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The health risks associated with exposure to respirable dust in coal mines have been attracted much attention by an increasing number of researchers. However, the accurate identification of potentially hazardous agents in respirable dusts and the evaluation of the potential health risks arising from it still remains controversial to varying degrees. A comprehensive understanding of the physicochemical properties of respirable dust is a prerequisite and an important basis for resolving this controversy. Therefore, in this study, the particle size distribution and morphology, pore structure, mineralogical and geochemical patterns, and oxidative potential (OP) of respirable coal mine dust were comprehensively investigated. Stepwise multiple linear regression was employed to identify dust components driving OP, such as anatase, tobelite, quartz, and ankerite, in respirable coal mine dust, along with Na, Ni, Se, W, and As. On this basis, we performed a single-factor risk prediction for different coal mines by considering factors that may impact miners' health, with the analyses yielding somewhat contradictory results. Therefore, a multifactor integrated prediction model is proposed using an entropy-based technique for order preference by similarity to the ideal solution to categorize coal mines in the study area into three risk categories, high-, medium-, and low-risk dust mines, which is important for the hierarchical classification and control of coal mines and for formulating appropriate dust prevention and control measures. [Display omitted] • A comprehensive investigation of the physicochemical and oxidative potential characteristics of respirable coal mine dust (RD). • Stepwise multiple linear regression was employed to identify the potentially hazardous agents of RD. • The TOPSIS was used to comprehensively evaluate health risks in various coal mines and sites within those mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the Late Paleozoic, West Junggar (Xinjiang, NW China) experienced a shift in tectonic setting from compression to extension. Ha'erjiao is an important area for investigating collisional structures, post–collisional structures, and magmatic activities. Based on the petrological and geochemical characteristics of pyroclastic and other volcanic rocks in the Permian Kalagang Formation from the borehole ZKH1205 in the Jimunai Basin, the main types of source rock for the pyroclastic rocks deposited in the basin are identified and their implications for the Early Permian tectonic setting examined. The abundance of basalt and andesite lithic fragments in the pyroclastic rocks, together with the REE characteristics and the contents of transition and high field strength elements show that the source rocks were chiefly intermediate–basic volcanic rocks. High ICV values, low CIA values, low Rb/Sr ratios, low Th/U ratios and the mineralogical features suggest weak chemical weathering of the source rocks; the geochemical patterns of the pyroclastic rocks might not only have been impacted by crustal contamination but also might be related to the nature of the magma from the source area. The geochemical properties of the pyroclastic rocks distinguish them from arc‐related ones, and such samples plot in the within‐plate basalt (WPB) field in some diagrams. This is consistent with the formation background of the Early Permian volcanic rocks in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper investigates the mineralogy of coal and non-coal samples from the Haerjiao exploration area in the Jimunai depression, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, northwestern China, using X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM-EDX). The minerals in the anthracite proximal to the igneous intrusions are represented by the occurrence of chlorite, muscovite, and illite, which are absent in the semianthracite distal to the igneous intrusions. Kaolinite, the dominant mineral in the semianthracite, decreases in abundance or even disappears in the anthracite. Muscovite and illite in the anthracite are interpreted to result from the alteration of the kaolinite precursor and possibly formed by the interaction of kaolinite and elements (e.g., K, Fe, and Mg) from igneous hydrothermal solutions. The formation of chlorite is the result of the transformation of kaolinite due to the interaction of kaolinite with Fe-Mg-rich solutions during the diagenetic stage and the direct epigenetic precipitation from Fe-Mg-rich igneous siliceous hydrothermal fluids. Calcite, ankerite, and sulfide minerals resulted from epigenetic precipitation from hydrothermal fluids. Cleat/fracture mineralization indicates that the Fe-Mg-rich hydrothermal fluid from which chlorite precipitated was introduced earlier than the Ca-rich fluid from which calcite precipitated. The injection of hydrothermal solutions that formed sulfide minerals occurred at the latest stage. Highlights • Igneous intrusions cause variations of coal rank and minerals. • Chlorite was formed by the transformation of kaolinite and direct precipitation from hydrothermal fluids. • Calcite and sulfides are mainly formed by the epigenetic solution precipitation. • Fe-Mg-rich hydrothermal fluid was earlier introduced than Ca-rich fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coalbed methane (CBM) resources in No.15 coal seam of Taiyuan Formation account for 55% of the total CBM resources in southern Qinshui Basin (SQB), and have a great production potential. This study aims at investigating the CBM production in No.15 coal seam and its influence factors. Based on a series of laboratory experiments and latest exploration and development data from local coal mines and CBM companies, the spatial characteristics of gas production of No.15 coal seam were analyzed and then the influences of seven factors on the gas productivity of this coal seam were discussed, including coal thickness, burial depth, gas content, ratio of critical desorption pressure to original coal reservoir pressure (RCPOP), porosity, permeability, and hydrogeological condition. The influences of hydrological condition on CBM production were analyzed based on the discussions of four aspects: hydrogeochemistry, roof lithology and its distribution, hydrodynamic field of groundwater, and recharge rate of groundwater. Finally, a three‐level analytic hierarchy process (AHP) evaluation model was proposed for predicting the CBM potentials of the No.15 coal seam in the SQB. The best prospective target area for CBM production of the No.15 coal seam is predicted to be in the districts of Panzhuang, Chengzhuang and south of Hudi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research focuses on the potential use of fly ash (WAf) from a Chinese pulverized-coal combustion (PCC) power plant for manufacturing foam glass. The influences of fly ash properties, fly ash/recycled glass proportion in the raw materials, addition of fluxing and foaming agent, firing temperature, and residence time at the peak temperature on the final properties (apparent density, compressing strength and leachable potential of major and trace elements) of the foam specimens are investigated. The optimal foaming products were obtained consuming up to 33.3–43.3% fly ash, adding 9–11% Na 2 CO 3 fluxing agent and 0.5% SiC foaming agent, firing at 865–915 °C during 15 min residence time at the peak temperature. The obtained fly ash-based product revealed comparable compressive strength but slightly higher densities than commercial foam glass, with low CO 2 emissions and low leachable potential for environmentally relevant trace elements within the limits for inert/no-hazardous material established by the European Council Decision 2003/33/EC for land waste disposal. The large porosity of the foam glass indicates a high potential of thermal and acoustic insulation. The foaming behavior and the final properties the foam glass are strongly influenced by properties of fly ash (mainly fluxing temperature and organic C content), fly ash/recycled glass proportion in the raw materials, addition of Na 2 CO 3 fluxing agent and SiC foaming agent, firing temperature, and residence time at the peak temperature. The low C content and high refractory character of WAf give rise to poor foaming of the specimens when only fly ash and Na 2 CO 3 mixtures are used. The consumption of relatively high proportions of recycled glass and SiC is essential to produce foaming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the continuous high demand for energy, huge amounts of coals are consumed every year in China, giving rise to large volumes of coal combustion products (CCPs) from coal-fired power plants. Fly ash (FA), bottom ash (BA), boiler slag (BS), and flue gas desulphurization (FGD) gypsum are the primary CCPs generated. The disposal of these CCPs may occupy large areas of useful cultivated land, and cause serious environmental problems. However, these products might be also utilized as recoverable resources. Therefore, it is of economic and