Evolution of nonmetallic inclusions in 80-t 9CrMoCoB large-scale ingots during electroslag remelting process

In combination with theoretical calculations,experiments were conducted to investigate the evolution behavior of nonmetallic inclusions(NMIs)during the manufacture of large-scale heat-resistant steel ingots using 9CrMoCoB heat-resistant steel and CaF_(2)–CaO–Al_(2)O_(3)–SiO_(2)–B_(2)O_(3)electroslag remelting(ESR)-type slag in an 80-t industrial ESR furnace.The main types of NMI in the consumable electrode comprised pure alumina,a multiphase oxide consisting of an Al_(2)O_(3)core and liquid CaO–Al_(2)O_(3)–SiO_(2)–MnO shell,and M_(23)C_(6)carbides with an MnS core.The Al_(2)O_(3)and MnS inclusions had higher precipitation temperatures than the M_(23)C_(6)-type carbide under equilibrium and nonequilibrium solidification processes.Therefore,inclusions can act as nucleation sites for carbide layer precipitation.The ESR process completely removed the liquid CaO–Al_(2)O_(3)–SiO_(2)–MnO oxide and MnS inclusion with a carbide shell,and only the Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions and Al_(2)O_(3)core with a carbide shell occupied the remelted ingot.The M_(23)C_(6)-type carbides in steel were determined as Cr_(23)C_(6)based on the analysis of transmission electron microscopy results.The substitution of Cr with W,Fe,or/and Mo in the Cr_(23)C_(6)lattice caused slight changes in the lattice parameter of the Cr_(23)C_(6)carbide.Therefore,Cr_(21.34)Fe_(1.66)C_(6),(Cr_(19)W_(4)C_(6),Cr_(18.4)Mo_(4.6)C_(6),and Cr_(16)Fe_(5)Mo_(2)C_(6)can match the fraction pattern of Cr_(23)C_(6)carbide.The Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions in the remelted ingot formed due to the reduction of CaO,SiO_(2),and MnO components in the liquid inclusion.The increased Al content in liquid steel or the higher supersaturation degree of Al_(2)O_(3)precipitation in the remelted ingot than that in the electrode can be attributed to the evaporation of CaF_(2)and the increase in CaO content in the ESR-type slag.

Effect of hafnium and molybdenum addition on inclusion characteristics in Co-based dual-phase high-entropy alloys

Specific grades of high-entropy alloys(HEAs)can provide opportunities for optimizing properties toward high-temperature applications.In this work,the Co-based HEA with a chemical composition of Co_(47.5)Cr_(30)Fe_(7.5)Mn_(7.5)Ni_(7.5)(at%)was chosen.The refractory metallic elements hafnium(Hf)and molybdenum(Mo)were added in small amounts(1.5at%)because of their well-known positive effects on high-temperature properties.Inclusion characteristics were comprehensively explored by using a two-dimensional cross-sectional method and extracted by using a three-dimensional electrolytic extraction method.The results revealed that the addition of Hf can reduce Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions and lead to the formation of more stable Hf-rich inclusions as the main phase.Mo addition cannot influence the inclusion type but could influence the inclusion characteristics by affecting the physical parameters of the HEA melt.The calculated coagulation coefficient and collision rate of Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions were higher than those of HfO_(2)inclusions,but the inclusion amount played a larger role in the agglomeration behavior of HfO_(2)and Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions.The impurity level and active elements in HEAs were the crucial factors affecting inclusion formation.

Critical precipitation behavior of MnTe inclusions in resulfurized steels during solidification

Te treatment is an effective method for modifying sulfide inclusions,and MnTe precipitation has an important effect on thermal brittleness and steel corrosion resistance.In most actual industrial applications of Te treatment,MnTe precipitation is unexpected.The critical precipitation behavior of MnTe inclusions was investigated through scanning electron microscopy,transmission electron microscopy,machine learning,and first-principles calculation.MnTe preferentially precipitated at the container mouth for sphere-like sulfides and at the interface between MnS grain boundaries and steel matrix for rod-like sulfides.The MnS/MnTe interface was semicoherent.A composition transition zone with a rock-salt structure exhibiting periodic changes existed to maintain the semicoherent interface.The critical precipitation behavior of MnTe inclusions in resulfurized steels involved three stages at varying temperatures.First,Mn(S,Te)precipitated during solidification.Second,MnTe with a rock-salt structure precipitated from Mn(S,Te).Third,MnTe with a hexagonal NiAs structure transformed from the rock-salt structure.The solubility of Te in MnS decreased with decreasing temperature.The critical precipitation behavior of MnTe inclusions in resulfurized steels was related to the MnS precipitation temperature.With the increase in MnS precipitation temperature,the critical Te/S weight ratio decreased.In consideration of the cost-effectiveness of Te addition for industrial production,the Te content in resulfurized steels should be controlled in accordance with MnS precipitation temperature and S content.

