Fluid Ingress Research Articles

A New Fluid-Flow Model for the Genesis of Banded Iron Formation-Hosted Martite-Goethite Mineralization, with Special Reference to the North and South Flank Deposits of the Hamersley Province, Western Australia

AbstractThe North and South Flank deposits are located on the flanks of the Weeli Wolli anticline at Mining Area C in the central Hamersley Province. Supergene martite-goethite mineralization is hosted within the Marra Mamba Iron Formation and is developed over a strike length of more than 60 km. This multibillion metric ton resource has been drilled out on a 150- × 50- to 50- × 50-m grid, thus providing us with an unprecedented data set for analysis. This study synthesizes the drill hole data and presents a physical process model that can account for the observed distribution of mineralization.A fluid and mass flux model is proposed which envisages a three-stage process: (1) leaching of Fe from banded iron formation (BIF) in the vadose zone by reduced, acidic, meteoric-derived fluids; (2) penetration of an Fe-rich supergene-fluid plume, driven by gravity and focused by bedding-parallel permeability into the body of ambient alkaline groundwater, effecting nonredox, mimetic replacement of magnetite by hematite and of the gangue minerals (carbonate, silicate, and chert) by goethite coupled with the release of silica into the fluid phase; and (3) a change from silica leaching to silica deposition on the downdip margins of the system before the ore-fluid plume is eventually diluted and becomes indistinguishable from the surrounding body of groundwater.Despite the undoubted secondary role played by structurally enhanced permeability, the primary control on ore-fluid hydrology is gravity-driven flow along bedding planes. This central observation explains every observed feature of the three-dimensional distribution of martite-goethite mineralization, and the inherited structural architecture simply provides the context for this process to play out. This type of control is by no means obvious–the ingress of meteoric fluids during later lateritic weathering of the mineralization does not show this control and produces broadly subhorizontal, bedding-discordant zones of overprinting.The fundamental control exerted on the distribution of martite-goethite mineralization by bedding-plane permeability within BIF horizons suggests that the supergene ore-fluid plume created its own porosity via the relevant ore-forming reactions, and that these were in turn controlled by bedding. A corollary of the pseudomorphic replacement process, both the generation of hematite after magnetite and goethite after gangue phases, is that it typically introduces porosity. The mineralizing process thus creates porosity (and potentially permeability) and is likely to be self-propagating as long as there is continuous supply of ore fluid. This putative active porosity-generation process may be an important clue as to the unique conditions of martite-goethite ore formation. Indeed, it may be that the distribution of magnetite is the critical controlling feature of these ore systems, as the nonredox transformation to hematite not only releases Fe2+ to the fluid phase but concurrently introduces porosity. Further research is required to formulate a comprehensive chemical (as opposed to physical) process model for supergene martite-goethite ore formation.Based on the physical process model presented here, the development of a large-scale martite-goethite mineralizing system requires continued delivery of unleached BIF (and, perhaps ultimately, previously mineralized martite-goethite ore) into the vadose zone. The Hamersley Province has been undergoing significant uplift since at least 60 Ma. Preliminary dating of martite-goethite ores from Mining Area C indicates that they formed at about 45 Ma, at a time when the local climate was temperate and wetter than today. The combination of ongoing uplift and a wet, temperate climate is likely to be the key to the widespread formation of martite-goethite deposits in the Hamersley Province.

Mesozoic Orogenic Gold Mineralization in the Jiaodong Peninsula, China: A Focused Event at 120 ± 2 Ma During Cooling of Pregold Granite Intrusions

