Pub Date : 2025-09-22DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102163
Muhammad Kamran , Muhammad Faizan , Shuhong Wang , Danial Jahed Armaghani , Panagiotis G. Asteris , Biswajeet Pradhan
Generative AI (GenAI) and prompt engineering are rapidly advancing in industries such as construction and mining, leading to significant improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making processes. These technologies are transforming the construction sector by automating tasks and optimizing workflows, thereby enhancing productivity and risk management. This study explores the application of Google’s Gemini AI tool, a notable breakthrough in GenAI, specifically for predictive modeling of slope stability. The Gemini AI tool is utilized within the Python programming language to generate prompts that incorporate key factors influencing slope stability, with the Google Colab interface facilitating prompt generation and testing. Initially, these prompts are employed for data analysis and visualization, followed by their application in both unsupervised and supervised machine learning approaches. The performance evaluation metrics indicate that the integrated approaches, which combine GenAI and prompt engineering, predict slope stability with a high level of accuracy. The model achieved 99% accuracy, with precision, recall, and F1-scores ranging from 0.98 to 1.00 for both stable and unstable slope classes. This innovative methodology seeks to advance the implementation of GenAI in civil and mining engineering, offering more precise and efficient solutions for managing slope stability and supporting safe, sustainable, and climate-smart mining operations.
{"title":"Generative AI with prompt engineering in construction: Enhancing predictive slope stability modelling for safe, sustainable, climate-smart mining practices","authors":"Muhammad Kamran , Muhammad Faizan , Shuhong Wang , Danial Jahed Armaghani , Panagiotis G. Asteris , Biswajeet Pradhan","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102163","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102163","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Generative AI (GenAI) and prompt engineering are rapidly advancing in industries such as construction and mining, leading to significant improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making processes. These technologies are transforming the construction sector by automating tasks and optimizing workflows, thereby enhancing productivity and risk management. This study explores the application of Google’s Gemini AI tool, a notable breakthrough in GenAI, specifically for predictive modeling of slope stability. The Gemini AI tool is utilized within the Python programming language to generate prompts that incorporate key factors influencing slope stability, with the Google Colab interface facilitating prompt generation and testing. Initially, these prompts are employed for data analysis and visualization, followed by their application in both unsupervised and supervised machine learning approaches. The performance evaluation metrics indicate that the integrated approaches, which combine GenAI and prompt engineering, predict slope stability with a high level of accuracy. The model achieved 99% accuracy, with precision, recall, and F<sub>1</sub>-scores ranging from 0.98 to 1.00 for both stable and unstable slope classes. This innovative methodology seeks to advance the implementation of GenAI in civil and mining engineering, offering more precise and efficient solutions for managing slope stability and supporting safe, sustainable, and climate-smart mining operations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102163"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145154657","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-22DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102161
A. Segev , E. Sass , U. Schattner
The decay of a mantle plume is characterized by a decline in magmatic activity, localized volcanic pulses, and short-term topographic fluctuations. These processes are better preserved in marine settings than on land, offering a clearer record of surface dynamics. This study examines the decay of the Levant mantle plume during the Albian-Cenomanian by analyzing the effect of recurring volcanism and vertical motions on the volcano-sedimentary stratigraphy exposed in Mt. Carmel, located on the eastern Mediterranean continental margin, a gas giant province. Geological mapping and 40Ar/39Ar dating reveal four distinct volcanic pulses (V1–V4) between ∼99 Ma and 95.4 Ma, each associated with surface uplift followed by subsidence and sedimentation. These cycles suggest pressure accumulation and release, likely driven by residual plume-related magmatic activity rather than regional tectonics. Volcanism, vertical motions, and shallow marine areas created local basins with varying connections to the sea, resulting in diverse depositional environments characterized by lithologies such as chalk, limestone, dolomite, marl, and tuff. The volcanic structures influenced facies changes and contributed to the formation of dolomite in shallow, partially closed marine environments. A final pulse, V5 at 82 Ma, occurred after 13 Myr of quiescence, marking a shift in the regional tectonic setting. The lack of post-Maastrichtian volcanism and a 25 Myr long period of subsidence indicate plume termination. These findings demonstrate how a decaying plume loses its ability to influence surface dynamics. The Albian-Turonian reefs, situated atop a long-lasting crustal high structural block (swell) at the Arabian platform’s edge, serve as a significant example for analogous worldwide.
