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Alkali-activated binders (AABs) have been and continue to be extensively explored as an alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), addressing environmental and sustainability issues. A large number of studies that were conducted earlier focused mainly on the mechanical properties and some durability aspects of industrial waste-based AABs. However, chloride migration and diffusion causing reinforcement corrosion in AAB-based concrete (AAC) have not been thoroughly investigated. The present study focuses on the durability of AAC produced using multiple precursors that included industrial waste materials and natural minerals such as limestone powder (LSP), red mud (RM), silicomanganese fume (SMF), and natural pozzolan (NP) activated by alkali. Firstly, the dosages of all four precursors were optimized through trials and then NP was partially replaced by 10, 20 and 30% OPC to enhance the performance of the AABs. The AAC mixtures were prepared and cured under different conditions and tested for compressive strength and durability characteristics related to chloride permeability, chloride migration, chloride diffusion, and chloride-induced reinforcement corrosion to evaluate the performances of the mixtures. The results show that the composition of the AABs and curing regimes significantly influenced the performance of the AAC. The inclusion of the OPC resulted in a very significant enhancement of the strength and durability characteristics of the AAC. In addition, there is a sharp increase in the performance of the AAC mixtures when the OPC content of the precursor was increased from 10 to 20%, irrespective of the curing method. Therefore, an optimum dosage of the OPC in the precursor can be considered as 20%, allowing utilization of 80% waste materials and natural minerals as the precursor with much higher strength and durability characteristics than traditional OPC concrete, thus saving energy and reducing environmental pollution leading to a cleaner production of concrete. Lastly, electrochemically measured corrosion potential (Ecorr) and corrosion current density (Icorr) values for the reinforcing bars (rebars) embedded in AAC mixtures were found to be misleading, as confirmed by visual inspection of the extracted rebars in addition to gravimetric test results. Hence, there is a need for further research to develop corrective measures before the utilization of the electrochemical-reinforced corrosion monitoring methods in the case of AACs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, with the approaching carbon neutrality deadlines and the implementation of zero-net carbon emission policies, the research and development of flame retardants are increasingly influenced by stringent regulations and laws. In this context, natural inorganic materials have garnered significant attention as promising flame retardants to enhance the fire resistance of polymer composites. These materials offer unique advantages, such as being environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and producing no carbon emissions during preparation. Consequently, in recent years, there has been a rapid increase in research on natural mineral flame retardants. This review systematically introduces the research progress on natural minerals as flame retardants in epoxy resin, highlighting their ability to provide exceptional fire resistance. Additionally, we categorize the various chemical modification approaches for natural minerals and explore different various natural mineral-based flame retardants. Furthermore, we elucidate the flame retardant mechanisms behind both natural and modified mineral flame retardant systems. Beyond summarizing and concluding the current state of research, we also project future research directions and identify challenges in the development of natural mineral flame retardants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing and designing carbon-free refractory materials is an effective alternative to MgO–C refractory materials to produce large-scale, high-quality, low-carbon special steels. Therefore, in this work, excessive MgO is introduced into MgAlON to prepare a series of MgO–MgAlON composite refractories. The enhancement mechanism of comprehensive performance is systematically evaluated, where MgO as a reinforcer features intergranular phase strengthening and grain boundary purification effects. Besides, the pore structure of MgO–MgAlON composite refractories is also optimized to regulate the molten slag wetting behavior. The results demonstrated that MgO–MgAlON composite refractories have apparent porosity of 13.86%–15.84 %, bulk density of 2.78–2.97 mg cm−3, and compressive strength of 204.17–253.97 MPa. When 42.8 % MgO is introduced, the sample strength retention ratio after thermal shock measurement and slag corrosion experiments are 64 % and 75 %, respectively. Consequently, a cost-effective and feasible reinforcement strategy for MgO–MgAlON composite refractories is proposed, paving the way for. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Journal of South-Central Minzu University (Natural Science Edition) is the property of Journal of South-Central Minzu University (Natural Science Edition) Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The high energy potential of organic waste allows its use in bioconversion technologies, where waste from one production cycle is a raw material for further production to produce environmentally friendly fertilizers, energy carriers and feed additives. The article presents the results of experimental studies on the environmental efficiency of vermiculture on organic waste from livestock, crop production, gardening and forestry under anthropogenic load. It is proved that due to the biological characteristics of vermiculture, which allows to consume a large amount of organic residues, enrich them with its own microflora, enzymes, biologically active substances and release them as processed products (coprolites), this technology to some extent solves the problems of balanced nature management. It has been determined that in the conditions of intensification of production processes, secondary organic raw materials contain a number of pollutants - heavy metals and toxic metals that can accumulate in coprolites (vermicompost). An approach is proposed that solves the problem of pollutant migration and involves the introduction of 3% zeolite from the Sokyrnytsia deposit in the Transcarpathian region into the vermiculture substrate. Experimental and analytical determination of the environmental efficiency of the proposed approach has shown that its practical application in solving the problems of balanced nature management allows to reduce the accumulation of Plumbum by 13.6 % and Cadmium by 22.6 % in vermicompost, which improves the quality of this organic fertilizer and creates prerequisites for obtaining environmentally friendly products.

Nowadays, with the approaching carbon neutrality deadlines and the implementation of zero-net carbon emission policies, the research and development of flame retardants are increasingly influenced by stringent regulations and laws. In this context, natural inorganic materials have garnered significant attention as promising flame retardants to enhance the fire resistance of polymer composites. These materials offer unique advantages, such as being environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and producing no carbon emissions during preparation. Consequently, in recent years, there has been a rapid increase in research on natural mineral flame retardants. This review systematically introduces the research progress on natural minerals as flame retardants in epoxy resin, highlighting their ability to provide exceptional fire resistance. Additionally, we categorize the various chemical modification approaches for natural minerals and explore different various natural mineral-based flame retardants. Furthermore, we elucidate the flame retardant mechanisms behind both natural and modified mineral flame retardant systems. Beyond summarizing and concluding the current state of research, we also project future research directions and identify challenges in the development of natural mineral flame retardants.