Infrared microthermometry of fluid inclusion in sphalerite:A case study of the Xinqiao deposit in the Middle-Lower Yangtze metallogenic belt

Infrared microthermometry allows direct measurement of fluid inclusions hosted in opaque ore minerals and can provide direct constraints on the evolution of ore-forming fluids.This study presents infrared microthermometry of spherite-hosted fluid inclusions from the Xinqiao deposit in the Middle-Lower Yangtze Metallogenic Belt and sheds new light on the ore genesis of the deposit.Considering that infrared light may lead to non-negligible temperature deviations during microthermometry,some tests were first conducted to ensure the accuracy of the microthermometric measurements.The measurement results indicated that using the lowest light intensity of the microscope and inserting an optical filter were effective in minimizing the possible temperature deviations of infrared microthermometry.All sphalerite-hosted fluid inclusions from the Xinqiao deposit were aqueous.They show homogenization temperature ranging from~200 to 350℃,but have two separate salinity groups(1.0 wt%-10 wt%and 15.1 wt%-19.2 wt%NaCl equivalent).The low-salinity group represents sedimentary exhalative(SEDEX)-associated fluids,whereas the high-salinity group results from modification by later magmatic hydrothermal fluids.Combined with published fluid inclusion data,the four-stage fluid evolution of the Xinqiao deposit was depicted.Furthermore,our data suggest that the Xinqiao deposit was formed by twostage metallogenic events including SEDEX and magmatic-hydrothermal mineralization.

Genesis of the Jianbeigou Gold Deposit on the Southern Margin of the North China Craton: Insights from Fluid Inclusions, H-O-S Isotopes, and Pyrite in situ Trace Element Analyses

The Jianbeigou gold deposit is a typical lode gold deposit in the Qinling metallogenic belt, located on the southern margin of the North China Craton. Three stages of the hydrothermal process can be distinguished, including the quartz ± pyrite, quartz-polymetallic sulfide, and quartz-carbonate ± pyrite stages. From the early to late stages, the homogenization temperatures of primary fluid inclusions are 281–362°C, 227–331°C, and 149–261°C, respectively. The corresponding salinities estimated for these fluids are 3.9–9.9 wt%, 0.4–9.4 wt%, and 0.7–7.2 wt% Na Cl equiv. Combined with laser Raman spectroscopy data, the ore-forming fluid belongs to a H_(2)O-CO_(2)-Na Cl ± CH_4 system with medium–low temperature and salinity. The δ~(18)Ofluid and δD values for the quartz veins are-1.0‰ to 6.0‰ and-105‰ to-84‰, respectively, which indicates that the ore-forming fluid is of mixed source, mainly derived from magma, with a contribution from meteoric water. Pyrite has been identified into three generations based on mineral paragenetic sequencing, including Py1, Py2, and Py3. The pyrites have δ~(34)S sulfur isotopic compositions from three stages between 3.7‰ and 8.4‰, indicating that sulfur mainly originated from magma. Te, Bi, Sb, and Cu contents in pyrite were all high and showed a strong correlation with Au concentrations. Native gold and the Au-Ag-Bi telluride minerals were formed concurrently, and the As concentration was low and decoupled from the Au content. Therefore, Te, Bi, Sb and other low-melting point chalcophile elements play an important role for gold mineralization in arsenic-deficient ore-forming fluid. Combined with the geological setting, evolution of pyrite, and ore-fluids geochemistry, we propose that the Jianbeigou deposit can be classified as a magmatic–hydrothermal lode gold deposit. Gold mineralization on the southern margin of the North China Craton is related to Early Cretaceous magmatism and formed in an extensional setting.