{"title":"Volcano-sedimentary response to a mantle plume decay: A case study from the Eastern Mediterranean margin","authors":"A. Segev , E. Sass , U. Schattner","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102161","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102161","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The decay of a mantle plume is characterized by a decline in magmatic activity, localized volcanic pulses, and short-term topographic fluctuations. These processes are better preserved in marine settings than on land, offering a clearer record of surface dynamics. This study examines the decay of the Levant mantle plume during the Albian-Cenomanian by analyzing the effect of recurring volcanism and vertical motions on the volcano-sedimentary stratigraphy exposed in Mt. Carmel, located on the eastern Mediterranean continental margin, a gas giant province. Geological mapping and <sup>40</sup>Ar/<sup>39</sup>Ar dating reveal four distinct volcanic pulses (V<sub>1</sub>–V<sub>4</sub>) between ∼99 Ma and 95.4 Ma, each associated with surface uplift followed by subsidence and sedimentation. These cycles suggest pressure accumulation and release, likely driven by residual plume-related magmatic activity rather than regional tectonics. Volcanism, vertical motions, and shallow marine areas created local basins with varying connections to the sea, resulting in diverse depositional environments characterized by lithologies such as chalk, limestone, dolomite, marl, and tuff. The volcanic structures influenced facies changes and contributed to the formation of dolomite in shallow, partially closed marine environments. A final pulse, V<sub>5</sub> at 82 Ma, occurred after 13 Myr of quiescence, marking a shift in the regional tectonic setting. The lack of post-Maastrichtian volcanism and a 25 Myr long period of subsidence indicate plume termination. These findings demonstrate how a decaying plume loses its ability to influence surface dynamics. The Albian-Turonian reefs, situated atop a long-lasting crustal high structural block (swell) at the Arabian platform’s edge, serve as a significant example for analogous worldwide.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102161"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145154671","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-19DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102160
Hoon Young Jeong , Hyun Hwi Lee , Minji Park , Sookyung Kim , Kim Ford Hayes , So-Jeong Kim , Young-Soo Han
Disordered mackinawite (FeSm), an initial iron sulfide forming under ambient, anoxic conditions, plays a central role in sedimentary iron and sulfur cycling and may have contributed to early biochemical processes relevant to the origin of life. However, its structural variability complicates the assessments of its geochemical behavior and environmental impacts. Here, we demonstrate that FeSm undergoes anoxic corrosion at 25 °C, generating H2 even in the absence of traditional oxidants such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) or elemental sulfur (S0). This abiotic H2 production provides a potential reductant for early Earth carbon fixation and may support modern oligotrophic ecosystems by influencing carbon cycling. The pH-dependent H2 production kinetics suggests that protons (H+) likely act as the primary oxidant in FeSm corrosion. The formation of Fe(III)-rich surface layers during this process passivates further corrosion and modulates surface reactivity—potentially facilitating the oxidation of H2S to S0 and intermediate species, thus driving FeSm transformation into greigite (Fe3S4) and pyrite (FeS2). Particle growth mechanisms vary with pH: Ostwald ripening dominates under acidic conditions, while oriented attachment is favored at neutral to alkaline pH. Instead, with prolonged aging, FeSm becomes stabilized through less-oriented attachment, producing polycrystalline particles. Both surface passivation and particle growth contribute to the resilience and dynamic behavior of FeSm under diverse geochemical conditions, reinforcing its role in sustaining iron and sulfur biogeochemical cycles. This study offers mechanistic insights into the structural evolution of FeSm, with implications for both early Earth environments and modern sedimentary systems.
