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With the massive use of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles and energy storage, the environmental and resource problems faced by used lithium-ion batteries are becoming more and more prominent. In order to better resource utilization and environmental protection, this paper employs bibliometric and data analysis methods to explore publications related to waste lithium-ion battery recycling from 1984 to 2021. The Web of Science core set from the SCIE online database was used for this article. These findings demonstrate a considerable increase trend in the number of publications published in the subject of recycling used lithium-ion batteries, with a natural-sciences-centric focus. Argonne National Lab, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and China Academic and Scientific Research Center are the top three institutions in terms of quantity of papers published. The affiliated journals corresponding to these three institutions also have high impact factors, which are 106.47, 44.85, and 58.69, respectively. In comparison to comparable institutes in other nations, the American Argonne National Laboratory supports 223 research articles in this area. China and the US make up the majority of the research's funding. The two key aspects of current lithium-ion battery recycling research are material structure research and environmentally friendly recycling. Nevertheless, high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, waste lithium-ion integrated structures, and gentle recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries will be the major aspects of study in the future. It is hoped that the above analysis can bring new ideas and methods to the field of waste lithium-ion battery recycling and provide a basis for the subsequent research and application of waste lithium-ion battery recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pre-Jurassic in the north depression of the Tuha depression is the most favorable replacement strata to obtain new reserves in the Turpan–Hami Basin. (Pre-Jurassic, in this paper, refers to the Permian and Triassic.) The main source rocks are the Taodonggou Group, of which the burial history and hydrocarbon generation potential remain unconfirmed. The investigation of the burial and thermal history is vital for the basin analysis and hydrocarbon exploration. Therefore, in this paper, by using the acoustic time difference method, vitrinite reflectance method, stratigraphic trend method and PetroMod-1D software, the differential characteristics of denudation thickness, burial history and thermal evolution history of different tectonic units in different periods of Taibei Sag in the Turpan–Hami basin are studied, and their influence on the petroleum system is analyzed, and then the zones with exploration potential are optimized. The results show that the Taibei Sag has experienced multiple tectonic uplift events. The Late Indosinian movement has profound effects on the Taodonggou Group source rocks. The rather large uplift amplitude postpones the maturation of source rocks. In addition, the Turpan–Hami Basin is a typical cold basin. Therefore, the thermal maturity of the source rocks is relatively low, with respect to the relatively deep burial. The thermal histories of the different sub-sags in the study area are slightly differentiated from each other. The Taodonggou Group source rocks in the Taibei Sag generally became mature during the Mid–Late Jurassic epoch, except for those in the Central–Southern Shanbei sub-sag, represented by Well LT-1, which reached the mature stage during the Late Triassic epoch. The study area has well-developed reservoir rocks, and effective reservoir bodies are formed in the slope zone and near the Tainan Sag, due to the higher porosity and permeability of reservoir rocks. The statistics related to the faults and an analysis of the structural styles of oil reservoirs indicate that the structural slope and anticline of the Huobei, Lianbei and Shanbei sub-sags are favorable for increasing reserves and production of hydrocarbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Machine learning (ML) has shown its effectiveness in handling multi-geoinformation. Yet, the black-box nature of ML algorithms has restricted their widespread adoption in the domain of mineral prospectivity mapping (MPM). In this paper, methods for interpreting ML model predictions are introduced to aid ML-based MPM, with the goal of extracting richer insights from the ML modeling of an exploration geochemical dataset. The partial dependence plot (PDP) and accumulated local effect (ALE) plot, along with the SHAP value analysis, were utilized to demonstrate the application of random forest (RF) modeling within both regression and classification frameworks. Initially, the random forest regression (RFR) model established the relationship between the concentrations of Au and those of elements such as As, Sb, and Hg in the study area, and from this model, the most important geochemical elements and their quantitative relationships with Au were revealed by their contributions in the modeling through PDP and ALE analyses. Secondly, the RF classification modeling established the relationships of mineralization occurrences (i.e., known mineral deposits) with geochemical elements (i.e., Au, As, Sb, Hg, Cu, Pb, Zn, and Ag), as did RFR modeling. The most important geochemical elements for indicating regional Au mineralization and the trajectories of PDP and ALE reached a consensus that As and Sb contributed the most, both in the regression and classification modeling, with regard to Au mineralization. Finally, the SHAP values illustrated the behavior of the training samples (i.e., known mineral deposits) in RF modeling, and the resulting prospectivity map was evaluated using receiver operating characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large-sized Tarangaole uranium deposit and its neighboring Daying and Nalinggou deposits, located in the northeastern margin of the Ordos Basin, constitutes a major uranium resource base in northern China. In order to further clarify the sedimentary material source, uranium source and regional sediment–tectonic setting of the uranium-fed clastic rocks (i.e., Zhiluo Formation(J2z)) in the district, this paper carried out whole-rock geochemistry, heavy minerals composition and in situ U-Pb dating of detrital zircons for sandstones from the lower section of the Zhiluo Formation. The results have shown that the average chemical differentiation index (CIA) for the host rocks is 73.16 and the chemical weathering degree is moderate. Heavy minerals are mainly composed of ilmenite, garnet, chlorpyrite, zircon, pyrite, apatite, hematite, etc. The U-Pb dating of detrital zircon generally indicates three age peaks, i.e., 260~Ma, 1850~Ma and 2450~Ma, respectively. In conclusion, the source rocks may have been formed at active continental margins, e.g., in a continental margin arc environment. The sedimentary materials mainly come from khondalite series, TTGs, granulite, and mafic–ultramafic intrusive rocks distributed among the Daqing–Ula Mountains and adjacent areas, etc. The Late Paleozoic U-rich intermediate and acidic magmatic rocks spreading over the eastern part of the Ula–Daqing and Wolf mountains have provided the main uranium sources for the formation of major U deposits in the northern Ordos Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the provenance of sedimentary systems is key to better understanding the sedimentary framework and improving exploration-associated decision-making and deployment. With regard to the provenance of sedimentary systems, there is still poor understanding in the initial rifting stage due to imbalanced and insufficient exploration and a common lack of seismic data, which have seriously hindered oil exploration in the Qintong Sag, Subei Basin. This study aimed at investigating the provenance in the direction of the fault-terrace zone in the southeast part of the Qintong Sag and aimed to examine whether large-scale sedimentary systems are formed by these sediment sources. Integrated analysis of heavy minerals, sandstone petrologic maturity, drilling cutting dates, 3D seismic data, and well logs was employed to identify the provenance. This study is the first time that large-scale provenance from the direction of the fault-terrace zone has been discovered in the third member of the Paleocene Funing Formation (referred to as the third Mbr of the Funing Fm in this paper) in the Subei Basin, east China. The documentation shows that sediments from the northwest Wubao Low Uplift and the southeast Taizhou Uplift can be distinguished in the Qintong Sag, with the large-scale delta system in the central and eastern part of the Qintong Sag comprising sediments from the Taizhou Uplift, improving upon previous understanding of the sedimentary framework. The deposition formed by the Taizhou Uplift provenance system was characterized by gradual weakening of the hydrodynamic forces, a decreasing sediment supply, and shrinking of the retrogradational delta depositional systems with good reservoir qualities, which are characterized by high-quality source–reservoir–cap combinations and are likely to develop into a hydrocarbon-rich belt. The discovery of the Taizhou Uplift provenance proves that there may be major provenance and large-scale sedimentary systems from the fault-terrace zone of the rift basins in the initial rifting stage. The experience of rapid retrogradation showed that these large-scale delta systems are likely to only flourish in the initial rifting stage. This study is helpful for improving the understanding of sediment provenance and the sedimentary framework of lacustrine rift basins in the initial rifting stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the zonal geochemistry and elasticity characteristics of gallium- and lithium-rich No. 6 coalbed in the Haerwusu mine and discusses interpretation methodologies of coal-hosted gallium and lithium resources using lab-measured samples and field-measured wireline logs. The results demonstrate that both coal-composition-based and elastic-parameter-based classifications yield similar results, categorizing the coalbed into subzones related to coal quality. Material compositions, elastic properties, critical metals, and host minerals exhibit zonal distribution characteristics within the ultrathick No. 6 coalbed. Three-class classifications significantly enhance correlations among host minerals, elastic parameters, and critical metals, albeit with differing trends among classes. In classes II and III (ultralow- and low-ash-yield coals), boehmite and kaolinite primarily host gallium and lithium, respectively. In class I (medium-ash-yield coal), gallium is associated with kaolinite, while lithium lacks specific mineral associations. Constrained by wireline logs, a rock physics modeling strategy is proposed to link mesoscale coal compositions to macroscale elastic responses. Moreover, explicit correlations between host minerals and critical metals are established, connecting macroscale elastic