We performed thermal simulation experiments of double-pass deformation of hypereutectoid rails with different microalloying elements at a cooling rate of 1℃/s and deformation of 80%to explore the influence of rare-ea...We performed thermal simulation experiments of double-pass deformation of hypereutectoid rails with different microalloying elements at a cooling rate of 1℃/s and deformation of 80%to explore the influence of rare-earth and microalloying elements on the structure of hypereutectoid rails and optimize the composition design of hypereutectoid rails.Scanning electron microscopy,transmission electron microscopy,X-ray diffraction,and other characterization techniques were employed to quantitatively analyzed the effects of different microalloying elements,including rare-earth elements,on pearlite lamellar spacing,cementite characteristics,and dislocation density.It was found that the lamellar spacing was reduced by adding various microalloying elements.Cementite lamellar thickness decreased with the refinement of pearlite lamellar spacing while the cementite content per unit volume increased.Local cementite spheroidization,dispersed in the ferrite matrix in granular form and thus playing the role of dispersion strengthening,was observed upon adding cerium(Ce).The contributions of dislocation density to the alloy strength of four steel sheet samples with and without the addition of nickel,Ce,and Ce–copper(Cu)composite were 26,27,32,and 37 MPa,respectively,indicating that the Ce–Cu composite had the highest dislocation strengthening effect.The Ce–Cu composite has played a meaningful role in the cementite characteristics and dislocation strengthening,which provides a theoretical basis for optimizing the composition design of hypereutectoid rails in actual production conditions.展开更多
Chemical leaching of coals would be required to produce cleaner coals for some special applications where physical benefi-ciation may not be effective enough.This would also help in recovering Li and rare earth metals...Chemical leaching of coals would be required to produce cleaner coals for some special applications where physical benefi-ciation may not be effective enough.This would also help in recovering Li and rare earth metals besides in the sequestration of CO_(2).About 20 Indian coals having complexly distributed moderate to high ash contents were sequentially treated with various alkali–acid such as NaOH-HCl,HF,HCl,HCl-HF,and NaOH-HCl-HF leaching.This aimed to establish and design the best stepwise sequential process for the highest degree of demineralisation through a chemical leaching process.Kinetics and process intensification studies were carried out.More than 80%demineralisation of Madhaipur and Neemcha coals was observed using the best sequential treatment designed presently.The repeated stepwise treatment of the alkali and the acid was also studied,which was found to significantly enhance the degree of demineralisation of coals.The integrated process of alkali–acid leaching followed by solvent extraction(Organo-refining)and vice versa of the treated coal was also studied for producing cleaner coals.展开更多
Biomedical magnesium(Mg)alloys have garnered significant attention because of their unique biodegradability,favorable biocompatibility,and suitable mechanical properties.The incorporation of rare earth(RE)elements,wit...Biomedical magnesium(Mg)alloys have garnered significant attention because of their unique biodegradability,favorable biocompatibility,and suitable mechanical properties.The incorporation of rare earth(RE)elements,with their distinct physical and chemical properties,has greatly contributed to enhancing the mechanical performance,degradation behavior,and biological performance of biomedical Mg alloys.Currently,a series of RE-Mg alloys are being designed and investigated for orthopedic implants and cardiovascular stents,achieving substantial and encouraging research progress.In this work,a comprehensive summary of the state-of-the-art in biomedical RE-Mg alloys is provided.The physiological effects and design standards of RE elements in biomedical Mg alloys are discussed.Particularly,the degradation behavior and mechanical properties,including their underlying action are studied in-depth.Furthermore,the preparation techniques and current application status of RE-Mg alloys are reviewed.Finally,we address the ongoing challenges and propose future prospects to guide the development of high-performance biomedical Mg-RE alloys.展开更多
In this study,interconnected porous Mg-2Zn-xY alloys with different phase compositions were prepared by various Y additions(x=0.4,3,and 6 wt.%)to adjust the compressive properties and energy absorption characteristics...In this study,interconnected porous Mg-2Zn-xY alloys with different phase compositions were prepared by various Y additions(x=0.4,3,and 6 wt.%)to adjust the compressive properties and energy absorption characteristics.Several characterization methods were then applied to identify the microstructure of the porous Mg-Zn-Y and describe the details of the second phase.Compressive tests were performed at room temperature(RT),200℃,and 300℃to study the impact of the Y addition and testing temperature on the compressive properties of the porous Mg-Zn-Y.The experimental results showed that a high Y content promotes a microstructure refinement and increases the volume fraction of the second phase.When the Y content increases,different Mg-Zn-Y ternary phases appear:I-phase(Mg_(3)Zn_(6)Y),W-phase(Mg_(3)Zn_(3)Y_(2)),and LPSO phase(Mg_(12)ZnY).When the Y content ranges between 0.4%and 6%,the compressive strength increases from 6.30MPa to 9.23 MPa,and the energy absorption capacity increases from 7.33 MJ/m^(3)to 10.97 MJ/m^(3)at RT,which is mainly attributed to the phase composition and volume fraction of the second phase.However,the average energy absorption efficiency is independent of the Y content.In addition,the compressive deformation behaviors of the porous Mg-Zn-Y are altered by the testing temperature.The compressive strength and energy absorption capacity of the porous Mg-Zn-Y decrease due to the softening effect of the high temperature on the struts.The deformation behaviors at different temperatures are finally observed to reflect the failure mechanisms of the struts.展开更多
