineralogy at the solidus from 11 published bulk silicate Mars (BSM) compositions, within a pressure range of 2–5 GPa. The pMELTS results align with experimental data and calculations from another thermodynamic program (Perple_X/stx11). Mineral modes from compositional models based on Martian meteorite geochemistry show relatively consistent abundances modes (olivine: 48–56 wt%, orthopyroxene: 20–25 wt%, clinopyroxene: 15–17 wt%, garnet: 6–9 wt%). In contrast, mineral modes from compositional models that are not based on Martian meteorite geochemistry exhibit a wider range of olivine and garnet abundances. Additionally, we constrained the mineral modes of the Martian mantle using trace element partitioning and partial melting models. Our calculations indicate that melts derived from mantle sources with a hypothesized garnet content of 5–10 wt% closely match the analyzed compositions of shergottites, validating the garnet mode (6–9 wt%) constrained in our pMELTS calculations. Extracting low‐degree (<4 wt%) melts from a BSM to form depleted Martian mantle (DMM) does not significantly alter the mineralogical modes of solid residues, but it does lead to substantial trace elemental depletion in the DMM. Therefore, enriched, intermediate, and depleted shergottite sources are likely characterized by similar mineral modes yet differ in incompatible element abundances.

Вулкан Иван Грозный (остров Итуруп, Курильские острова): вещественный состав продуктов извержений и современная активность

The paper presents summary data on the historical activity of Ivan Grozny volcano (Iturup Island, Kuril Islands), including the results of our own studies of solfatar-hydrothermal and eruptive activity of the volcano since 2004. Using modern analytical methods, we obtained data on the chemical composition of the volcano rocks and pyroclastics of the explosive eruption in 2012–2013. The composition of the volcano rocks varies from andesites to daciandesites of medium potassium series. Pyroclastics of the 2012–2013 eruption corresponds to andesites with medium potassium content in terms of bulk chemical composition. The material composition of glasses according to microprobe data is much more acidic. The obtained values are similar to the geochemical compositions of the products of the 1973 and 1989 eruptions. Taking into account the prevailing wind regime dominating in the central part of Iturup Island, the hazard from ash fall of probable future eruptions of Ivan Grozny volcano was assessed, indicating the predominant spread of ash in the north-western, western and south-western directions.

The primary abundance of chondrules in CI chondrites

CI chondrites are the most significant extra-terrestrial samples for estimating the composition of primordial materials in the Solar System. However, CIs lose many primary features because of heavy parent body aqueous alteration. However, CI and CI-related Ryugu particles contain small amounts of relict anhydrous minerals, indicating primary occurrences of chondrules and refractory inclusions. In this study, we estimated the primordial abundance of chondrules in CIs from calculations of the bulk major element compositions. The constraints for the calculation were as follows: 1) CI chondrites primarily comprised chondrules, refractory inclusions, opaque minerals, and a matrix similar to other carbonaceous (C) chondrites. 2) The chemical compositions of these components were similar to those of the unaltered C chondrites. 3) The primary matrix composition of the CI was close to the mean bulk composition. 4) The alteration occurred isochemically. We used the mean major elemental compositions of chondrules and refractory inclusions in an almost unaltered chondrite, Y-81020, CO3.05. Our results were within the range of previously reported CI bulk chemical compositions in the case where chondrule abundances are ≲10 wt%. We also calculated the bulk chemical composition of Tagish Lake, ungrouped C2, which primarily contained ≲20 wt% chondrules. The CI chondrites and Tagish Lake were formed in the outer Solar System. The low primary abundance of chondrules in CIs is closely related to the formation conditions of chondrules in such regions. We suggest that dust with abundant ice and minor chondrules accreted onto the parent bodies of the CI and Tagish Lake in the outer Solar System. Primordial chondrule abundance is the key to clarifying the physical and chemical conditions and evolution of the early Solar System.