responses to microscale gallium and lithium enrichments and exploring interpretation methods of coal-hosted critical metals. Preferred lithium interpretation methods include compositional ternary plots and elastic parameter cross plots, while preferred gallium interpretation methods involve boehmite-gallium and elastic parameter-gallium fitting. These findings may contribute to understanding the enrichment mechanisms and interpretation technologies of coal-hosted critical metals in ultrathick low-rank coalbeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, in some domestic and foreign mines, the backfill drilling pipeline experiences a rupture phenomenon even when the wear degree is low. This results in a delay in production due to the filling becoming 'sick'. This paper presents, for the first time, the damage mechanism from a mechanical perspective and re-derives the anti-extrusion strength model of the backfill drilling pipeline. We investigate the influence of the law on the anti-extrusion strength of pipelines from the perspective of strata and cement rings. We then verify the theoretical and simulation results through engineering examples. The results demonstrate that the Mises stress criterion is a suitable modification principle for the anti-extrusion strength model of the backfill drilling pipeline. The anti-extrusion strength of the pipeline is related to the elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio of the stratum, and the thickness of the cement ring. It is negatively affected by the depth of the stratum. For hard strata, a cement ring with a smaller elastic modulus is suitable, while for soft stratum, a cement ring with a larger elastic modulus is recommended. When the missing angle of the cement ring is less than 60°, the stress concentration factor increases up to 2.2. The stress unloading capacity of the cement ring ranges from 32.7% to 37.8%, and optimal performance of the cement ring is achieved when it has high strength and low rigidity. The backfill filling pipeline of a copper mine abroad was destroyed due to external extrusion force exceeding its anti-extrusion strength value. The modified pipeline anti-extrusion strength model is 18.2% higher than the pipeline API strength value. This finding can inform the design of the backfill filling pipeline for China's kilometer-deep wells in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractures are the main reservoir space in basement weathering crusts and control the development of dissolution/alteration pores. A clear understanding of the main factors controlling fracture formation is needed to accurately predict reservoir characteristics. In this study, the reservoir characteristics along with the vertical zonation and thermal history of basement weathering crust were studied through lithology, mineral identification, porosity and permeability tests, nuclear magnetic resonance (T2), whole-rock analysis, and fission-track dating based on core samples, cuttings, and imaging logging data. Under the constraints of the Anderson model, the formation stages and timing of fractures were analyzed according to the regional stress field, fracture strike, fracture filling characteristics, and rock mechanical properties. The results revealed tensile structural fractures, shear structural fractures, weathering micro-fractures, alteration fractures, and intracrystalline alteration pores in the weathering crust of the Pre-Cenozoic basement in Lishui Sag. The reservoirs were characterized by low porosity, low permeability, and small pore diameter. The reservoir quality of granite was better than that of gneiss. The weathering crust could be divided into four zones: the soil layer, weathering dissolution zone, weathering fracture zone, and bedrock zone. The thickness of the soil layer and weathering dissolution zone were small. Four stages of fractures were identified: Yandang movement shear fractures, Paleocene tension structural fractures, Huagang movement shear fractures, and Longjing movement shear fractures. The main stage of basement fracture formation differed between the Lingfeng buried hill zone and Xianqiao structural zone. Considering the influence of the temperature and pressure environment on the rock's mechanical properties, the differential fracture formation is related to the lithology, the coupling between the uplifted and exposed basement histories, and the tectonic stress field. Combined with the thermal histories of the Lingfeng buried hill zone and Xianqiao structural zone, the results suggest that the Lingfeng buried hill granite is favorable for basement fractures in Lishui Sag. Overall, this paper provides a novel method for analyzing the stages of fracture formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nanling region is located at the intersection of the Yangtze Block and Cathaysia Block and is characterized by complex geological and tectonic processes, as well as distinct W-Sn-REE mineralization. Despite extensive research on the mineralization of W-Sn and REE deposits in the Nanling region, the factors impacting the distribution pattern of eastern tungsten and western tin deposits, as well as the mechanism of REE enrichment in the parent rocks, remain uncertain. Deep structural and tectonic variability plays a crucial role in the formation of mineral deposits in the upper crust. Information on deep structural and tectonic variability is contained in the Moho depth, Curie depth, effective elastic thickness, lithospheric density, and thermal structure derived from the processing and inversion of satellite gravity and magnetic data. In this paper, we comprehensively analyse satellite gravity and magnetic data from the Nanling region, integrating the processing and inversion results with the tectonic evolution of this region and relevant geological information. It is hypothesized that the Chenzhou–Linwu fault serves as a channel for mineral and thermal transfer in the Sn ore aggregation zone, facilitating the material transport from the deep mantle to the surface and ultimately leading to the formation of Sn-enriched granite. The collection area of tungsten ore is more weakly associated with the Chenzhou–Linwu fault, and through deep heat transfer, tungsten components are primarily concentrated in the Earth's crust to produce W-enriched granite. The primary source of REE enrichment in the parent rocks associated with REE mineralization is predominantly derived from the felsic crust, and the rapid intrusion of deep magma resulting from the subduction and retraction of the Palaeo-Pacific Plate is a contributing factor to the contrasting enrichment of light and heavy rare-earth elements. Mineral crystalline differentiation is relatively high, leading to the formation of ore-forming parent rocks with high heavy rare-earth element contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differential evolution (DE) is a stochastic optimization technique that imitates the evolution process in nature. This paper uses an improved adaptive differential evolution to solve gravity inversion with multiplicative regularization. Compared with additive regularization, the advantage of multiplicative regularization is that it does not require the regularization parameter in the search process. The contributions in this paper mainly focus on two aspects: accelerating the convergence speed of adaptive DE and balancing the effect of model and data misfits in the objective function. The effectiveness of the proposed inversion method is verified by synthetic and field cases. For the synthetic cases, it is concluded that, based on the obtained results and analysis, the presented DE method is superior and competitive with its original version. Additionally, the designed parameter adaptation for multiplicative regularization is useful for trading off the effect of data and model misfits. For the field cases, two successful applications from China were conducted, and the obtained density source distributions were in accordance with those obtained from drilling wells. The synthetic and practical examples demonstrate that high-quality inversion results can be obtained using improved adaptive differential evolution and multiplicative regularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epithermal deposits represent a significant category of gold occurrences, with their subsurface structure playing a key role in reserve assessments. Fujian Province, characterized by extensive Mesozoic volcanic activities, stands out as a noteworthy region for shallow hydrothermal mineralization in China. This paper focus on the Youxi area within Fujian Province, employing the dual-frequency induced polarization method (DFIP) and controlled-source audio-frequency magnetotelluric method (CSAMT) to investigate the target ore. The DFIP results revealed predominant northeast-oriented zones with high polarizability and notable apparent resistivity. The CSAMT data were inverted using the SCS2D software. Two-dimensional resistivity profiles reveal a three-layer electrical structure, comprising subsurface banded rhyolites influenced by fault zones, intermediate-low resistivity sandstone layers, and deep-seated high-resistivity conglomerates. The resistivity gradient zones and highly polarizable locations align closely with known local faults. We interpreted these resistivity gradient zones as prospective target areas for mineralization, a hypothesis subsequently validated by drilling results. Combining geochemical analyses of epithermal gold deposits with the electrical resistivity structure, we propose an explanatory model for the mechanism of the formation of epithermal gold–silver deposits in the Youxi area. The magmatic hydrothermal fluids ascended along the fault, underwent convection-driven interaction with meteoric waters, and subsequently metasomatized the host rocks. This integrated approach provides valuable insights into the geological processes governing epithermal gold–silver deposit formation in the Youxi region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying surface geochemical anomalies is important for detecting the presence of mineral deposits. However, distinguishing inconspicuous geochemical anomalies is a challenge for geochemists. This paper studies geochemical quantitative prediction for Pb–Zn metallic mineral deposits by identifying inconspicuous surface geochemical anomalies mainly associated with the Permian and Jurassic strata in the middle-southern Da Hinggan Mountains metallogenic belt. Some new methods are employed to highlight weak surface geochemical anomalies. The weak surface geochemical anomalies of Pb and Zn are effectively highlighted by the average contrast values of Pb–Zn–Ag–Cd. The similarity coefficient with the large typical discovered deposits is used to identify new Pb–Zn mineralized anomalies and delineate new prospecting target areas. The denudation degree of mineral deposit is determined by the ratio of (W × Sn)/(As × Sb). The analogy method and areal productivity method are employed for resource prediction. Thirty-six prediction areas with Pb–Zn resources of 307.73 million tons are delineated. Five prediction