environmental significance to carry out research on the utilization of these CCPs. The present review first describes the physicochemical, mineralogical, and environmental geochemical properties of FA, slag, and FGD gypsum. Then the authors focus on the current and potential high value-added applications for these products in China. The utilization of FA for concrete and cement, soil amendment and fertilizer, in the ceramic industry, for catalysis, as adsorbents for the removal of flue gas, heavy metals, dyes and organic compounds, for zeolite and geopolymer synthesis, for recovery of valuable metals, and for recovery of unburned carbon and cenospheres, is discussed. The utilization of slag, such as reclamation of the burnable carbon, use in concrete, cement, and building materials, for roadway pavement and waste-water treatment, and for the production of acoustic barriers is reviewed as well. The current utilization of FGD gypsum includes use as a cement retarder, for the production of building plaster (β-hemihydrated gypsum) and calcium sulphate whiskers (α-hemihydrated gypsum), the production of fire-resistant panels, and use as a fertilizer and soil amendment agent. Furthermore, the possible influence of CCP properties on their utilization, and the advantages and disadvantages of various applications are discussed in this review. Finally, new directions for the future utilization prospects of CCPs in China are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the mineralogy and geochemistry of four coal beds (WJB-6, WJB-7, FHS-23 and FHS-27 Coals) of the Late Permian in the Zhina Coalfield, western Guizhou Province, China. The investigated coals reach the semianthracite -anthracite coal rank and have super-low to low ash yields. The sulfur contents vary considerably through coal sections and are mostly in the range of medium-high sulfur coal. The mineral assemblage present in the FHS-23 and FHS-27 Coals is mainly made up of pyrite and rectorite; the WJB-6 and WJB-7 Coals have different mineralogy, with kaolinite and rectorite dominant in the former as well as quartz and rectorite in the latter. These coals contain high concentrations of Nb and Ta, but Li is only enriched in the WJB-6 Coal. Rectorite and anatase in these coals are important hosting phases of Nb and Ta while kaolinite, and to a lesser extent chamosite in the WJB-6 Coal, are dominant carriers for the elevated Li concentration. The terrigenous material input, the marine influence and the effect of circulating hydrothermal solution are the pivotal geological factors causing geochemical anomalies in coals investigated. The high-sulfur coals were subjected to an enhanced marine influence in the depositional environment, as well as to a higher terrigenous influx, when compared with the medium-sulfur and low-sulfur coals, resulting in higher concentrations of S-Fe-As-Mo-U-Hg in the former coals than in the latter ones. The anomalous enrichment of Nb and Ta in these coals, as well as of Li in the WJB-6 Coal, is the result of the contributions from ascending hydrothermal solutions, although source rocks (e.g., high-Ti basalt) may provide relatively high background abundances of Nb, Ta and Li. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coals from the Jungar Coalfield, Inner Mongolia, China, have been found to be enriched in Ga and Li. These are valuable metals that are potentially recoverable from coals and/or coal combustion residues. Based on fifteen roof/floor/parting samples collected from one borehole and one hundred and forty one bulk coal samples collected from three boreholes in the Buertaohai-Tianjiashipan coal mining district, Jungar Coalfield, this paper reports new data on the mineral compositions and geochemical characteristics of the Jungar Li-Ga-rich coals, and provides new evidence for the origin and mode of occurrence of Al, Ga and Li in these coals. The main mineral phases occurring in the coals are kaolinite, boehmite, calcite, with small proportions of quartz, pyrite, ankerite, siderite, and trace amounts of microcline and rectorite. An unusual mineral phase, svanbergite (SrAl 3 (PO 4 )(SO 4 )(OH) 6 ) also occurs as a main mineral constituent in the studied coals. The mineral phases in the roof/floor/parting samples are dominantly kaolinite, with a small proportion of quartz. Kaolinite is of both terrigenous and authigenic origin, which were possibly derived from terrigenous Yinshan Oldland sediment-source region and/or from recrystallization during the coal formation process. Boehmite and svanbergite are primarily of authigenic origin, and were dominantly derived from the weathered bauxite sediment-source region. Calcite may have formed by dissolution of limestone layers close to the margin of coal basin and subsequent deposition of the Ca or Mg-rich carbonates in the cells/fractures of the coal seams. Sulfide minerals in fractures may have been precipitated from epithermal fluids. Rectorite was probably formed by the reaction of kaolinite with epigenetic low-temperature hydrothermal fluids during diagenesis. Compared to common Chinese and worldwide coals, the studied Jungar coals are much more enriched in Al (4.4–6.1%), Li (70–79 mg/kg), and Ga (14–19 mg/kg). Titanium, P, Sr, Zr, Nb, Th, Ta, Hf, and rare earth elements (REEs) are also enriched in the studied coals to some extent. Aluminum in the coals mainly occurs in the form of kaolinite and boehmite, whereas, lithium may be associated with aluminosilicate minerals (kaolinite and illite if present) as well as svanbergite. Gallium principally occurs in kaolinite, and to a lesser extent, svanbergite. Strontium, P, and LREEs (La, Ce, and Rr, Nd and Sm) mainly present in svanbergite. The source of Li and Ga in Jungar coals is most likely from the Yinshan Oldland region, but there is also a possibility of migration from bauxite of the Benxi formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the mineralogical and geochemical compositions of the Late Permian coals in the Liulong Mine, Liuzhi Coalfield, Western Guizhou Province, China, by using XRD, SEM-EDX, ICP-AES and ICP-MS. Both the No.3 and No.7 Coals are classified as low volatile bituminous coal. However, the No.3 Coal is a medium-ash (29.8% on average) and high-sulfur (4.76% on average) coal while the No.7 Coal is a low-ash (12.4% on average) and medium-sulfur (2.16% on average) coal. Major minerals in both coal seams include quartz, pyrite, marcasite, kaolinite, calcite, and to a lesser extent, gypsum and anatase. Illite, chlorite, rectorite, albite, ankerite and siderotil are only present in the No.3 Coal. The No.3 Coal contains higher elemental concentrations than the No.7 Coal probably due to the higher mineral contents in the No.3 Coal, and is enriched in Nb and Ta, and to a lesser extent in K, Ti, Li, V, Co, Cu, Sr, Zr, Mo and Ba. The mineralogical and geochemical data presented in this study have shown that the No.3 Coal was formed under a higher degree of marine-influenced coal-forming environment than the No.7 Coal. However, the both Coals have the Kangdian Upland (made of mafic igneous rocks, such as basalt rocks) as sediment-source region like other coals from Guizhou Province. Three geological factors control the geochemical patterns of the No.3 and No.7 Coals, namely: (1) the high detrital input in the No.3 Coal causing high ash yields; (2) the sediment-source region (Kangdian Upland basalt) causing high Ti, Nb and Ta contents, and a minor proportion of Co, Cr, V and Cu, when combined with the high detrital input in the No.3 Coal; (3) the higher degree of marine influenced depositional environment in the No.3 Coal causing a high S, Sr and Ba contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates the geochemical characteristics of the flue gas desulfurization gypsum (FGD Gp) generated from a pulverized-coal combustion (PCC) power plant in Xinjiang, Northwest China, with special emphasis on manufacturing fire-resistant panels using this FGD Gp as well as the fly ash collected from the same power plant. The physical, mechanical and insulating properties of the manufactured panels are also determined. The FGD Gp is characterized by low trace element concentration and low leachable potential for environment-concerned trace elements, indicating it can be reused with low environmental implication. Fire-resistant panels were successfully made from pure FGD Gp, pure commercial gypsum (CGp) and different FGD Gp/fly ash and CGp/fly ash mixtures. With the same gypsum/fly ash proportion, the FGD Gp/fly ash panels present relatively lower density, lower water absorption and lower mechanical strength, but higher moisture contents and better insulating capacities than the CGp/fly ash panels. The pure FGD Gp panel presents the best insulating capacity (52 min), much higher than that of the pure CGp panel (42.8 min). The mechanical and insulating properties of the panels are reduced with the increasing of fly ash proportion in the mixtures, but even prepared with 80% fly ash, the manufactured panels can still be used as benign fire-resistant panels with no significantly