{"title":"Dynamics of disordered mackinawite (FeSm) at low temperatures and its geochemical implications","authors":"Hoon Young Jeong , Hyun Hwi Lee , Minji Park , Sookyung Kim , Kim Ford Hayes , So-Jeong Kim , Young-Soo Han","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102160","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102160","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Disordered mackinawite (FeS<sub>m</sub>), an initial iron sulfide forming under ambient, anoxic conditions, plays a central role in sedimentary iron and sulfur cycling and may have contributed to early biochemical processes relevant to the origin of life. However, its structural variability complicates the assessments of its geochemical behavior and environmental impacts. Here, we demonstrate that FeS<sub>m</sub> undergoes anoxic corrosion at 25 °C, generating H<sub>2</sub> even in the absence of traditional oxidants such as hydrogen sulfide (H<sub>2</sub>S) or elemental sulfur (S<sup>0</sup>). This abiotic H<sub>2</sub> production provides a potential reductant for early Earth carbon fixation and may support modern oligotrophic ecosystems by influencing carbon cycling. The pH-dependent H<sub>2</sub> production kinetics suggests that protons (H<sup>+</sup>) likely act as the primary oxidant in FeS<sub>m</sub> corrosion. The formation of Fe(III)-rich surface layers during this process passivates further corrosion and modulates surface reactivity—potentially facilitating the oxidation of H<sub>2</sub>S to S<sup>0</sup> and intermediate species, thus driving FeS<sub>m</sub> transformation into greigite (Fe<sub>3</sub>S<sub>4</sub>) and pyrite (FeS<sub>2</sub>). Particle growth mechanisms vary with pH: Ostwald ripening dominates under acidic conditions, while oriented attachment is favored at neutral to alkaline pH. Instead, with prolonged aging, FeS<sub>m</sub> becomes stabilized through less-oriented attachment, producing polycrystalline particles. Both surface passivation and particle growth contribute to the resilience and dynamic behavior of FeS<sub>m</sub> under diverse geochemical conditions, reinforcing its role in sustaining iron and sulfur biogeochemical cycles. This study offers mechanistic insights into the structural evolution of FeS<sub>m</sub>, with implications for both early Earth environments and modern sedimentary systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102160"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145216294","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-18DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102157
Yanbin Liu , Guochen Dong , M. Santosh , Dapeng Li , Liangliang Zhang , Sen Wang
The Cretaceous granitoid magmatism in the Gejiu-Bozhushan-Laojunshan region records tectonic transitions from the Neotethys to the South China Block and is genetically linked to Sn-polymetallic mineralization. However, the tectonic settings of magmatism and metallogeny remain unclear, particularly in the Bozhushan orefield. Integrated whole-rock geochemistry, Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes, zircon U-Pb-Hf-O isotopes, monazite U-Th-Pb-Nd isotopes, apatite U-Pb-REE data from the Bozhushan pluton, and cassiterite U-Pb dating from three Sn-polymetallic deposits are presented to understand the crustal architecture and tectonic-magmatic-metallogeny. The pluton consists of six interdigitated units characterized by high potassic-shoshonitic and peraluminous compositions, which are further subdivided into two magmatic stages: (1) Rim-located granodiorites (Units 1‒3, 91‒90 Ma, Stage I): I-type, characterized by the presence of biotite + K-feldspar + plagioclase, and featuring high Sr/Y, (La/Yb)N, and LREE-enriched apatite. They likely originate from lithospheric mantle melting during eastward Neotethys subduction, which triggered crustal melting and is linked to peripheral Ag-Pb-Zn-W polymetallic mineralization (ca. 91‒89 Ma, defined as Phase I magmatic-metallogenic event). (2) Core-located high evolved monzogranites (Units 4‒6, 87‒86 Ma, Stage II): S-type, containing muscovite + K-feldspar + plagioclase ± tourmaline, with LREE-depleted apatite, higher SiO2 and Rb/Sr, derived from the low-pressure partial melting of Neoproterozoic biotite-rich metagreywackes in the shallow crust during ongoing Neotethys subduction-induced collision, associated with Sn-dominated mineralization (87‒80 Ma, defined as Phase II magmatic-metallogenic event). Geochemical and Isotopic trends suggest mantle-crust interaction during Stage I and crustal recycling during Stage II, both driven by the ongoing subduction of Neotethys. This dual-stage magmatism establishes a dynamic model in which tectonic processes control magma sources, isotopic signatures, and metal partitioning, providing key insights into granite-related Sn polymetallic mineralization in the Bozhushan orefield.