Understanding arsenic-ulexite interactions in evaporite environments: Evidence from XRPD, micro-XRF, micro-FT-IR, and XPS studies

World-class borate deposits often form from As-rich waters, this study addresses the understudied association of arsenic (As) species with evaporite borates, focusing on the Puna region's borate deposits (Central Andes of Argentina). The research aims to characterize the association between borate minerals and high As concentrations in brines and thermal waters. To achieve this, five borate samples were collected from the Olaroz salt flat nucleus and thermal springs, alongside associated water samples. Comprehensive analytical techniques, including ICP-MS, ICP-OES, synchrotron-based micro-XRF, XRPD, Rietveld analysis, micro-FT-IR, and XPS, were employed to determine bulk and surface chemical compositions, mineral identification, and solid speciation of As and boron. The study reveals that under oxidizing conditions and in absence of organic matter, aqueous arsenic species interact with ulexite through a stepwise process involving charge neutralization, cationic bridge formation, and surface complex formation with polyborate and As(V) oxyanions. However, in environments associated with microbial mats or organic-rich sediments, the dissolved As(V) is reduced to As(III), which forms complexes with functional groups of organic matter. The coexistence of As(III) and As(V) in specific layers suggests potential remediation strategies targeting organic matter for the removal of the more toxic As(III) in similar geological settings.

Минералого-геохимические свойства «моренного» комплекса голоценовых отложений в озере Нижнем (Восточная Антарктида) как источник новой генетической информации

Using a complex of mineralogical and geochemical methods, the basal sedimentary horizon (“moraine” sedimentary complex) in Lake Nizhny in East Antarctica was studied. The bulk chemical composition, microelements, rock-forming and accessory minerals, and carbon matter were analyzed. According to all data, the studied sedimentary deposits are volcanogenic in nature, at least partially formed due to explosive products of eruptions of Mount Erebus.

Nanostructured Niobium and Titanium Carbonitrides as Electrocatalyst Supports.

Nanostructured niobium-titanium carbonitrides, (Nb,Ti)C1-xNx, with the cubic-rock salt structure are prepared without the use of reactive gases via thermal treatment (700-1200 °C) under nitrogen of mixtures of guanidine carbonate and ammonium niobate (V) oxalate hydrate, with addition of ammonium titanyl oxalate monohydrate as a titanium source. The bulk structure and chemical composition of the materials are characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and powder neutron diffraction, elemental homogeneity is studied using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) mapping using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and surface chemical analysis is examined using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Nanoscale crystallites of between 10 and 50 nm are observed by TEM, where EDS reveals the homogeneity of metal distribution for the mixed-metal materials. Titanium carbonitrides are found to be air sensitive, reacting with air under ambient conditions, while titanium-niobium carbonitrides are found to degrade in aqueous sulfuric acid. The niobium carbonitrides, however, show some stability toward acidic solutions. Materials are produced with composition NbC1-xNx with x between 0.35 and 0.45, and more carbon-rich materials (x ≈ 0.35) are found as the synthesis temperature is increased, as proven by Rietveld refinement of crystal structure against powder neutron diffraction data. Despite phase purity seen by diffraction and negligible bulk carbon content, XPS shows a complex surface chemistry for the NbC1-xNx materials, with evidence for Nb2O5-like oxide species in a carbon-rich environment. The NbC1-xNx prepared at 900 °C has a surface area around 50 m2 g-1, making it suitable as a catalyst support. Loading with iridium provides a material active for the oxygen evolution reaction in 0.1 M sulfuric acid, with minimal leaching of either Nb or Ir after 1000 cycles.