Opencast coal mining produces trash of soil and rock containing various minerals,that are usually dumped nearby the abandoned sites which causes severe environmental concern including the production of acid mine drain...Opencast coal mining produces trash of soil and rock containing various minerals,that are usually dumped nearby the abandoned sites which causes severe environmental concern including the production of acid mine drainage(AMD)through oxidation pyrite minerals.The current study entailed assessing the potential production of AMD from an opencast coal mining region in Northeast part of India.In order to have a comprehensive overview of the AMD problem in Makum coalfield,the physico-chemical,geochemical,and petrological characteristics of the coal and overburden(OB)samples collected from the Makum coalfield(Northeast India)were thoroughly investigated.The maceral compositions reveal that coal features all three groups of macerals(liptinite,vitrinite,and inertinite),with a high concentration of liptinite indicating the coal of perhydrous,thereby rendering it more reactive.Pyrite(FeS_(2))oxidation kinetics were studied by conducting the aqueous leaching experiments of coal and(OB)samples to interpret the chemical weathering under controlled laboratory conditions of various temperature and time periods,and to replicate the actual mine site leaching.Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy(ICP-OES)was operated to detect the disposal of some precarious elements from coal and OB samples to the leachates during our controlled leaching experiment.The Rare earth element(REE)enrichment in the samples shows the anthropogenic incorporation of the REE in the coal and OB.These experiments reveal the change in conductivity,acid producing tendency,total dissolved solid(TDS),total Iron(Fe)and dissolved Sulfate(SO_(4)^(2−))ions on progress of the leaching experiments.Moreover,the discharge of FeS_(2) via atmospheric oxidation in laboratory condition undergoes a significant growth with the rise of temperature of the reaction systems in the environment and follows pseudo first order kinetics.A bio-remediative strategies is also reported in this paper to mitigate AMD water by employing size-segregated powdered limestone and water hyacinth plant in an indigenously developed site-specific prototype station.Apart from neutralisation of AMD water,this eco-friendly AMD remediation strategy demonstrates a reduction in PHEs concentrations in the treated AMD water.展开更多
Magnesium(Mg)-based bone implants degrade rapidly in the physiological environment of the human body which affects their structural integrity and biocompatibility before adequate bone repair.Rare earth elements(REEs)h...Magnesium(Mg)-based bone implants degrade rapidly in the physiological environment of the human body which affects their structural integrity and biocompatibility before adequate bone repair.Rare earth elements(REEs)have demonstrated their effectiveness in tailoring the corrosion and mechanical behavior of Mg alloys.This study methodically investigated the impacts of scandium(Sc)and terbium(Tb)in tailoring the corrosion resistance,mechanical properties,and biocompatibility of Mg–0.5Zn–0.35Zr–0.15Mn(MZZM)alloys fabricated via casting and hot extrusion.Results indicate that addition of Sc and Tb improved the strength of MZZM alloys via grain size reduction and solid solution strengthening mechanisms.The extruded MZZM–(1–2)Sc–(1–2)Tb(wt.%)alloys exhibit compressive strengths within the range of 336–405 MPa,surpassing the minimum required strength of 200 MPa for bone implants by a significant margin.Potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed low corrosion rates of as–cast MZZM(0.25 mm/y),MZZM–2Tb(0.45 mm/y),MZZM–1Sc–1Tb(0.18 mm/y),and MZZM–1Sc–2Tb(0.64 mm/y),and extruded MZZM(0.17 mm/y),MZZM–1Sc(0.15 mm/y),MZZM-2Sc(0.45 mm/y),MZZM-1Tb(0.17 mm/y),MZZM-2Tb(0.10 mm/y),MZZM–1Sc-1Tb(0.14 mm/y),MZZM-1Sc-2Tb(0.40 mm/y),and MZZM–2Sc–2Tb(0.51 mm/y)alloys,which were found lower compared to corrosion rate of high-purity Mg(~1.0 mm/y)reported in the literature.Furthermore,addition of Sc,or Tb,or Sc and Tb to MZZM alloys did not adversely affect the viability of SaOS2 cells,but enhanced their initial cell attachment,proliferation,and spreading shown via polygonal shapes and filipodia.This study emphasizes the benefits of incorporating Sc and Tb elements in MZZM alloys,as they effectively enhance corrosion resistance,mechanical properties,and biocompatibility simultaneously.展开更多
Petrogenesis of lacustrine dolostone is closely related with paleo-lake water conditions.Here we report the high spatial-resolution petrographic and geochemical results of a lacustrine dolomite nodule from the Qingsha...Petrogenesis of lacustrine dolostone is closely related with paleo-lake water conditions.Here we report the high spatial-resolution petrographic and geochemical results of a lacustrine dolomite nodule from the Qingshankou Formation,the Songliao Basin.Sedimentary and elemental signatures confirm the protogenetic origin of this nodule and its effectiveness in recording geochemical characteristics of paleo-lake water during dolomitization.The low Y/Ho ratios,middle rare earth element(MREE)enrichment and subtle positive Eu anomalies within the nodule indicate a fresh water source.However,the Sr isotope values in the core of the nodule(0.7076-0.7080)are close to contemporaneous seawater(0.7074),yet different from the modern river(0.7120)and the host black shale(0.7100).On the premise of excluding the influence of hydrothermal fluids,the significantly low strontium isotope values of the lacustrine dolomite might be caused by seawater interference during dolomitization.Our findings demonstrate that lacustrine dolomite within black shales is not only a faithful tracer of diagenetic water environment,but also a novel and easily identified mineralogical evidence for episodic seawater intrusion event(91 Ma)in the Songliao Basin,which supplements other paleontological and geochemical evidence.展开更多
The present work assesses the temporal distribution pattern and geochemical changes of rare earth elements and Yttrium, Scandium, Thorium, and Uranium delivery into the Oualidia lagoon. Two sediment cores were retriev...The present work assesses the temporal distribution pattern and geochemical changes of rare earth elements and Yttrium, Scandium, Thorium, and Uranium delivery into the Oualidia lagoon. Two sediment cores were retrieved from the Oualidia lagoon and analyzed using neutron activation analysis. The results indicated that heavy rare earth elements are slightly enriched the sediment cores over light rare earth elements. The highest values of REEs were recorded in the top layers of the cores and depleted with depth, suggesting a possible change in factors controlling their accumulation, including mechanical, chemical, and environmental parameters such as weathering intensity, grain size, and Fe-Mn oxides. The sediments display positive Ce anomalies, which are probably related to the submarine weathering process and detrital input. Noting also the variation of hydrodynamics conditions and confinement of the upstream part of the lagoon played a key role in changing the sediment origins.Thus, further investigation of REEs origin in the Oualidia lagoon sediment is required to identify their sources,provenances, and the factors controlling their spatial and vertical distributions. However, these results provide baseline data of occurring changes in REEs geochemical composition and constitute a typical study case to understand the link between sedimentary and geochemistry processes in a lagoonal ecosystem.展开更多