{"title":"Two phases of high potassic-shoshonitic magmatism and coeval Sn polymetallic mineralization in the Bozhushan orefield, southwestern China","authors":"Yanbin Liu , Guochen Dong , M. Santosh , Dapeng Li , Liangliang Zhang , Sen Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102157","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102157","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Cretaceous granitoid magmatism in the Gejiu-Bozhushan-Laojunshan region records tectonic transitions from the Neotethys to the South China Block and is genetically linked to Sn-polymetallic mineralization. However, the tectonic settings of magmatism and metallogeny remain unclear, particularly in the Bozhushan orefield. Integrated whole-rock geochemistry, Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes, zircon U-Pb-Hf-O isotopes, monazite U-Th-Pb-Nd isotopes, apatite U-Pb-REE data from the Bozhushan pluton, and cassiterite U-Pb dating from three Sn-polymetallic deposits are presented to understand the crustal architecture and tectonic-magmatic-metallogeny. The pluton consists of six interdigitated units characterized by high potassic-shoshonitic and peraluminous compositions, which are further subdivided into two magmatic stages: (1) Rim-located granodiorites (Units 1‒3, 91‒90 Ma, Stage I): I-type, characterized by the presence of biotite + K-feldspar + plagioclase, and featuring high Sr/Y, (La/Yb)<sub>N</sub>, and LREE-enriched apatite. They likely originate from lithospheric mantle melting during eastward Neotethys subduction, which triggered crustal melting and is linked to peripheral Ag-Pb-Zn-W polymetallic mineralization (ca. 91‒89 Ma, defined as Phase I magmatic-metallogenic event). (2) Core-located high evolved monzogranites (Units 4‒6, 87‒86 Ma, Stage II): S-type, containing muscovite + K-feldspar + plagioclase ± tourmaline, with LREE-depleted apatite, higher SiO<sub>2</sub> and Rb/Sr, derived from the low-pressure partial melting of Neoproterozoic biotite-rich metagreywackes in the shallow crust during ongoing Neotethys subduction-induced collision, associated with Sn-dominated mineralization (87‒80 Ma, defined as Phase II magmatic-metallogenic event). Geochemical and Isotopic trends suggest mantle-crust interaction during Stage I and crustal recycling during Stage II, both driven by the ongoing subduction of Neotethys. This dual-stage magmatism establishes a dynamic model in which tectonic processes control magma sources, isotopic signatures, and metal partitioning, providing key insights into granite-related Sn polymetallic mineralization in the Bozhushan orefield.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102157"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145266543","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-18DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102158
Ye Yang , Zhenping Cao , Zhaoyan Gu , Guoqiang Chu , Hai Xu , Kejun Dong , Cong-Qiang Liu , Sheng Xu
The timing, amplitude, and mechanisms of rapid climate changes since the last deglaciation remain elusive in East Asia. In this study, high–resolution beryllium isotope and major element records from the annually laminated sediments of maar lake Xiaolongwan—a small, hydrologically closed basin with homogeneous lithology in northeastern China—offer new insights into East Asian climate variability. Abrupt increases in Al/Mg, Ca/Mg, and Ti/Mg ratios indicate intensified aeolian dust input at the onset of the Bølling-Allerød interstadial and the Early–Mid Holocene, synchronous with enhanced East Asian summer monsoon precipitation. Combined with previous dust provenance analyses, we infer a seasonal pattern of dust transport from the Central Asian deserts by southwesterly winds in spring to early summer, prior to peak monsoon rainfall. The 10Be/9Be record exhibits sharp declines that correspond closely to the timing of Dansgaard-Oeschger and Bond events in the North Atlantic. Spectral analysis reveals ∼ 1700-yr periodicity in the 10Be/9Be record, consistent with millennial-scale variability observed in the North Atlantic. These findings highlight a persistent climate teleconnection between East Asia and the North Atlantic and demonstrate that coupled dust and hydroclimate signals in maar lake sediments can reliably track sub-orbital climate variability.
{"title":"Beryllium isotopes in maar lake sediments respond to rapid climate change since the last deglaciation","authors":"Ye Yang , Zhenping Cao , Zhaoyan Gu , Guoqiang Chu , Hai Xu , Kejun Dong , Cong-Qiang Liu , Sheng Xu","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102158","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102158","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The timing, amplitude, and mechanisms of rapid climate changes since the last deglaciation remain elusive in East Asia. In this study, high–resolution beryllium isotope and major element records from the annually laminated sediments of maar lake Xiaolongwan—a small, hydrologically closed basin with homogeneous lithology in northeastern China—offer new insights into East Asian climate variability. Abrupt increases in Al/Mg, Ca/Mg, and Ti/Mg ratios indicate intensified aeolian dust input at the onset of the Bølling-Allerød interstadial and the Early–Mid Holocene, synchronous with enhanced East Asian summer monsoon precipitation. Combined with previous dust provenance analyses, we infer a seasonal pattern of dust transport from the Central Asian deserts by southwesterly winds in spring to early summer, prior to peak monsoon rainfall. The <sup>10</sup>Be/<sup>9</sup>Be record exhibits sharp declines that correspond closely to the timing of Dansgaard-Oeschger and Bond events in the North Atlantic. Spectral analysis reveals ∼ 1700-yr periodicity in the <sup>10</sup>Be/<sup>9</sup>Be record, consistent with millennial-scale variability observed in the North Atlantic. These findings highlight a persistent climate teleconnection between East Asia and the North Atlantic and demonstrate that coupled dust and hydroclimate signals in maar lake sediments can reliably track sub-orbital climate variability.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102158"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145154672","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-18DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102156