AbstractJiaodong gold deposits are mainly sited along faulted contacts between Upper Jurassic Linglong granite and Precambrian basement metamorphic rocks or Lower Cretaceous Guojialing granite. Long-standing controversies relate to timing of gold mineralization and granite-gold relationships. In this study, gold-related muscovite consistently provides concordant 40Ar/39Ar plateau ages of 120 ± 2 Ma (2σ) for the Jiaojia, Sizhuang, and Luoshan deposits. Analogous 40Ar/39Ar timing constraints from gold-related muscovite are provided by total gas and high-temperature ages from Fushan, concordant high-temperature ages from Rushan, and fusion-step ages from Xiadian deposits. These new 40Ar/39Ar ages, when combined with previous reliable 40Ar/39Ar and U-Pb age constraints for mineralization, including ages of pre- and postgold dikes, define a widespread gold mineralization event at 120 ± 2 Ma (2σ). Published zircon U-Pb ages for Guojialing and Aishan granite magmatism suggest an ~8-m.y. lag between peak intrusive activity and gold mineralization. This, together with lack of both high-temperature alteration assemblages and alteration and/or metal zonation, indicates that the structurally controlled Jiaodong deposits are orogenic rather than intrusion-related deposits. Despite this, granite intrusions are considered to have provided suitable fluid trap sites. New 40Ar/39Ar analyses of biotite from the Linglong and Guojialing granites show they had cooled to about ~300° ± 50°C by ca. 123 to 124 Ma, providing pressure-temperature conditions similar to those under which most orogenic gold deposits formed close to the ductile-brittle transition. This enabled the effective ingress of fluids at supralithostatic pressures at 120 ± 2 Ma, leading to intensive brecciation, alteration, and deposition of both vein-type and disseminated gold ores. New zircon (U-Th)/He dates together with apatite fission-track data indicate that preservation of the gold province is due to slow postmineralization uplift and exhumation.

Magmatism versus serpentinization—crustal structure along the 13°N segment at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge

SUMMARY A region of oceanic core complexes (OCCs) exists at 13°N on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge that is regarded as a type site. This site includes two OCCs at 13°20′N and 13°30′N, thought to be in the active and dying stages of evolution, and two together called the Ashadze Complex (centred at 13°05′N) that are considered to be relict. Here we describe the results of S-wave seismic modelling along an ∼200-km-long 2-D transect traversing, south-to-north, through both the Mercurius and Marathon fracture zones, the southern outside corner of the 13°N segment, the OCCs, the ridge axis deviation in trend centred at 13°35′N, and the youngest oceanic crust of the eastern ridge flank to the north. Our inversion model, and the corresponding Vp/Vs ratio, show that the majority of the crust beneath the 13°30′N OCC comprises metamorphosed lithologies that have been exhumed to the shallowest subseabed level, while basaltic lithologies underlie the 13°20′N OCC. The transition between these contrasting crustal structures occurs over a distance of <5 km, and extends to at least ∼2 km depth below seafloor. The northern and southern OCCs of the Ashadze Complex have contrasting structures at shallow depth, with the northern OCC having a faster S-wave velocity in the upper crust. A Vp/Vs ratio of >1.9 (and equivalent Poisson's ratio of >0.3) indicates exhumed and/or metamorphosed lithologies beneath the bathymetric depression between them and within the crust beneath the southern OCC. Between the northern and southern flanks of the Marathon fracture zone and northern flank of Mercurius fracture zone, the lower crust has a relatively low Vp/Vs ratio suggesting that the deformation associated with Marathon fracture zone, which facilitates fluid ingress, extends laterally within the lower crust. Marathon fracture zone itself is underlain by a broad zone of low S-wave velocity (∼2.0 km s−1) up to ∼20 km wide from the seabed to at least the mid-crust, that is mirrored in a high Vp/Vs ratio and lower density, particularly deeper than ∼1 km below seabed within its bathymetric footprint. Volcanic domains are highlighted by a low Vp/Vs ratio of <1.6 (and equivalent Poisson's ratio of <0.15). Our combined seismic and density models favour the localized model of OCC evolution. They also show a considerable ridge-parallel variability in the amount and distribution of magmatic versus metamorphosed crust. Our results suggest that the current focus of magmatism lies to the north of the 13°20′N OCC, where the magmatic accretion-type seabed morphology observed is mirrored in the pattern of microseismicity, suggesting that its inward-facing median-valley-wall fault may link to the 13°20′N OCC detachment surface. Magmatism and active faulting behind (to the west) the footwall breakaway of the 13°30′N OCC, and the microseismicity concentrated in a band along its southern flank, suggest a readjustment of ridge geometry along axis is underway. As part of this, a transform offset is forming that will ultimately accommodate the 13°30′N OCC in its inside corner on the eastern flank of the ridge axis to the north.

Comparison of Marginal Accuracy of Interim Restoration Fabricated from Self-cure Composite and Autopolymerizing Acrylic Resin: An In Vitro Study.