areas are verified, and some new mineral deposits are proven by drilling. The verification results show that the predicted resources are very reasonable and credible. This paper is a successful case of quantitative prediction assessment of mineral resource potential, which can be used as a reference for future prospecting activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ion-adsorption rare earth deposit developed on the Mosuoying granite in the Panxi area of southwestern China represents a significant advancement in the exploration of ion-adsorption rare earth deposits in Sichuan. Being the first and currently the sole ion-adsorption rare earth deposit in Sichuan, studying its rare earth mineralization characteristics holds great importance. This paper aims to investigate the geochemical properties of the Mosuoying granite and its overlying weathered crust using rock geochemical methods based on field geological investigations. The findings reveal that the deposit belongs to the light rare earth type, with the ore-forming parent rock attributed to the high-potassium calc-alkaline series. It exhibits a high rock REE content ranging from 419 to 578 ppm, indicating favorable mineralization potential. Hydrothermal alteration reduces the REE content of the parent rock, leading to a notable increase in the LREE/HREE ratio, thus impacting the partitioning of rare earth elements and subsequent ore formation. The distribution characteristics of rare earth elements in each layer of the weathered crust are controlled by the parent rock and exhibit a light rare earth distribution pattern. The completely weathered layer is the main enrichment zone for rare earth elements, and the migration and enrichment patterns of rare earth elements in the weathered crust are evident. From the semi-weathered layer to the completely weathered layer, all REEs were gained, with a higher degree of migration for LREE. From the completely weathered layer to the clay layer, all REEs were lost, and the vertical distribution of rare earth content shows a "low-high-low" pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Santanghu Basin is a typical low-rank coal-bearing basin in northwest China, with abundant coalbed methane (CBM) resources. However, the understanding of the main controlling factors and reservoir formation models of CBM in low-rank coal is still insufficient, which has restricted the exploration and development of CBM in this region. In this paper, the CBM enrichment controlling factors and enrichment models are analyzed based on the aspects of sedimentary environment, reservoir characteristics, sealing conditions, and hydrogeological conditions after systematically analyzing the geological characteristics of coal measures. The research results indicate that the coal seams of the Xishanyao Formation in the Santanghu Basin are stably developed, with the main macerals being vitrinite and a lower degree of coalification belonging to low-rank coal; the highest content of CBM can reach 7.17 m3/t, and the methane is mainly composed of biogenic gas supplemented by thermogenic gas; the roof lithology of the coal seam is mainly mudstone and siltstone, with good sealing conditions. Finally, two enrichment modes of coalbed methane in slope zones are proposed, namely, the CBM enrichment in the slope zone and the CBM enrichment by fault-hydraulic plugging. The results of this study can serve as a guide for the exploration and development of the deep-buried coalbed methane in the low-rank coal areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Paleoproterozoic gneiss domes are important structures of the Khondalite Belt in the northwestern North China Craton. However, less attention has been paid to their formation and evolution, and it thus hampers a better understanding of the deformation history of the Khondalite Belt. In this paper, we conducted structural and geochronological studies on the Qianlishan gneiss domes of the Khondalite Belt. The field observations and zircon U–Pb dating results show that the Qianlishan gneiss domes consist of 2.06–2.01 Ga granitoid plutons in the core, rimmed by granulite facies metasedimentary rocks (khondalites) of the Qianlishan Group. Both of them were subjected to two major phases of deformation (D1–D2) in the late Paleoproterozoic. Of these, D1 deformation mainly generated overturned to recumbent isoclinal folds F1 and penetrative transposed foliations/gneissosities S1 at ~1.95 Ga. Subsequently, D2 deformation produced the NW(W)–SE(E)-trending doubly plunging upright folds F2 at 1.93–1.90 Ga, and they have strongly re-oriented S1 gneissosities, giving rise to the Qianlishan gneiss domes. Combined with previous studies, we argue that the Qianlishan gneiss domes were the products of the Paleoproterozoic collisional orogenesis between the Yinshan and Ordos Blocks. Additionally, the development of doubly plunging antiforms is considered an important dome-forming mechanism in the Khondalite Belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal migration and precipitation in hydrothermal fluids are important topics in economic geology. The Hongling polymetallic deposit comprises one of the most important parts of the Huanggangliang–Ganzhuermiao polymetallic metallogenic belt, which is in eastern Inner Mongolia. Except for lead–zinc skarn, minor cassiterite in the skarn and disseminated W–Sn mineralization in granitic rocks have also been found. The dominant Sn–W mineralization is in the northern part of the deposit, occurring as disseminated wolframite and cassiterite in aplite hosted in Mesozoic granite porphyry. The aplite together with pegmatite K-feldspar–quartz comprises vein dikes hosted in the granite porphyry, providing evidence for the transition from melt to fluid. The veins, dikes, and Sn–W mineralization in the aplite provide an opportunity to investigate fluid exsolution and the mechanics of metal precipitation. Based on field observations, the micrographic and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) results of the vein dikes, chronology, and the whole-rock geochemistry of the host rock, together with the fluid inclusion results, this paper discusses the characteristics of the causative magma, the mechanics of fluid exsolution and W–Sn precipitation. Our results show that the causative magma is of highly fractionated A-type granite affinity and has an intrusive age of late Mesozoic (133.3 ± 0.86 Ma). The magmatic evolution during shallow emplacement led to immiscibility between highly volatile, high-silica, and W- and Sn-enriched melts from the parent magma, followed by fluid exsolution from the water-rich melt. The alkaline-rich fluid exsolution led to a change in the redox state of the magma and the chilling of the melt. Fluid boiling occurred soon after the fluid exsolution and was accompanied by the degassing of CO2. The boiling and escape of CO2 from the fluid led to changes in fluid redox and W and Sn precipitation; thus, the W and Sn mineralization are mostly hosted in causative intrusions or peripheral wall rocks, which can be used as indicators for Sn–W exploration in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of large coal power plants, characterized by pithead plants, is increasing rapidly in major coal mining countries around the world. Overburden movement caused by coal mining and greenhouse gas emissions caused by coal thermal power generation are intertwined, and have become important challenges for mine ecological environment protection at present and in the future. In order to provide more options for green mining in large coal power plants, a large coal power base in northwest China was taken as the researching background in this paper, and a green mining model considering the above two aspects of ecological environment damages was proposed; that is, the carbon dioxide greenhouse gas produced by coal-fired power plants can be geologically trapped in goaf, whose overburden stability is controlled by backfill strips made of solid mine waste. In order to explore the feasibility of this model, the bearing strength of the filled gray brick consisting mainly of aeolian sand and fly ash under different curing methods was firstly studied, and it was discovered that the strength of the gray brick significantly improved after carbonization curing. After that, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to compare the mineral composition and its spatial morphology in gray brick before and after carbonization, and it is believed that the formation of dense acicular calcium carbonate after carbonization curing was the fundamental reason for the improvement of its bearing strength. Finally, a series of stope numerical models were established with UDEC software to analyze the surface settlement, crack propagation height and air tightness of the overlying strata, respectively, when goaf was supported by the backfilling strips with carbonized gray brick. The research results of this paper showed that the stability of overlying strata in goaf can be effectively controlled by adjusting the curing methods, width and spacing of the filled gray brick, so as to facilitate the following geological sequestration of carbon dioxide greenhouse gas in goaf. Consequently, the ecological environment damages caused by coal mining and utilization in a large coal power base can be resolved as a whole, and the purpose of green mining can be achieved as desired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grinding is an important link in the process of mineral processing. It plays a vital role in mineral processing by optimizing the grinding process, improving the quality of grinding products and ensuring the follow-up operation indicators. In this paper, the Python language, intelligent theoretical control technology and mineral processing were combined to solve the problem of ore feeding control in mineral processing. Using error factor analysis, an extended control algorithm was designed. The NumPy library and data collected from the Yuan YangMou concentrator in China were used to quantitatively analyze the factors affecting the error of electronic belt scales. This paper introduces the use of Kalman filtering for electronic belt scale weight data to reduce the effect of noise and hence reduce errors. The factors affecting the process of mill feeding are also analyzed. The core ideas and methods of fuzzy control theory are summarized, and a Python-based fuzzy controller suitable for the mill feeding process that improves the overall robustness and accuracy of feeding system is implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using data from 56 tight gas wells from the study field (Y field) in the Ordos basin of China, this paper presents performance-based reservoir characterization of the study field from production data and geophysical data. Post-fracturing evaluation is realized by applying our new modified production decline type curves for fractured wells. Compared to traditional type curves, our newly proposed modified dimensionless type curves help identify field data diagnostics for various flow regimes of fractured wells and also facilitate the curve matching