Background: Mineral nutrition benefits the bioproductive behavior of pigs. Aim. To evaluate the effect of including a mineral pre-mixture made from national natural sources in diets for growing-fattening YorkLand hybrid pigs. Methods: 50 growing fattening pigs (40±5 kg live weight), females and castrated males, were used, randomly distributed into five groups to offer an equal number of experimental diets. Group I received a concentrate made with an imported protein core, imported soy flour, domestically produced yellow corn flour, L-lysine and choline, without the mineral premix. The remaining four groups received a concentrate made with imported soy flour, domestically produced yellow corn flour, L-lysine and choline, with 0, 1, 2 and 3% inclusion of the mineral pre-mix, respectively. Minerals in blood serum, live weight gain and average daily gain were determined. Results: In groups I, III, IV and V, calcemia was higher (P<0.05); in groups III and IV, cupremia (P< 0.01) and in group IV, magnesemia (P< 0.05). In these groups, live weight and average daily gain increased (P< 0.05). All parameters were lower (P<0.05) in group II. Conclusion: The addition of the mineral pre-mixture made from national natural sources to the diet for growing-fattening pigs benefited their mineral status and productive behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of waste water of industrial enterprises from heavy and toxic metal ions is carried out by traditional reagent method, sorption and membrane technologies. One of the simplest, cheapest, available and effective methods is sorption purification. The peculiarity of the sorption cleaning method is the property of selective absorption from multicomponent solutions and high cleaning efficiency. Treated wastewater can be used in the water supply system of technical circulation. The main of the research work is to study the pH of natural adsorbents in flowing and clean water solutions, particle sizes in suspensions, sedimentation rate and adsorption properties of natural adsorbents for sorption purification of industrial wastewater from toxic metal ions. natural minerals from Almaty region have high sorption properties, that is, they can be used for sorption treatment of industrial wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural minerals are essential plant nutrient resources that can be used as natural fertilizers for cultivated plants. Bacterial inoculation improves plant-available elements in these materials. This pot experiment investigated the effects of Fe or Mn-containing natural minerals incorporation into the soils, either alone or with PGPR, on biomass development and some microelement concentrations. Fe and Mn doses were selected as 0, 100, and 200 kg ha-1. The results revealed that Fe treatments promoted the biomass development of the maize plant. Bacteria inoculation increased biomass; however, the effect was statistically insignificant. In terms of mean values, increasing iron doses increased the iron concentration in the plant steadily. Bacteria inoculation increased iron uptake by 29%. Similarly, manganese-containing substrate treatments increased the biomass yield of the plant. Plant root weight and plant height were not statistically affected by manganese treatments. Dual application of manganese-containing material and bacteria inoculation increased the manganese concentration by 28%. The results clearly showed that natural minerals can be used to increase the nutrient concentration of the plant, while bacteria application further improves the uptake by about one-third. It is recommended to apply natural minerals together with the respective bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Environmental Science & Technology (10036504) is the property of Editorial Board of Environmental Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the Talang siring tour of the Pamekasan district, numerous illegal mining operations along the coast for sale and personal use produce building materials with low economic value. However, if the sand is processed further, it will produce materials with high technology utilization and economic value. This research is a preliminary investigation into converting sand into high-value minerals to be utilized economically. Using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) experiments, this study aims to determine the sand's mineral content in the Talang Siring tourist area in Pamekasan Regency. Initial identification is the XRF test function for analyzing sand's chemical elements and composition. The purpose of XRD is to analyze the crystal structure and correlate the results with Macth and origin software based on the XRF results. The results of the XRF test indicated that Silicone had the highest concentration of minerals at 63.8%, followed by Calcium at 29.4% and Iron at 2.45%. The XRD test results indicated that the sand's mineral composition was qualitatively SiO2 90%, CaCO3 8%, Iron 1%, and the remainder 1%.

Copyright of Industrial Minerals & Processing / Huagong Kuangwu yu Jiagong is the property of Industrial Minerals & Processing Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The process of crystallization of LTA type zeolite promising for practical use has been studied; the influence of various factors on the rate and selectivity of synthesis using natural minerals from Nakhchivan has been considered. The influence of temperature in the range of 80–150°C, the weight ratio of the initial components of halloysite (H) and obsidian (O) H : O equal to 1 : 1, 1 : 2, 1 : 3, 2 : 1, and 3 : 1, the concentration of the used thermal NaOH solution in the range of 5–30%, and the process duration in the range of 10–100 h for the crystallization of LTA were studied. It has been determined that the optimal conditions for the synthesis of a single-phase zeolite of the LTA type with 100% crystallinity are the temperature of 100 ± 10°C, the concentration of thermal NaOH solution of 10–15%, the ratio of the initial components of halloysite (H) and obsidian (O) H : O equal to 1 : 1, and the processing time of 20 h. Synthesis of zeolite LTA using natural minerals of Nakhchivan was carried out in the presence of tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAOH). The effect of temperature, concentration of thermal NaOH solution, ratio of initial components, and duration of aging on the process of LTA crystallization has been studied. It has been shown that violation of the optimal synthesis conditions leads to a decrease in the selectivity of the process and the formation of other zeolites (X), aluminosilicates (sodalite, anorthite, sanidine), or their associations, as well as quartz. The process of aging of zeolite was studied for 1 to 3 days. It has been determined that an increase in the aging duration leads to an increase in the linear rate of crystallization of the LTA zeolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The protection and arrangement of agricultural areas in order to obtain health-safe food is extremely important to know the mobility of heavy metals lead, cadmium, zinc and uranium as radionuclides. This research investigated the influence of mineral raw materials (apatite and zeolite) on the mobility of heavy metals and radionuclides in a column system with constant pressure at different pH values (5.0 and 7.0). The tested solutions were contaminated with metals (lead, cadmium, zinc and uranium), in a concentration of 300 mg/l in time intervals of 30, 60, 90, 120 and 180 minutes. It was experimentally determined that there were significant changes in the pH value of the filtrate. The results showed that both apatite and zeolite successfully immobilized lead at both pH values. Uranium immobilization was better performed in columns with apatite, zeolite showed better properties in cadmium immobilization, and tests on a solution contaminated with zinc showed that both apatite and zeolite show similar affinity. The obtained results were statistically processed using the method of two-factor analysis of variance with repeated measurements. Further research will be based on monitoring the morphophysiological properties of underground and aboveground parts of plants on contaminated soil samples when apatite and zeolite are applied.