ABSTRACTBackground and Objectives:One of the important steps toward achieving a successful fixed partial denture treatment is the fabrication of interim restorations with good marginal adaptation. Poor marginal adaptation of the interim restorations will allow ingress of fluids and microorganisms between the restorations and may lead to caries and pulpitis. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the marginal accuracy of interim restorations made from two polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and two bis-acryl materials.Materials and Methods:An in vitro method was used to replicate a clinical procedure in which the interim crown was made using a direct technique. A maxillary first molar typodont tooth was prepared to receive a full cast crown restoration having 1 mm chamfer and a taper of 5°, and then the prepared artificial tooth was cast into a cobalt chromium metal die. Wax patterns were prepared on the metal die using type 2 inlay wax for full metal crowns. The impression of the die along with the wax pattern was made with a putty-type polyvinyl siloxane, and this impression was used as a mold for making interim restorations. Two PMMA and two bis-acryl provisional crown materials were distributed as follows: Group A: Unifast Trad (GC Dental), Group B: DPI self-cure tooth molding material, Group C: Structur 2 QM (VOCO), and Group D: Cool Temp Natural (Coltene/Whaledent). A total of 60 interim restorations from all the four materials were fabricated (15 interim restorations from each material). The marginal discrepancy of the interim restoration was determined by measuring the space between the margin of the interim restoration and the finish line of the metal die at four vertical reference lines previously marked at the midpoint of the metal die finish line at the buccal, palatal, mesial, and distal surfaces of the die. The marginal gaps were visualized at ×45 magnification using a stereomicroscope and interpreted using ProgRes image capture software.Results:The mean marginal discrepancy calculated in PMMA materials was 269 µm for DPI and 205 µm for Unifast Trad, and the mean marginal gap for the bis-acryl material was 171 µm for Cool Temp and 140 µm for Structur 2 QM.Interpretation and Conclusion:Comparison of marginal accuracy showed that bis-acryl provisional crown material showed better marginal accuracy than PMMA provisional crown material. Among the materials tested, Structur 2 QM showed the best marginal accuracy, and the least marginal accuracy was shown by DPI.

Progressive cavity pump tubing drain valves: operator-savings illustration

Three case studies show how three progressive cavity pump (PCP) operators used Zenith® (Baker Hughes) tubing drain valves to protect problematic PCPs from blockage and damage, reducing downtime and avoiding cost of backflush operations. The efficient solids management system incorporated in the Zenith PCP tubing drain valve (PCP-TDV) reliably safeguards pumping equipment from damage or blockage caused by descending solids when the pump is shut down, eliminating unplanned downtime and costly equipment replacement. Addressing the failings of alternative valves, the Zenith PCP-TDV effectively reduces the requirement for well workover, preventing pump-off, increasing uptime and lift system run-life, even in heavy oil and high viscosity fluid operations. The Zenith PCP-TDV provides an innovative solution to costly pump damage, while preventing recirculation and simplifying backflush operations. The addition of backflush capability is designed to allow the pump rotor to be retracted and reset without running out of hole. A further addition specific to the coal seam gas market is the inclusion of a tubing pressure-activated, single-use locking piston, so as to allow external pressure to be subjected to the PCP-TDV without pumping being open, thus allowing the string to be set with no well fluid ingress into the production string and pump before operation.

Comparative evaluation of sealer penetration depth into radicular dentinal tubules using confocal scanning microscope: an in vitrostudy

Background: Endodontic treatment involves the removal of the vital and necrotic contents of the root canal through chemo-mechanical means followed by obturation of the prepared root canal to prevent the ingress of fluids and avoid bacterial infection or regrowth. Root canal sealers and core filling materials are used together to fill the irregularities in the root. Penetration into the dentinal tubules also results in the inhibition of bacterial regrowth and increases the success of root canal therapy. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the penetration depth of various sealers into the dentinal tubules using a confocal microscope. Materials and methods: A total of 65 specimens were decoronated to standardize the root length of 13mm. Working length was determined, and Biomechanical preparation for all the samples was done with a rotary ProTaper file till F4. Samples were randomly divided into five groups containing 13 teeth in each group based on the sealer used, namely Group 1: Endomethasone (n=13), Group 2: AH-Plus (n=13), Group 3: Roekoseal (n=13), Group 4: MTA Fillapex (n=13), Group 5: Endosequence BC (n=13). All the sealers were labelled with Rhodamine-B dye, and samples were obturated using cold lateral compaction technique. The specimens were sectioned orthogonally at coronal, middle, and apical thirds. All the samples were examined with a Zeiss Pascal Laser Scanning Microscope to examine the sealer penetration depth into the dentinal tubules. The data were subjected to statistical analysis using one- way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) tests. Results: Endosequence BC showed the highest penetration into dentinal tubules, followed by MTA Fillapex and Roekoseal, AH-Plus, and Endomethasone exhibited the least penetration. Conclusion: Endosequence BC sealer exhibited maximum penetration. All the groups showed maximum penetration at coronal third, followed by the middle and apical third.