physico-chemical, and mechanical limitations. Therefore, manufacture of fire-resistant panels from FGD-Gp and fly ash is a very promising application for these coal combustion by-products which are substantially being generated in large amounts from Xinjiang power plants. The manufactured fire-resistant panels can be used in large amount as insulating construction and building materials with low environmental implication and high economic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative potential (OP) is considered to be an efficient indicator of particulate matter (PM) to induce oxidative stress in the lungs and is increasingly considered to be a relevant health metric. In this study, two complementary OP assays were deployed, including dithiothreitol (DTT) and ascorbic acid (AA) assays, to investigate the potential toxicity (as generators of oxidative stress) of respirable fractions (DD4, < 4 μm) of deposited dust (DD500, < 500 μm) in underground low-S and low-pyrite coal mines in Henan Province, Central China. The OPDTT of DD4 is higher than that reported for other types of atmospheric PM, whereas the OPAA of DD4 is similar and/or slightly higher. Cross-correlation and multilinear regression analyses are applied using datasets of major mineral and geochemical patterns in the DD4 samples and the respective OP values to identify the major drivers for OP in respirable coal dust. Thereafter, the patterns of DD4 are compared with those of DD500 and the parent coals to determine the sources of OP-relevant substances. OPDTT is mainly governed by some trace elements (Sb, As, Li, B, Sr, and Pb) and minor minerals (anatase, quartz, siderite), and their synergistic effect may be one of the reasons for the high DTT consumption. For OPAA, quartz, total clay (sum of illite, kaolinite, tobelite, and clinochlore) and Ni, Cr, Co, Si, and S, play an important role in regulating the OPAA of pyrite-free DD4 samples. These OP-relevant substances have three sources: coal dust, which has a similar composition in DD4, DD500, and the parent coal (such as siderite and its associated elements); gangue dust, which does not occur in the parent coal but is widely detected in DD4 and DD500 (such as quartz, kaolinite, and relevant elements); and cement dust (from gunite galleries), which is mainly calcite- and calcite-associated elements. • A study of the mineralogy, geochemistry and OP of deposited dust, respirable dust and coal in underground coal mines. • OPDTT of size-segregated respirable dust (DD4) is mainly governed by anatase, siderite, quartz, and Sb, As, Li, B, Sr, Pb. • OPAA of DD4 is regulated by anatase, tobelite, kaolinite, and total clay, as well as Ni, Cr, Co, Si, and S. • The parent coal dust, gangue dust, and cement dust are the primarily source of these hazardous materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study summarizes the results of geological, petrographical, geochemical, and mineralogical analyses performed to determine the geological controls on coal quality of the Yili Basin in Xinjiang province, northwest China. Forty-eight coal samples were collected from boreholes Q12ZK01 and Z40ZK1, and Piliqing and Musixiang coal mines. The difference in base subsidence rate between the coal-bearing strata Badaowan and the Xishanyao Formations determines these differences of depositional environments, swamp groundwater table, and degree of terrigenous supply. These factors may further cause the difference in coal quality. The vitrinite contents, ash yields, volatile matter yields, total mineral contents, and most element contents are higher in coals of the Badaowan Formation from the Q12ZK01 and the Musixiang mine than those of the Xishanyao Formation from the Piliqing mine and the Z40ZK1. The high volatile matter yields of the coals in the Badaowan Formation, relative to those in the Xishanyao Formation, may be due to higher content of vitrinite that contains more volatile matters. In comparison with the average concentrations for Chinese and worldwide coals, the Yili coals are enriched mainly in Ca, Na, Mg, Mn, Co, Sr, Ba, and W, but the other elements are depleted in the Yili coals. Elements including Si, Al, K, Li, Ti, Cr, Cu, Rb, Zr, Pb, and some REE (La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm) are predominantly associated with aluminosilicate minerals. Iron, Mg, and Mn in the coals of the Musixiang mine and Z40ZK1 are associated mainly with carbonate minerals. Sulfur, Co, and Ni in the Musixiang mine coals, and B in the coals of Q12ZK01 and the Z40ZK1 mainly show an organic affinity. Sodium in the Musixiang mine coals may occur in the brines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study systematically investigates the mineralogical and geochemical variations in parent coal, coal gangue (roof, parting, and floor), deposited coal mine dust (DD), and respirable fractions of DD (RD) in an underground coal mine using the blasting mining method in China to evaluate the major sources of DD. The emission of dust in this study is affected by coal gangue sources during the mining process, which causes different geochemical patterns in the DD samples. Moreover, weathering of the cement gunite walls plays an important role in the enrichment of specific elements in the DD from air uptake and air out galleries. Furthermore, the spatial variation in RD characteristics, including mineralogy, geochemistry, and oxidative potential (OP), is discussed, with emphasis on the major health-relevant species and elements. Organic species from coal dust seem to be the essential components contributing to OP rather than metals, although some metals (e.g., Cr, Co, Ge, Se, Zn, Ba, Rb, Cs, Sn, and Pb) influence OP to some degree. [Display omitted] • Deposited coal mine dust, parent coal, and gangue in an underground coal mine using blasting mining method were studied. • Gangue and cement dust mixed into coal dust result in the enrichment of abundant elements. • The primary species driving the oxidative potential are site-dependent. • Organic species, quartz, calcite, and Cr, Co, Ge, Zn, Ba, Rb are highly correlated with toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential utilization of boiler slag generated in large amounts from pulverized-coal-combustion (PCC) power plants has recently drawn much attention due to the serious problems caused to ecosystems. In order to make maximal use of the boiler slag and reduce the environmental risk it poses, this study focused on manufacturing acoustic materials using boiler slag from Chinese PCC power plants. Three promising acoustic materials were successfully manufactured from up to 80% boiler slag with different grain sizes, with the addition of 20% Portland cement. The density and compressive strength of the products were inversely proportional and the sound absorption coefficient was positively proportional to the grain size of the boiler slag. The best sound absorption coefficient was obtained in products made from the coarsest fraction of the boiler slag (MS-C). Nonetheless, all the boiler-slag-based acoustic products still demonstrated compressive strength and densities comparable to those of other acoustic materials made of Spanish bottom ash or other conventional/recycled materials. The acoustic products made from the coarsest fraction (MS-C) and medium fraction (MS-M) of the boiler slag presented good noise absorption characteristics, like those of the commercial coarse porous cement that is traditionally used as an acoustic product. Furthermore, the acoustic products were characterized by very low leach ability of potentially hazardous elements. Consequently, the manufacture of acoustic materials is a very promising application for boiler slag. On the one hand, it consumes huge amounts of boiler slag that is generated in large amounts in China. On the other hand, the acoustic products can be used extensively to produce road acoustic barriers with a high sound absorption efficiency, no significant physical or mechanical limitations and no environmental implication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abnormal enrichment of the REY (rare earth elements and yttrium)-Zr (Hf)-Nb (Ta) assemblage in Late Permian coals occurring in some coalfields in SW China has been extensively investigated, but the geological controlling factors of this assemblage are still under debate. This study reports on the mineralogical and geochemical features of coals and noncoal rocks collected from the Yudai and Jinqi coal mines within the Qiandongbei Coalfield in Guizhou Province to elucidate the geological controls on the distribution of REY-Zr (Hf)-Nb (Ta) enrichment horizons. The studied coals show rather consistent clay mineral assemblage of kaolinite, together with varying amounts of quartz, gypsum, pyrite, and calcite. Notably, the coals are anomalously enriched in REY, Nb, Ta, Zr, and Hf and enriched in other incompatible elements (e.g., Ga, Th, and U). Phosphates (e.g., florencite) and, to a lesser extent, zircon are the primary carriers of REY. Zirconium and Hf are mainly incorporated into zircon and