Copyright of Journal of Central South University is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Given the increasing demand for sustainable energy sources and the need to revalorize agro-industrial waste, this work presents the slow pyrolysis of a widely available agro-industrial biomass waste (pecan nut shells) in the presence of natural mineral additives such as dolomite, natural zeolite (clinoptilolite), and limestone (calcium carbonate), with a focus on elucidating the impact of the natural additives on increasing the quality of the pyrolysis products. In addition, the effect of a simple additive pretreatment (calcination) has been evaluated to develop an insight into its influence on the pyrolysis reaction. Slow pyrolysis of pecan nut shells was conducted using a lab-scale batch reactor, from room temperature to 600°C with a heating rate of 10 °C/min; the resulting products were collected and characterized with several instruments such as GC-MS and GC-TCD. Additive calcination caused chemical phase changes, a significant loss of total acid sites, reduction of surface area (except for calcined limestone), and elimination of micropores. A remarkable increase in the condensate product yield between 42% and 114% was observed for most tests where additives were used. Further investigation using GC-MS revealed that guaiacol and dimethoxyphenol were the primary products in the liquid phase, which underwent more pronounced deoxygenation when calcined additives were present in the pyrolysis tests, favoring the generation of organic derivatives (such as phenol, cresol, and xylenol) along with other molecules with low oxygen content. Calcined limestone showed the highest solid yield compared with the rest of the additives at the expense of liquid production. Furthermore, the presence of additives favored higher content of H 2 , CH 4 , CO and CO 2 in the gas products compared with the control test; the calcined limestone additive promoted the highest hydrogen, methane and carbon monoxide concentrations in the gas due to CO 2 adsorption and mineralization, along with the enhancement of other reactions such as bio-oil decarbonylation, catalytic cracking and the Boudouard reaction. In turn, the H 2 /CO ratio obtained with this additive was also the highest, with a value of 1, making it a promising candidate for syngas-production applications. Overall, the present study contributes valuable insight into the utilization of pecan nut shells to produce fuel precursor molecules and other value-added products, emphasizing the impact of mineral additives on the pyrolysis outcome. Our findings suggest a potential alternative for the revalorization of overlooked agroindustrial byproducts, contributing to the development of more sustainable energy sources. [Display omitted] • Calcination of natural additives decreased their acidity and crystallinity. • Calcination pretreatment also enhanced calcium content in the additives. • Pyrolysis with calcined additives produced better condensate products. • Calcined additives promoted guaiacol and dimethoxyphenol deoxygenation. • The C-Cal additive showed the highest H 2 , CH 4 and CO yields in the gas product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoelectric (TE) materials-based devices are useful in converting heat into electricity. The cost of thermoelectric materials is mainly incurred from the purified pure metals used to make the efficient TE device. In the current study, tetrahedrite materials are considered due to their low cost, as these materials are abundant in mining waste of copper ores and also the most extensive sulfosalt on earth. Hence, to add value addition to mine waste materials, the composite approach has been employed to integrate the natural tetrahedrite (mine waste/tailings product) materials with synthetically developed tetrahedrite materials in the lab for the current investigation. Further, the optimum quantity of mine waste addition is optimized by the systematic investigation of TE performance with varying the mine waste percentage addition to the synthetic tetrahedrite. The p-type synthetic Cu 10 FeZnSb 4 S 13 (Sample-A) tetrahedrite compound and 70 (Cu 10 FeZnSb 4 S 13) + 30 (natural/mine waste) (Sample-B) have been synthesized employing hot-press at 773 K along with the pristine (Cu 10 Fe 2 Sb 4 S 13) tetrahedrite compound. Moreover, the Seebeck coefficient is increased by 36 % (220 μV/K to 300 μV/K) for Sample-B, as compared to sample A and it is ∿ 2 times higher as compared to the pristine compound. The power factor is increased by ∿ 3 times that of the Sample-A (0.05 mW/mK2 to 0.15 mW/mK2). In addition, the thermal conductivity of Sample-B compound was further reduced by 30 % than Sample-A (0.98 W/mK to 0.69W/mK) and ∿ 44 % more than the pristine compound. Finally, the zT of Sample-B increased to almost 3 times than Sample-A (0.05–0.15). [Display omitted] • The p-type tetrahedrites compounds Sample-A (Cu 10 FeZnSb 4 S 13) and Sample-B [70 Cu 10 FeZnSb 4 S 13 + 30 (natural minerals/mine waste)] have been successfully synthesized employing hot press at 773 K. • Higher effective mass and energy filtering phenomena significantly enhanced the Seebeck coefficient of Sample-B by ∿36 % as compared to Sample-A. • The power factor of Sample-B has been increased by ∿ 3 times as that of Sample-A (0.05 mW/mK2 to 0.15 mW/mK2). • The zT of Sample-B tetrahedrites composite increased to ≈ 3 times of pristine Sample-A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the performance of natural Jordanian Tripoli as a catalyst in the pyrolysis of date kernels was investigated. Specifically, the impact of the pyrolysis temperature (450 °C, 500 °C, 550 °C, 600 °C and 650 °C), catalyst-to-feed (C/F) ratio- (0 wt%, 5 wt%, 10 wt% and 20 wt%) and heating rate (20 °C/min, 50 °C/min and 100 °C/min) on the yield and quality of the produced bio-oil is investigated. Results showed that bio-oil yield is enhanced at high pyrolysis temperatures and fast heating rates. Also, increasing the C/F ratio increased the gas yield and decreased the bio-oil yield. The highest and lowest char yields were 31.98 wt% and 25.36 wt% at 450 °C and 650 °C, respectively. The gas yield increased from 123.8 ml/g-feed to 214.6 ml/g-feed when the temperature was increased from 450 °C to 650 °C.Moreover, chemical composition was analyzed through solvent extraction method to identify the chemical families present in the produced bio-oil. Pyrolysis of date kernels by using Jordanian Tripoli as a catalyst reduced the organic acids and the undesired oxygenates in the bio-oil. Increasing the C/F ratio from 0 wt% to 20 wt% decreased the yield of levoglucosan from 23.0 wt% to 17.43 wt% and decreased the yield of organic acids from 12.1 wt% to 9 wt%. In addition, increasing the heating rate from 20 °C/min to 100 °C/min decreased the levoglucosan yield from 25.83 wt% to 22.01 wt% and increased the yield of organic acids from 6 wt% to 10.08 wt%.