Dissolution behavior of Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions into CaO-MgO-SiO_(2)-Al_(2)O_(3)-TiO_(2)system ladle slags

To investigate the dissolution behaviors of Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions in CaO-5wt%MgO-SiO_(2)-30wt%Al_(2)O_(3)-TiO_(2)system ladle slags,confocal scanning laser microscopy was conducted on the slags with different TiO_(2)contents(0-10wt%),and scanning electron microscopy was performed to study the interfacial reaction between Al_(2)O_(3)and this slag system.The results disclose that the dissolution of Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions does not result in the formation of new phases at the boundary between the slag and the inclusions.In TiO_(2)-bearing and TiO_(2)-free ladle slags,there is no difference in the dissolution mechanism of Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions at steelmaking temperatures.Boundary layer diffusion is found as the controlling step of the dissolution of Al_(2)O_(3),and the diffusion coefficient is in the range of 4.18×10^(-10)to 2.18×10^(-9)m^(2)/s at 1450-1500℃.Compared with the solubility of Al_(2)O_(3)in the slags,slag viscosity and temperature play a more profound role in the dissolution of Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions.A lower viscosity and a lower melting point of the slags are beneficial for the dissolution.Suitable addition of TiO_(2)(e.g.,5wt%)in ladle slags can enhance the dissolution of Al_(2)O_(3)inclusions because of the low viscosity and melting point of the slags,while excessive addition of TiO_(2)(e.g.,10wt%)shows the opposite trend.

Shock-induced energy localization and reaction growth considering chemical-inclusions effects for crystalline explosives

Chemical inclusions significantly alter shock responses of crystalline explosives in macroscale gap experiments but their microscale dynamics origin remains unclear.Herein shock-induced energy localization,overall physical responses,and reactions in a-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane(a-RDX)crystal entrained various chemical inclusions were investigated by the multi-scale shock technique implemented in the reactive molecular dynamics method.Results indicated that energy localization and shock reaction were affected by the intrinsic factors within chemical inclusions,i.e.,phase states,chemical compositions,and concentrations.The atomic origin of chemical-inclusions effects on energy localization is dependent on the dynamics mechanism of interfacial molecules with free space volume,which includes homogeneous intermolecular compression,interfacial impact and shear,and void collapse and jet.As introducing various chemical inclusions,the initiation of those dynamics mechanisms triggers diverse decay rates of bulk RDX molecules and hereby impacts on growth speeds of final reactions.Adding chemical inclusions can reduce the effectiveness of the void during the shock impacting.Under the shockwave velocity of 9 km/s,the parent RDX decay rate in RDX entrained amorphous carbon decreases the most and is about one fourth of that in RDX with a vacuum void,and solid HMX and TATB inclusions are more reactive than amorphous carbon but less reactive than dry air or acetone inclusions.The lessdense shocking system denotes the greater increases in local temperature and stress,the faster energy liberation,and the earlier final reaction into equilibrium,revealing more pronounced responses to the present intense shockwave.The quantitative models associated with the relative system density(RD_(sys))were proposed for indicating energy-localization mechanisms and evaluating initiation safety in the shocked crystalline explosive.RD_(sys)is defined by the density ratio of defective RDX to perfect crystal after dynamics relaxation and reveals the global density characteristic in shocked systems filled with chemical inclusions.When RD_(sys)is below 0.9,local hydrodynamic jet initiated by void collapse dominates upon energy localization instead of interfacial impact.This study sheds light on novel insights for understanding the shock chemistry and physical-based atomic origin in crystalline explosives considering chemical-inclusions effects.

Magmatic-hydrothermal Evolution and Mineralization Mechanisms of the Wangjiazhuang Cu(-Mo)Deposit in the Zouping Volcanic Basin,Shandong Province,China:Constraints from Fluid Inclusions