Dynamic Fluid Ingress Detection in Geomaterials Using K-Band Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave Radar

Frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar in the K-band has been shown to be an effective detector of geomaterial physical properties being highly sensitive to rock characteristics, particularly mineral composition and, for porous rock, variations in liquid water content. This research demonstrates that contrasts in FMCW return signals with time correlate with changes in geomaterial water content. FMCW signal returns were acquired for porous sandstone samples subjected to controlled water injection while also in a neutron beam, taking advantage of the well-known, and well-calibrated, attenuation of neutrons by hydrogen atoms for the water-containing porous sandstone samples. The sequential neutron tomographic images clearly show water moving up the sample with time while the FMCW observations show increases in radar reflection coefficient as a function of water position in the field of view. The observed FMCW detection of flood-front position is corroborated by the synchronous neutron tomographic images. We also observe repeatable variations in the radar reflection coefficient as a function of sample orientation during fluid injection, verifying that FMCW sensing offers real-time insight into the interactions between fluid movement and sample heterogeneity, via non-contact and non-invasive flood-front tracking. This research demonstrates that FMCW has potential to be a more accessible and easily deployable sensing modality than neutron tomography, enabling dynamic geomaterial testing to be conducted outwith the confines of the highly controlled laboratory environment required for neutron investigation.

Rate-controlled intraventricular endoscopic irrigation via bipolar foot pedal activation: technical note.

Irrigation during intraventricular endoscopic surgery is critical for visualization, with normal intracranial pressure maintained by balancing fluid ingress and egress. Although irrigation is typically achieved through manual manipulation of inexact stopcocks, the authors have developed a rate-controlled, foot pedal-activated system for precise intraventricular irrigation by using a standard irrigating bipolar electrocautery machine.This study is a retrospective review of patients who underwent endoscopic intraventricular surgery between January 1, 2018, and September 25, 2019, in which this irrigation system was used. Important components of this system include a bipolar module irrigation regulator that is set to a desired rate, a secure connection of the bipolar irrigation tubing to the endoscope, and one or more open egress ports on the endoscope for passive fluid drainage. Nineteen consecutive patients were identified on review (average age ± SD, 4.3 ± 4.1 years). Procedures performed included third ventriculostomies (n = 10); arachnoid/choroid cyst fenestrations/resections (n = 3); biopsy/tumor resection (n = 1); and combined procedures (n = 5). Foot pedal-controlled irrigation provided visualization of all intraventricular structures. A single operator was able to control the endoscope, endoscopic instruments, and irrigation, with assistance as indicated for more complex maneuvers. There were no perioperative complications. Because this setup is easily constructed from a standard irrigating bipolar machine, delivers precise irrigation flow rates, and facilitates a single-surgeon bimanual technique, these data support the utility of foot-controlled irrigation for endoscopic intraventricular surgery.

Oxidized Late Mesozoic subcontinental lithospheric mantle beneath the eastern North China Craton: A clue to understanding cratonic destruction

Despite the critical influence of oxidation state on the geochemical and geodynamic evolution of Earth, its impact on the longevity of cratons is poorly understood. To address this issue, we investigated the redox state of the Late Mesozoic subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) beneath the eastern North China Craton (NCC), which was destroyed during the Phanerozoic. We report the occurrence of high-Fo olivine (Fo > 87, where Fo = atomic Mg/(Mg + Fe2+)) within Early Cretaceous basalts; these olivines show extremely low Ti (<60 ppm) contents, high δ18O (5.8‰–7.2‰) values, and relatively cool crystallization temperatures (1125 to 1218 °C). These features support derivation of the lavas from highly refractory and cold SCLM. The relatively low partition coefficients of vanadium between olivine and whole rocks (0.019–0.025) indicate a high fO2 for the Early Cretaceous basalts and their mantle sources (ΔQFM = +1.0 and ΔQFM = +1.5, respectively), and, consequently, an oxidized Late Mesozoic SCLM beneath the eastern NCC. The high degree of oxidation of the mantle was caused by the ingress of hydrous melts and/or fluids released from a subducting slab during the Phanerozoic. We propose that oxidization of the SCLM softened the mantle, which triggered the removal of the cratonic root beneath the eastern NCC. The results highlight the crucial role of oxidation state in craton stability.