[Display omitted] • Advanced electrolyte 8YSZ doping with iron oxide or copper oxide. • Application of natural materials as electrolyte and composite in low-temperature SOFC. • Influence factors of Schottky junction and interfacial conduction on SOFC performances. The increased interest in solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology to convert chemical energy into much-required electricity makes it appealing as a flexible solution for integration, permitting enhanced energy efficiency through the recovery of wasted heat. Hence, SOFCs are high-efficiency cogeneration systems that can increase the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of diverse fuels such as hydrogen, biomass, coal gas, hydrocarbon, and other renewable fuels. SOFCs technology is based on essential components; anode, cathode, and electrolyte, involving advanced materials that still face crucial challenges, mainly associated with stability and cost. From an economic perspective, using natural resources like natural hematite, geopolymer, and natural CuFe 2 O 4 reduces material costs, fostering competitiveness for the swift commercialization of SOFC systems. These materials might be used as dense ceramic electrolytes sandwiched between electrodes, enabling oxygen ions mobility. This review provides an overview regarding the feasibility and application of natural materials in SOFC components. By examining the properties, performances, and potential challenges associated with utilizing such materials, this review sheds light on the promising avenues for enhancing efficiency and reducing the costs of SOFC technology. Moreover, it identifies key strategies and innovations that could pave the way for significant advancements in the field, contributing the utilization of low-temperature SOFCs as a sustainable energy solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to its excellent theoretical specific capacity, Sb 2 S 3 captures widespread attention in the energy-storage field. However, it still suffers from volume expansion and sluggish electrochemical kinetics. Meanwhile, considering serious pollution and complex chemical preparation processes, stibnite is regarded as "first-hand" materials, displaying enormous energy-storage application potential; however, it is still limited by low-purity and high crystallinity. Herein, stibnite is purified and regenerated through physical chemical and vacuum gas-phase melting strategy to form high-properties stibnite-based electrode materials. Assisted by the introduction of lithium nitrate as an active medium, abundant sites and effective structural traits are formed, effectively promoting the reversibility of electrochemical kinetic processes. Utilized as lithium-ion battery anodes, the as optimized samples have a capacity of approximately 656.8 mAh g−1 with a capacity retention rate of 89.9 % at 0.5 A g−1. Even at 5.0 A g−1, the capacity of 483.3 mAh g−1 could be remained after 100 cycles. Supported by a detailed kinetic analysis, the enhancement of the surface-controlling behavior and the reduction of capacitive resistance are confirmed. Herein, the as-regenerated phase and the introduced oxide-based catalyst are beneficial to alleviate polysulfide shuttling and volume expansion, further accelerating ion/electron transfer behaviors. This work is expected to shed light on strategies to design promising mineral-based anodes for lithium-ion batteries. Assisted by physical-chemical purification and vacuum gas-phase melting strategy, a green purified/regenerated process was successfully developed for natural stibnite. The structural traits of regenerated stibnite were significantly improved, accompanied by introduction of oxide-based catalyst to accelerate ion diffusion and polysulfides conversion reaction. SS-M displayed an attractive lithium-storage capability of 719.6 mAh g−1 after 100 loops at 1.0 A g−1. [Display omitted] • The green purification and vacuum gas-phase melting strategy for natural stibnite. • High-properties stibnite-based anodes with rich active site were obtained. • The samples displayed an enhanced Li-storage capability of 719.6 mAh g−1 at 1.0C. • Even at 5.0C, the capacity of regenerated stibnite could reach up to 483 mAh g−1. • Oxide catalyst suppresses interface side reactions and shuttle effect of LiPSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single atom catalysts (SACs) have been growing as an emerging "hot" topic in environmental remediation. Their performance can be rationally optimized via modulating spatial coordination configuration and the porous structure of SACs, which is still challenging. Herein, a novel Si, N co‐coordinated cobalt SAC (p‐CoSi1N3@D) with 3D free standing architecture is tailored via employing natural mineral (diatomite) as a Si source and porous template. Theoretical calculations and experimental analysis reveal that the substitution of N by Si dramatically accelerates the interaction and electron transfer between peroxymonosulfate and the Co single atom center. Moreover, p‐CoSi1N3@D inherits the hierarchically porous architecture of diatomite, providing more accessible cobalt sites and open diffusion channels for peroxymonosulfate and contaminants in water treatment applications. Thanks to optimal coordination structure and porous architecture, p‐CoSi1N3@D can serve as a highly active catalyst for peroxymonosulfate activation, with a turnover frequency of 299.8 min−1 for bisphenol A degradation, surpassing those of catalysts with transition metal SACs or oxides in the disclosed literature. This work provides a novel strategy for the development of SACs for wastewater reclamation, and deepens the understanding of the significant role of templates in spatial coordination configuration of SACs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a frequent instrument for the analysis of trace element content. When LA-ICP-MS is used to analyze the element content of minerals, the laser energy density will affect the denudation rate of the sample and thus affect the signal intensity during the analysis. OBJECTIVES To further clarify the impact of laser energy density changes on the quality of test data and the response of different natural minerals to laser energy density. METHODS The element content data of standard samples and nature minerals with different Mohs hardness under different laser energy densities were determined using LA-ICP-MS. Then authors analyzed the relative error (RE) between the test data and the reference values of the standard samples, average of the relative error of elements with RE within the limits of -20%-10% in the same standard sample, and the relative standard deviation of the standard samples and nature minerals test results to evaluate the