then anatase, the latter of which is a predominant carrier of Nb and Ta. The detrital materials originate from a mixture of the erupted felsic volcanic ash resembling a peralkaline rhyolite composition and the eroded materials of Emeishan Large Igneous Province (ELIP) basalts. The studied coals owe their highly enhanced concentrations of the REY-Zr (Hf)-Nb (Ta) assemblage to the input of felsic volcanic ash, wherein the highly acidic aqueous solutions allowed these elements to become mobile and be redistributed. Both geological processes governed the distribution of REY-Zr (Hf)-Nb (Ta) enrichment horizons. The highly acidic solutions were possibly derived from the oxidation of peat bogs and volcanism-related acidic rain. The concentrations of REY, Zr, and Nb in the coal ashes exceed their corresponding cut-off grades; thus, these coals can be considered highly promising raw material sources for the REY-Zr (Hf)-Nb (Ta) assemblage. • The studied coals are significantly enriched in REY-Zr (Hf)-Nb (Ta) assemblage. • Detrital materials are derived from a mixture of felsic volcanic ash and eroded mafic materials. • The joint influence of highly acidic solutions and volcanism governs the REY-Zr (Hf)-Nb (Ta) enrichment horizons. • The volcanic ash erupted into peat bogs is geochemically similar to the peralkaline rhyolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of coals provide crucial information on their potential clean, efficient, and integrated utilization. In this paper, the mineralogical and geochemical behaviors of the No. 5 coals of the Taiyuan Formation in the Weibei Coalfield, North China, were investigated, and their geological controlling factors were subsequently discussed. The minerals in the Weibei coals mainly consist of kaolinite (8.3%), calcite (5.0%), and pyrite (3.1%), with minor proportions of tobelite (2.9%), dolomite (1.7%), quartz (1.8%), and traces of siderite (0.4%) and gypsum (0.6%). Several critical elements, including Nb (19.8 mg/kg), Ta (3.6 mg/kg), Zr (71.0 mg/kg) and Li (32.3 mg/kg), occur at concentrations higher than those averages for world hard coals, making the Weibei coals potential sources of these critical elements. Several factors, terrigenous material, seawater invasion, and hydrothermal fluids are responsible for these mineralogical and geochemical characteristics. The L-type rare earth elements and yttrium (REE-Y) enrichment in the roofs and partings, Al2O3-TiO2 and Zr/TiO2-Nb/Y plots, and negative Eu and weak negative Ce anomalies in the Weibei coals indicate a felsic-intermediate dominated sediment provenance primarily derived from the Qilian-Qinling Oldland on the South. Marine bioclastic limestone, negative Ce and positive Y anomalies in coals imply the influence of seawater on the Weibei coals. Last but not least, the cleat-infilling and/or fracture-infilling calcite, pyrite, barite, and tobelite as well as the positive Eu and Gd anomalies, H-type, and M-type REE-Y enrichment patterns suggest the influence of hydrothermal fluids, which lead to re-distribution of some critical elements from roof and parting to the underlying coal seam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal as the source of critical elements has attracted much attention and the enrichment mechanisms are of significant importance. This paper has an opportunity to investigate the mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the Permian and Jurassic bituminous coals and associated non-coals from two underground coal mines in the Shanbei Coalfield (Northeast Ordos basin), Shaanxi Province, North China, based on the analysis of X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma atomic-emission spectrometry (ICP-AES/MS), and scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The Jurassic and Permian coals have similar chemical features excluding ash yield, which is significantly higher in the Permian coals. Major mineral matters in the Jurassic coals are quartz, kaolinite, and calcite. By contrast, mineral assemblages of the Permian coals are dominated by kaolinite; and apatite occurring in the middle section's partings. The Jurassic coals are only enriched in B, whereas the Permian coals are enriched in some trace elements (e.g., Nb, Ta, Th, and REY). Boron has a mixed inorganic and organic association which may be absorbed by organic matter from fluid (or groundwater) or inherited from coal-forming plants. Additionally, climatic variation also plays an important role. As for the Permian coals, kaolinite and apatite as the major carriers of elevated elements; the former were derived from the sedimentary source region (the Yinshan Oldland and the Benxi formation) and later precipitated from Ca-, and P-rich solutions. We deduced that those elevated elements may be controlled by the source rock and diagenetic fluid input. The findings of this work offered new data to figure out the mechanism of trace element enrichment of coal in the Ordos basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous investigations on major and trace elements within the Early Permian coals from Xinjiang Province are very scarce. This paper reports on the geochemistry of the Early Permian coals and associated non-coal rocks in the Jimunai depression, Xinjiang Province, northwestern China. Samples collected from coal exploration boreholes ZK2603, ZK3003, and ZKH1102 as well as the Haerjiao underground coal mine (Nos. HRJ-7 and HRJ-9 Coals) in the Jimunai Depression were analyzed using SEM-EDS, ICP-AES, and ICP-MS. These Early Permian coals reach the rank of semi-anthracite to anthracite and have low-sulfur contents (0.30% on average). In comparison with the average element concentrations of world coals, Zr, Hf, and rare earth elements and Y (REY) are slightly enriched (concentration coefficient (CC) = 2–5, as the ratio of element content in sample vs. that in world coals) and Mn is enriched (CC = 5–10) in the ZK2603, ZK3003, and ZKH1102 coals. Niobium and Ta are highly enriched in the ZK2603 and ZK3003 coals (CC = 10–100). The HRJ-7 and HRJ-9 coals are slightly enriched in Mn (CC = 2–5). The coals have a sediment source region mainly composed of intermediate-felsic compositions from the Saur Volcanic Arc to the south of the Jimunai Depression, which may have provided relatively high geochemical background concentrations of Zr, Hf, Nb, and Ta. Manganese is hosted mainly in ankerite that was derived from epigenetic precipitation from Mn-bearing hydrothermal fluids. Zirconium and Hf in the ZK2603, ZK3003, and ZKH1102 coals are controlled primarily by detrital matter or hydrothermal fluids, the latter of which results in the higher Zr/Hf ratio in the ZK2603 and ZK3003 coals due to the re-distribution of Zr and Hf. Niobium and Ta in the ZK2603 and ZK3003 coals are concentrated chiefly in zircon, and hydrothermal fluid activity caused the release of Nb and Ta from previously-existing inorganic constituents and subsequent incorporation into zircon, resulting in the lower Nb/Ta ratio due to Ta being more easily incorporated into zircon than Nb. REY are hosted primarily within multiple mineral phases (e.g., zircon, phosphates, anatase, clay minerals) and their enrichment results from a combination of detrital matter input and hydrothermal fluid influx, the former of which is evidenced by the occurrence of REY-bearing detrital zircon and anatase, and the latter of which is indicated by the existence of REY-bearing authigenic rhabdophane and anatase and corroded anatase particles, as well as by the positive Gd anomalies and MREY-type or HREY-type REY distribution patterns. • The elevated Zr, Hf, Nb, and Ta are hosted mainly in zircon. • Hydrothermal fluid causes redistribution of Zr, Hf, Nb, Ta, and REY. • The enhanced Mn concentration was derived from epigenetic hydrothermal solution. • Terrigenous material and hydrothermal activity contribute to geochemical anomaly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brittle minerals, especially quartz, play an important role in the quality of shale reservoir. The precipitation of authigenic quartz caused a significant change in the rock stiffness and porosity. However, the formation mechanism of authigenic quartz in shale is still unclear. Lower Cambrian Niutitang shale from Guchengcun outcrop has been examined with respect to quartz cement. Four different types of quartz have been identified using SEM/CL/EDS. Type 1 occurs as angular to sub-rounded silt-size quartz grains with uniform luminescence, indicative of detrital origin. Type 2 appears as relatively large quartz aggregates approximately 30–150 μm in size, which is composed of small quartz grains (1–3 μm) and abundant in siliceous shale. The petrological evidence and consideration of potential diagenetic process suggest that Type 2 quartz was formed by local re-crystallization of biogenic silica in syndiagenesis and preferentially precipitated in the axial cavities of sponge spicules. Type 3 occurs as quartz overgrowths that are essentially non-luminescent at the periphery of high luminescence detrital quartz grains. This type quartz is present in