THE TECHNOLOGY OF HYDRO-SAND BLASTING PERFORATION IN WELLS WITH ABNORMALLY HIGH RESERVOIR PRESSURE USING COILED TUBING

Areas of application of coil tubing or columns of flexible pipes are quite diverse. During the underground repair of wells carry out current and major repairs, impact on the reservoir and margin zone. The use of the flexible pipe column has made a positive change in the practice of drilling oil and gas wells, especially at their completion, as well as works on hydropower perforation. The article suggests the technology of hydro sandblasting perforation in wells with abnormally high formation pressures with the use of coiled tubing with pressure drawdown and overbalance, which will help to familiarize oil and gas industry specialists with the advanced technology of stimulated completion of productive horizons. Schemes of wellhead equipment and process equipment for hydro sandblasting perforation using coiled tubing in wells with abnormally high reservoir pressures have been developed and their operating principles have been described in detail. The proposed schemes are recommended to be used as typical for hydro sandblasting perforation with pressure drawdown and overbalance of the productive horizon. Conclusions are made concerning expediency of carrying out works on the technology described in the article with the purpose of prevention of sealing and swelling of the bottomhole zone rock in case of ingress of the sand-carrier fluid during the process of perforation.

SORPTIVITY AND CHLORIDE PENETRABILITY EVALUATION OF CONCRETE INCORPORATING FLY ASH AND SILICA FUME

Diffusion is believed to be the main mechanism of fluid ingress into the concrete. However, in partially saturated concrete, the fluid will mainly be absorbed by the capillary suction mechanism, which associates with the sorptivity properties of the concrete. This paper presents the results of an experimental program to investigate the influence of Portland cement substitution with Silica Fume (SF) and Type F Fly Ash (FA) on the rate of absorption, which also known as sorptivity, and chloride penetration of concrete. The sorptivity of the concrete was evaluated according to ASTM 1585, while the chloride penetration was evaluated according to ASTM C 1202. By substituting part of cement with FA and SF, it was found that the sorptivity of concrete is reduced. Furthermore, all type of concrete with supplementary material, including CFA, CSF and CSM, is confirmed to enhance the ability of concrete to resist chloride penetration compared yo normal concrete (NC).

Deformation mechanisms in mafic amphibolites and granulites: record from the Semail metamorphic sole during subduction infancy

Abstract. This study sheds light on the deformation mechanisms of subducted mafic rocks metamorphosed at amphibolite and granulite facies conditions and on their importance for strain accommodation and localization at the top of the slab during subduction infancy. These rocks, namely metamorphic soles, are oceanic slivers stripped from the downgoing slab and accreted below the upper plate mantle wedge during the first million years of intraoceanic subduction, when the subduction interface is still warm. Their formation and intense deformation (i.e., shear strain ≥5) attest to a systematic and transient coupling between the plates over a restricted time span of ∼1 Myr and specific rheological conditions. Combining microstructural analyses with mineral chemistry constrains grain-scale deformation mechanisms and the rheology of amphibole and amphibolites along the plate interface during early subduction dynamics, as well as the interplay between brittle and ductile deformation, water activity, mineral change, grain size reduction and phase mixing. Results indicate that increasing pressure and temperature conditions and slab dehydration (from amphibolite to granulite facies) lead to the nucleation of mechanically strong phases (garnet, clinopyroxene and amphibole) and rock hardening. Peak conditions (850 ∘C and 1 GPa) coincide with a pervasive stage of brittle deformation which enables strain localization in the top of the mafic slab, and therefore possibly the unit detachment from the slab. In contrast, during early exhumation and cooling (from ∼850 down to ∼700 ∘C and 0.7 GPa), the garnet–clinopyroxene-bearing amphibolite experiences extensive retrogression (and fluid ingression) and significant strain weakening essentially accommodated in the dissolution–precipitation creep regime including heterogeneous nucleation of fine-grained materials and the activation of grain boundary sliding processes. This deformation mechanism is closely assisted with continuous fluid-driven fracturing throughout the exhumed amphibolite, which contributes to fluid channelization within the amphibolites. These mechanical transitions, coeval with detachment and early exhumation of the high-temperature (HT) metamorphic soles, therefore controlled the viscosity contrast and mechanical coupling across the plate interface during subduction infancy, between the top of the slab and the overlying peridotites. Our findings may thus apply to other geodynamic environments where similar temperatures, lithologies, fluid circulation and mechanical coupling between mafic rocks and peridotites prevail, such as in mature warm subduction zones (e.g., Nankai, Cascadia), in lower continental crust shear zones and oceanic detachments.