effect of laser energy density on the test results. RESULTS The minimum laser energy density required to stabilize ablated quartz and fluorite was 4-5J/cm2, which was lower than the previously reported value (10J/cm2), whereas stable denudation of other minerals such as talc, apatite, and corundum require the minimum energy density of generally 1-2J/cm2. Under the different condition of laser energy density, the relative error of most trace elements in standard samples between analytical results and recommended values was less than 20% and the relative standard deviation was less than 10%. The relative standard deviation of most trace element test data was less than 20% for natural minerals with most element contents >1μg/g. Within a certain range, the greater the laser energy density, the smaller the average relative error of the data, and the better the overall quality. CONCLUSIONS Quartz and fluorite require higher laser energy density for stable ablation than other minerals. Within the appropriate range, laser energy density has little effect on the quality of the individual element data, but it affects the overall quality of the data.

Environmental pollution by organic pollutants is a serious concern which may be solved by photocatalytic degradation of pollutants, yet the efficiency of actual photocatalytic materials is limited. For instance, conventional MoS2 nanosheets tend to agglomerate, which hinders the access of pollutants to active sites. To overcome this challenge, we hypothesized that assembling MoS2 nanosheets on a mineral support would improve access to active sites. We synthesized a catalyst made of 3–4 atomic layers of MoS2 nanosheets deposited on tourmaline using a microwave hydrothermal method. Results show that tourmaline occurs as a polyhedron single crystal that supports the epitaxial growth of 2H-MoS2 layers on tourmaline (77 3 ¯ ) facets, while an intrinsic rolling up behavior of MoS2 layer from [002] to [106] on the mineral surface accounts for the curly morphology. The pangolin-like MoS2/tourmaline composite degrades rhodamine B much better than the pure MoS2 nanosheets assembled microspheres. This is explained by the reduced thickness of MoS2 nanosheets according to the density functional theory. Overall, our findings represent a new tactic for the cost-effective batch preparation of two-dimensional materials with high catalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Products formed upon combustion of [40 FeSi + 30 FeSiN + 30 ZrSiO4 (zircon)] + xAl (x = 1.0–10, all figures in wt %) mixtures in nitrogen gas under pressure were characterized by XRD and SEM, with special emphasis on the impact of aluminum additives. Nitrogen content of combustion products and burning velocity were measured as a function of Al content x, nitrogen pressure P and sample diameter ∅. Stable frontal combustion observed at x = 6%, P = 4 MPa, and ∅ = 35 mm was found to yield a product containing β-Si3N4/β-Si3Al3O3N5, ZrO2, ZrN, FexSiy, and α-Fe. Our results may turn interesting to those engaged in R & D of facile routes to cost-effective SHS-assisted utilization of industrial wastes and natural raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Promising natural minerals for softening and purifying industrial and waste waters are bentonite, vermiculite, kaolinite, glauconite, which have fairly high performance characteristics. The presence of deposits with reserves of these minerals creates the prerequisites for their study to obtain sorption materials. Purpose: comparison of samples of glauconite minerals from different deposits and selection among them suitable for processing. Methodology. Objects - samples of glauconite raw materials from Parkent, Bukhara and Karakalpak deposits. Their chemical and mineralogical analysis was carried out, and their fractional composition was determined. Originality. It was determined that the main part of the glauconite mineral (50-55%) is in fractions of 0.08-0.125 mm. The optimal raw material is a sample of the mineral glauconite from the Parkent deposit; it contains relatively more potassium, which is exchanged with other cationic forms of metals in the process of sorption. Findings. Based on the study of glauconite samples from the Parkent, Bukhara and Karakalpak deposits, it has been established that the composition of the samples from the Parkent and Bukhara deposits is relatively close. It was determined that samples of fractions below 0.125 mm, which contain more of the main mineral, are most suitable for processing. A suitable deposit was selected for obtaining an environmentally friendly adsorbent by processing the glauconite mineral. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some trace pollutants exist extensively in the water, soil and other environment, as a result of unorganized emissions. The natural mineral CaCO 3 is also widely found in these environments. In this study, we studied the effect of CaCO 3 on the transformation of pollutants in water under light and the inactivation of bacteria in different environments. The photolysis of tetracycline (TC) under sunlight in the presence of CaCO 3 can be as high as about 77%, which was improved comparing with the pure photolysis under sunlight (15%) and adsorption (32%). The same trend was found when the natural minerals containing CaCO 3 (e.g. shell, oyster shell, limestone and marble) were adopted. It was determined that 1.10×10−5 mmol L−1 of ∙OH can be produced under Xenon lamp light source (HID) illumination after 2 h of reaction, which was increased to 4.28×10−5 mmol L−1 in the HID system with addition of CaCO 3. According to the calculation by projector-enhanced wave (PAW) method, it was found that the O-H bond length was increased after H 2 O adsorption on CaCO 3. The O-H bond cleavage was easier for more ∙OH generation under light illumination. Based on ZEMAX software simulations, CaCO 3 can act as light scatterer and increase the residence time of light in solution. [Display omitted] • CaCO 3 significantly improved the photolysis of pollutants. • CaCO 3 acted as mask for bacteria because of light scattering in the early stage. • Sterilization efficiency increases with time due to reactive species accumulation. • The bond length of the O-H bond increases when H 2 O is adsorbed on CaCO 3. • CaCO 3 can enhanced the scattering of light and increases free radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The synergistic effect of natural minerals for persulfate activation were reviewed. • The mechanism of persulfate activation and contaminants degradation were summarized. • We pointed out that the major challenges and direction of mineral-based catalysts. • This review is meaningful for the high-value-added application and functional