most investigated samples. Type 4 represents microcrystalline quartz embedded in the illitized clay matrix as discrete, short chains or small clusters/nests and they are most commonly observed in argillaceous shale. The petrological evidence and CL responses indicate that both Type 3 and Type 4 quartz are derived from precipitation of silica released during the smectite to illite dissolution–precipitation reaction. S-I transition can be driven by microbial metabolic processes in shallow buried diagenesis or by heat and pressure in late diagenesis. Some of Type 4 quartz may be originated from low-temperature microbial pathway in shallow buried diagenesis, while Type 3 quartz and the remaining Type 4 quartz were formed in late diagenesis. Siliceous shale contains less abundant detrital quartz than argillaceous shale, indicating that siliceous shale was deposited in deeper water and far from terrigenous input than argillaceous shale. Although identifying the exact cause for diagenetic silica deposition in shale is not a trivial matter, its recognition is important for the reconstruction of the depositional history of shale sequences and understanding the role of diagenesis in shale reservoirs development, moreover, it also has great potential for enhancing prediction of mechanical rock properties in shales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukemia stem cells (LSCs) constitute the critical barrier to the cure of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) due to their chemoresistance and immune evasion property. Herein, the role of anlotinib, a multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in killing LSCs and regulating chemoresistance and immune evasion was explored. Anlotinib treatment induced apoptosis of LSC-like cells as well as primary AML LSCs, while sparing the normal mononuclear cells in vitro. Moreover, anlotinib could impair the regeneration capacity of LSCs in the patient-derived leukemia xenograft mouse model. Mechanistically, anlotinib inhibited phosphorylation of c-kit, JAK2/STAT3, and STAT5, and downregulated STAT3 and STAT5 expression. In addition, anlotinib downregulated the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, and upregulated Bax, thereby enhancing the sensitivity of LSCs to idarubicin in vitro. Intriguingly, anlotinib could also partially rescue the interferon-g production of T cells cocultured with LSCs by downregulating PD-L1 expression. In conclusion, anlotinib showed anti-LSC activity and the potential to enhance the sensitivity to idarubicin and inhibit the immunosuppressive feature of LSCs via JAK2/STAT signaling pathway downregulation in the preclinical study. Our results provided a rational basis for combinatory strategies involving anlotinib and chemotherapy or immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anomalous enrichment of the rare earth elements and yttrium (REY), U, Mo, As, Se, and V in the coal-bearing intervals intercalated within the carbonate successions in South China has attracted much attention due to the highly promising recovery potential for these elements. This study investigates the mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the late Permian coal-bearing intervals (layers A–F) intercalated in marine carbonate strata in the Xian'an Coalfield in Guangxi Province to elucidate the mode of occurrence and enrichment process of highly elevated elements. There are two mineralogical assemblages, including quartz-albite-kaolinite-carbonates assemblage in layers D–F and quartz-illite-kaolinite-carbonates assemblage in layers A–C. Compared to the upper continental crust composition (UCC), the REY, U, Mo, As, Se, and V are predominantly enriched in layers A and B, of which layer A displays the REY–V–Se–As assemblage while layer B shows the Mo–U–V assemblage. The elevated REY contents in layer B are primarily hosted by clay minerals, zircon, and monazite; Mo, U, and V show organic association; and As and Se primarily display Fe-sulfide association. Three geological factors are most likely responsible for geochemical anomaly: (1) the more intensive seawater invasion gives rise to higher sulfur, Co, Ni, As, and Se contents, as well as higher Sr/Ba ratio in layers A–C than in layers D–F; (2) both the input of alkaline pyroclastic materials and the solution/rock interaction jointly govern the anomalous enrichment of REY; and (3) the influx of syngenetic or early diagenetic hydrothermal fluids is the predominant source of U, Mo, V, Se, and As. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The late Triassic coals from, Northeastern Vietnam were formed in limnic sedimentary environment. • Coals from the Coc Sau open-pit mine in Cam Pha Coalfield are promising economic source of critical elements (Rb and Cs). • High enriched Rb and Cs in the Coc Sau coals most likely occur in K-rich clay minerals, e.g., muscovite. • Rb and Cs enrichment are originated from terrigenous influx from felsic-intermediate sediment provenance. The current study investigates the mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the Late Triassic coals from the Coc Sau open-pit mine, Cam Pha Coalfield (Quang Ninh Province, Northeastern Vietnam) using Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), inductively coupled plasma atomic-emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Coals from Coc Sau open-pit mine are characterized by medium ash yield (avg. 29.7%), low sulfur content (avg. 0.17%), and low moisture content (avg. 1.8%). The volatile matter content (avg. 8.4%) indicates a semianthracite rank. The crystalline phases identified in Coc Sau coals and host rocks (roof, floor, parting) are primarily quartz, kaolinite and muscovite, with small proportions of ankerite, clinochlore, anatase, calcite, and tobelite. Illite, pyrite, and siderite were occasionally detected in individual samples. In addition, several minerals below the XRD detection limit, such as barite, apatite, zircon, xenotime, and florencite were observed by SEM. The low sulfur concentrations, low Sr/Ba ratio and relatively high ash yield of these coals indicate a continental lake basin sedimentary environment with a relatively strong supply of terrigenous detritus. Quartz, kaolinite, and muscovite were most likely derived from the terrigenous source region surrounding the basin, and the other minerals are mainly of authigenic origin. Relative to worldwide coals, the Coc Sau coals and host rocks are highly enriched in Rb and Cs, which can be a potential source for Rb and Cs recovery during coal utilization and combustion. Rubidium and Cs enriched in the coals are positively correlated with Al and K, indicating that they most likely occur in potassium-rich clay minerals (e.g., muscovite), and originate from weathered felsic terrigenous detritus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shaanxi is among the provinces with abundant coal resources in North China. These enormous coal resources (approx. 4143 Gt) are widely distributed in the Ordos Basin and its marginal fold belts. The main coal-bearing strata consist of the late Carboniferous Taiyuan Formation, the early Permain Shanxi Formation, the late Triassic Wayaobao Formation, and the middle Jurassic Yan'an Formation, which were respectively deposited in coastal plains and a lagoon environment, a continental environment, an inland open lake and a confined lake environment. The Permo-Carboniferous coals are low volatile bituminous and characterized by relatively high vitrinite content, which decreases from south to north, and from the lower coal seams upwards. By contrast, the late Triassic and middle Jurassic coals are highly volatile bituminous, but are respectively characterized by relatively high vitrinite and high inertinite content. Minerals in the Permo-Carboniferous coals, the late Triassic coals, and the middle Jurassic coals, are respectively dominated by kaolinite and calcite, quartz and kaolinite, and quartz and calcite. Furthermore, contemporary coals deposited in different coal fields or even different mines of the same coal field present different mineral characteristics. The Permain Shanxi Formation coals from the Shanbei C-P coalfield in the north of Shaanxi Province are characterized by higher kaolinite and lower carbonate contents compared to those from the Weibei C-P coalfield in the south of Shaanxi Province. The distinctive mineralogical characteristics of coals formed in different coalfields and different geological ages were ascribed to integrated influences of different terrigenous detrital input from sediment provenance, sedimentary settings (e.g., subsidence rate, sea transgression, and regression process), and hydrothermal activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common opportunistic pathogen that causes infections in vulnerable patients including those with metabolic disorders, hematologic diseases, and malignancies, and in those who have undergone surgery. In addition, P. aeruginosa exhibits high intrinsic resistance to numerous antibiotics and tends to form biofilms rendering it even more refractory