Trace elements and rare earth elements(REE) of the sulfide minerals were determined by inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry.The results indicate that V,Cu,Sn,Ga,Cd,In,and Se are concentrated in sphalerite,Sb...Trace elements and rare earth elements(REE) of the sulfide minerals were determined by inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry.The results indicate that V,Cu,Sn,Ga,Cd,In,and Se are concentrated in sphalerite,Sb,As,Ge,and Tl are concentrated in galena,and almost all trace elements in pyrite are low.The Ga and Cd contents in the light-yellow sphalerites are higher than that in the brown and the black sphalerites.The contents of Ge,Tl,In,and Se in brown sphalerites are higher than that in light-yellow sphalerites and black sphalerites.It shows that REE concentrations are higher in pyrite than in sphalerite,and galena.In sphalerites,the REE concentration decreases from light-yellow sphalerites,brown sphalerites,to black sphalerites.The ratios of Ga/In are more than 10, and Co/Ni are less than 1 in the studied sphalerites and pyrites,respectively,indicating that the genesis of the Tianqiao Pb-Zn ore deposit might belong to sedimentary-reformed genesis associated with hydrothermal genesis.The relationship between LnGa and LnIn in sphalerite,and between LnBi and LnSb in galena,indicates that the Tianqiao Pb-Zn ore deposit might belong to sedimentary-reformed genesis.Based on the chondrite-normalized REE patterns,δEu is a negative anomaly(0.13-0.88),andδCe does not show obvious anomaly(0.88-1.31);all the samples have low total REE concentrations(〈3 ppm) and a wide range of light rare earth element/high rare earth element ratios(1.12-12.35).These results indicate that the ore-forming fluids occur under a reducing environment.Comparison REE compositions and parameters of sphalerites,galenas,pyrites,ores,altered dolostone rocks,strata carbonates,and the pyrite from Lower Carboniferous Datang Formation showed that the ore-forming fluids might come from polycomponent systems,that is,different chronostratigraphic units could make an important contribution to the ore-forming fluids.Combined with the tectonic setting and previous isotopic geochemistry evidence,we conclude that the ore-deposit genesis is hydrothermal,sedimentary reformed,with multisources characteristics of ore-forming fluids.展开更多
Total of 23 bench samples were taken from the No. 7 Coal of Iqe Coalfield, Qinghai Province, China, following Chinese Standard Method GB/T 482-2008 (2008). These samples were analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction (...Total of 23 bench samples were taken from the No. 7 Coal of Iqe Coalfield, Qinghai Province, China, following Chinese Standard Method GB/T 482-2008 (2008). These samples were analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP- MS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The results indicate that the No. 7 Coal belongs to a low rank (Ro.ran =0.659%) and high-ash coal (40.54%). Compared to common Chinese and world low-rank coals, the lqe coal contains anomalous concentrations of rare metal elements, rare-scattered (dispersed) elements and rare earth elements. The highest contents of Rb, Cs, Ga and REY reach to 180, 26, 37, and 397 ppm, respectively. Their average contents of these elements are 10.9, 15, 4.8 and 3.5 times higher than those of world coals, respectively. Minerals in the coal include kaolinite, quartz, muscovite, siderite, and traces of rutile, and brookite. Kaolinite could be main host minerals of Rb, Cs, Ga and REY. The anomalous rare element Rb and Cs accumulation in the Iqe coal is related to both organic and inorganic matter. The REY concentrations may be related to circulation of thermal solutions, contained or sorbed by clayey particles, and organic matter as well.展开更多
The rare earth elements are unusual when defining giant-sized ore deposits,as resources are often quoted as total rare earth oxide,but the importance of a deposit may be related to the grade for individual,or a limite...The rare earth elements are unusual when defining giant-sized ore deposits,as resources are often quoted as total rare earth oxide,but the importance of a deposit may be related to the grade for individual,or a limited group of the elements.Taking the total REE resource,only one currently known deposit(Bayan Obo) would class as giant(〉1.7×10^7 tonnes contained metal),but a range of others classify as large(〉1.7×10^6 tonnes).With the exception of unclassified resource estimates from the Olympic Dam 10 CG deposit,all of these deposits are related to alkaline igneous activity- either carbonatites or agpaitic nepheline syenites.The total resource in these deposits must relate to the scale of the primary igneous source,but the grade is a complex function of igneous source,magmatic crystallisation,hydrothermal modification and supergene enrichment during weathering.Isotopic data suggest that the sources conducive to the formation of large REE deposits are developed in subcontinental lithospheric mantle,enriched in trace elements either by plume activity,or by previous subduction.The reactivation of such enriched mantle domains in relatively restricted geographical areas may have played a role in the formation of some of the largest deposits(e.g.Bayan Obo).Hydrothermal activity involving fluids from magmatic to meteoric sources may result in the redistribution of the REE and increases in grade,depending on primary mineralogy and the availability of ligands.Weathering and supergene enrichment of carbonatite has played a role in the formation of the highest grade deposits at Mount Weld(Australia) and Tomtor(Russia).For the individual REE with the current highest economic value(Nd and the HREE),the boundaries for the large and giant size classes are two orders of magnitude lower,and deposits enriched in these metals(agpaitic systems,ion absorption deposits) may have significant economic impact in the near future.展开更多
The influence of different contents of Cr, Mo, and rare earth element(RE) additives on the thermal conductivity of austenitic medium manganese steel was studied and discussed. The results show that the addition of Cr ...The influence of different contents of Cr, Mo, and rare earth element(RE) additives on the thermal conductivity of austenitic medium manganese steel was studied and discussed. The results show that the addition of Cr in medium manganese steel can improved the ordering of C–Mn atomic clusters, so as to improve the steel's thermal conductivity. However, Cr will lead to precipitation of a great deal of carbides in medium manganese steel when its content is greater than 4wt%. These carbides would aggregate around the grain boundary, and as a result, the thermal conductivity is decreased. By the addition of Mo whose content is about 2wt%, spherical carbides will be formed, thus improving the thermal conductivity of the medium manganese steel. The interaction between rare earth elements and alloying elements will raise both the thermal conductivity and the wear-resisting property of medium manganese steel.展开更多
For the purpose of decreasing the applied limitation resulting from the anisotropic mechanical property of Al-Li alloy 2195, this study employed a complex heat treatment process, involving the pre-tension, thermo-infi...For the purpose of decreasing the applied limitation resulting from the anisotropic mechanical property of Al-Li alloy 2195, this study employed a complex heat treatment process, involving the pre-tension, thermo-infiltration of the rare earth element Ce, solution treatment, and artificial aging technology. The results indicate that the infiltration of rare earth element Ce benefits the abatement of anisotropy of Al-Li alloy 2195 sheet, in contrast with that of the normal heat treatment process. The gradient of the Vickers-hardness decreases at least 50% through the thickness, and the tensile strength in the rolling direction also increases significantly. If Ce was infiltrated into the alloy under the optimum pre-deformation, the yield strength (σ0.2) increased by 30 MPa while the tensile strength (σb) enhanced by 25 MPa compared to the rare earth free samples. Meanwhile, the fractography illustrated that the fracture surface of the sample became more desirable.展开更多