Geochemical assessment of mineral sequestration of carbon dioxide in the midcontinent rift

AbstractThis study examines the potential of Midcontinent Rift rocks to facilitate long‐term CO2 sequestration by providing the necessary Ca and Mg for carbonate mineralization. Surface samples were collected from the Oronto and Bayfield‐Jacobsville Groups around Lake Superior and used for petrography and X‐ray diffraction to determine their mineral composition. Also, X‐ray fluorescence was also used to assess their bulk chemical composition. The samples were then exposed to CO2 and deionized water in Teflon‐lined vessels at 90°C, and the resulting leachate fluids were analyzed for the cation released during the testing. SEM microscopy was used to examine the samples for potential mineralization of carbonate minerals. The Oronto Group sediments consist primarily of feldspathic to feldspathic lithic arenites with a chlorite‐dominated matrix, and the primary porosity is blocked by calcite and hematite cement. The Bayfield–Jacobsville sequences are porous quartz arenites to feldspathic quartz arenites that do not contain significant accumulation of Ca‐, Mg‐, and Fe‐bearing minerals. The leachate fluids obtained from Oronto Group samples exhibit a maximum Ca release rate (5.2 × 10−4 mole/cm2.day), indicating rapid calcite cement dissolution and increased porosity and permeability. SEM/EDS microanalysis revealed areas where pore‐filling calcite was preferentially dissolved. Longer‐term rock‐water reactions resulted in induced carbonate mineralization, as evidenced by calcite crystals observed in a sample reacted for 102 days. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Integration of airborne magnetic and geological data for mineral prospectivity mapping in the Ambam-Amvom rainforest area, Archean Ntem Complex, southern Cameroon

The accurate mapping of mineral resources in rainforest areas is challenging due to dense vegetation and thick lateritic cover obscuring rock outcrops. This study utilized airborne magnetic survey data to map geological features and target mineral resources in the Ambam-Amvom area at the NW margin of the Congo craton. Linear and non-linear filtering algorithms were used, including reduction to the equator (RTE), upward continuation (UC) at 1000 m and 2000 m, first vertical derivative (FVD), and analytic signal (AS). Field surveys were carried out for sampling and petrographic investigations. The TMI map showed magnetic signals varying from -4489 nT to 2317 nT, while the RTE map displayed magnetic signals varying from -2984 nT to 3528 nT. The RTE-Reg map exhibited anomaly signal variations ranging between -2704 nT and +3637 nT and between -2829 and +3864 nT, respectively for UC at 1000 m and 2000 m. Geological structures were interpreted from the FVD, AS, and TMI-RTE images, and linear structures of regional extend mainly trend NW-SE, E-W, and NE-SW. Field investigations revealed that the study area comprises iron formations, amphibolite, gneiss, gabbro, biotite granite, and charnockite. The bulk chemical composition of iron formations showed a high content of TFe, averaging 39.80 wt.% for itabirite, 53.79 wt.% for hematite-geothite ore and 59.63 wt.% for quartz-hematite ore. The zones of peak magnetic anomalies coincided with the occurrence of the greenstone belt, and the integration of aeromagnetic and geological data led to the identification of three main target zones for iron ore minimization. High fracture density zones within the research were identified as high prospective targets for gold mineralization. The study's findings highlight the high potential of the Ntem Complex for mineral resources and provide valuable information for future research and development.

Quantification of bulk elemental composition for C‐type asteroid Ryugu samples with nondestructive elemental analysis using muon beam

AbstractSamples from asteroid Ryugu, brought back by asteroid explorer Hayabusa2, are important for investigating the origin and evolution of the solar system. Here, we report the elemental compositions of a 123‐mg Ryugu sample determined with a nondestructive muon elemental analysis method. This method is a powerful tool for determining bulk chemical composition, including light elements such as C, N, and O. From the muonic x‐ray spectra with three carbonaceous chondrites, the relationship between the elemental composition and muonic x‐ray intensity was determined for each element. Calibration curves showed linearity, and the elemental composition of Ryugu was quantitatively determined. The results reflect the average bulk elemental composition of asteroid Ryugu owing to the large amount of samples. Ryugu has an elemental composition similar to that of Orgueil (CI1) and should be classified as CI1. However, the O/Si ratio of Ryugu is 25% lower than that of Orgueil, indicating that Orgueil may have been seriously contaminated by terrestrial materials after its fall to Earth. These results indicate that the Ryugu sample is more representative than the CI chondrites as a solid material of the solar system.