specialization of minerals. The severity of environmental pollution poses a serious threat to human health, and especially organic pollution is more complex and difficult to treat compared to heavy metal pollution. Nowadays, the persulfate-based advanced oxidation processes receive more and more attention due to high efficiency, strong controllability, easy operation, and economic competitiveness, which is generally employed for the efficient degradation of organic contaminants. Natural minerals possess the characteristics of low-cost, easy availability, environmental friendliness, non-toxic, special structural effects, etc., which have played a critical role and could be the promising alternative to traditional catalysts for persulfate activation. First, this review retrospects the research status of natural minerals and mineral-based catalysts for persulfate activation to degrade organic contaminants, i.e., pyrite, mackinawite, copper sulfide, kaolinite, and montmorillonite. Then, the mechanisms of persulfate activation by natural minerals and mineral-based catalysts to generate the reactive oxygen species including SO 4 •−, •OH, •O 2 −, 1O 2 , and surface reactive complex for contaminants degradation are systematically summarized. Finally, we discussed the further application of natural minerals in activating persulfate as well as the future research frontiers for practical environmental remediation, i.e., the synthesis and characterization of mineral-based catalysts dominated by non-radical pathway, the large-scale application of PDS with low-cost, the surface modification of mineral-based catalysts with amphiphilicity, as well as the more efficient catalysts possessing nano-restricted domain catalytic effect. The development and expansion of novel and efficient mineral-based catalysts with enhanced synergistic effects would provide new opportunities for persulfate activation in environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The wide application of ceramic membranes in nowadays can be rationalized by their intrinsic properties, notably in terms of thermal and chemical stability and high mechanical strength. Compared to the conventional metal oxide materials, this article summarized comprehensively the natural minerals and industrial wastes, which are in abundance and need lower firing temperature, for the ceramic membrane fabrication as the raw materials. These cost-effective ceramic membranes prepared from clay, silty marls, kaolin, zeolite, bauxite, quartz sands, bentonite, cordierite, apatite, perovskite, coal fly ash, coal gangue, blast furnace slag, rice husk ash, pozzolan, etc. have emphasized the remarkable cost reduction and been broadly applicable to a variety of fields like removal of solid, dye, ion, heavy metal, oily wastewater treatment, juice clarification, seawater desalination, sterilization, hydrogen separation, oxygen permeation, CO2 adsorption and separation, membrane catalysis, etc. The cost of these natural minerals and industrial wastes based ceramic membrane was estimated several times cheaper than the conventional oxide ceramic membrane. This review encouraged a more economically viable and environmentally sustainable strategy, not only giving a new and facile insight for waste management but also endow a possibility of high-valued recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. As you know, reagent methods for removing heavy metal ions from wastewater lead to the formation of difficult to dispose of sludge. When solving these problems, the use of natural sorbent minerals prevents the formation of additional sludge and is economically profitable as well as environmentally sound. Purification of wastewater from ions of iron, manganese, copper and cadmium, using natural minerals, gives good results, and to increase the efficiency of the process, enrichment and activation of natural sorbent minerals will be required. Purpose is the enrichment and activation of natural glauconite mineral for purification and softening of wastewater containing some heavy metal ions by the sorption method. Methodology. Glauconite of the Parkent deposit was used as an object of research, which were enriched and modified. For enrichment, gravity methods and magnetic separation were used. During the experiments, model solutions containing ions of some heavy metals were also used. Originality. An increase in the sorption capacity by 1.7-2.0 times of a glauconite sample processed for 2 hours in 20% HCl and then for 1 hour in an 8% NaCl solution was determined. Findings. As a result of the research, a method for modifying Parkentglauconite has been developed. The technological conditions for enrichment and granulation of glauconite mineral without additional binders have been determined. A method of thermal activation and sequential chemical treatment in the acid-salt sequence have been developed, and the optimal concentrations of the components have been determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of mineral taping containing natural minerals powder on knee joint pain and swelling in the elderly. Forty elderly people with knee pain were divided into 20 mineral taping groups and 20 kinesio taping groups and randomly placed in a single blind manner. The study period was conducted from April 6, 2020 to April 7, 2020, and pain and blood flow by time point were examined before, after, and after 1 day of taping. Knee pain was significantly different in the post-test (F = 93.758, p <.001) and the post-day test (F = 93.758, p <0.001) for each measurement point. The blood flow test for edema was significantly different in the post-test (F = 48.648, p <0.001) and the post-day test (F = 35,427, p <0.001) for each measurement time point. There was no significant difference in the effect test result for each group (F = 0.160, p> 0.05). However, When comparing the retention effect after 1 day, the mineral taping group was excellent to the post-score than the Kinesio taping group. In the future, we believe that increasing the taping time and retention period will have a positive effect. It is thought that the results of this study will contribute to the study of taping materials in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a frequent instrument for the analysis of trace element content. When LA-ICP-MS is used to analyze the element content of minerals, the laser energy density will affect the denudation rate of the sample and thus affect the signal intensity during the analysis. OBJECTIVES:To further clarify the impact of laser energy density changes on the quality of test data and the response of different natural minerals to laser energy density. METHODS:The element content data of standard samples and nature minerals with different Mohs