The Wangjiazhuang Cu(-Mo)deposit,located within the Zouping volcanic basin in western Shandong Province,China,is unique in this area for having an economic value.In order to expound the metallogenetic characteristics of this porphyry-like hydrothermal deposit,a detailed fluid inclusion study has been conducted,employing the techniques of representative sampling,fluid inclusion petrography,microthermometry,Raman spectroscopy,LA-ICP-MS analysis of single fluid inclusions,as well as cathode fluorescence spectrometer analysis of host mineral quartz.The deposit contains mainly two types of orebodies,i.e.veinlet-dissemination-stockwork orebodies in the K-Si alteration zone and pegmatiticquartz sulfide veins above them.In addition,minor breccia ore occurs locally.Four types of fluid inclusions in the deposit and altered quartz monzonite are identified:L-type one-or two-phase aqueous inclusions,V-type vapor-rich inclusions with V/L ratios greater than 50%-90%,D-type multiphase fluid inclusions containing daughter minerals or solids and S-type silicate-bearing fluid inclusions containing mainly muscovite and biotite.Ore petrography and fluid inclusion study has revealed a three-stage mineralization process,driven by magmatic-hydrothermal fluid activity,as follows.Initially,a hydrothermal fluid,separated from the parent magma,infiltrated into the quartz monzonite,resulting in its extensive K-Si alteration,as indicated by silicate-bearing fluid inclusions trapped in altered quartz monzonite.This is followed by the early mineralization,the formation of quartz veinlets and dissemination-stockwork ores.During the main mineralization stage,due to the participation and mixing of meteoric groundwater with magmatic-sourced hydrothermal fluid,the cooling and phase separation caused deposition of metals from the hydrothermal fluids.As a result,the pegmatitic-quartz sulfide-vein ores formed.In the late mineralization stage,decreasing fluid salinity led to the formation of L-type aqueous inclusions and chalcopyrite-sulfosalt ore.Coexistence of V-type and D-type inclusions and their similar homogenization temperatures with different homogenization modes suggest that phase separation or boiling of the ore-forming fluids took place during the early and the main mineralization stages.The formation P-T conditions of S-type inclusions and the early and the main mineralization stages were estimated as ca.156-182 MPa and 450-650℃,350-450℃,18-35 MPa and 280-380℃,8-15 MPa,respectively,based on the microthermometric data of the fluid inclusions formed at the individual stages.

Utility of fluid inclusion paleo-temperature in petroleum system modelling:A case study from western offshore,India

The paleo-temperature(Th)data from fluid inclusions are utilized for thermal history modelling using PetroMod software.Generally,bottom hole temperature(BHT)and vitrinite reflectance(Ro)measurements are widely used in petroleum system modelling(PSM)in the oil industry for calibration purposes.Th representing the minimum temperature of fluid entrapment estimated from fluid-inclusion study provides extra support to build the thermal models for PSM.Fluid inclusion parameters along with Rock-Eval pyrolysis analysis have been used to predict the maturity of oil in terms of API gravity as well as the maturity of source rocks respectively.Two exploratory wells RV-1(Mumbai Offshore Basin)and KK4C-A-1(Kerala-Konkan Offshore Basin),India were examined and the T_(h)from most of the fluid inclusions of wells RV-1 and KK4C-A-1 fell in the oil window range of 60-140℃suggesting thermal conditions favourable for oil generation in both of the wells.T_(h)of coeval aqueous inclusions along with the Hydrocarbon Fluid inclusions(HCFIs)was used to calibrate PSM.Vital parameters show that source rocks of well RV-1 are mature and that of well KK4C-A-1 are immature.Two sets of PSM are created in terms of generation and expulsion for the dry wells RV-1 and KK4C-A-1 and calibrated each well using fluid inclusion Th and BHT.From the fluid inclusion analysis method,it is evident that hydrocarbon generation happened in both wells and the paleo-temperature indicates that the formations of both wells were subjected to temperatures in the oil window range,even though it was designated as dry wells in the present scenario.The present study highlights the application of fluid inclusion paleo-temperature(Th)during calibration instead of commonly used methods.We could obtain desirable and accurate data output from PSM using T_(h) calibration.

Origin of the Yueguang gold deposit in Xinhua, Hunan Province, South China: insights from fl uid inclusion and hydrogen–oxygen stable isotope analysis

The Yueguang gold deposit is located in Fengjia,Xinhua County,Hunan Province,South China.It represents a recently discovered small-scale gold deposit situated in the southwestern region of the Jiangnan Orogenic Belt,west of the Baimashan granitic batholith.In order to discern the characteristics of the ore-formingfluids,the underlying mineralization processes,and establish a foundation for the origin of the Yueguang gold depositfluid inclusion micro-thermometry,as well as quartz hydrogen and oxygen isotope analysis,have been carried out on samples obtained from various stages of mineralization.The hydrothermal miner-alization stages within the Yueguang gold deposit can be categorized into three stages:(i)the barren,pre-ore quartz-pyrite stage(Stage Ⅰ),the quartz-pyrite-gold stage(Stage Ⅱ),and the post-ore quartz-carbonate stage(Stage Ⅲ),with the second stage being the main mineralization stage.Thefluid inclusions identified in samples from the main min-eralization stage can predominantly be described with the NaCl–H_(2)O and CO_(2)–NaCl–H_(2)O systems.These inclusions display homogenization temperatures ranging from 158.8 to 334.9℃,and thefluid salinity ranges from 0.3%to 4.0%(wt.%NaCl equiv.).Laser Raman spectroscopy analysis of individual inclusions further reveals the presence of gas-phases such as CO_(2),CH_(4),and N_(2).Isotopic analysis indicatesδ^(18)Ofluid values ranging from 3.95 to 6.7‰ and δDH_(2)O values ranging from-71.9 to-55.7‰.These results indi-cate that the ore-formingfluid of the Yueguang gold deposit belongs to metamorphic hydrothermalfluids of middle-low temperature and low salinity.In the process of ore formation,gold is transported in the form of Au(HS)2-complexes,with gold deposition being driven byfluid immiscibility.Therefore,the Yueguang gold deposit is categorized as an orogenic gold deposit dominated by metamorphic hydrother-malfluid.It may become a new target for gold exploration in the Baimashan region,central Hunan Province.