process with real data to obtain fruitful and crucial reservoir and fractured well information, including key parameters such as reservoir flowing capacity (kh), well productivity, fracture length, drainage area and original gas in place. This paper intends to promote the extensive application of this new technique. With the support of the reservoir information provided by production decline analysis using our modified type curves, the commercial flow units are delineated in terms of interrelated porosity-permeability of sandstone based on pore throat aperture crossplotting and corresponding flow unit productivity. Furthermore, two crossplots of well logging interpreted porosity versus resistivity are constructed, suggesting their good correlated relationships with relative flow unit productivity and initial gas abundance in place, respectively. The two crossplots enable qualitative evaluation of formation penetrated by well, which makes them very useful and practical as wireline logging is basically available for every well. The well production routine is also analyzed systematically by considering a well's inflow performance, tubing performance and minimal liquid-carrying gas flow rate to investigate if a gas well is producing at optimal conditions or if a measure should be taken to improve the well's production. Through analysis of the Y field, this study introduces an integrated workflow with the support of the new modified type curves to effectively help understand the reservoir characteristics and the flow behaviors of the tight gas field. The key takeaway from this study is that the new modified dimensionless production decline curves in terms of q D M   v s.   t D M can be applied in field practice to achieve a systematically comparable understanding of the performance of MHFHWs globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Middle–Lower Yangtze Metallogenic Belt (MLYMB) hosts abundant porphyry–skarn–stratabound-type Cu–Au–Mo deposits. Despite extensive research, the origin of the stratabound-type deposits, which developed at the unconformity interface between the Devonian and Carboniferous strata in the MLYMB, remains controversial. The primary debate centers on whether these deposits are the result of Carboniferous sedimentary exhalative mineralization or Mesozoic magmatic–hydrothermal mineralization. In this paper, we examine three representative deposits in the Shizishan orefield: the Chaoshan skarn-type Au deposit, the Hucun porphyry–skarn-type Cu–Mo deposit, and the Dongguashan Cu–(Au) deposit, which has a disputed genesis of its stratiform orebodies. Economically important ore minerals, such as chalcopyrite, molybdenite, and pyrrhotite, and their associated quartz and calcite, were focused on, rather than the extensively studied pyrite in the Tongling region. The ore genesis and sources of mineralized elements in the Shizishan orefield were investigated using H, O, C, S, Pb, and Cu isotopes. The H–O isotopic compositions of hydrothermal quartz from the Chaoshan, Dongguashan, and Hucun deposits indicate that the ore-forming fluids were mainly magmatic water with some meteoric water input. The C–O isotopic compositions of calcite show a large difference from the local sedimentary carbonates. The S isotopic compositions of sulfides reveal a magmatic sulfur signature. The Pb isotopic compositions in the three deposits are similar to those of the Shizishan intrusions, suggesting a magmatic source for Pb. The Cu isotopic compositions of chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite demonstrate that Cu, the primary ore-forming element, was mainly derived from magmatic–hydrothermal fluids. The stratiform orebodies display H–O–C–S–Pb–Cu isotopes consistent with the porphyry orebodies in the Dongguashan deposit, as well as in the Chaoshan and Hucun deposits, indicating a common ore genesis. From these, we conclude that the porphyry–skarn–stratabound-type Cu–Au–Mo deposits in the Shizishan orefield can be classified as a unified Mesozoic magmatic–hydrothermal metallogenic system. The stratabound-type copper sulfide deposits and the porphyry–skarn-type copper deposits in the MLYMB have a strong similarity in the source and genesis of their ore-forming elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization rate of steel slag in China is far behind that of developed countries. The annual output of steel slag is still increasing, resulting in a large amount of accumulation, causing environmental pollution. This paper summarizes and analyzes the relevant research on steel slag powder (SSP) as a cementitious material, studies the effect of SSP replaces cement as single or multiple admixtures, with different specific surface areas, and the amount of activator on the compressive strength of cement-based material. The results show that due to the lower content of active substances in SSP compared to cement, the strengths decrease with the increase of the replacement ratio R, which is the ratio of SSP to cement. R = 30% is important for replacing cement with single SSP. When replacing cement with the mixture of SSP and slag/fly ash, the strengths of most groups decrease with the increase of the mix replacement ratio Rc. The decreasing trend is not obvious due to the pozzolanic effect. There is an optimal dosage for using a single activator to activate SSP. The effect of using multiple activators in combination is better than that of single one. The strength increases with the increase of the specific surface area (SSA) of SSP. However, if the SSA is too high, it will not only increase the preparation cost, but also reduce the increase in strength due to the agglomeration effect of SSP. The optimal range of specific surface area SSA is 400 m2/kg~500 m2/kg. With the increase of age t, the compressive strength increases. The effect of the curing methods on the compressive strength is hot and heat curing > standard curing > natural curing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-bearing polymetallic pegmatite ores are an important raw material for lithium extraction. They contain not only lithium but also other associated elements such as beryllium, tantalum, and niobium, with great recovery values. It is therefore often called lithium-bearing polymetallic pegmatite ore (LPPO). The recovery and utilization of Be-bearing minerals in LPPOs have yet to be further studied. This paper briefly expounds the geological aspects of LPPO deposits in China and Chinese experiences on the beneficiation of LPPOs, with special emphasis on the flotation separation of lithium-beryllium minerals. In LPPO, spodumene is the main target mineral for lithium, while beryl is the main Be-bearing mineral in a fine-grained embedded state. If the BeO grade of LPPO is greater than the industrial grade (BeO ≥ 0.04%), it will be processed for recovery. Tantalum and niobium minerals are mainly in the form of tantalite, columbite, or ferrotapiolite, which may be recovered by gravity separation or magnetic separation. Gangue minerals are mainly composed of albite and quartz. Currently, the most commonly used methods for separating the target minerals from gangue are dense medium separation and flotation. The manual sorting method has become obsolete and is expected to be replaced by machine sorting methods such as color sorters and X-ray transmission sorters. Flotation is the main method for the separation of fine-grained beryl and spodumene. The success of flotation depends on the selection of suitable pretreatment methods and appropriate flotation reagents for altering the surface properties of spodumene and beryl and for expanding the floatability differences between spodumene and beryl and between spodumene and gangue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sandstone type uranium is the most valuable and has the most potential for mining among the known uranium deposits. In the process of forming, the hydrolytic migration and enrichment of uranium require special basin sedimentary environment and tectonic background. Therefore, the mineralization process of sandstone type uranium deposits has certain layering characteristics and distribution rules in the underground vertical depth space. It is important to mine the spatial distribution characteristics of vertical uranium-bearing layers, and thus, reconstruct the three-dimensions of uranium orebodies. In this paper, according to the metallogenic law and distribution characteristics of sandstone type uranium in the underground vertical space, a nonlinear uranium-bearing layers identification (NULI) method of sandstone type uranium is proposed by using different types, resolutions and scales of borehole data. Then, the depth of uranium mineralization for the Daying uranium deposit within northern Ordos Basin is identified accurately and the spatial distribution characteristics of the uranium-bearing layer on the exploration line are obtained. Finally, the occurrence mode of the underground uranium orebodies are presented by using three-dimensional reconstruction analysis. It provides a basis for the prediction, exploration and mining of sandstone type uranium deposits within the Ordos Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Jiajika rare metal deposit contains the largest area of granitic pegmatite-type rare metal deposits in China. The X03 vein is an immense rare metal deposit dominated by lithium, which was found in the deposit in recent years. The contact metamorphic belt of tourmalinization and petrochemistry is widely developed in its wall rocks, and the altered rocks formed contain Li and other rare metal mineralization. In this paper, the tourmaline found in the different rocks of the Jiajika X03 vein is divided into four types: two-mica quartz schist (Tur-Ⅰ), tourmaline hornfels (Tur-Ⅱ), tourmaline-bearing granite pegmatite (Tur-Ⅲ) and spodumene-bearing granite pegmatite (Tur-Ⅳ); their in situ major element, trace element and boron isotope data are systematically studied. The results show that all tourmalines in the Jiajika X03 vein deposit belong to the alkali group, and are schorl–Oxy/Fluor–schorl, dravite–Hydroxy-dravite and foitite–Oxy foitite solid solutions, among which Tur-Ⅰ are dravite, Tur-Ⅱ are foitite of hydrothermal origin and Tur-Ⅲ and Tur-Ⅳ are schorl of magmatic origin. The boron isotope values show that the boron involved the formation process of tourmaline mainly originates from the Majingzi S-type granite, and the boron isotope variations in tourmaline are controlled by melt fluid and Rayleigh fractionation. Moreover, there is a clear correlation between the B isotope value of tourmaline and the Li, Mn, Zn, Mg, and V contents, showing that these contents in tourmaline are good indicators of the mineralization type of pegmatite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red mud is a highly alkaline solid waste discharged in the alumina production process. Because of its large amount of discharge and high alkalinity, it is mostly stored in dams, occupying a large number of land resources and posing a great safety hazard to the ecological environment. The large-scale consumption of red mud is a global technical