hardness under different laser energy densities were determined using LA-ICP-MS. Then authors analyzed the relative error (RE) between the test data and the reference values of the standard samples, average of the relative error of elements with RE within the limits of -20%-10% in the same standard sample, and the relative standard deviation of the standard samples and nature minerals test results to evaluate the effect of laser energy density on the test results. RESULTS:The minimum laser energy density required to stabilize ablated quartz and fluorite was 5J/cm2, which was lower than the previously reported value (10J/cm2), whereas stable denudation of other minerals such as talc, apatite, and corundum require the minimum energy density of generally 1-2J/cm2. Under the different condition of laser energy density, the relative error of most trace elements in standard samples between analytical results and recommended values was less than 20% and the relative standard deviation was less than 10%. The relative standard deviation of most trace element test data was less than 20% for natural minerals with most element contents >1μg/g. Within a certain range, the greater the laser energy density, the smaller the average relative error of the data, and the better the overall quality. CONCLUSIONS: Quartz and fluorite require higher laser energy density for stable ablation than other minerals. Within the appropriate range, laser energy density has little effect on the quality of the individual element data, but it affects the overall quality of the data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prebiotic significance of laboratory experiments that study the interactions between oligomeric RNA and mineral species is difficult to know. Natural exemplars of specific minerals can differ widely depending on their provenance. While laboratory-generated samples of synthetic minerals can have controlled compositions, they are often viewed as "unnatural". Here, we show how trends in the interaction of RNA with natural mineral specimens, synthetic mineral specimens, and co-precipitated pairs of synthetic minerals, can make a persuasive case that the observed interactions reflect the composition of the minerals themselves, rather than their being simply examples of large molecules associating nonspecifically with large surfaces. Using this approach, we have discovered Periodic Table trends in the binding of oligomeric RNA to alkaline earth carbonate minerals and alkaline earth sulfate minerals, where those trends are the same when measured in natural and synthetic minerals. They are also validated by comparison of co-precipitated synthetic minerals. We also show differential binding of RNA to polymorphic forms of calcium carbonate, and the stabilization of bound RNA on aragonite. These have relevance to the prebiotic stabilization of RNA, where such carbonate minerals are expected to have been abundant, as they appear to be today on Mars.

• The thermoelectric properties of natural chalcopyrite were investigated for the first time. • The TE properties of chalcopyrite were highly enhanced by vacuum annealing. • The natural chalcopyrite is a promising thermoelectric material. This paper focuses on the thermoelectric properties of natural chalcopyrite and provides methods for optimizing its thermoelectric properties. Natural chalcopyrite shows obvious anisotropic thermoelectric properties. Although the thermoelectric properties of natural chalcopyrite are low, they are found to be significantly enhanced by vacuum annealing. Natural chalcopyrite was proven to be feasible and potential thermoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural subsurface drainage has been recognized as an important pathway for phosphorus transport from soils to surface waters. Reactive permeable filters are a promising technology to remove phosphate from subsurface drainage. Three natural minerals (limestone, zeolite, and calcite) and five industrial by-products (steel slag, iron filings, and three recycled steel by-products) were evaluated for phosphate removal from subsurface drainage using batch adsorption experiments. Phosphate adsorption onto these materials was characterized by Langmuir isotherm and second-order kinetic models. The adsorption capacities increased by factors of 1.2-2.5 when temperature was increased from 5°C to 30°C. Industrial by-products exhibited phosphate adsorption capacities that were one order of magnitude higher than natural minerals. Medium-sized steel chips exhibited high phosphate adsorption capacities (1.64-3.38 mg/g) across different temperatures, pH values, organic matter concentrations, and real drainage water matrixes. The strong chemical bonds between phosphate and steel by-products prevented the release of adsorbed phosphate back to the solution. The steel by-product filter can be paired with a woodchip bioreactor for nitrate and phosphate removal. It is suggested that the phosphate filter be connected to a woodchip bioreactor after the startup phase to minimize the impact of dissolved organic matter on phosphate adsorption. The results of this study suggest that the low-cost steel by-products examined could be used as effective adsorption media for phosphate removal from subsurface drainage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effect of bentonite and zeolite concentration (0.25–5 g/L) on the membrane fouling of a fully automated, pilot-scale membrane bioreactor (MBR) treating high-strength synthetic municipal wastewater. Reversible fouling was estimated by sludge filterability measurements and irreversible fouling was estimated by the reduction of the carbohydrate fraction of soluble microbial products (SMPc), which are considered to be significant MBR foulants. Both minerals were added to biomass samples (during batch-mode experiments) which were obtained from the system’s aeration tank. Results showed that the optimal bentonite and zeolite concentrations were 3.5–4 g/L and 2.5–3.5 g/L, respectively. Interestingly, above these values, the addition of both minerals increased the examined fouling indices, i.e., the measured filterability times and the SMPc concentration, implying that they might act as foulants at high concentrations. Optical microscopy images of the biomass samples showed that the addition of minerals at the optimal concentrations did not affect significantly filamentous microorganisms, since filament index (FI) was practically unaffected (~2). Finally, regarding the system’s treating performance, it was found that the pilot-scale MBR can operate successfully with high-strength synthetic municipal wastewater, since remarkable behaviour was exhibited in terms of organics (BOD5, COD) and ammonium (NH4+-N) removal (>98%).