The phosphorite ores-deposits rich in rare earth elements(REE) in Zhijin, Xinhua, Guizhuo occurs in the early Cambrian Meishucun and at the bottom part of Qiongzhusi stage (the upper layer of phosphorites), belonging ...The phosphorite ores-deposits rich in rare earth elements(REE) in Zhijin, Xinhua, Guizhuo occurs in the early Cambrian Meishucun and at the bottom part of Qiongzhusi stage (the upper layer of phosphorites), belonging to Yangzi stratum section. The living creature scraps was proved existent in dolomitic-phosphorites by experiments, The REE could be extracted to provide the worthy data for the further using. Adopting the HNO3 to extract REE, through the ion exchange method, the REE recovery rate could be reached 85.44% , having certain reference value.展开更多
The model of dislocations was used to construct the model of grain boundary (GB) with pure rare earths, and rare earth elements and impurities. The influence of the interaction between rare earth elements and impuriti...The model of dislocations was used to construct the model of grain boundary (GB) with pure rare earths, and rare earth elements and impurities. The influence of the interaction between rare earth elements and impurities on the cohesive properties of 5.3° low angle GB of Fe was investigated by the recursion method. The calculated results of environment sensitive embeding energy( E ESE ) show that the preferential segregation of rare earth elements towards GBs exists. Calculations of bond order integrals (BOI) show that rare earth elements increase the cohesive strength of low angle GB, and impurities such as S, P weaken the intergranular cohesion of the GB. So rare earth element of proper quantity added in steel not only cleanses other harmful impurities off the GBs, but also enhances the intergranular cohesion. This elucidates the action mechanism of rare earth elements in steel from electronic level and offers theoretical evidence for applications of rare earth elements in steels.展开更多
The 14 stable rare earth element(REE) concentrations and distribution patterns were investigated for surface waters(n=51),soils(n=52) and sediments(n=42) from the tropical Terengganu River basin,Malaysia.The chondrite...The 14 stable rare earth element(REE) concentrations and distribution patterns were investigated for surface waters(n=51),soils(n=52) and sediments(n=42) from the tropical Terengganu River basin,Malaysia.The chondrite normalized REE patterns of soils developed on four geological units showed enrichment of LREE,a pronounced negative Eu,and depletion of HREE with an enrichment order granite>>metasedimentary>alluvium>volcanic.The REE patterns in sediments reflected the soil REE patterns with an ove...展开更多
The effects of rare earth elements on the microstructure andproperties of magnesium alloy AZ91D alloy were studied. The differentproportion of rare earth elements was added to the AZ91D and thetensile tests were carri...The effects of rare earth elements on the microstructure andproperties of magnesium alloy AZ91D alloy were studied. The differentproportion of rare earth elements was added to the AZ91D and thetensile tests were carried out at different temperatures. Theexperimental results show that at room temperature or at 120 deg. Cthe AZ91D's strength decrease with the increasing amount of the rareearth elements. However, the ductility is improved. The influence of0.14/100Sb(mass fraction)on the AZ91D's strength is like that of rareearth elements(0.2/100-0.4/100)(mass fraction). Microstructure graphsdemonstrate that appropriate amount of rare earth elements(0.1/100-0.2/100)can fine AZ91D's grain and improve its ductility.展开更多
Vertisol developed on argillaceous rocks has its special pedogenic processes and properties, and formed some secondary nodules. In study area, contents of rare earth elements (REE) are significantly different in diffe...Vertisol developed on argillaceous rocks has its special pedogenic processes and properties, and formed some secondary nodules. In study area, contents of rare earth elements (REE) are significantly different in different sedimentary rocks due to varied contents of clay fraction and clay mineral composition, etc. Under the dry and hot climate, REEs were less differentiated than their parent sedimentary rocks. However, REEs in secondary nodules formed in pedogenic process display their specific behaviors. They are more concentrated in iron concretions, the content of heavy REEs increases relatively, and positive Ce-anomaly appears. But, negative Ce-anomaly was found in calcium concretions, while normal Ce content in parent rocks and vertisol.展开更多
Pumice,the most widely distributed volcanic rock in Okinawa Trough,is loose and porous.Since its formation,it has definitely suffered from the denudation of the sea to different degrees.In order to truly reveal the ge...Pumice,the most widely distributed volcanic rock in Okinawa Trough,is loose and porous.Since its formation,it has definitely suffered from the denudation of the sea to different degrees.In order to truly reveal the geochemical features of pumice,we choose the method of mineral separation.Firstly,the phenocryst is separated from glass.Then the phenocryst is divided into light and heavy mineral compositions.By ICP-MS(inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) analytical technology,the contents of trace and rare earth elements in the whole pumice,the glass and the heavy and light mineral compositions are determined respectively.By researching the elemental geochemical features,the magma dynamic processes are found.It shows that the initial magma for the pumice in Okinawa Trough came from the depleted mantle,from which the N-MORB(normal type of mid-ocean ridge basalt) is formed,homologous with the local basalts.But they are formed in different periods of magma crystal fractionation.Featured with sufficient crystal fractionation for pumice,it is found that the earlier crystallizing minerals are olivine,plagioclase and pyroxene.The pumice magma,formed from the depleted mantle,was mixed with additional subduction-related materials(components),and contaminated with the mass from upper crust when it rose up into the crust.As the Okinawa Trough is a back-arc basin in its early back-arc spreading stage,its magmatism has a series of its own unique characteristics,different from not only the mid-ocean ridge expansion,but also the mature back-arc basin.展开更多