The evolution of subsurface micro-structure and tribo-chemical processes in cocrmo-ti6al4v fretting-corrosion contacts: What lies at and below the surface?

Titanium and its alloys are attractive biomaterials because of their desirable corrosion, mechanical, biocompatibility and osseointegration properties. Ti6Al4V alloy in particular remains a prominent biomaterial used in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). Recently, researchers have shown interest in understanding the degradation mechanisms and the subsurface implications of fretting-corrosion at the modular taper interface in THA. The purpose of this study was to utilise advanced microscopy and spectroscopy to characterise in-vitro fretting-corrosion induced subsurface refinement and microstructural changes in Ti6Al4V alloy. In-vitro fretting-corrosion tests were carried at four displacement: ±10, ±25, ±50 and ± 150 μm for a CoCrMo – Ti6Al4V ball-on-flat material couple. Subsequently, high resolution micrographs of the alloy microstructure were obtained using the Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) together with Energy Dispersed X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX). The degree of subsurface microstructural changes was observed to be linked to the slip regime and magnitude of energy dissipated at the interface. Strain-induced orientation were observed at the stick regime. The mixed and gross-slip regimes were both characterised with mechanical mixing and formation of nano-crystalline structures. Specific to the mixed fretting regime, fluid ingression and material entrapment at the interface led to further refinement of nano-crystalline structures which resulted in the formation of an amorphous Ti6Al4V structure. The interwoven relationship between energy dissipation, contact condition and mechanisms of clinical failure in Ti6Al4V alloy are discussed.

Microstructurally-constrained versus bulk fault gouge K-Ar dating

Structural, mineralogical and geochronological data were collected from two brittle fault zones (Fault I and II) deforming the Ordovician Rolvsnes granodiorite in SW Norway. Microstructurally-constrained K–Ar data from cohesive damage zone samples are compared to bulk K–Ar data from fault gouges from the adjacent fault cores. In Fault I, fluid ingress along the fault core caused pervasive alteration of the host granodiorite. Plagioclase and biotite are almost completely altered to kaolinite, quartz, illite and smectite. In Fault II, a complex deformation history is recorded by multiple fault rock microdomains, including an ultracataclasite with >50% authigenic illite and an illite/jarosite-bearing pseudotachylyte. Microdomains hosting authigenic illite (±jarosite) from both studied faults were separated, characterized mineralogically and dated by K–Ar. Results confirm that each domain contains only one generation of authigenic illite (±jarosite), and provide robust time constraints on fault initiation in the Carboniferous (339 ± 8 Ma) and reactivation in the Permian (289 ± 6 Ma). K–Ar geochronology of the adjacent fault gouges yields inclined age-versus-grain-size relationships. The ages of the coarsest grain size fractions are similar to the age range of the damage zone data, whereas the ages of the finer fractions are significantly younger. Our study provides new and important insights into the dynamics of long-lived fault zones: Isotopic signatures and structural features representative of fault initiation are preserved in the damage zones, while they are progressively overprinted due to cumulative strain localization in the fault cores. Finally, our study further clarifies the significance of ‘age plateaus’ in age-versus-grain-size plots, which allows for a robust and geologically meaningful interpretation of K–Ar data.

Structural and lithological control on fluid circulation, dilation and ore mineralization (Rio Albano mine, Island of Elba, Italy)

We present the results of geological and structural investigation documenting the interaction between hydrothermal fluids and host rock leading to a vein-type ore mineralization at shallow crustal depths (<7 km) in the mining district of the eastern Island of Elba (Italy). Sulfide- and iron-rich veins and breccia in addition to minor massive iron-ore bodies form the mineralized system. Structural mapping and analysis of vein systems, fractures, faults and associated fault rocks as well as fracture opening modes show that the main factors controlling the formation and distribution of the mineralization are lithology, deformation style and deformation intensity. Their interplay led to a positive feedback between the evolution of pore pressure through time, strain localization and the resulting mineralization. Inversion of fault and vein data defines an E-W extensional stress field at the time of faulting, which favoured fluid ingress and pervasive flow within the porous host sandstone, interstitial sulfide precipitation and reduction of the primary bulk porosity. Subsequently, cyclic channelized fluid flow during repeated fluid ingresses caused extensive veining and numerous episodes of breccia formation.