problem. Different alumina production processes will produce different types of red mud, mainly Bayer process red mud. In addition to its overall utilization in the field of building materials, agriculture, the environment, and the chemical industry, red mud also contains valuable metal elements, such as titanium, iron, scandium, and aluminum, and is an important secondary mineral resource. This paper focuses on the principle and characteristics of red mud metallurgical treatment for the extraction of valuable components and looks forward to the prospect of large-scale, harmless, and high-value comprehensive utilization technology for red mud in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a focus on the Cu isotope geochemistry of chalcopyrite, this paper analyzed the Cu isotope geochemistry of the Qibaoshan crypto-explosive breccia-type Cu–Au polymetallic ore district in Wulian, Shandong Province, North China Craton (NCC). Combined with the results of the in situ sulfur isotope analysis of sulfides, a certain reference and evidence for the study of the genetic mechanism of the epithermal-porphyry Cu polymetallic metallogenic system were provided. The results of the in situ isotope analysis show that the δ34S values of the main sulfides in the Qibaoshan Cu–Au polymetallic ore district range from −6.81‰ to +3.82‰ and are likely to be attributed to the mixing of the derived mantle with the surrounding sedimentary rock assimilation. The ore-forming mechanism may be related to the progressive cooling and transition of the earliest hydrothermal fluids that were dominated by H2S under relatively reducing conditions, followed by a gradual transition from oxidation to reduction. The Cu isotopic composition of the sulfides in ores (δ65Cu = +0.169‰–+0.357‰) decreases with depth, which is likely caused by the upward transport of heavier Cu isotopes. The upper part of the crypto-explosive breccia pipe in the Qibaoshan area may be relatively more gaseous, resulting in the enrichment of δ65Cu. As the gas phase decreases and the liquid phase increases with depth, the δ65Cu value gradually decreases. This indicates the transition from a low-temperature phyllic alteration to a high-temperature K-feldspar alteration. Large, concealed pluton intrusions or orebodies may be present at a depth of the Qibaoshan area. The heavy δ65Cu characteristic is a potential indicator for tracing the fluid activity of the porphyry system and searching for Cu mines. The results provide a reference for the study of the genetic mechanisms of the epithermal-porphyry Cu polymetallic metallogenic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High graphitization is responsible for low-resistivity shale development with poor reservoir quality. This paper provides an explanation of organic matter graphitization and determines the impact of high graphite content on low-resistivity shale reservoir quality at the Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation in the Southern Sichuan Basin. Fine veins are frequently developed at shale samples with Ro > 3.5%, graphitized organic matter > 25%, and resistivity < 5 Ω•m, which are dominated by three mineral assemblages: brunsvigite, barite-hyalophane-barium feldspar-potassium feldspar-anhydrite, and calcite-ankerite. These filling minerals are characterized by an Eu positive anomaly and high Ba, Fe, and Mn contents, suggesting that low-resistivity shale was modified by magmatic-related low-temperature hydrothermal fluid. Temperature measurements of brine inclusions and a semi-empirical geothermometer of chlorite show that low-temperature hydrothermal fluid experienced the chlorite stage (150–180 °C), the low-sulfidation stage (120–150 °C), and the low-temperature calcitization stage. Paleozoic fault systems and late Permian hydrothermal activities associated with the Emeishan mantle plume control the graphitization of low-resistivity shale. The water formation and seawater infiltrated into the deep crust along the Paleozoic basement faults under gravity, developing alkaline hot brine through mantle plume heating and then causing a water-rock reaction with basement rocks. They migrated upward along deep and large Paleozoic faults through convective thermal circulation in the Tiangongtang area, the Shuanglong-Luochang area, and the Xuyong area. Cation exchange and redox reactions occurred during the interaction between high-temperature hydrothermal fluid and cool wall rocks. The migration of alkaline hot brine via the Wufeng-Longmaxi shale introduced a subsequent water-rock reaction, resulting in the development of hydrothermal mineral assemblages that intricately filled fractures. It increased formation temperature and enhanced thermal maturity and graphitization of organic matter at the Wufeng-Longmaxi low-resistivity shale, resulting in a wide distribution of low-resistivity shale at the Changning Block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lala copper area in Huili County, Sichuan Province, China, is favored by superior regional metallogenic geological conditions due to its location in an extremely important copper–iron metallogenic belt in southwest China, and it has witnessed the formation of a series of unique iron–copper deposits following the superposition of multiple tectonic events. In recent years, major mineral exploration breakthroughs have been achieved in the deep and peripheral zones of this area. Using the Lala copper mining area in Sichuan as an example, this paper describes metallogenic prediction research carried out based on multivariate geoscience information (geological information, geophysics, geochemistry, and remote sensing data) and the application of geographic information system (GIS) technology and the radial basis function neural network (RBFLN) model. The five specific aspects covered in this paper are as follows: (1) we collected geology–geophysics–geochemistry remote sensing data and other information, adopted GIS technology to extract multivariate geoscience ore-forming anomaly information, and established a geoscience prospecting information database; (2) we applied the RBFLN algorithm for information on integrated analysis of ore-forming anomalies in the study area; (3) we applied a statistical method to divide the threshold value to delineate favorable ore-prospecting target areas; (4) we applied three-dimensional (3D) visualization technology, through which sample assistance was verified, to evaluate the performance of the RBFLN model; and (5) the results revealed that the RBFLN model can integrate multivariate and multi-type geoscience information and effectively predict metallogenic prospective areas and delineate favorable target areas. The metallogenic prediction method based on RBFLN technology provides a scientific basis for the exploration and deployment of minerals in the study area. It is obvious that the methods to predict and evaluate mineral resources are developing towards model integration and information intelligent analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Liaohe Group, which is a significant lithostratigraphic unit within the Paleoproterozoic Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt situated between the Longgang and Liaonan-Nangrim blocks, comprises the Langzishan, Li'eryu, Gaojiayu, Dashiqiao, and Gaixian formations, which are characterized mainly by a clastic-rich sequence with an interlayered bimodal-volcanic sequence, carbonate-rich sequence, and (meta-)pelite-rich sequence. Currently, the tectonic background and evolution of the Liaohe Group remain contentious. Based on the study of detrital zircon geochronology and the zircon trace element characteristics in the Langzishan and Li'eryu formations in the North Liaohe Group in the Lianshanguan area, NE China, this paper reveals the formations' provenances, depositional ages, and relationships with Paleoproterozoic granitoids (the Liao-Ji granites). The present results, in conjunction with previous studies, indicate that the depositional age of the Langzishan Formation is 2136 Ma and that of the Li'eryu Formation is 1974 Ma. The provenances of the Langzishan Formation and the Li'eryu Formation are mainly characterized by Neoarchean-to-early-Paleoproterozoic basement rocks (~2.6–2.4 Ga) and the Liao-Ji granites (~2.2–2.0 Ga), respectively. Moreover, the coeval mafic and metasedimentary rocks of the Liaohe Group exhibit characteristics of an extensional environment, which is represented by the tectonic setting of a back-arc basin. Notably, the Upper Langzishan Formation records a prominent shift in sedimentary environment from a passive continental margin to an active continental margin. In terms of the tectonic evolution of the North Liaohe Group and the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt, our proposed model suggests that the Archean basement rocks in the northern part of the continental block, along with a limited contribution from the Paleoproterozoic Liao-Ji granites, served as the primary sources for the Langzishan Formation. Subsequently, the rapid deposition of the Li'eryu Formation was influenced by intense magmatism and subsequent erosion of the subduction-related magmatic arc (the Liao-Ji granites) within a back-arc basin environment. Lastly, the deposition of clastic materials from the Longgang blocks and the Liao-Ji granites resulted in the formation of the Gaojiayu, Dashiqiao, and Gaixian formations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the CH-3 and WH-110A unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms, we independently developed aeromagnetic systems for fixed-wing UAVs (FUAV) and modified unmanned helicopters (MUH), respectively. These systems overcome key technological challenges in system integration, aeromagnetic compensation, and electromagnetic (EM) compatibility. We conducted a 1:100,000 aeromagnetic test using both systems in a tidal flat area in Jiangsu province, China. Both systems successfully completed 240 line km measurement lines and collected high-quality data with magnetic compensation accuracies of 0.01428 nT and 0.04690 nT, respectively. The dynamic noise was below 0.14 nT, accounting for 95.72% and 100% of the measurements. These results indicate that both systems offer high measurement accuracy, efficiency, low cost, convenience, and flexibility. We compared the two aeromagnetic systems based on their system parameters, integration modes, magnetic compensation methods and effects, and practical applications. By comprehensively analyzing their characteristics and application fields, we provide guidance for UAV-based aeromagnetic surveys in mineral exploration, basic geological survey and other related fields. And the FUAV and MUH aeromagnetic systems presented in this paper serve as a valuable reference for future research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) is the world's largest accretionary orogenic belt, and its formation is related to the closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean (PAO). However, the closure time and style of the PAO remain controversial. To address these issues, this paper presents zircon U-Pb dating, whole-rock geochemistry and zircon