The rare earth elements and yttrium(REY)of the K2 coal from the Moxinpo mine,Chongqing,were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry(ICP-MS).The results show that REY are enriched in the K2 coal,w...The rare earth elements and yttrium(REY)of the K2 coal from the Moxinpo mine,Chongqing,were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry(ICP-MS).The results show that REY are enriched in the K2 coal,with the average content up to 462 lg/g,much higher than average values of most coals in the world.The REY distribution patterns indicate that the light REY is enriched and show a well-pronounced Eu minimum.The fractionation of individual light-REY is higher than that of the heavy-REY.The REY distribution through the K2 coal seam shows that the top and bottom portion of the coal seam have a lower content of REY than the middle portion.Goyazite and rhabdophane were identified with a scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy-dispersed X-ray spectrometer(SEM-EDX).The REY distributions through the coal seam,SEM-EDX data and the correlation analysis between ash yields and the concentrations have revealed that the REY mainly occurs in the organic matter.The K2 coal is a potential rare-metal resource due to its high REY contents,and the coal ash could be regarded as a new and promising raw material for recovery of REY as a by-product.展开更多
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.51361021)the Inner Mongolia Science and Technology Major Project(No.ZDZX2018024)。
文摘We performed thermal simulation experiments of double-pass deformation of hypereutectoid rails with different microalloying elements at a cooling rate of 1℃/s and deformation of 80%to explore the influence of rare-earth and microalloying elements on the structure of hypereutectoid rails and optimize the composition design of hypereutectoid rails.Scanning electron microscopy,transmission electron microscopy,X-ray diffraction,and other characterization techniques were employed to quantitatively analyzed the effects of different microalloying elements,including rare-earth elements,on pearlite lamellar spacing,cementite characteristics,and dislocation density.It was found that the lamellar spacing was reduced by adding various microalloying elements.Cementite lamellar thickness decreased with the refinement of pearlite lamellar spacing while the cementite content per unit volume increased.Local cementite spheroidization,dispersed in the ferrite matrix in granular form and thus playing the role of dispersion strengthening,was observed upon adding cerium(Ce).The contributions of dislocation density to the alloy strength of four steel sheet samples with and without the addition of nickel,Ce,and Ce–copper(Cu)composite were 26,27,32,and 37 MPa,respectively,indicating that the Ce–Cu composite had the highest dislocation strengthening effect.The Ce–Cu composite has played a meaningful role in the cementite characteristics and dislocation strengthening,which provides a theoretical basis for optimizing the composition design of hypereutectoid rails in actual production conditions.
文摘Chemical leaching of coals would be required to produce cleaner coals for some special applications where physical benefi-ciation may not be effective enough.This would also help in recovering Li and rare earth metals besides in the sequestration of CO_(2).About 20 Indian coals having complexly distributed moderate to high ash contents were sequentially treated with various alkali–acid such as NaOH-HCl,HF,HCl,HCl-HF,and NaOH-HCl-HF leaching.This aimed to establish and design the best stepwise sequential process for the highest degree of demineralisation through a chemical leaching process.Kinetics and process intensification studies were carried out.More than 80%demineralisation of Madhaipur and Neemcha coals was observed using the best sequential treatment designed presently.The repeated stepwise treatment of the alkali and the acid was also studied,which was found to significantly enhance the degree of demineralisation of coals.The integrated process of alkali–acid leaching followed by solvent extraction(Organo-refining)and vice versa of the treated coal was also studied for producing cleaner coals.
基金supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China[2023YFB4605800]National Natural Science Foundation of China[51935014,52165043]+3 种基金JiangXi Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China[20224ACB204013,20224ACB214008]Jiangxi Provincial Cultivation Program for Academic and Technical Leaders of Major Subjects[20225BCJ23008]Anhui Provincial Natural Science Foundation[2308085ME171]The University Synergy Innovation Program of Anhui Province[GXXT-2023-025,GXXT-2023-026].
文摘Biomedical magnesium(Mg)alloys have garnered significant attention because of their unique biodegradability,favorable biocompatibility,and suitable mechanical properties.The incorporation of rare earth(RE)elements,with their distinct physical and chemical properties,has greatly contributed to enhancing the mechanical performance,degradation behavior,and biological performance of biomedical Mg alloys.Currently,a series of RE-Mg alloys are being designed and investigated for orthopedic implants and cardiovascular stents,achieving substantial and encouraging research progress.In this work,a comprehensive summary of the state-of-the-art in biomedical RE-Mg alloys is provided.The physiological effects and design standards of RE elements in biomedical Mg alloys are discussed.Particularly,the degradation behavior and mechanical properties,including their underlying action are studied in-depth.Furthermore,the preparation techniques and current application status of RE-Mg alloys are reviewed.Finally,we address the ongoing challenges and propose future prospects to guide the development of high-performance biomedical Mg-RE alloys.
基金supported by"The National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2018 YFA0703300)""Science and Technology Project of Education Department of Jilin Province(No.JJKH20231086KJ)"Development Project of Jilin Province(No.2021C038-4)。
文摘In this study,interconnected porous Mg-2Zn-xY alloys with different phase compositions were prepared by various Y additions(x=0.4,3,and 6 wt.%)to adjust the compressive properties and energy absorption characteristics.Several characterization methods were then applied to identify the microstructure of the porous Mg-Zn-Y and describe the details of the second phase.Compressive tests were performed at room temperature(RT),200℃,and 300℃to study the impact of the Y addition and testing temperature on the compressive properties of the porous Mg-Zn-Y.The experimental results showed that a high Y content promotes a microstructure refinement and increases the volume fraction of the second phase.When the Y content increases,different Mg-Zn-Y ternary phases appear:I-phase(Mg_(3)Zn_(6)Y),W-phase(Mg_(3)Zn_(3)Y_(2)),and LPSO phase(Mg_(12)ZnY).When the Y content ranges between 0.4%and 6%,the compressive strength increases from 6.30MPa to 9.23 MPa,and the energy absorption capacity increases from 7.33 MJ/m^(3)to 10.97 MJ/m^(3)at RT,which is mainly attributed to the phase composition and volume fraction of the second phase.However,the average energy absorption efficiency is independent of the Y content.In addition,the compressive deformation behaviors of the porous Mg-Zn-Y are altered by the testing temperature.The compressive strength and energy absorption capacity of the porous Mg-Zn-Y decrease due to the softening effect of the high temperature on the struts.The deformation behaviors at different temperatures are finally observed to reflect the failure mechanisms of the struts.
基金The financial grant(GPP364)received from Ministry of Earth Science(MoES),Govt.of India is thankfully acknowledgedAuthors are thankful to the OIL,Guwahati for petrographic analysis.Authors express the esteemed reviewers for their constructive comments to revise the draft.