to treatment. Among the mechanisms used by P. aeruginosa to adapt to environmental stresses are those involving small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs), which are 40–500 nucleotides long and are ubiquitous in bacteria. sRNAs play important regulatory roles in various vital processes in diverse bacteria, with their quantity and diversity of regulatory functions exceeding those of proteins. In this study, we show that deletion of the sRNA, rgsA, decreased the growth rate of P. aeruginosa. Furthermore, ΔrgsA P. aeruginosa exhibited decreased ability to resist the stress induced by exposure to different concentrations and durations of peroxides in both planktonic and biofilm growth modes compared with the wild-type strain. These results highlight the role of rgsA in the defense of P. aeruginosa against oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The highly elevated concentrations of the rare earth elements and yttrium (REY), U, Mo, Se, and Pb in late Permian coals in some coalfields in Guangxi Province, South China, have been widely investigated; however, the mode of occurrence and enrichment mechanism of these critical elements are still under debate. This study investigates the mineralogical and geochemical compositions of coals and non-coal rocks from the Xian'an Coalfield in Guangxi Province to discuss the geological factors influencing the distribution of critical elements. The mineral in the studied coals consists mainly of quartz, and to a lesser extent, muscovite and kaolinite, with a trace amount of anatase. The coals are significantly enriched in REY, Pb, Se, Mo, and U and display the REY–U–Se–Mo–Pb-enrichment horizon (Horizon I) and U–Mo-enrichment horizon (Horizon II) adjacent to the host rocks or partings. The REY, U, Se, and Pb show organic association while Mo is primarily hosted by Fe-sulfides within Horizon I. The U and Mo have a phosphate affinity within Horizon II. Both the input of pyroclastic and epiclastic materials and the leaching of acidic solutions jointly govern the distribution of the REY–U–Se–Mo–Pb-enrichment horizon (Horizon I) and the U–Mo-enrichment horizon (Horizon II). The concentrations of REY in Horizon I exceed the cutoff grade of REY, and, therefore, the coals in the Horizon I can be regarded as promising raw materials of REY. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mathematical models for pore pressure and in situ stress prediction were proposed. • The stress regime varies from reverse to normal faulting with increasing depth. • Deep coals retain a high differential stress and are relatively hard. • The influence of thrusting on the in situ stress diminishes with increasing depth. The southern Junggar Basin hosts abundant coalbed methane (CBM) resources and is expected to be an important CBM production base in China. The pore pressure and in situ stress are key factors that influence the exploration and development of CBM; however, these factors are poorly understood in this area. Based on extended leak-off test data, mathematical models were established for pore pressure and in situ stress prediction using regression analysis. Subsequently, the correlations between the pore pressure, in situ stress, and permeability were analyzed, and the stress ratios were investigated. Finally, the forming mechanism of stress zonation in the study area was discussed. The results show that CBM reservoirs are generally underpressured and partly overpressured at depths greater than 800 m in the study area. The study area is characterized by notable stress zoning. The stress regime varies from reverse to strike-slip to normal faulting with increasing depth. Significantly positive correlations exist between the pore pressure, maximum principal stress, minimum principal stress, vertical stress, and principal stress difference. The minimum horizontal stress is approximately 70% of the vertical stress in the study area. A mud weight window, varying from the pore pressure to the most likely breakdown pressure, is suggested. At depths greater than 600 m, a relatively high principal stress difference is observed, which indicates that deep coals have a relatively high mechanical strength and their permeability can be enhanced by hydraulic fracturing. The depth-dependent stress zonation is mainly due to the influence of thrusting on the in situ stress, which diminishes with increasing depth. The compressional stress regime in the shallow area benefits the sealing of faults and the preservation of CBM resources in the study area. The deep CBM resources have a development potential. The outcomes of this study contribute to the CBM exploration and development in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of feed coals and coal combustion products (CCPs) from the Shenhuo and Yihua Power Plants in Xinjiang Autonomous Region, were studied by means of proximate analysis, Power X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray analyzer (SEM-EDX), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-MS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-AES). The environmental geochemistry of CCPs was evaluated by Al-normalized enrichment factor as well as European Standard EN-12457 leaching test. Two feed coals have the characteristics of low sulfur content, medium to high volatiles matter yields, medium moisture content, super low to medium ash yield, medium to high calorific value and low mineral content. The main crystalline facies in fly ash and slag are quartz and mullite, with a small amount of calcite, and some unburned carbon. Hematite, SrSO4 and barite also can be observed in fly ashes by SEM. Typical plerophere occurs in fine fly ash rather than the coarse fly ash. The concentration of most trace elements in CCPs falls within the lower concentration range of European fly ashes. With respect to the partitioning behavior of trace elements during coal combustion, S is highly volatile, and Mg, Na, Zn, B, Co, As, Nb, Zr, Cu and K also show certain volatility, which may to some extent emit to the atmosphere. Furthermore, leaching experiments show that leachable concentrations of most of the potentially toxic elements in CCPs are low, and the CCPs fall in the range between inert and nonhazardous landfill material regulated by the 2003/33/EC Decision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is the first to provide geochemical and paleoenvironmental information of Jurassic Xishanyao Formation coal in the eastern Junggar Basin, China. Twenty-seven coal core samples were collected from the zk0413 boreholes in Dajing area to determine the geochemical variability. Proximate analyses show that the Xishanyao Formation coal has the medium moisture content (average 13%), special low ash yield (average 6%) and high volatile matter (average 34%), which slightly fluctuate from bottom to top of coal seam. Organic matter in the coal are type III kerogen, with coalification degrees determined as subbituminous A or high volatile bituminous C. All coal samples have poor hydrocarbon generating potential with the yield between 31.93 and 72.36 (average of 43.57) mg HC/g.rock. The primary input of organic matter for coal-formation was higher terrestrial plants, with greater input from algae and micro-organisms and greater role of bacteria in plant degradation higher in the seam. The process of peatification in the lower section of the seam occurred under more acidic and oxic conditions. Coal accumulated in a lacustrine freshwater environment with the rise of the (ground) water table from bottom to top. There is evidence of higher salinity of water within the lower seam and decreased salinity (brackish to fresh water) within the middle of the seam, then an increase to moderate salinity (fresh water to brackish). The increasing stratified water column upward with reduced oxidation in the coal seams may result from the increased temperature in periods of a relatively hot and dry climate. The environment changes demonstrated in this study illustrate the importance of studying combined elemental and organic geochemistry to reconstruct paleoenvironment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Upper Triassic coal from the Nui Hong open-pit mine is high-organic-sulfur coal. • The Nui Hong coal is promising economic source for strategic metal recovery. • Highly elevated Cs in coal most likely occurs in K-rich tobelite and illite. • Elevated Mo, Sb, U, Ge, and Tl are mainly associated with organic matter in coal. • Enrichment of strategic metals in Nui Hong coal is due to hydrothermal activities. Research on coal-hosted strategic metal ore deposits is an important subject in coal geology and mineral deposit worldwide. However, the related geological characteristics of coals from Vietnam have seldom been investigated, let alone the strategic metals in coals. This paper investigates the mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the Upper Triassic coal from the Nui Hong open-pit mine, Thai Nguyen Coalfield, NE Vietnam, with emphasis on the enrichment of strategic metals in coal. The Nui Hong coal is