Let’s Talk LGBTQIA+:Strategies and Activities for Teaching Diversity and Inclusion in the Foreign Language Classroom at the College Level

In this presentation,the author explores strategies and activities that create a welcoming and nurturing environment for LGBTQIA+foreign language students at the college level in the United States.Indeed,as it is commonly stated,there is a clear lack of visibility,acceptance/tolerance,and inclusion of LGBTQIA+voices(active and proactive)in foreign language teaching and learning(pedagogical material as well as in-class attitudes and delivery).The reasons for this deficiency are diverse since they cover not only outward discrimination against and/or indifference(passive-aggressive behavior)toward the LGBTQIA+community and its plight,but they also illustrate the sheer,physical inexistence of quality material that can be used to create,present,and foster a welcoming and all-encompassing classroom environment that addresses the diverse spectrum of the LGBTQIA+community while its members try to learn a foreign language and(positively)negotiate how to express their very identity in their new language of choice.Moreover,the scant material that is available in the United States as well as in other Western countries where the LGBTQIA+community by and large is accepted-at least from the legal point of view-hardly represents and covers the subject matter in a satisfactory way.To address this gap,the author will provide some examples in European Portuguese(EP)and Italian(IT),followed by a courtesy translation in English,to illustrate some positive activities and strategies for including LGBTQIA+-related subject matter in the foreign language classroom at the college level.It is his desire that instructors of other foreign languages duplicate in their respective vernaculars the strategies and activities herein presented in order to create a welcoming and safe classroom environment that embraces the LGBTQIA+community as it goes through the enjoyable journey of learning a new language and culture.

Research on the Constitutional,Historical and Practical Logic of the Chinese Path of Human Rights Development——From the Perspective of the Inclusion of Human Rights Clause in the Constitution

The inclusion of the human rights clause in the Chi-nese Constitution is a concern and expression of the spirit of the Con-stitution,which has laid the institutional regulations of the fundamen-tal law for the development of human rights in China,provided the principles and value norms of the highest level of effectiveness for the legal protection of human rights,and built a profound constitutional basis for the formation and improvement of the Chinese path of human rights development.The human rights clause is not only a summariza-tion and affirmation of the historical practice of Chinese human rights development under the leadership of the Communist Party of China,but also a new starting point for the development of human rights in China under the leadership of the Communist Party of China.It marks that the development of human rights in China has entered a new era.The Party and the state have finally embarked on a path of human rights development with Chinese characteristics by formulating and implementing the Human Rights Action Plan of China,eliminating ab-solute poverty through the national poverty alleviation campaign,and promoting human rights protection through the rule of law.

Addressing inclusion,innovation,and sustainability challenges through the lens of economic geography:Introducing the hierarchical regional innovation system

The world is facing dramatic challenges related to environmental sustainability at an accelerating pace.In this context,the field of economic geography(EG)has been playing an important role in understanding both the socioeconomic and technological dimensions of these challenges,as it deals with a variety of complementary notions and perspectives.Departing from this lens,our aim is to explore a conceptual framework that can help us to understand environmental changes relating to multi-dimensional territorial development,notably in eco-nomic contexts where inequality is high,and stratification based on hierarchies regulate social and economic life.Based on the territory concept,we propose the original notion of a hierarchical regional innovation system(HRIS)that emphasises the pervasive role of hierarchies(powers)in regional innovation systems and illustrate its value with evidence and case studies from extant literature on sustainability transitions.The HRIS can help us understand and promote development paths considering the contribution of inclusive eco-innovations(another original conceptual amalgam).Through some empirical cases from other studies in low-carbon transitions,we show the application of the HRIS(and inclusive eco-innovation)framework.In conclusion,we provide incen-tives to explore new regional innovation systems,alongside the HRIS,adapted to different regions worldwide and centred on the inclusiveness of people and places.