文摘Opencast coal mining produces trash of soil and rock containing various minerals,that are usually dumped nearby the abandoned sites which causes severe environmental concern including the production of acid mine drainage(AMD)through oxidation pyrite minerals.The current study entailed assessing the potential production of AMD from an opencast coal mining region in Northeast part of India.In order to have a comprehensive overview of the AMD problem in Makum coalfield,the physico-chemical,geochemical,and petrological characteristics of the coal and overburden(OB)samples collected from the Makum coalfield(Northeast India)were thoroughly investigated.The maceral compositions reveal that coal features all three groups of macerals(liptinite,vitrinite,and inertinite),with a high concentration of liptinite indicating the coal of perhydrous,thereby rendering it more reactive.Pyrite(FeS_(2))oxidation kinetics were studied by conducting the aqueous leaching experiments of coal and(OB)samples to interpret the chemical weathering under controlled laboratory conditions of various temperature and time periods,and to replicate the actual mine site leaching.Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy(ICP-OES)was operated to detect the disposal of some precarious elements from coal and OB samples to the leachates during our controlled leaching experiment.The Rare earth element(REE)enrichment in the samples shows the anthropogenic incorporation of the REE in the coal and OB.These experiments reveal the change in conductivity,acid producing tendency,total dissolved solid(TDS),total Iron(Fe)and dissolved Sulfate(SO_(4)^(2−))ions on progress of the leaching experiments.Moreover,the discharge of FeS_(2) via atmospheric oxidation in laboratory condition undergoes a significant growth with the rise of temperature of the reaction systems in the environment and follows pseudo first order kinetics.A bio-remediative strategies is also reported in this paper to mitigate AMD water by employing size-segregated powdered limestone and water hyacinth plant in an indigenously developed site-specific prototype station.Apart from neutralisation of AMD water,this eco-friendly AMD remediation strategy demonstrates a reduction in PHEs concentrations in the treated AMD water.
基金the financial support provided by the Australian Research Council(ARC)through the Future Fellowship(FT160100252)the Discovery Project(DP170102557)for this research。
文摘Magnesium(Mg)-based bone implants degrade rapidly in the physiological environment of the human body which affects their structural integrity and biocompatibility before adequate bone repair.Rare earth elements(REEs)have demonstrated their effectiveness in tailoring the corrosion and mechanical behavior of Mg alloys.This study methodically investigated the impacts of scandium(Sc)and terbium(Tb)in tailoring the corrosion resistance,mechanical properties,and biocompatibility of Mg–0.5Zn–0.35Zr–0.15Mn(MZZM)alloys fabricated via casting and hot extrusion.Results indicate that addition of Sc and Tb improved the strength of MZZM alloys via grain size reduction and solid solution strengthening mechanisms.The extruded MZZM–(1–2)Sc–(1–2)Tb(wt.%)alloys exhibit compressive strengths within the range of 336–405 MPa,surpassing the minimum required strength of 200 MPa for bone implants by a significant margin.Potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed low corrosion rates of as–cast MZZM(0.25 mm/y),MZZM–2Tb(0.45 mm/y),MZZM–1Sc–1Tb(0.18 mm/y),and MZZM–1Sc–2Tb(0.64 mm/y),and extruded MZZM(0.17 mm/y),MZZM–1Sc(0.15 mm/y),MZZM-2Sc(0.45 mm/y),MZZM-1Tb(0.17 mm/y),MZZM-2Tb(0.10 mm/y),MZZM–1Sc-1Tb(0.14 mm/y),MZZM-1Sc-2Tb(0.40 mm/y),and MZZM–2Sc–2Tb(0.51 mm/y)alloys,which were found lower compared to corrosion rate of high-purity Mg(~1.0 mm/y)reported in the literature.Furthermore,addition of Sc,or Tb,or Sc and Tb to MZZM alloys did not adversely affect the viability of SaOS2 cells,but enhanced their initial cell attachment,proliferation,and spreading shown via polygonal shapes and filipodia.This study emphasizes the benefits of incorporating Sc and Tb elements in MZZM alloys,as they effectively enhance corrosion resistance,mechanical properties,and biocompatibility simultaneously.
基金supported by Project of Basic Science Center of National Natural Science Foundation of China(72088101)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDA14010101)+3 种基金National Key Research and Development Program of China(2017YFC0603101)National Natural Science Foundation of China(41872125,42002158)Scientific and Technological Project of RIPED(2021ycq01)the subject development project of RIPED(yjkt2019-3).
文摘Petrogenesis of lacustrine dolostone is closely related with paleo-lake water conditions.Here we report the high spatial-resolution petrographic and geochemical results of a lacustrine dolomite nodule from the Qingshankou Formation,the Songliao Basin.Sedimentary and elemental signatures confirm the protogenetic origin of this nodule and its effectiveness in recording geochemical characteristics of paleo-lake water during dolomitization.The low Y/Ho ratios,middle rare earth element(MREE)enrichment and subtle positive Eu anomalies within the nodule indicate a fresh water source.However,the Sr isotope values in the core of the nodule(0.7076-0.7080)are close to contemporaneous seawater(0.7074),yet different from the modern river(0.7120)and the host black shale(0.7100).On the premise of excluding the influence of hydrothermal fluids,the significantly low strontium isotope values of the lacustrine dolomite might be caused by seawater interference during dolomitization.Our findings demonstrate that lacustrine dolomite within black shales is not only a faithful tracer of diagenetic water environment,but also a novel and easily identified mineralogical evidence for episodic seawater intrusion event(91 Ma)in the Songliao Basin,which supplements other paleontological and geochemical evidence.
文摘The present work assesses the temporal distribution pattern and geochemical changes of rare earth elements and Yttrium, Scandium, Thorium, and Uranium delivery into the Oualidia lagoon. Two sediment cores were retrieved from the Oualidia lagoon and analyzed using neutron activation analysis. The results indicated that heavy rare earth elements are slightly enriched the sediment cores over light rare earth elements. The highest values of REEs were recorded in the top layers of the cores and depleted with depth, suggesting a possible change in factors controlling their accumulation, including mechanical, chemical, and environmental parameters such as weathering intensity, grain size, and Fe-Mn oxides. The sediments display positive Ce anomalies, which are probably related to the submarine weathering process and detrital input. Noting also the variation of hydrodynamics conditions and confinement of the upstream part of the lagoon played a key role in changing the sediment origins.Thus, further investigation of REEs origin in the Oualidia lagoon sediment is required to identify their sources,provenances, and the factors controlling their spatial and vertical distributions. However, these results provide baseline data of occurring changes in REEs geochemical composition and constitute a typical study case to understand the link between sedimentary and geochemistry processes in a lagoonal ecosystem.