Fluid-mediated, brittle–ductile deformation at seismogenic depth – Part 1: Fluid record and deformation history of fault veins in a nuclear waste repository (Olkiluoto Island, Finland)

Abstract. The dynamic evolution of fault zones at the seismogenic brittle–ductile transition zone (BDTZ) expresses the delicate interplay between numerous physical and chemical processes. Deformation and fluid flow at the BDTZ are closely related and mutually dependent during repeating and transient cycles of frictional and viscous deformation. Despite numerous studies documenting in detail seismogenic faults exhumed from the BDTZ, uncertainties remain as to the exact role of fluids in facilitating broadly coeval brittle and ductile deformation at that structural level. We combine structural analysis, fluid inclusion, and mineral chemistry data from synkinematic and authigenic minerals to reconstruct the temporal variations in fluid pressure (Pf), temperature (T), and bulk composition (X) of the fluids that mediated deformation and steered strain localization along BFZ300, a strike–slip fault originally active at the BDTZ. BFZ300 deforms the Paleoproterozoic migmatitic basement of southwestern Finland and hosts in its core two laterally continuous quartz veins formed by two texturally distinct types of quartz – Qtz I and Qtz II, with Qtz I older than Qtz II. Veins within the damage zone are formed exclusively by Qtz I. Mesostructural and microstructural analysis combined with fluid compositional data indicate recurrent cycles of mutually overprinting brittle and ductile deformation triggered by oscillations of fluid pressure peaking at 210 MPa. Fluid inclusion microthermometry and mineral pair geothermometry indicate that the two documented quartz types precipitated from different fluid batches, with bulk salinities in the 1 wt % NaCleq–5 wt % NaCleq range for Qtz I and in the 6 wt % NaCleq–11 wt % NaCleq range for Qtz II. The temperature of the fluids involved with initial strain localization and later fault reactivation evolved through time from &gt; 350 ∘C during Qtz I precipitation to &lt; 300 ∘C at the time of Qtz II crystallization. The peak fluid pressure estimates constrain pore pressure oscillations between 80 and 210 MPa during the recorded faulting episodes. Our results suggest variability of the physico-chemical conditions of the fluids steering deformation (Pf, T, X), reflecting the ingress and effects of multiple batches of fluid in the fault zone. Initial fluid-mediated embrittlement generated a diffuse network of joints and/or hybrid–shear fractures in the damage zone; subsequent strain localization led to more localized deformation within the fault core. Localization was guided by cyclically increasing fluid pressure and transient embrittlement of a system that was otherwise under overall ductile conditions. Our analysis suggests that fluid overpressure at the BDTZ can play a key role in the initial embrittlement of the deforming rock and steer subsequent strain localization.

Fluid‐Assisted Strain Localization in Quartz at the Brittle/Ductile Transition

AbstractA mylonitic quartzite with conjugate and synthetic shear bands was investigated by Electron Backscatter Diffraction and optical microscopy to obtain insights on recrystallization mechanisms and strain localization in quartz at plastic to semibrittle conditions close to the brittle‐ductile transition. The mylonitic quartzite deformed during late Miocene thrusting coeval with contact metamorphism in the high‐strain domains of the Calamita Schists (Elba Island, Italy). Mylonitic deformation occurred from amphibolite to lower greenschist facies conditions during cooling of the aureole. Dynamic recrystallization, dominated by the activity of dislocation creep by prism &lt;a&gt; slip, produced recrystallized quartz layers mantling relic large quartz porphyroclasts. Under decreasing temperature and fluid‐rich conditions, quartz porphyroclasts acted as relatively rigid bodies and fractured along synthetic and conjugate C′ shear bands. Shear bands developed along kinematically favored orientations, just locally assisted by weak crystallographic planes in quartz. Fracturing along shear bands was assisted by cataclasis and fluid infiltration enhancing fracture propagation and healing by recrystallization and authigenesis of new quartz and phyllosilicate grains. The process enhanced the propagation of and strain localization in shear bands, with the development of bands of weak phyllosilicates. Furthermore, we observed the development of a c axis preferred orientation (CPO) related to dissolution and precipitation of new grains with their c axis oriented parallel to shear bands. This study highlights the importance of the interplay between brittle and crystal‐plastic processes and fluid ingress in the semibrittle regime to understand deformation partitioning and strain localization.