low-volatile bituminous with high sulfur organic content. Minerals in the Nui Hong coal is predominantly composed of authigenic quartz, tobelite, pyrite, and calcite, with a small proportion of sphalerite, gypsum and fluorapatite in some coal bench samples. Mo-U-V-Se and Ge-W-Sb-Cs-Tl(-U) strategic metal element assemblages along with As-P toxic element association is significantly enriched in the Nui Hong coal, pointing to a significant economic benefit for Cs, Mo, U, and Ge recovery from the Nui Hong coal. The Ge enrichment in the Nui Hong coal provides a new perspective on prospecting of coal-hosted Ge deposit in high-rank coal. Cesium mostly occurs in K-rich aluminosilicate minerals (tobelite and/or illite), while Mo, Sb, U, Ge, and Tl are predominantly associated with organic matter in the Nui Hong coal. Multistage hydrothermal activities occurring in the marine-influenced S-rich, Fe-poor and clastic-starved anoxic-euxinic coal-forming environment are responsible for the significant enrichment of strategic metal elements in the upper Triassic coals from the Nui Hong open-pit mine, Thai Nguyen Province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper investigates lateral variation of gas saturation and its geological controls of the No.2 coal seam in the Permian Shanxi Formation based on coal samples from 21 exploration wells in the Yanchuannan Coalbed Methane (CBM) Field, Southeastern Ordos Basin, China. The data set reveals that gas saturation of the No.2 coal seam shows a high lateral variation from 32.44% to 89.69%, and that there is an overall trend in gas saturation with depth overprinted by four other factors: 1) influence of faults, 2) secondary biogenic gas generation, 3) local top seal conditions and 4) variations in coal properties. The reverse faults F1 and F2 are effective barriers horizontally for the hydraulic communication and divide our study area into relatively closed and recharge zones. Gas saturation of the relatively closed zone is generally higher than that in the recharge zone. In the recharge, gas saturation increases generally along the flow pathway of groundwater with the exceptions of the areas affected by secondary biogenic gas. The stable isotope compositions suggest that late-stage biogenic methane was generated via CO 2 reduction associated with meteoric water recharge, which significantly contributes to higher gas saturation than expected. Meanwhile, the biogenic gas generation was/is restricted to shallow depths. The apparent variations in local areas of lithology of the overlying stratum next to the coal seam suggest that the top seal conditions are deteriorative, which can cause gas dissipation and reduce gas saturation remarkably. Integrally, for the variations in coal properties, gas saturation has a general positive relationship with coalification, and weak negative correlations with moisture content and ash yield but the relationships lacks statistical significances. Gas saturation is not associated with coal maceral in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper represents the first integrated research on the mineralogical, geochemical and stable isotope characteristics of the Upper Triassic high‑sulfur coals from the Khanh Hoa open-pit mine, Thai Nguyen Coalfield, NE Vietnam. Formed in a marine-influenced carbonate succession, the Khanh Hoa coal is characterized by medium ash yield, low volatile matter yield, and high sulfur content. Minerals in the Khanh Hoa coal are predominantly composed of authigenic calcite in the upper portion; and pyrite, quartz, with minor amounts of tobelite ([(NH 4), K] (Si, Al) 4 Al 2 O 10 (OH) 2), gypsum in the middle and lower portions. The high‑sulfur Khanh Hoa coal is enriched in an As-Mo-Sb-U-Cs-P assemblage, which presents both an organic and inorganic mode of occurrence, and is largely ascribed to hydrothermal fluids. The δ 13C values of the Khanh Hoa coal range from −24.77‰ to −22.80‰ (avg. −23.33‰), reflecting a change in sedimentation pattern (from transgressive to high stand system upwards). The δ 15N values of the Khanh Hoa coal range from 2.41‰ to 3.73‰ (avg. 3.30‰), possibly resulted from influenced by seawater influence and a redox environment. The mineralogical, geochemical and isotopic characteristics reflected that the high‑sulfur Khanh Hoa coal was formed/preserved in marine-influenced anoxic environment, with low detrital input, and strong activities of multi-stage hydrothermal solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance mediated by plasmid-borne AmpC β-lactamase in Gram-negative bacteria is an emerging event of significant clinical importance. Rapid and reliable detection of ampC is in urgent need for appropriate infection control. We described the development and evaluation of a heptaplex PCR melting curve analysis that could identify six groups of ampC , i.e., CIT, EBC, DHA, ACC, MOX and FOX, through predefined melting temperatures. The entire analysis could be finished within 2 h for 96 samples after template DNA was prepared. We first evaluated the assay with 176 AmpC-producing isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae , and the results showed that 36 isolates were positive for ampC , including 18 positive for DHA, 12 for CIT, 5 for EBC, and one for both DHA and EBC. These results were fully concordant with sequencing analysis whereas the comparison method, an electrophoresis-based singleplex PCR assay, missed four isolates. The assay was also used to analyze 429 randomly selected clinically relevant Gram-negative isolates involving 22 different species, and 34 isolates were found to be ampC -positive. The results again fully agreed with the sequencing analysis. We conclude that the established assay could be used for rapid and reliable detection of ampC . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underground coal mining produces large amounts of mine water annually in the Shendong mining area of China. Due to the severe scarcity of water resources, mine water is extensively used for productive, domestic, and ecological demands. However, mine water exhibits high fluoride levels. For water-use security, reduction of fluoride exposure and environmental protection, knowledge of sources and geochemical controls of fluoride enrichment in mine water is required. The results showed that F− concentrations of mine waters vary from 0.05 to 11.65 mg/L, with a mean value of 1.96 mg/L, and 51% of the mine waters contain F− concentrations exceeding the Chinese drinking water standard (1 mg/L). The overall mine water quality is influenced by cation exchange, mineral dissolution, pyrite oxidation, silicate weathering and so on. The high-fluoride mine waters are all associated with Na–type, with a remarkable cation composition feature of higher Na+ and lower Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentrations. Overall, the high-fluoride mine waters are well-matched with the water environment with higher pH, TDS, and EC levels. PCA reveals that the geochemical controls on the enrichment of F− in mine waters include dissolution of fluoride-bearing minerals and F−-OH− ion exchange; the former process is mainly caused by the decrease in Ca2+ concentrations resulting from Na + -Ca2+ cation exchange and mineral precipitation, and the latter process benefits from a highly alkaline water environment, facilitating the substitution of OH− in the mine water for F− within or absorbed on the minerals. Evaporation also controls F− enrichment in local areas. [Display omitted] • 51% of mine water samples exceed the Chinese drinking water limit for fluoride (1 mg/L). • The overall mine water quality is influenced by cation exchange, dissolution of minerals and so on. • NaHCO 3 type mine water possesses the highest average fluoride concentration. • Fluoride concentrations are overall proportional to higher pH, TDS, and EC levels. • Fluoride enrichment is related to ion exchange, mineral precipitation, and evaporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Inorganic trace pollutants are studied in a coal-fired power station in China. • The aqueous (NH 4) 2 SO 4 slurry (pH 3.2) is enriched in inorganic trace pollutants. • NH 3 -FGD performance for the retention efficiency of trace pollutants is questioned. • Acidic conditions of the aqueous (NH 4) 2 SO 4 slurry could lead to low FGD efficiencies. • Operating conditions may affect Hg fate across the PCC-SCR-ESP-NH 3 -FGD. The behaviour and speciation of inorganic trace pollutants were studied in a 270 MWh coal-fired power station equipped with denitrification (DeNOx)-based selective catalytic reduction (SCR), electrostatic precipitators (ESP) and ammonia flue gas desulphurisation (NH 3 -FGD) controls. The aqueous (NH 4) 2 SO 4 slurry (pH 3.2) showed remarkably high concentrations of SO 4 2−, Cl−, Fe, NH 4 +, PO 4 3−, and F− and was substantially enriched in multiple trace pollutants, e.g. Mn, Ni, Zn, and As, which can be ascribed to the diffusion of gaseous pollutants released during combustion and to the partial dissolution of fly ash (FA) particles entrained in the flue gas