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(grant no.2007CB411402)
文摘Trace elements and rare earth elements(REE) of the sulfide minerals were determined by inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry.The results indicate that V,Cu,Sn,Ga,Cd,In,and Se are concentrated in sphalerite,Sb,As,Ge,and Tl are concentrated in galena,and almost all trace elements in pyrite are low.The Ga and Cd contents in the light-yellow sphalerites are higher than that in the brown and the black sphalerites.The contents of Ge,Tl,In,and Se in brown sphalerites are higher than that in light-yellow sphalerites and black sphalerites.It shows that REE concentrations are higher in pyrite than in sphalerite,and galena.In sphalerites,the REE concentration decreases from light-yellow sphalerites,brown sphalerites,to black sphalerites.The ratios of Ga/In are more than 10, and Co/Ni are less than 1 in the studied sphalerites and pyrites,respectively,indicating that the genesis of the Tianqiao Pb-Zn ore deposit might belong to sedimentary-reformed genesis associated with hydrothermal genesis.The relationship between LnGa and LnIn in sphalerite,and between LnBi and LnSb in galena,indicates that the Tianqiao Pb-Zn ore deposit might belong to sedimentary-reformed genesis.Based on the chondrite-normalized REE patterns,δEu is a negative anomaly(0.13-0.88),andδCe does not show obvious anomaly(0.88-1.31);all the samples have low total REE concentrations(〈3 ppm) and a wide range of light rare earth element/high rare earth element ratios(1.12-12.35).These results indicate that the ore-forming fluids occur under a reducing environment.Comparison REE compositions and parameters of sphalerites,galenas,pyrites,ores,altered dolostone rocks,strata carbonates,and the pyrite from Lower Carboniferous Datang Formation showed that the ore-forming fluids might come from polycomponent systems,that is,different chronostratigraphic units could make an important contribution to the ore-forming fluids.Combined with the tectonic setting and previous isotopic geochemistry evidence,we conclude that the ore-deposit genesis is hydrothermal,sedimentary reformed,with multisources characteristics of ore-forming fluids.
基金supported by the China geological survey project"Qaidam Basin Oil and Gas Resources Evaluation"(Nr:([2013]4-(3),001-008)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41330317)
文摘Total of 23 bench samples were taken from the No. 7 Coal of Iqe Coalfield, Qinghai Province, China, following Chinese Standard Method GB/T 482-2008 (2008). These samples were analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP- MS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The results indicate that the No. 7 Coal belongs to a low rank (Ro.ran =0.659%) and high-ash coal (40.54%). Compared to common Chinese and world low-rank coals, the lqe coal contains anomalous concentrations of rare metal elements, rare-scattered (dispersed) elements and rare earth elements. The highest contents of Rb, Cs, Ga and REY reach to 180, 26, 37, and 397 ppm, respectively. Their average contents of these elements are 10.9, 15, 4.8 and 3.5 times higher than those of world coals, respectively. Minerals in the coal include kaolinite, quartz, muscovite, siderite, and traces of rutile, and brookite. Kaolinite could be main host minerals of Rb, Cs, Ga and REY. The anomalous rare element Rb and Cs accumulation in the Iqe coal is related to both organic and inorganic matter. The REY concentrations may be related to circulation of thermal solutions, contained or sorbed by clayey particles, and organic matter as well.
基金the support of the NERC SoS:RARE consortium grant(NE/ M011267/1)the support of a postgraduate fellowship from the College of Engineering,Mathematics and Physical Sciences at the University of Exeter
文摘The rare earth elements are unusual when defining giant-sized ore deposits,as resources are often quoted as total rare earth oxide,but the importance of a deposit may be related to the grade for individual,or a limited group of the elements.Taking the total REE resource,only one currently known deposit(Bayan Obo) would class as giant(〉1.7×10^7 tonnes contained metal),but a range of others classify as large(〉1.7×10^6 tonnes).With the exception of unclassified resource estimates from the Olympic Dam 10 CG deposit,all of these deposits are related to alkaline igneous activity- either carbonatites or agpaitic nepheline syenites.The total resource in these deposits must relate to the scale of the primary igneous source,but the grade is a complex function of igneous source,magmatic crystallisation,hydrothermal modification and supergene enrichment during weathering.Isotopic data suggest that the sources conducive to the formation of large REE deposits are developed in subcontinental lithospheric mantle,enriched in trace elements either by plume activity,or by previous subduction.The reactivation of such enriched mantle domains in relatively restricted geographical areas may have played a role in the formation of some of the largest deposits(e.g.Bayan Obo).Hydrothermal activity involving fluids from magmatic to meteoric sources may result in the redistribution of the REE and increases in grade,depending on primary mineralogy and the availability of ligands.Weathering and supergene enrichment of carbonatite has played a role in the formation of the highest grade deposits at Mount Weld(Australia) and Tomtor(Russia).For the individual REE with the current highest economic value(Nd and the HREE),the boundaries for the large and giant size classes are two orders of magnitude lower,and deposits enriched in these metals(agpaitic systems,ion absorption deposits) may have significant economic impact in the near future.
文摘The influence of different contents of Cr, Mo, and rare earth element(RE) additives on the thermal conductivity of austenitic medium manganese steel was studied and discussed. The results show that the addition of Cr in medium manganese steel can improved the ordering of C–Mn atomic clusters, so as to improve the steel's thermal conductivity. However, Cr will lead to precipitation of a great deal of carbides in medium manganese steel when its content is greater than 4wt%. These carbides would aggregate around the grain boundary, and as a result, the thermal conductivity is decreased. By the addition of Mo whose content is about 2wt%, spherical carbides will be formed, thus improving the thermal conductivity of the medium manganese steel. The interaction between rare earth elements and alloying elements will raise both the thermal conductivity and the wear-resisting property of medium manganese steel.