The release of untreated wastewater into water bodies has become a significant environmental concern, resulting in the accumulation of refractory organic pollutants that pose risks to human health and ecosystems. Wastewater treatment methods, including biological, physical, and chemical techniques, have limitations in achieving complete removal of the refractory pollutants. Chemical methods, particularly advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), have gained special attention for their strong oxidation capacity and minimal secondary pollution. Among the various catalysts used in AOPs, natural minerals offer distinct advantages, such as low cost, abundant resources, and environmental friendliness. Currently, the utilization of natural minerals as catalysts in AOPs lacks thorough investigation and review. This work addresses the need for a comprehensive review of natural minerals as catalysts in AOPs. The structural characteristics and catalytic performance of different natural minerals are discussed, emphasizing their specific roles in AOPs. Furthermore, the review analyzes the influence of process factors, including catalyst dosage, oxidant addition, pH value, and temperature, on the catalytic performance of natural minerals. Strategies for enhancing the catalytic efficiency of AOPs mediated by natural minerals are explored, mainly including physical fields, reductant addition, and cocatalyst utilization. The review also examines the practical application prospects and main challenges associated with the use of natural minerals as heterogeneous catalysts in AOPs. This work contributes to the development of sustainable and efficient approaches for organic pollutant degradation in wastewater., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no conflicts to declare., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

With a view of increasing asphalt concrete filling resources, various natural minerals have been analysed. Physical-chemical analysis made it possible to establish that samples of "Sangargaya" and "Shakhgaya" quarries are identical with "Crumbs from stone manufacture" which has earlier been examined and found suitable as fillings; however, it proved to be insufficient due to increased capacity of asphalt concrete production. Note that specified samples contain huge quantities of calcium carbonates among analysed minerals, so the content of quartz exceeds no 4.0-4.5% mass. In common with "Crumbs from stone manufacture", there are insignificant quantities of Albite, Wollastanite, Muscovite and Orthoclase in examined samples. The current research allows to significantly increase resources of asphalt concrete fillings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrothermal synthesis of zeolite from chemical Al/Si source in the presence of structure directing agent is considered to be a resource extensive, energy consuming, and environmental unfriendly process. Herein, we report a novel, cost-effective, and eco-friendly synthesis for the preparation of ZSM-5 zeolite from silicon-rich diatomite and aluminum-rich rectorite minerals in the absence of organic structure-directing agent and chemical Al/Si source. Synthesis factors (SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 , Na 2 O/SiO 2 , and H 2 O/SiO 2 molar ratios along with seed content) and crystallization behavior were systematically investigated, providing fundamental knowledges on the formation of ZSM-5 from natural minerals. Synthesis under the optimized conditions (SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 ratio of around 38, Na 2 O/SiO 2 ratios of 0.12–0.15, H 2 O/SiO 2 ratios of 15–25, and seed content above 0.5%) led to production of highly crystalline ZSM-5 zeolite with hexagonal prism morphology and large surface area. Various characterization techniques tracking the products at different crystallization times revealed that the crystallization process consisted of three stages: short induction stage (0–6 h), rapid growth stage (6–18 h), and stable growth stage (18–36 h). Moreover, the synthesized ZSM-5 crystals can be used as effective seed for producing the next generation of ZSM-5 zeolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, novel spinel-NiFe 2 O 4 /natural mineral (sepiolite, diatomite and kaolinite) composites were developed using microwave (MW) hydrothermal method, and applied in MW-induced catalytic degradation (NiFe 2 O 4 /natural mineral/MW) of organic pollutants such as sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS), azo fuchsine (AF), methyl parathion (MP), and crystal violet (CVL) in solution. Catalytic activities of three NiFe 2 O 4 /natural mineral composites were compared. The effects of material synthesis process parameters such as molar ratios of NiFe 2 O 4 and natural mineral, and pH of precursor solutions for synthesizing catalysts, and degradation parameters such as MW irradiation time and catalyst reuse cycles were also investigated. The principle on NiFe 2 O 4 /natural mineral/MW degradation was provided. The results reveal that organic pollutants in wastewater can be removed completely using NiFe 2 O 4 /natural mineral/MW within minutes. NiFe 2 O 4 /sepiolite shows higher catalytic activity than the others. The calculated degradation rate constants are 1.865, 0.672, 0.472, and 0.329 min −1 for SDBS, AF, MP, and CVL, respectively, using NiFe 2 O 4 /sepiolite/MW system. The performance of NiFe 2 O 4 /natural mineral can be maintained for three reuse cycles. Active species OH, O 2 − , and h + play main roles in NiFe 2 O 4 /sepiolite/MW degradation. Hence, NiFe 2 O 4 /sepiolite/MW technology with rapid and cost-effective degradation, magnetic separation, and no secondary pollution, demonstrates to be promising in treating organic contaminants in wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution and high costs of mineral fertilization have impelled scientists and farmers to use environmentally friendly fertilizers. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of different combinations of rabbit manure (RM), rock phosphate (RH), feldspar (F), and bio-fertilizers [Microbine (Bio-N), Phosphorin (Bio-P) and Potassiumag (Bio-K)] on the growth, yield, and quality of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants. The mixture of RM, RH, and F + Bio-N-P-K increased the tomato fruit yield by 30% compared to inorganic fertilization. The application of RM, RH, and F with the bio-fertilizer (Bio-N-P-K) inoculation increased the concentration of N, P, and K in the leaves of tomato by 34%, 35%, and 50% in comparison to the same treatment without the bio-fertilizer. The current study clearly depicted that natural minerals (RH and F) and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium bio-fertilization lead to higher yields and better fruit quality than conventional fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]