Hualing Song , Qishun Fan , Jianping Wang , Jiansen Li , Zhiyong Ling , Jinjun Han , Chuntao Zhao , Tianli Wang , Jiao Yu
The source–transport–sink dynamics of salt lakes are fundamentally tied to resource source and mineralization, which are crucial for sustainable resource development and environmental protection. By integrating published and experimental datasets on lithium (Li) concentrations, Li isotopes, and Li/TDS–Li/Na ratios, this study systematically investigates the characteristics, evolutionary patterns, and driving mechanisms of Li and its isotopes throughout source–transport–sink processes in salt lakes across the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The results demonstrate that: (1) Li in salt lakes primarily originates from geothermal fluids, with significant contributions from Li-rich rocks and paleosediments. (2) Li transport mechanisms can be classified into source- and process-control. In source-control systems, Li is largely derived from Li-rich endmembers; although secondary inputs and attenuation occur during transport, the persistently high dissolved Li load governed by the original source retains a diagnostically traceable isotopic composition. This system is marked by high dissolved Li fluxes (>300 μg/L), elevated Li × 103/TDS ratios (>0.7), and relatively depleted δ7Li values (1 ‰ to 6 ‰, occasionally as low as −4.8 ‰). In process-control systems, Li mainly comes from silicate weathering within catchments, resulting in lower riverine Li fluxes (20–80 μg/L) that are highly sensitive to environmental conditions, where source signals are frequently overprinted by secondary inputs and adsorption. These systems exhibit lower Li × 103/TDS ratios (0.05–0.22) and enriched δ7Li values ranging from 6 ‰ to 18 ‰. (3) The sink evolution of Li and its isotopes is controlled by clay adsorption and evaporite precipitation, closely correlating with developmental phases of salt lake. Clay adsorption causes Li depletion and isotopic fractionation, leading to elevated δ7Li signatures in the early evolutionary phase. In later phases, evaporate becomes the dominant control on brine Li isotope evolution due to evaporite formed aquicludes, reduced adsorption capacity of ancient clays, and suppression of adsorption under high salinity. (4) This study offers valuable references for understanding Cenozoic marine Li isotope evolution by establishing a source–transport–sink framework within a small sink basin. Tectonic uplift has enhanced continental weathering and physical erosion, increasing supplies of dissolved Li and fresh clay minerals in runoff, while climate change has reduced continental discharge and extended water–rock interaction time. These processes collectively enhance water–rock interactions through increased reactant supply and prolonged reaction duration, elevating riverine δ7Li fluxes into the ocean and influencing marine Li isotope evolution.
{"title":"The evolution of lithium resources and isotopic composition in salt lakes on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: A source–transport–sink perspective","authors":"Hualing Song , Qishun Fan , Jianping Wang , Jiansen Li , Zhiyong Ling , Jinjun Han , Chuntao Zhao , Tianli Wang , Jiao Yu","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102156","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102156","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The source–transport–sink dynamics of salt lakes are fundamentally tied to resource source and mineralization, which are crucial for sustainable resource development and environmental protection. By integrating published and experimental datasets on lithium (Li) concentrations, Li isotopes, and Li/TDS–Li/Na ratios, this study systematically investigates the characteristics, evolutionary patterns, and driving mechanisms of Li and its isotopes throughout source–transport–sink processes in salt lakes across the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The results demonstrate that: (1) Li in salt lakes primarily originates from geothermal fluids, with significant contributions from Li-rich rocks and paleosediments. (2) Li transport mechanisms can be classified into source- and process-control. In source-control systems, Li is largely derived from Li-rich endmembers; although secondary inputs and attenuation occur during transport, the persistently high dissolved Li load governed by the original source retains a diagnostically traceable isotopic composition. This system is marked by high dissolved Li fluxes (>300 μg/L), elevated Li × 10<sup>3</sup>/TDS ratios (>0.7), and relatively depleted <em>δ</em><sup>7</sup>Li values (1 ‰ to 6 ‰, occasionally as low as −4.8 ‰). In process-control systems, Li mainly comes from silicate weathering within catchments, resulting in lower riverine Li fluxes (20–80 μg/L) that are highly sensitive to environmental conditions, where source signals are frequently overprinted by secondary inputs and adsorption. These systems exhibit lower Li × 10<sup>3</sup>/TDS ratios (0.05–0.22) and enriched <em>δ</em><sup>7</sup>Li values ranging from 6 ‰ to 18 ‰. (3) The sink evolution of Li and its isotopes is controlled by clay adsorption and evaporite precipitation, closely correlating with developmental phases of salt lake. Clay adsorption causes Li depletion and isotopic fractionation, leading to elevated <em>δ</em><sup>7</sup>Li signatures in the early evolutionary phase. In later phases, evaporate becomes the dominant control on brine Li isotope evolution due to evaporite formed aquicludes, reduced adsorption capacity of ancient clays, and suppression of adsorption under high salinity. (4) This study offers valuable references for understanding Cenozoic marine Li isotope evolution by establishing a source–transport–sink framework within a small sink basin. Tectonic uplift has enhanced continental weathering and physical erosion, increasing supplies of dissolved Li and fresh clay minerals in runoff, while climate change has reduced continental discharge and extended water–rock interaction time. These processes collectively enhance water–rock interactions through increased reactant supply and prolonged reaction duration, elevating riverine <em>δ</em><sup>7</sup>Li fluxes into the ocean and influencing marine Li isotope evolution.