基金Project supported by the National Key Laboratory of Precision Thermal Treatment , Harbin Institute of Technology(51471050105HK0101)
文摘For the purpose of decreasing the applied limitation resulting from the anisotropic mechanical property of Al-Li alloy 2195, this study employed a complex heat treatment process, involving the pre-tension, thermo-infiltration of the rare earth element Ce, solution treatment, and artificial aging technology. The results indicate that the infiltration of rare earth element Ce benefits the abatement of anisotropy of Al-Li alloy 2195 sheet, in contrast with that of the normal heat treatment process. The gradient of the Vickers-hardness decreases at least 50% through the thickness, and the tensile strength in the rolling direction also increases significantly. If Ce was infiltrated into the alloy under the optimum pre-deformation, the yield strength (σ0.2) increased by 30 MPa while the tensile strength (σb) enhanced by 25 MPa compared to the rare earth free samples. Meanwhile, the fractography illustrated that the fracture surface of the sample became more desirable.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (40372047, 50164001)
文摘The phosphorite ores-deposits rich in rare earth elements(REE) in Zhijin, Xinhua, Guizhuo occurs in the early Cambrian Meishucun and at the bottom part of Qiongzhusi stage (the upper layer of phosphorites), belonging to Yangzi stratum section. The living creature scraps was proved existent in dolomitic-phosphorites by experiments, The REE could be extracted to provide the worthy data for the further using. Adopting the HNO3 to extract REE, through the ion exchange method, the REE recovery rate could be reached 85.44% , having certain reference value.
文摘The model of dislocations was used to construct the model of grain boundary (GB) with pure rare earths, and rare earth elements and impurities. The influence of the interaction between rare earth elements and impurities on the cohesive properties of 5.3° low angle GB of Fe was investigated by the recursion method. The calculated results of environment sensitive embeding energy( E ESE ) show that the preferential segregation of rare earth elements towards GBs exists. Calculations of bond order integrals (BOI) show that rare earth elements increase the cohesive strength of low angle GB, and impurities such as S, P weaken the intergranular cohesion of the GB. So rare earth element of proper quantity added in steel not only cleanses other harmful impurities off the GBs, but also enhances the intergranular cohesion. This elucidates the action mechanism of rare earth elements in steel from electronic level and offers theoretical evidence for applications of rare earth elements in steels.
基金supported by INOS, University Malaysian Terengganu
文摘The 14 stable rare earth element(REE) concentrations and distribution patterns were investigated for surface waters(n=51),soils(n=52) and sediments(n=42) from the tropical Terengganu River basin,Malaysia.The chondrite normalized REE patterns of soils developed on four geological units showed enrichment of LREE,a pronounced negative Eu,and depletion of HREE with an enrichment order granite>>metasedimentary>alluvium>volcanic.The REE patterns in sediments reflected the soil REE patterns with an ove...
基金[The work is financially supported by "973" key foundation of China (No. 2000067202).]
文摘The effects of rare earth elements on the microstructure andproperties of magnesium alloy AZ91D alloy were studied. The differentproportion of rare earth elements was added to the AZ91D and thetensile tests were carried out at different temperatures. Theexperimental results show that at room temperature or at 120 deg. Cthe AZ91D's strength decrease with the increasing amount of the rareearth elements. However, the ductility is improved. The influence of0.14/100Sb(mass fraction)on the AZ91D's strength is like that of rareearth elements(0.2/100-0.4/100)(mass fraction). Microstructure graphsdemonstrate that appropriate amount of rare earth elements(0.1/100-0.2/100)can fine AZ91D's grain and improve its ductility.
文摘Vertisol developed on argillaceous rocks has its special pedogenic processes and properties, and formed some secondary nodules. In study area, contents of rare earth elements (REE) are significantly different in different sedimentary rocks due to varied contents of clay fraction and clay mineral composition, etc. Under the dry and hot climate, REEs were less differentiated than their parent sedimentary rocks. However, REEs in secondary nodules formed in pedogenic process display their specific behaviors. They are more concentrated in iron concretions, the content of heavy REEs increases relatively, and positive Ce-anomaly appears. But, negative Ce-anomaly was found in calcium concretions, while normal Ce content in parent rocks and vertisol.
基金financially supported by the National Basic Research Program(973 Program)of China(No.2013CB29702)the China Ocean Mineral Resources Research and Development Association(DY125-11-R-05,DY125-12-R-03)
文摘Pumice,the most widely distributed volcanic rock in Okinawa Trough,is loose and porous.Since its formation,it has definitely suffered from the denudation of the sea to different degrees.In order to truly reveal the geochemical features of pumice,we choose the method of mineral separation.Firstly,the phenocryst is separated from glass.Then the phenocryst is divided into light and heavy mineral compositions.By ICP-MS(inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) analytical technology,the contents of trace and rare earth elements in the whole pumice,the glass and the heavy and light mineral compositions are determined respectively.By researching the elemental geochemical features,the magma dynamic processes are found.It shows that the initial magma for the pumice in Okinawa Trough came from the depleted mantle,from which the N-MORB(normal type of mid-ocean ridge basalt) is formed,homologous with the local basalts.But they are formed in different periods of magma crystal fractionation.Featured with sufficient crystal fractionation for pumice,it is found that the earlier crystallizing minerals are olivine,plagioclase and pyroxene.The pumice magma,formed from the depleted mantle,was mixed with additional subduction-related materials(components),and contaminated with the mass from upper crust when it rose up into the crust.As the Okinawa Trough is a back-arc basin in its early back-arc spreading stage,its magmatism has a series of its own unique characteristics,different from not only the mid-ocean ridge expansion,but also the mature back-arc basin.
基金This research was supported by the National Key Basic Research and Development Program(No.2014CB238902)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41302128).
文摘The rare earth elements and yttrium(REY)of the K2 coal from the Moxinpo mine,Chongqing,were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry(ICP-MS).The results show that REY are enriched in the K2 coal,with the average content up to 462 lg/g,much higher than average values of most coals in the world.The REY distribution patterns indicate that the light REY is enriched and show a well-pronounced Eu minimum.The fractionation of individual light-REY is higher than that of the heavy-REY.The REY distribution through the K2 coal seam shows that the top and bottom portion of the coal seam have a lower content of REY than the middle portion.Goyazite and rhabdophane were identified with a scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy-dispersed X-ray spectrometer(SEM-EDX).The REY distributions through the coal seam,SEM-EDX data and the correlation analysis between ash yields and the concentrations have revealed that the REY mainly occurs in the organic matter.The K2 coal is a potential rare-metal resource due to its high REY contents,and the coal ash could be regarded as a new and promising raw material for recovery of REY as a by-product.