Lu-Hf isotope analyses of the volcanic rocks in the Faku-Kaiyuan area on the northern margin of the North China Craton. The results show that the Bachagou andesites formed in the Early Permian (287 ± 2 Ma), while the Chaijialing andesites and dacites formed in the Late Permian (253.3 ± 3.7 Ma) and Middle Triassic (244.3 ± 1.3 Ma), respectively. The Bachagou andesites and Chaijialing andesites are enriched in LILEs and LREEs and depleted in HFSEs and HREEs, indicating that they formed in the active continental margins. The Chaijialing dacites show similar geochemical signatures to adakite and formed in a syn-collisional setting. Geochemistry and isotopic analysis indicates that the Bachagou andesites were derived from a partial melting of the mantle wedge that was metasomatized by subduction fluids. The Chaijialing andesites were generated from a metasomatized mantle by slab-derived and sediment fluids. The Chaijialing dacites formed by a partial melting of thickened lower crust. Combined with previous research results, we can conclude that the Eastern PAO closed by a scissor-like movement from west to east during the Late Permian–Middle Triassic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate prediction of coal structure is important to guide the exploration and development of coal reservoirs. Most prediction models are interpreted for a single sensitive coal seam, and the selection of sensitive parameters is correlated with the coal structure, but they ignore the interactions between different attributes. Part of it introduces the concept of the geological strength index (GSI) of coal rocks in order to achieve a multi-element macroscopic description and quantitative characterization of coal structure; however, the determination of coal structure involves some uncertainties among the properties of coal, such as lithology, gas content and tectonic fracture, due to their complex nature. Fuzzy inference systems provide a knowledge discovery process to handle uncertainty. The study shows that a type-2 fuzzy inference system (T2-FIS) with multi-attribute fusion is used to effectively fuse pre-stack and post-stack seismic inversion reservoir parameters and azimuthal seismic attribute parameters in order to produce more accurate prediction results for the Hengling block in the Shanxi area. The fuzzy set rules generated in this paper can provide a more reliable prediction of coal structure in the GSI system. The proposed system has been tested on various datasets and the results show that it is capable of providing reliable and high-quality coal structure predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lacustrine sediments are good recorders of palaeoenvironment changes and have been widely studied in recent years. The study of lacustrine sediments in Southwest China will improve our understanding of the complex environmental evolution history of Southwest China. Therefore, this paper presents a high-resolution rock magnetism study from the Pengtun drilling hole (PT2) in the Heqing Basin, Southwest China. The results show that the dominant magnetic minerals in the PT2 drill core are magnetite, maghemite and haematite. The magnetic susceptibility (χ) of the upper part of the core (0–13.5 m) is lower than that of the lower part (13.5–33.5 m). There is no maghemite in the upper sections. The minerals with high χ values have the characteristics of pseudosingle-domain (PSD), single-domain (SD), superparamagnetic (SP) and multidomain (MD) grains. The magnetic domains are widely distributed, and the particles are coarser. When χ is low, the magnetic domains of the different samples vary greatly, and the particles are finer. Combined with the magnetic and nonmagnetic characteristics of the sediment, we infer that the change in χ in the PT2 drill core is related to clastic input, water erosion, and reductive dissolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dongcao muscovite granite, as the product of the second stage of the magmatic intrusion of the Ganfang composite pluton, is closely related to the mineralization of Li–Nb–Ta rare metals in the Yifeng area. This paper aims to discuss the diagenetic age, evolutionary process, and relationship with the rare metal mineralization of Dongcao muscovite granite by using petrographic, cassiterite U–Pb dating and geochemical analyses. Petrographic analysis shows that the lithology of the Dongcao muscovite granite is medium– to fine–grained muscovite monzogranite. The cassiterite U–Pb dating results show that the diagenetic age of the Dongcao muscovite granite is 139.7 ± 6.7 Ma, which is Early Cretaceous. The geochemical analysis indicates that the rock is characterized by high Si, abundant aluminum alkalis, low Ca and Fe, and low Mg, which indicates that this granite is a strongly peraluminous rock. Moreover, the Dongcao muscovite granite is enriched with Rb, U, Ta, Pb, P, and Hf and depleted of Ba, Sr, Ti, and rare earth elements (REEs), with a tetrad effect of REEs. Based on this analysis, the Dongcao muscovite granite is a highly differentiated granite that formed in the tectonic transition from continental collisional to post–collisional settings related to the subduction of the Paleo–Pacific plate. A high degree of crystallization differentiation occurred at the early stage of magmatic evolution, resulting in the initial enrichment of Li–Nb–Ta–Sn. The melt–fluid interaction in the late stage is significant to the high enrichment of Li–Nb–Ta–Sn until the final mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In China, backfill mining has been selected as an effective approach to realize the green mining of underground coal resources, where backfill materials are the major factor in the development of backfill mining. In order to provide a better reference for further research and development of backfill mining, the experience and research achievements are reviewed in this paper. Firstly, the backfill materials that have been successfully applied in Chinese underground backfill coal mining are divided into two categories according to whether water is used during the backfill mining operation. Then, the primary considerations of each backfill material during its preparation, transportation and activation stages are discussed and evaluated. Finally, suggestions for backfill material exploration are proposed in terms of the future backfill mining of coal resources in Western China, where there is serious surface desertification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bainiuchang Ag polymetallic deposit is located at the junction between the Cathaysia, Yangtze, China and Indosinian blocks. It has experienced many geological events, and records excellent conditions for multiple mineralization. In this paper, elemental correlation analysis, cluster analysis, factor analysis, a semivariogram of Zn/Pb values, mineralization distribution and trend surface analysis have been carried out based on the prospecting database and ore body model. Our results show that Ag–Pb–Zn were mineralized at moderate temperatures. Tin was mineralized at high temperatures, and Sn and Zn/Pb values are well correlated. The Zn/Pb values can be used for tracing the ore-forming fluid. The semivariogram revealed that the Zn/Pb values are moderately spatially dependent, with good mineralization continuity in the 100° and 10° directions. The spatial pattern of the elemental grade correlates with mineralization enrichment. The trend surface analysis shows that the Ag, Pb, Zn, and Cu mineralization is weak in the south and strong in the north of the deposit, and the Sn grades and Zn/Pb values are high in the south and low in the north. High-temperature Sn, medium-temperature Cu, and medium-temperature Ag–Pb–Zn mineralization have occurred in a south-to-north trend. Therefore, the source of the ore-forming fluid was in the southern part of the mining area. During the migration of the ore-forming fluid from south to north, different minerals were precipitated due to changes in the physicochemical environment. The spatial patterns of mineralization may provide a basis for studying the formation of the ore deposit, and can guide ore exploration and mining in the mine area and similar ore deposits elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolutional process of palaeoceanic environment and its effect on the accumulation of organic matter during the Ordovician–Silurian transition in Lower Yangtze region has been overlooked compared to that in Upper Yangtze region of South China, although their paleogeographic settings were expected to be discrepant. This paper documents the marine depositional environment, paleoclimate, and sediment supply changes, and discusses their roles in controlling the organic matter enrichment in sedimentary rocks within the Ordovician–Silurian transition of the Lower Yangtze region, using the latest geochemical data of the continuous drilling core. The stratigraphic framework of the Ordovician–Silurian transition in the Lower Yangtze region is composed of two third-order sequences, each of which can be subdivided into a lower TST (transgressive systems tract) and an upper RST (regressive systems tract). TST1 represented an evident depositional transition stage which was marked by the ending of the underlying carbonate sediments and the initiation of the terrigenous clastic-dominated sediments. Geochemical proxies indicate that the relatively low productivity, dysoxic water column condition, and high sediment supply flux collectively resulted in inadequate organic matter hosted in deposits of the TST1. During the depositional period of RST1, the global sea level declined due to the Hirnantian glaciation age. The icehouse also caused the decrease in overall river flux and, thus, the terrigenous clastic sediment supply. The icehouse also strengthened the upwelling that occurred in the Lower Yangtze sea. The upwelling boosted the marine algae explosion through the delivery of abundant nutrients, which not only enhanced paleoproductivity but also led to an anoxic environment by oxygen consumption. Such high paleoproductivity, anoxic water column environment, and low sediment supply flux caused the deposition of organic-rich shale. The sea level rose during the TST2 due to the ending of an ice age. The relatively large water depth and high paleoproductivity associated with volcanic eruptions are the main factors that caused the enrichment of organic matter during this stage. During the deposition of RTS2, the increase of sediment supply flux resulted in a decrease in accommodation space and water depth and the dilution of organic matter in deposits, which was the primary constraint of organic matter accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Dongxiang tungsten–copper deposit is a large W–Cu deposit located in the northeast of Jiangxi province in south China. Previous studies have mainly considered the geochemical and isotopic attributes of the ore deposit, but information is still lacking on the genesis and setting of Dongxiang W–Cu mineralization-related intrusive rocks. This paper presents systematic elements and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopic data of the Dongxiang granodiorite porphyry. The Dongxiang granodiorite porphyry is intermediate–acidic in composition, with SiO2 contents of 60.00–75.16 wt.