FGD. These processes were favoured by the iteration of the FGD water re-circulation cycles within the scrubber. Three major unresolved performance issues remain for the NH 3 -FGD with respect to the retention efficiency of major and trace pollutants: (i) the high concentration of soluble salts and major and minor trace elements in the aqueous (NH 4) 2 SO 4 slurry could lead to entrainment of droplets and particles with the outgoing (OUT)-FGD gas; (ii) the ionic strength, as a result of the high concentration of the elements associated with soluble salts and major and minor elements, could lead to diminishing diffusivity of gaseous pollutants into the aqueous phase, where these are supposed to dissolve; and (iii) the acidic conditions of the aqueous (NH 4) 2 SO 4 slurry, caused by Fe-hydrolysis, could lead to low FGD efficiencies. Operating conditions at this power station affect Hg partitioning and fate across the PCC-SCR-ESP-NH 3- FGD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal mining in China is continually increasing, and the associated emitted coal mine dust is of growing environmental and occupational concern. In this study, deposited coal mine dust (DD) was analysed in three different regions of an active, highly-volatile bituminous open-pit coal mine in the Xingjian Province, Northwest of China: coal working fronts, tailings handling sites, and road traffic sites. Samples were analysed for particle size, and geochemical and mineralogical patterns, and then compared with the respirable DD fractions (RDDs, <4 μm) separated from DD samples. Online measurements of ambient air concentrations of particulate matter (PM 10 and PM 2.5), black carbon (BC) and ultrafine particles (UFP) were performed in the same mine zones where DD was sampled. Furthermore, the RDD samples were subjected to analysis of specific biological response or toxicological indicators (oxidative potential, OP). The results demonstrated: i) large differences in particle size and composition among DD from tailings handling, road traffic and coal working front sites, ii) a strong influence of the DD moisture contents and ash yields on particle size, and, accordingly, on the potential dust emissions, iii) an enrichment of multiple elements (such as Nb, Th, Cr, Sr, Li, As, Pb, Cu, Zr and Ni) in the RDD from coal working fronts compared with their contents in the worked parent coal seams, mostly attributed to mining machinery, tyre and brake wear emissions and to deposition of dust emitted from gangue working zones, iv) low OP values of the RDD emitted from the studied mine, which works a high-quality coal, with OP being influenced by Mn, sulphate and anatase (TiO 2) contents, and v) the impact of specific mining operations and mine areas on the levels of air pollutants, such as high PM from tailings handling in the upper parts of the mine or the high UFP levels in the bottom of the mine (due to vehicle and machinery emissions and lower dispersive conditions). The data presented here demonstrate the necessity of extracting the more deeply respirable size fraction of coal mine dusts in future studies on the health effects of these materials because this finer fraction is mineralogically and geochemically different from the parent rocks. • High impact of specific mining operations in ambient air pollutants. • Particle size distribution of deposited dust (DD) was different over mine sites. • Moisture and ash have strong influence on respirable DD (RDD) emissions. • Enrichment of multiple elements in RDD attributed to mining activities. • Oxidative potential of RDD is influenced by Mn, sulphate and anatase contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superhigh organic sulfur(SHOS) coals have currently attracted great attention due to their typical depositional environments and formation history as well as their great negative impact on the ecosystem. This study investigated the geochemistry of the No. 11coalof the Late Carboniferous Taiyuan Formation from the Sangshuping coalmine, Hancheng miningarea, Weibei coalfield, Shaanxi, North China. The No. 11 coal is a high-sulfur coal with a large proportion of organic sulfur content (3.7 to 5.5%, avg. 4.4%) and belongs to typical SHOS coal. The high sulfur content in the Sangshuping coal mine has been mainly caused by the combined influences of seawater and hydrothermal fluids. The SHOS in No. 11 coal was formed in the Fe-poor and S-rich high-marine influenced occlusive environment. During the late coalification stage, a high proportion of pyritic sulfur was formed due to sufficient Fe supply from the Fe–S-rich epigenetic hydrothermal fluids. The No. 11 SHOS coal is enriched in Li–Ga–Zr–Hf and Se–Mo–Cr–V–As–Pb element assemblages. The sediment provenance of the Sangshuping coal mine is predominantly felsic–intermediate rocks from both the Yinshan and Qinling Oldland. However, the elevated concentrations of critical elements (Li, Ga, Zr, and Hf) in the No. 11 coal are primarily inherited from the Yinshan Oldland. The enrichment of the Se–Mo–Cr–V–As–Pb assemblage in No. 11 coal can be ascribed to the influence of both seawater and epigenetic hydrothermal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Respirable fraction of dust deposited inside coal mines was extracted and analysed • Respirable coal dust is enriched in minerals related to parent coal geochemistry • Deposited coal mine dust can be used as a proxy for the geochemistry of PM10 • Fe, Si, Mn, Ba and particle size of coal dust are highly correlated with toxicity We focus on a comparison of the geochemistry and mineralogy patterns found in coal, deposited dust (DD), respirable deposited dust (RDD) and inhalable suspended dust (PM10) from a number of underground mines located in China, with an emphasis on potential occupational health relevance. After obtaining the RDD from DD, a toxicological analysis (oxidative potential, OP) was carried out and compared with their geochemical patterns. The results demonstrate: i) a dependence of RDD/DD on the moisture content for high rank coals that does not exist for low rank coals; ii) RDD enrichment in a number of minerals and/or elements related to the parent coal, the wear on mining machinery, lime gunited walls and acid mine drainage; and iii) the geochemical patterns of RDD obtained from DD can be compared with PM10 with relatively good agreement, demonstrating that the characterization of DD and RDD can be used as a proxy to help evaluate the geochemical patterns of suspended PM10. With regards to the toxicological properties of RDD, the Fe content and other by-products of pyrite oxidation, as well as that of anatase, along with Si, Mn and Ba, and particle size (among others), were highly correlated with Ascorbic Acid and/or Glutathione OP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-accumulation of carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon gas is common and widely existing in oil and gas basins. Such two natural pools are located in Lishui sag (East China Sea Shelf Basin), as a favorable prospecting area for exploration. CO 2 gas derived from inorganic mantle sources and CO 2 accumulation times have been investigated. In this study, petrographic observation shows pure CH 4 , CH 4 -rich, H 2 O-rich and hybrid CH 4 -CO 2 fluid inclusions exist in healed micro-fractures and overgrowths of quartz mineral in Palaeocene reservoirs of Lishui sag. The pressure–temperature–time–composition (PVT – x) properties of CH 4 -bearing inclusions were obtained by Raman quantitative analysis and thermodynamic models. These results provide important constraints on the P-T entrapment conditions and predict relative accumulation time of CH 4 fluid. Combination of carbon isotope analyses, inclusion petrography, microthermometry, PT entrapment conditions of CH 4 -bearing inclusions, hydrocarbon generation and simulation of burial history permit to assign periods of CH 4 fluid activity and its sequence with CO 2 fluid. Methane charging time occurs during two stages in LS-A: low density CH 4 fluid (~0.10 g/cm3 or lower) were trapped during late Oligocene (30-20 Ma) and high density (>0.115 g/cm3) during a Pliocene (8-1 Ma) CH 4 accumulation event. CO 2 fluid accumulation (Miocene, 21-4 Ma) displaced the methane gas trapped in the early stage. Pliocene CH 4 fluid partial displaced Miocene CO 2 fluid. In well B, only high density (0.144–0.153 g/cm3) recorded a late Oligocene to early Miocene (36-19 Ma) CH 4 accumulation event, Pliocene (5-3 Ma) CO 2 fluid displaced early CH 4 fluid. Micro-thermometry, composition of fluid inclusion, features of reservoir, thermal maturity reflect hydrothermal fluid vertical migration and the existence of Supercritical CO 2 extraction. • Hydrocarbon stable isotope show crude oil associated gas generation. • Petrography, micro-thermometry and Raman method discriminate the type of inclusion. • PVT-x properties of CH 4 -bearing inclusions were determined by Raman quantification. • Analysis of CH 4 accumulation time and displacement relationship with CO 2 fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]