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102156"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145216981","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-17DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102155
Genshen Cao , Huayong Chen
Compared to typical orogenic gold deposits, the relationship between the host rocks and orogenic gold deposits in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) appears less pronounced. This study complies a dataset of 97,088 U-Pb and 12,757 Hf isotopic detrital zircon analyses, employing a combination of mapping and statistical analyses techniques, to investigate the connection. Results show that regions with a Th/U ratio below 0.7 and a mantle contribution calculated ranging from 50% to 75% are favorable zones for the localization of orogenic gold deposits. The findings indicate that the presence of monazite, along with a certain input of mantle material into the host rocks, is a favorable factor for the formation of orogenic gold deposits. Moreover, the host rocks of orogenic gold deposits predominantly form in convergent tectonic settings. This study not only reveals the relationship between orogenic gold deposits and host rocks, but also offers valuable exploration implications in CAOB.
{"title":"Monazite as an indicator for orogenic gold deposits: Constraints from detrital zircon Th/U ratio and isotope data in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt","authors":"Genshen Cao , Huayong Chen","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102155","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102155","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Compared to typical orogenic gold deposits, the relationship between the host rocks and orogenic gold deposits in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) appears less pronounced. This study complies a dataset of 97,088 U-Pb and 12,757 Hf isotopic detrital zircon analyses, employing a combination of mapping and statistical analyses techniques, to investigate the connection. Results show that regions with a Th/U ratio below 0.7 and a mantle contribution calculated ranging from 50% to 75% are favorable zones for the localization of orogenic gold deposits. The findings indicate that the presence of monazite, along with a certain input of mantle material into the host rocks, is a favorable factor for the formation of orogenic gold deposits. Moreover, the host rocks of orogenic gold deposits predominantly form in convergent tectonic settings. This study not only reveals the relationship between orogenic gold deposits and host rocks, but also offers valuable exploration implications in CAOB.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102155"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145154545","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-16DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102159
Pei Du , Mingyang Ji , Juntao Du , Jianzhou Wang
Accurate prediction of natural resource prices plays a significant role in national economic development. However, existing research often focuses solely on same-frequency forecasting, neglecting the rich information contained in high-frequency data. To bridge this gap and explore whether mixed-frequency prediction improves the forecasting performance, this study develops an innovative mixed-frequency deep learning forecasting model grounded in Pearson correlation coefficient analysis, long-short-term memory, particle swarm optimization, and mixed-frequency data sampling regression. Taking copper price as an example, this study first applies Pearson correlation analysis to select the most relevant influencing factors from mixed-frequency variables. These factors include policy uncertainty, macroeconomic conditions, energy costs, and other non-ferrous metal prices. Subsequently, the proposed mixed-frequency deep learning model is used for predicting copper price. Experiments include comparisons with the benchmark model, multi-step prediction, statistical hypothesis testing, in-depth evaluation of forecasting effectiveness, and robustness analysis. The final experimental results demonstrate that the proposed mixed-frequency deep learning model significantly outperforms the comparison models, effectively improving prediction accuracy. This study not only expands the scope of futures price prediction research, but also provides a new perspective for time series prediction work in other fields.
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Pub Date : 2025-09-13DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102154
Yvette D. Kuiper
Plate motion directions, and the orientations of rift zones and oceanic spreading ridges, and of transform faults and fracture zones that are perpendicular to these ridges, are generally controlled by tectonic forces such as slab pull, mantle convection, and mantle plumes. Here, it is hypothesized that within the confines of these general orientations, the exact orientations of these structures, and therefore plate motion directions, are partially controlled by suitably oriented sets of steep continental lithospheric discontinuities (CLDs), which work in concert with these larger tectonic forces.