%, Al2O3 contents of 10.15–18.53 wt.%, an K2O contents of 2.95–4.28 wt.%. The REEs content ranges from 64.2 to 198.1 ppm, with LREE/HREE ratios of 7.67–17.47. It is characterized by adakitic geochemical affinities with high Sr/Y and (La/Yb)N ratios but low Y and Yb contents. A slight Eu anomaly, extreme depletion in Y and Yb, relatively low MgO content, and relatively high 207Pb/204Pb ratios together indicate that the Dongxiang granodiorite porphyry was likely derived from partial melting of the thickened lower continental crust. Based on zircon εHf(t) values (−11.8–−4.5), two-stage Hf model ages (1.33–1.94 Ga), and the regional geological setting, it can be inferred that Dongxiang granodiorite porphyry magma is mainly derived from Neoproterozoic juvenile crust with the involvement of Paleoproterozoic ancient crust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste Pisha sandstone (WPS) is the main damming material for the check dam in the Loss Plateau of northwest China. The dissolution characteristics of WPS in alkaline solutions were investigated as a basis for studying WPS modification materials and revealing the modification mechanism to further study the pozzolanic activity of WPS and the development of cementitious materials for concrete utilizing WPS. In this paper, WPS was milled and calcined at 600 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C, respectively. After that, the activated WPS was immersed in 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 M NaOH solutions for leaching tests. The two curing temperatures of 20 °C and 80 °C were set, respectively. The ion concentration of Si, Al, and Ca in the alkaline solutions was determined using chemical titration, silicon–molybdenum blue colorimetric method, and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, respectively. After the leaching tests, the residues of WPS were characterized using XRD and SEM-EDS. The results show that the concentration of each ion in the leachate did not increase with leaching time but showed fluctuating variations with leaching time. Mechanochemical activation and thermal activation will promote the dissolution of minerals in alkaline solutions and increase the leaching efficiency of Si. However, the soluble Si in the leachate is not able to generate further gelling-like substances, limited by the total amount of available Ca in the mineral. WPS can dissolve more ions in higher concentrations of a NaOH solution, but the mineral crystallinity of its residue will be reduced. Higher curing temperatures can greatly increase the leaching efficiency of Si in a short time, which is better than thermal activation, and it can also promote the generation of newborn minerals and increase the crystallinity of minerals in WPS after leaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ailaoshan orogenic belt is one of the most significant orogenic belts in the southeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The widely developed magmatic rocks in this belt preserve the multi-stage tectonic evolution records of the South China Plate. As an important response to the Rodinia breakup tectonic event, the study of Neoproterozoic magmatic rocks in the area is of great significance for reconstructing the Neoproterozoic tectonic process of the Ailaoshan orogenic belt and the tectonic evolution of the South China Plate. Petrology, geochemistry, zircon U-Pb, and Lu-Hf isotopes of the Daping pluton in the Ailaoshan orogenic belt are studied in this paper. The Daping pluton is mainly divided into gabbros and granites. Gabbros and granites belong to the sub-alkaline series, which are relatively enriched in large ion lithophilic elements and depleted in high-field strength elements. The ΣREE contents of the gabbro are low with enrichment in LREEs and depletion in HREEs, and the degree of differentiation of light and heavy rare earth is low, with positive δEu and weak negative δCe anomalies. The ΣREE contents of the granite are low with enrichment in LREEs and depletion in HREEs, and the degree of light and heavy rare earth differentiation is high, with medium–weak negative δEu and weak positive δCe anomalies, suggesting an A2-type granite with A1-A2 transition characteristics. The weighted average age of the gabbro is 816.1 ± 4.1 Ma (MSWD = 0.11), with zircon εHf(t) values of −7.5–5.5. The magma source is a mixture of an ancient crust source and a new mantle source; the weighted average age of the syenogranite is 783.7 ± 8.1 Ma (MSWD = 1.4), with zircon εHf(t) values of −4.3–0.4. The magma source is mainly ancient crustal material (Ailaoshan Group), mixed with a small amount of mantle-derived material; the weighted average age of the monzogranite is 754.8 ± 6.1 Ma (MSWD = 3.0), with positive zircon εHf(t) values of 1.65–10.36. The magma source is a mixture of a large number of mantle-derived materials and a small number of crust-derived materials (Ailaoshan Group). The Daping pluton was formed in the transitional tectonic environment from post-collision to intraplate continental margin rift, corresponding to the Rodinia breakup process in the western margin of the South China Plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of reservoir fractures is essential as it is an important factor in the design of a field development plan, which in turn affects the efficiency of hydrocarbon production. Water flooding and water channeling are serious due to the lack of objective understanding of the fracture development pattern in the tight oil reservoirs in the Triassic Change 6 member of Y well area, Ordos Basin, China. In this paper, we observed 104.6 m cores from 20 wells with a number of 150 fractures and an outcrop profile, then analyzed the main controlling factors for core fracture development, and finally established a fracture prediction method using conventional logging data. The results indicate that high-angle fractures accounted for 73.20%, fracture orientations were nearly east–west, fracture spacing between 0–10 cm accounted for 80.51%, fracture openings between 0–0.13 mm accounted for 89.27%, fracture down-cutting depths between 0–20 cm accounted for 80%, and 80.81% was not filled. In addition, we found that thin beds and fine sandstones are prone to develop fractures; Finally, our modified curve rate method was an effective method for fracture prediction. We conclude that fractures have the characteristics of high angle, small spacing, small opening, small down-cutting depth, and less filling. The modified curve change rate method is suitable for fracture prediction in tight sandstone reservoirs in the Triassic Change 6 member of the Y well area, Ordos Basin, China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the main fossil fuels globally, coal can be enriched with a variety of critical metal elements in specific geological conditions. This paper investigates the mineral compositions and concentrations of major and minor element oxides and trace elements in the No. 9 coal from the Xinyuan mine of the northern Qinshui coalfield, China, and discusses the modes of occurrence and enrichment mechanisms of critical metal elements such as Li, Ga, Th and REY. The mineral compositions of the No. 9 coal are primarily represented by clay minerals and quartz, with a small amount of calcite, siderite, anatase, etc. The major element oxides in the No. 9 coal are dominated by SiO2 and Al2O3. Compared with world hard coal, the No. 9 coal of the Xinyuan mine is rich in Li (CC = 8.00) and Th, slightly enriched with Pb, Sc, Ga, Y, La, Ce, Tb, Dy, Er, Yb and Hg, and depleted in Mn, Co, Ni, Rb, Cs and Tl. The critical metal elements such as Li, Ga, Th and REY that enriched No. 9 coal mainly occur in aluminum silicates. The genetic type of the critical metal elements in the No. 9 coal from the Xinyuan mine is source rock-controlled type. The critical metal minerals and solutions from the source area were transported to the study area by the action of water. Due to the change of swamp water conditions, the critical metal elements were combined with clay minerals and enriched the coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Silurian Longmaxi (S1l) marine shale and Jurassic Dongyuemiao (J1d) lacustrine shale in the Sichuan Basin, West China have attracted considerable attention from the oil-and-gas industry in China. Currently, the differences in pore types and pore structures between them are poorly understood, which has limited shale-resource exploration in the Sichuan Basin. This paper systemically compares the pore characteristics of Longmaxi shale and Dongyuemiao shale and investigates their impact on shale-gas enrichment by integrating field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE–SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), low-pressure gas (CO2 and N2) adsorption and mercury-intrusion porosimetry, high-pressure sorption isotherms, gas-saturation measurement, molecular-dynamics simulation, etc. The results show that the S1l organic-rich marine shale and the J1d lacustrine shale have different pore types and pore structures. The S1l shale is dominated by organic pores, mainly micropores and mesopores with ink-bottle-like pore shapes, while the J1d shale is primarily composed of clay-mineral pores, mainly mesopores and macropores with slit- or plate-like pore shapes. Organic pores can provide considerable storage space for shale-gas enrichment in S1l marine shale, which also determines the adsorption capacity of shale reservoirs. Although organic pores are not the most prevalent in the Dongyuemiao lacustrine shale, they also play an important role in enhancing reservoir quality and absorbed-gas enrichment. Clay-mineral pores contribute weakly to the storage space of J1d-lacustrine-shale reservoirs. Mesopores are the most important form of storage space in both S1l shale and J1d shale, contributing significantly to shale-gas enrichment. Micropores are secondary in importance in S1l marine shale, while macropores are secondary contributors to pore volume in J1d lacustrine shale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates weathering pits at three granite sites located on mountain tops, in a former river bed, and on the coastline of an island, respectively, from north to south in eastern China and aims to characterize weathering pit formation in the above settings in terms of mineral weathering and elemental transport. In these settings, the main elements, and mineral groups in the debris in the weathering pits and the fragments of the rock surface directly adjacent to the pits were analyzed. The chemical index of alteration (CIA), the quartz/feldspar (Q/F) ratio and the Na/K (Na2O/K2O) ratio were applied to identify the chemical origin of the weathering pits and assess the difference in the chemical weathering processes of the weathering pits in the different settings; the mass transfer coefficient was used to measure the characteristics of element migration during weathering pit formation at the three sites. The