The Role of Music in Multicultural Education:A Tool for Promoting Cultural Understanding and Inclusion

In this essay,it will be examined how music can be a powerful tool in multicultural education in promoting humanity and cultural sensitivity.As classroom diversity increases,the challenge lies with educators to ensure that an equal and appropriate learning environment for all students with cultural sensitivity is maintained.To address this problem,therefore,the study explores how music may be effectively incorporated into intercultural education approaches.This paper has evidence that music is a language that has transcended cultures and promotes tolerance,appreciation,and acceptance of diversity through a synthesis of literature and examples.Several implications posit that music can make people feel they belong,enhance the relations of people from diverse cultures,and provide a practical way of learning about other cultures.The potential of music as a tool to engage social justice issues and liberate oppressed groups is also discussed in this research.It exists,but with caution to cultural appropriation and stereotyping of students,thus requiring educators to be sensitive and socially-apperceived on the best practice ways on how to integrate music into classrooms.The end explains how music helps in nurturing a generation of embracing the world,more sensitive and more inclined to the happenings in society to create a society that will be more sensitive and tolerant with the growing society which is diversifying.Therefore,the current article recommends further exploration and development of music-facilitated/inclined pedagogy of ME in hopefully enhancing cultural consciousness/sensitivity and fostering more social integration.

Exploring the Evolutionary Path of Digital Financial Inclusion in Guangdong Province,China

This study explores the development trajectory of digital financial inclusion in 21 cities in Guangdong Province through fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis(fsQCA).The findings emphasize that the success of digital financial inclusion goes beyond individual dimensions,forming a systematic initiative marked by multifaceted interaction among different disciplines.In the trajectory of high-level digital inclusive finance development,the study identifies economic prosperity and technological innovation as crucial elements,highlighting their centrality,and elucidates the synergistic collaboration between market mechanisms and government guidance.Furthermore,the study emphasizes the government’s pivotal role in supporting market mechanisms and guiding policies,highlighting the need to achieve a nuanced equilibrium in the digital financial inclusion strategy.In contrast,non-high-level development paths of digital inclusive finance show a spectrum of diversities,emphasizing the critical roles played by economic fundamentals,government regulation,market mechanisms,and other contextual factors in different trajectories.Regarding policy implications,the study emphasizes the comprehensive and systemic nature inherent in the development of digital inclusive finance.It proposes four policy recommendations,including integrating development strategies,emphasizing scientific and technological innovation and economic development,achieving a delicate balance between market mechanisms and government guidance,and providing precise policy support.These insights provide valuable lessons for shaping digital inclusive financial policies in Guangdong Province and beyond,offering profound insights for strategically constructing robust digital financial ecosystems.

Dissolution of TiO_(2) and TiN inclusions in CaO–SiO_(2)–B_(2)O_(3)-based fluorine-free mold flux

Mold flux serves the crucial metallurgical function of absorbing inclusions, directly impacting the smoothness of the casting process as well as the cast slab quality. In this study, the dissolution behavior and mechanism of Ti O_(2)and Ti N inclusions in molten Ca O–Si O_(2)–B_(2)O_(3)-based fluorine-free mold flux were explored by in situ single hot thermocouple technology combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.The results showed that Ti O_(2) inclusions are effectively dissolved by the molten slag within 76 s, during which the original octahedral [Ti O_(6)]^(8-)structures are destroyed and convert to the networker tetrahedral [Ti O_(4)]^(4-)structures. However, the dissolution rate is much lower for Ti N inclusions than for Ti O_(2)inclusions. This can be attributed to the fact that the Ti N particles need to be oxidized and then dissolved in the molten slag to form tetrahedral [Ti O4]4-and octahedral [Ti O_(6)]^(8-)structures during the Ti N inclusion dissolution process, which is accompanied by the generation of a large amount of N_(2)gas. Moreover, Ca Ti O_(3)crystals tend to nucleate and grow on bubble surfaces with sufficient octahedral [Ti O_(6)]^(8-)structures and Ca^(2+)ions, eventually resulting in the molten slag being in a solid–liquid mixed state.