Previously, the observation has been made that oceanic fracture zones are contiguous with CLDs, such as suture zones and other lithospheric fault zones. Based on high-resolution bathymetry, geological and geophysical data, it is demonstrated here that continents have multiple sets of lineaments parallel to such CLDs, or contiguous with CLDs where they occur farther inland and do not reach the ocean. Published analog experiments suggest that the orientations of transform faults and fracture zones are controlled by these CLDs if the angle between the spreading direction and the CLDs is no more than ∼45°. Spreading ridge segments evolve in an orientation perpendicular to these transform faults and fracture zones, so that the spreading direction becomes parallel to the transform faults and fracture zones. The implication is that the exact plate motion directions are controlled by CLDs, if a set of CLDs is orientated at low angle with the spreading direction. When plate motion directions need to change due to tectonic forces, the new hypothesis predicts that the exact directions may be controlled by a different set of suitably orientated CLDs. During later stages of oceanic spreading, the larger tectonic forces such as slab pull, mantle convection, and mantle plumes become increasingly dominant and plate motion directions may no longer be controlled by the CLDs.
While the hypothesis needs further testing, it has potentially far-reaching implications. For example, Euler pole reconstructions are commonly based on small circle patterns formed by fracture zones and transform faults in the oceanic lithosphere. Oceanic crust older than ∼200 Ma is typically destroyed by subduction, and pre-Mesozoic Euler poles can therefore not be reconstructed based on that method. If the hypothesis presented above is correct, the orientations of CLDs and associated lineament sets may be used as proxies for orientations of past transform faults and fracture zones, at least during early oceanic spreading. The locations of past Euler poles may thus be better estimated based on these CLDs and lineaments, and pre-Mesozoic plate tectonic reconstructions may be much improved in deep geologic time.
{"title":"Do continental lithospheric discontinuities exert control on tectonic plate motion directions?","authors":"Yvette D. Kuiper","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102154","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102154","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Plate motion directions, and the orientations of rift zones and oceanic spreading ridges, and of transform faults and fracture zones that are perpendicular to these ridges, are generally controlled by tectonic forces such as slab pull, mantle convection, and mantle plumes. Here, it is hypothesized that within the confines of these general orientations, the exact orientations of these structures, and therefore plate motion directions, are partially controlled by suitably oriented sets of steep continental lithospheric discontinuities (CLDs), which work in concert with these larger tectonic forces.</div><div>Previously, the observation has been made that oceanic fracture zones are contiguous with CLDs, such as suture zones and other lithospheric fault zones. Based on high-resolution bathymetry, geological and geophysical data, it is demonstrated here that continents have multiple sets of lineaments parallel to such CLDs, or contiguous with CLDs where they occur farther inland and do not reach the ocean. Published analog experiments suggest that the orientations of transform faults and fracture zones are controlled by these CLDs if the angle between the spreading direction and the CLDs is no more than ∼45°. Spreading ridge segments evolve in an orientation perpendicular to these transform faults and fracture zones, so that the spreading direction becomes parallel to the transform faults and fracture zones. The implication is that the exact plate motion directions are controlled by CLDs, if a set of CLDs is orientated at low angle with the spreading direction. When plate motion directions need to change due to tectonic forces, the new hypothesis predicts that the exact directions may be controlled by a different set of suitably orientated CLDs. During later stages of oceanic spreading, the larger tectonic forces such as slab pull, mantle convection, and mantle plumes become increasingly dominant and plate motion directions may no longer be controlled by the CLDs.</div><div>While the hypothesis needs further testing, it has potentially far-reaching implications. For example, Euler pole reconstructions are commonly based on small circle patterns formed by fracture zones and transform faults in the oceanic lithosphere. Oceanic crust older than ∼200 Ma is typically destroyed by subduction, and pre-Mesozoic Euler poles can therefore not be reconstructed based on that method. If the hypothesis presented above is correct, the orientations of CLDs and associated lineament sets may be used as proxies for orientations of past transform faults and fracture zones, at least during early oceanic spreading. The locations of past Euler poles may thus be better estimated based on these CLDs and lineaments, and pre-Mesozoic plate tectonic reconstructions may be much improved in deep geologic time.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102154"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145105117","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-12DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102153