result of CIA, Q/F, and Na/K analysis shows that debris in a weathering pit suffered from higher chemical weathering intensity than nearby rock surfaces, indicating that the weathering pits of the study sites originated from chemical weathering. However, the differences in the CIA values of weathering pits in different areas are only the result of different chemical weathering durations and cannot be used to identify the climate types of the areas. The calculation of element mass transfer indicates that only Na and K are continuously leached during the formation process of weathering pits regardless of whether in valleys, mountains or on the coast. Other elements may or may not be the external source for the formation of weathering pits resulting in different natural tendencies for element mass transfer in weathering pits. Seawater can also be a factor contributing to the different patterns of element migration in weathering pits in coastal and inland areas. In addition, the environment of river valleys is more conducive to weathering pit formation than mountain tops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of enrichment with Nd in sulfides from magmatic Cu-Ni-PGE complexes and sulfide ores from hydrothermal Pb-Zn, Au-Mo, and gold deposits was found and characterized. This paper concerns the report and analysis of isotopic geochemical data on the sulfide ores from the large Paleoproterozoic mafic–ultramafic magmatic Cu-Ni-PGE complexes of Fennoscandia and the literature data on sulfide ores from the Qingchengzi Pb-Zn deposit (northeastern China), Tokuzbay gold deposit (southern Altai, northwestern China), and Dahu Au-Mo deposit (central China). The mineral/rock partition coefficients for Nd and Sm (the DNd/DSm ratio) are defined as a prospective tool for the reconstruction of the sulfide mineral formation and geochemical substantiation of possible sources of ore-forming fluids for deposits of various genetic types. The observed selective Nd accumulation indicates either hydrothermal or metamorphic (metasomatic) impact, which is associated with increased Nd mobility and its migration or diffusion. Due to this process, there is a relative Nd accumulation in comparison with Sm and a consequent increase in the DNd/DSm ratio. At the isotopic system level, this leads to a sufficient decrease in the Sm/Nd ratio for the secondary sulfides of such kind. The revealed effect may serve as an isotopic geochemical marker of recent processes. These processes are quite frequently associated with the most important ore formation stages, which bear the commercially valuable concentrations of ore components. Sulfides from magmatic Cu-Ni-PGE complexes are more characterized by the selective accumulation of Nd in the sequential sulfide mineral formation. For sulfides from hydrothermal deposits, the effect of Nd enrichment is more intense and closely related to ore-forming fluids, under the influence of which sulfide mineralization is formed in multiple stages. The study aims at expanding the knowledge about fractionation and the behavior of lanthanides in ore-forming processes and allows the development of additional criteria for the evaluation of the ore potential of deposits with different geneses, ages, and formation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southwestern South China Block is one of the most important Sn polymetallic ore districts in the world, of which the Dulong Sn-Zn polymetallic deposit, closely related to Late Cretaceous granitic magmatism, contains 0.4 Mt Sn, 5.0 Mt Zn, 0.2 Mt Pb, and 7 Kt In, and is one of the largest Sn-Zn polymetallic deposits in this region. In this paper, on the basis of a 3D model of ore bodies established by the cut-off grade of the main ore-forming elements, the In grades were estimated by the ordinary Kriging method and the In-rich cells were extracted. The 3D models of strata, faults, granites, and granite porphyries in the mining area were established and assigned the attributes to the cells, which built buffer zones representing the influence space of the geological factors. The weight of evidence and artificial neural network methods were used to quantitatively evaluate the contribution of each geological factor to mineralization. The results show that the Neoproterozoic Xinzhai Formation (Pt3x), fault (F1), and Silurian granites (S3L) have considerable control effects on the occurrence of In-rich ore bodies. The metallogenic predictions according to the spatial coupling relationship of each geological factor in 3D space were carried out, and then the 3D-space-prospecting target areas of In-rich ore bodies were delineated. In addition, the early geological maps and data information of the mining area were comprehensively integrated in 3D space. The feasibility of 3D quantitative metallogenic prediction based on the deposit model was explored by comparing the two methods, and then, the 3D-space prospecting target area was delineated. The ROC curve evaluation shows that the results of two methods have indicative value for prospecting. The modeling results may support its use for future deep prospecting and exploitation of the Dulong and other similar deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increasing demand for rare earth elements (REE) resources in the market and the shortage of their direct sources, the research on REE in coal fly ash (CFA) has attracted the increasing attention of scholars because of its high content of rare earth. To extract and separate REE from the leaching solution of CFA, the method of solvent extraction after acid leaching is usually adopted. In this paper, the leaching solution of coal fly ash from Panbei, south China, with an average REE content of 478 μg/g, was taken as the research object. The extracted di-2-Ethylhexyl phosphonic acid (P204) was used to explore the solvent extraction effect and mechanism. When performed with the conditions: pH value of 2.1, oil-water ratio (O/A) of 1, extraction time of 25 min, solvent concentration of 6% and temperature of 30 ℃, the extraction rates of La, Ce, Pr, Nd, and Y were 89.16%, 94.11%, 95.56%, 96.33%, and 99.80%, respectively. It was indicated that the P204 extraction system separated REE well from the aqueous phase. The structure of the extraction complex was deduced by taking yttrium as an object of analysis, and the extraction mechanism equation was determined by using the slope method. In this extraction system, the molecular formula of the complex is YCl2(HA2) and the enthalpy change (△H) is +86.68 kJ/mol, which provides theoretical guidance for the extraction of REE in industrial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underground mining safety risk increases with the more complicated geological conditions in deep strata, so coal mines turn to the upper limit mining of shallow coal seams under the Cenozoic strata. Nevertheless, coal mines in the Northern China coalfield are mainly covered by thicker loose sandy layers with more abundant water. The analysis of overburdened strata deformation properties is essential for safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly production. This paper discusses the deformation and migration of overburdened strata through mechanical analysis, numerical and physical similar simulations, and in situ field measurement. A thorough understanding of overburdened strata deformation induced by mining has been obtained, and the results are as follows: The immediate roof first collapses to form the caved zone accompanied by the first weighting, and the fractured zone and bending deformation zone begin to develop in sequence; the separation layer is observed during the period of fracture development. However, the occurrence of the bending deformation subsidence results in the closure of the separation space; the ratio of fractured and mining height is quantified to 14.4:1.0 by the comparative analysis. The results may serve as technical evidence to support the mining safety of the study area and other coal mines with similar geological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A reliable numerical simulation method and large-scale in-situ test method for super-thick coal seams are very important to determine the failure range of mining floors, which is often the basis to protect Ordovician limestone water, an important drinking water source for people in North China. This paper takes Yushupo Coal Mine as an example; the explicit–implicit coupling simulation method and the corresponding double scalar elastic–plastic constitutive model were established to predict the failure depth of the floor numerically, and verified by the full section borehole stress–strain in-situ testing method. The results show that the explicit–implicit coupling numerical program and the double scalar elastoplastic constitutive model are suitable for predicting the floor failure depth under the condition of extra-thick coal seams. In this condition, the overburden moves violently, resulting in a loading–unloading–reloading process with large stress variation amplitude in the mining floor, which leads to serious rock failure compared with that of medium-thick coal seam conditions. In Yushupo 5105 working face, the floor failure starts to develop from 9.3–24.2 m ahead of the coal wall of working face, and the failure depth no longer increases after 35 m behind the coal wall, with the maximum failure depth of 28 m; the envelope line of the floor failure depth presents an inverted saddle distribution. The above research results lay a foundation for further protecting the Ordovician limestone water, and realizing green coal mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In northwest China, underground mining is frequently conducted in weakly cemented rock environments, including the aquiclude that protects the aquifer from dewatering. In this context, understanding the aquiclude responses to longwall mining is significant for assessing the reliability of water-conserved mining in the weakly cemented rock environment. Taking the Jurassic and Paleogene coal measure geology in Yili Mine in Xinjiang Province, China, as a case study, the paper conducted a laboratorial three-dimensional simulation by configuring a longwall operation and induced groundwater migration. The study analysed the aquiclude depressurisation and revealed the aquiclude stability in response to longwall mining. The results indicated that the aquiclude had a significant plastic strain and self-healing ability in the ground depressurisation condition. The aquiclude experienced tension and then compression, and, accordingly, fracture initiation, propagation, and convergence, during which the aquiclude had significant bending deformation. On the aquiclude horizon, tensile fracturing dominated above the set-up and longwall stop positions. The self-healing behaviour was correlated to the high content of clay minerals and disintegration proneness. The simulation results had a good agreement with field measurements, suggesting that the aquiclude had a satisfactory water-resisting ability and that the simulation results were practically reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]