Integrated fluid inclusion studies and source rock parameters in constraining hydrocarbon potential in offshore Lamu Basin, Kenya

Fluid inclusion signal strength and visual inclusion abundance are generally lower along migration pathways than in charged reservoirs from the same area. A zone that displays strong fluid inclusion stratigraphy (FIS) hydrocarbon indications and high visualized petroleum inclusion abundance, indicates paleo-charge or in some cases a migration pathway, e.g, where inclusion abundance is enhanced by extensive microfracturing. In this study, fluid inclusion data are interpreted in seven offshore wells of the Lamu Basin to enhance the understanding of hydrocarbon generation, migration and migration pathways. The study also examines the interrelationship among rock texture, rock composition and trapped fluid distribution in the study area. The studies were based on FIS analyzed data courtesy of Fluid Inclusion Technologies (FIT) Inc. in USA laboratories. FIT conducted analysis on 391 samples from the Paleocene to Upper Jurassic (Kiboko-1 well), 249 from the Paleoecene to Campanian (Kubwa-1 well), 106 from the Maastrichtian to Turonian (Mbawa-1 well), 59 from the Eocene to Campanian (Pomboo-1 well), 26 form the Lower Eocene to Maastrichtian (Simba-1 well), 16 from the Eocene to Maastrichtian (Kipini-1 well) and 11 from the Maastrichtian to Campanian (Kofia-1 well). It also made analysis on sidewall core sample plates, with 44 from the Maastrichtian to Campanian (Kubwa-1 well), 108 from the Campanian to Upper Jurassic (Kiboko-1 well) and 8 from the Campanian (Pomboo-1 well) for petrographic evaluation. For photomicroscopy, thin sections were examined under a petrographic microscope using Ultra Violet (UV) fluorescence and microthermometry, in order to verify the presence of petroleum bearing inclusions in the rock samples and to explore textural relationships that may yield additional information on the timing of hydrocarbon migration or generation. Gas shows in Mbawa-1 well is a result of generated hydrocarbons from the carbonate interbeds in the Upper Cretaceous. Gas shows are pockets trapped in the thin carbonate rich beds. There is low abundance of upper-low, moderate and upper-moderate gravity liquid petroleum inclusions in Kubwa-1 well (central deep offshore). The low abundance suggests migration events rather than paleo-accumulations, possibly involving several discrete charges. Despite sufficient vitrinite reflectance and total organic carbon (TOC) content, the temperatures are still insufficient for hydrocarbon generation in the southern deep offshore in the region where Kiboko-1 well is located. There is no sufficient evidence for access to mature source rocks in the deep offshore basin.

Microthermometry and Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Fluorescence Analysis of Fluid Inclusions in the Dongping Gold Deposit,Northern Margin of the North China Craton

To shed light on the genesis of the Dongping deposit and reveal the behaviour of CO_(2),Au and other ore elements(e.g.,Cu,Fe,Zn,As,Sb,Co etc.)in ore-forming fluids,petrographic,microthermometric and synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence(SRXRF)analyses of fluid inclusions were conducted.The ore-forming fluid is characterized as an H_(2)O-CO_(2)-NaCl system with medium-high temperatures and low salinity.Four mineralization stages are identified,namely,feldsparquartz(stage 1);pyrite-white quartz(stage 2);sulfide-smoky grey quartz(stage 3);and carbonate-quartz(stage 4).Three types of inclusions were distinguished,based on fluid composition,phase assemblages and mode of homogenization.Type A:H_(2)O-rich fluid inclusions show 2 phases(liquid H_(2)O(LH_(2)O)+vapour H_(2)O(VH_(2)O))at room temperature and homogenize to the liquid phase.Type B:H_(2)O-CO_(2)fluid inclusions contain 2–3 phases(liquid H_(2)O(LH_(2)O)+vapour CO_(2)(VCO_(2));liquid H_(2)O(LH_(2)O)+liquid CO_(2)(LCO_(2)));liquid H_(2)O(LH_(2)O)+liquid CO_(2)(LCO_(2))+vapour CO_(2)(VCO_(2)))at room temperature and homogenized to the liquid H_(2)O phase.Type C:H_(2)O-CO_(2)fluid inclusions show 2 phases(liquid H_(2)O(LH_(2)O)+liquid CO_(2)(LCO_(2))at room temperature and homogenize to a critical state.CO_(2)is clearly more enriched in the fluid inclusions of stages 2 and 3 than in stage 1.Stage 1 is dominated by type A(H_(2)O-rich)inclusions with homogenization temperatures(Th)of 220–359℃and salinities of 1.1–3.1 wt%NaCl equivalent.Type B(CO_(2)-rich)inclusions gradually increase in stages 2 and 3.The Th range of type B inclusions in stage 2 is 241–397℃with salinities of 2.2–6.9 wt%NaCl equivalent;the Th range of type A inclusions is 217–373℃with salinities of 1.2–8.1 wt%NaCl equivalent.The Th range of type B inclusions in stage 3 is 215–361℃with salinities of 2.9–6.1 wt%NaCl equivalent;the range of type A inclusions is 158–351℃with a salinity of 0.7–5.5 wt%NaCl equivalent.Stage 4 is characterized by type A with Th of 151–250℃and salinities of 0.9–8.3 wt%NaCl equivalent.The mapping results show that elements As,Te and Sb are more concentrated in vapour CO_(2)than in liquid H_(2)O at room temperature,which suggests that vapour components are more able to transport elements when phase separation occurs.The SRXRF quantitative results show that Au,Cl,S and some other metals are obviously more enriched in the fluid inclusions of stages 2 and 3 than those in stage 1.Additionally,the contents of S in stages 1–3 are much lower than those of Cl,which suggests that gold might migrate mainly in the form of a gold-chloride complex.Au is more enriched in type B fluid inclusions than in type A fluid inclusions,which suggests that the enrichment and migration of gold are closely related to CO_(2)and CO_(2)plays a critical role in the migration and enrichment of gold.The trace elements in the fluid have a similar change trend to those in the Yanshanian syenogranite distributed in the southeastern part of the mining area,which may provide some evidence for an intrusion-related genesis for the Dongping gold deposit.