Panpan Zhang , Zhijun Jin , Xiaomei Wang , Kun He , Zhenguang Shang , Jinhao Guo , Xuan Tang , Runchao Liu , Runze Cui , Qitu Hu
Due to its renewability, zero-emissions, and low production cost, natural hydrogen (H2) holds considerable potential as a carbon-free energy resource and represents a key focus for enabling energy transition and achieving carbon neutrality. The generation mechanisms and accumulation patterns of H2 need further investigation, particularly with regard to the sources of H2 in sedimentary basin. This knowledge gap hinders the exploration and development of H2 resources. The study reports the concentrations and isotopic compositions of H2 and hydrocarbons of natural gas in the Sulige gas field. The results suggest that the H2 content in natural gas can reach up to 22.98 %, with H2 isotope values (δ2H-H2) ranging from −809‰ to −700‰. Based on comprehensive analysis of carbon and hydrogen isotopes of hydrocarbons, geological conditions, and hydrogen isotope fractionation mechanisms of H2, this study reveals that the H2 in the Upper Paleozoic natural gas is likely derived primarily from organic matter pyrolysis in coal-bearing source rocks, while the H2 in the Lower Paleozoic natural gas is probably generated mainly through water radiolytic in basement granite and metamorphic rocks. The diffusion fractionation model demonstrates that significant isotopic fractionation occurs during the migration of deep-sourced H2 to sedimentary reservoirs, resulting in notably depleted δ2H-H2 values in the Lower Paleozoic natural gas. The H2 generation through organic matter pyrolysis primarily occurs during the late gas generation stage, with peak production concentrated in the Late Triassic to Early Cretaceous periods. Given the genetic correlation between H2 and hydrocarbons, the H2 may accumulate with natural gas in reservoirs. In contrast, H2 generation through water radiolysis in the study area exhibits multi-source characteristics and prolonged duration, demonstrating significant potential for independent accumulation. This study not only elucidates the generation mechanisms of H2 but also provides a significant geological case study for understanding the distribution characteristics and resource potential of H2 in sedimentary basins.
{"title":"The H2 generation mechanisms of natural gas in the Sulige gas field, Ordos Basin, China","authors":"Panpan Zhang , Zhijun Jin , Xiaomei Wang , Kun He , Zhenguang Shang , Jinhao Guo , Xuan Tang , Runchao Liu , Runze Cui , Qitu Hu","doi":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102153","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.gsf.2025.102153","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Due to its renewability, zero-emissions, and low production cost, natural hydrogen (H<sub>2</sub>) holds considerable potential as a carbon-free energy resource and represents a key focus for enabling energy transition and achieving carbon neutrality. The generation mechanisms and accumulation patterns of H<sub>2</sub> need further investigation, particularly with regard to the sources of H<sub>2</sub> in sedimentary basin. This knowledge gap hinders the exploration and development of H<sub>2</sub> resources. The study reports the concentrations and isotopic compositions of H<sub>2</sub> and hydrocarbons of natural gas in the Sulige gas field. The results suggest that the H<sub>2</sub> content in natural gas can reach up to 22.98 %, with H<sub>2</sub> isotope values (<em>δ</em><sup>2</sup>H-H<sub>2</sub>) ranging from −809‰ to −700‰. Based on comprehensive analysis of carbon and hydrogen isotopes of hydrocarbons, geological conditions, and hydrogen isotope fractionation mechanisms of H<sub>2</sub>, this study reveals that the H<sub>2</sub> in the Upper Paleozoic natural gas is likely derived primarily from organic matter pyrolysis in coal-bearing source rocks, while the H<sub>2</sub> in the Lower Paleozoic natural gas is probably generated mainly through water radiolytic in basement granite and metamorphic rocks. The diffusion fractionation model demonstrates that significant isotopic fractionation occurs during the migration of deep-sourced H<sub>2</sub> to sedimentary reservoirs, resulting in notably depleted <em>δ</em><sup>2</sup>H-H<sub>2</sub> values in the Lower Paleozoic natural gas. The H<sub>2</sub> generation through organic matter pyrolysis primarily occurs during the late gas generation stage, with peak production concentrated in the Late Triassic to Early Cretaceous periods. Given the genetic correlation between H<sub>2</sub> and hydrocarbons, the H<sub>2</sub> may accumulate with natural gas in reservoirs. In contrast, H<sub>2</sub> generation through water radiolysis in the study area exhibits multi-source characteristics and prolonged duration, demonstrating significant potential for independent accumulation. This study not only elucidates the generation mechanisms of H<sub>2</sub> but also provides a significant geological case study for understanding the distribution characteristics and resource potential of H<sub>2</sub> in sedimentary basins.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12711,"journal":{"name":"Geoscience frontiers","volume":"16 6","pages":"Article 102153"},"PeriodicalIF":8.9,"publicationDate":"2025-09-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145266545","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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