The Application of Lysinibacillus sphaericus for Surface Treatment and Crack Healing in Mortar

Micro-cracks, which develop during the service life of reinforced concrete structures, reduce the durability of concrete through the penetration of fluids. Microbially-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) occurs naturally in the presence of ureolytic bacteria which precipitate calcium carbonate (CaCO3) through urea hydrolysis. This deposition leads to the filling of micro-cracks and sealing of pores, reducing ingress of fluids into the concrete. The research aims were to assess the potential of Lysinibacillus sphaericus for healing cracks in concrete and to study the effects of this treatment on the absorption properties of treated concrete. Lysinibacillus sphaericus was cultivated in vitro and induction of MICP through urea hydrolysis was tested on cement paste with two different calcium sources. The calcium precipitates where characterised by light microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The final phase of the study involved testing of the crack healing capacity and the effect on absorption of the MICP process on mortar samples. These parameters were measured by means of visual examinations, light & digital microscopy, Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) and absorption tests. The study confirmed that MICP is induced successfully on concrete using Lysinibacillus sphaericus. Samples exposed to repeated treatment cycles of Lysinibacillus sphaericus in the presence of a calcium source, exhibited a more extensive and even coating of CaCO3 crystals on the surface confirming that repeated cycles of treatment are more effective in increasing the amount of CaCO3 deposition and therefore increasing crack healing capacity. Digital microscopy and UPV analysis proved that this precipitate was successful in partially healing cracks in samples. Sorptivity tests confirmed this and showed that it was also successful as a surface treatment to reduce absorption.

Determination of local micromotion at the stem-neck taper junction of a bi-modular total hip prosthesis design

High rates of clinical complications with bi-modular hip prostheses are attributed to failure of the stem-neck taper junction. Taper wear analyses have shown extensive material loss as a result of corrosion, potentially initiated by micromotion. The purpose of the study was to determine the amount of micromotion at this junction for different loading, assembly and material conditions.Micromotion between the neck adapter (CoCr29Mo6-alloy) and the stem (TiMo12Zr6Fe2-alloy; both Rejuvenate, Stryker) within the taper junction of a bi-modular hip stem were determined by image matching analysis of consecutively recorded images through windows in the stem component. A finite element model was used to determine the micromotion in the taper regions outside the windows and validated with the measured micromotion. With the model, the influence of the load amplitude, assembly force and component materials were then investigated. Determined micromotion (14–79 µm) by far exceeded critical values (5 µm) associated with the onset of fretting corrosion. Increasing assembly forces achieved a significant reduction in micromotion. The numerical model revealed insufficient assembly to cause the neck to perform rocking motions under load, repetitively changing taper contact in combination with gap opening, which facilitates fluid ingress into the junction. Changing the stem material to a stiffer Ti-alloy achieved a reduction of the micromotion of about 30%. This study emphasises the high importance of material selection, assembly force and loading on the susceptibility of bi-modular hip stems to fretting and crevice corrosion. These findings can serve to explain the increased rate of clinically reported problems with this particular prosthesis design.

Indirect measurements of water content using TDR-inferred dielectric permittivity and electrical resistivity

The measurement of moisture distribution in Engineered Barrier Systems (EBS) in salt mines and deep geological disposals is essential in order to monitor fluid ingress and record data for long-term security analyses. Additionally, soil moisture content has influence over the mechanical properties of the soil as well as plant growth, soil stability and contaminant transport to cite some. Therefore, finding affordable and reliable ways to determine moisture content, quickly and in the field without sampling, is of great interested among people in different subject areas. Time-domain reflectometry (TDR) has become a recognized electromagnetic method for non-destructive measurement of dielectric permittivity and electrical conductivity of moist porous materials. It turns out that both these measurements depend on the material moisture content, among other things. This paper presents a series of calibration tests performed on soil samples. TDR probes were used to obtain the dielectric permittivity and electrical conductivity of the samples. As a consequence, relationships between these measurements and the samples' volumetric water content were later established. These relationships can then be used to indirectly determine that important information of water content on similar soil material using cheap, quick and non-destructive TDR probes.