Spatial-temporal Evolution and Influencing Factors of Digital Financial Inclusion: County-level Evidence from China

The vigorous development of information and communications technology has accelerated reshaping of the financial industry. The COVID-19 pandemic has further catalyzed the demand for digital financial services. Digital financial inclusion relies on information technology to overcome spatial limitations. In this case, the research question is whether it adheres to the spatial laws governing conventional financial activities. This study uses exploratory spatial data analysis and a geographical detector to elucidate the spatiotemporal characteristics and factors influencing digital financial inclusion at the county level in China(Data don’t include that of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan of China) from 2014 to 2020. The research findings indicate: first, China’s county-level digital financial inclusion is generally increasing and exhibits significant spatial autocorrelation. Second, population density, level of traditional financial development, government regulation, and education level are key determinants of China’s county-level digital financial inclusion. Third,policies should be differentiated by region to narrow the spatial gap in digital financial inclusion. The results provide a reference for other developing countries on using digital technology to develop financial inclusion.

Restoration of reservoir diagenesis and hydrocarbon accumulation process by calcite in-situ U-Pb dating and fluid inclusion analysis: A case study on Cretaceous Qingshuihe Formation in Gaoquan Structure, southern Junggar Basin, NW China

The complexity of diagenesis and hydrocarbon accumulation in the deep reservoirs in southern Junggar Basin restricts hydrocarbon exploration in the lower reservoir assemblage. The lithofacies and diagenesis of reservoirs in the Cretaceous Qingshuihe Formation in the Gaoquan structure of the Sikeshu Sag, southern Junggar Basin were analyzed. On this basis, the thermal history was calibrated using calcite in-situ U-Pb dating and fluid inclusion analysis to depict the hydrocarbon accumulation process in the Gaoquan structure. The results show that the Qingshuihe reservoir experienced two phases of calcite cementation and three phases of hydrocarbon charging. The calcite cements are dated to be (122.1±6.4) Ma, (14.4±1.0) Ma - (14.2±0.3) Ma. The hydrocarbon charging events occurred at around 14.2-30.0 Ma (low-mature oil), 14.2 Ma (mature oil), and 2 Ma (high-mature gas). The latter two phases of hydrocarbon charging contributed dominantly to the formation of reservoir. Due to the S-N compressive thrust activity during the late Himalayan period since 2 Ma, the traps in the Gaoquan structure were reshaped, especially the effective traps which developed in the main reservoir-forming period were decreased significantly in scale, resulting in weak hydrocarbon shows in the middle-lower part of the structure. This indicates that the effective traps in key reservoir-forming period controlled hydrocarbon enrichment and distribution in the lower reservoir assemblage. Calcite U-Pb dating combined with fluid inclusion analysis can help effectively describe the complex diagenesis and hydrocarbon accumulation process in the central-west part of the basin.