The exploitation of the mining and trade of "conflict minerals"ain particular, tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold from the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)ahas contributed to the displacement of people and severe human rights abuses. The 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) addresses, among other things, trade in conflict minerals. This book looks at the progress made since the Dodd-Frank Act went into effect.

First published in 1957, this classic study has been reissued in a paperback version that includes an additional chapter bringing the material up to date. The author formulates the physical properties of crystals systematically in tensor notation, presenting tensor properties in terms of their common mathematical basis and the thermodynamic relations between them. The mathematical groundwork is laid in a discussion of tensors of the first and second ranks. Tensors of higher ranks and matrix methods are then introduced as natural developments of the theory. A similar pattern is followed in discussing thermodynamic and optical aspects.

An Introduction to Aluminosilicates first reviews the main advances in methods of obtaining synthetic montmorillonite for environmental and biomedical areas. The perspectives and main challenges in the application of these materials is critically analyzed. The authors next study Polyhydroxy metal complexes of Al, Fe, Zr, Cr and Ti (inorganic pillarizing agents) for the synthesis of pillared clays. Information is provided on the possibility of using amorphous aluminosilicates as a modifying additive in the formulation of cement-based dry building mixtures. The physicochemical properties of the additive are considered, and the results of XRD and DTA analyzes are presented. The authors investigate the molecular orientation and surface morphology of organized molecular films with regard to solidastate structures for organo-modified aluminosilicates by a surface pressure-area isotherm, in-plane and out-of plane X-ray diffraction, and atomic force microscopy. A new method for the synthesis of amorphous mesoporous aluminosilicates with acidic properties and a narrow pore size distribution in the range of 2-7 nm is also explored. The urease immobilization of composite adsorbents polyacrylamideabentonite, polyacrylamideachitosan, and polyacrylamideachitosanabentonite is assessed, produced from polyacrylamide as a hydrogel, bentonite as an aluminosilicate mineral, and chitosan as a polysaccharide. Following this, the authors provide a brief overview of literature data where crystalline aluminosilicates have been utilized for the capture and immobilization of radionuclides. The physiochemical properties of as-synthesized layered aluminosilicate are characterized by small angle PXRD, FTIR, porosity studies, thermal studies, 27Al MAS NMR, and morphological studies. Subsequently, this compilation addresses the way in which magnetic nanoparticles have proven to be frequently occurring building blocks for hybrid structure construction and, moreover, have shown innovative prospects as multifunctional adsorbents. Modern methods for the synthesis of highly dispersed micro- and micromesoporous mordenite with a high degree of crystallinity, as well as high crystallinity mordenite with a hierarchical porous structure, methods for modifying the mentioned crystalline aluminosilicates as a result of postsynthetic treatments, and modern adsorption and catalytic systems based on them are described. Next, the high activity and selectivity of high crystallinity zeolite Y with a hierarchical porous structure in the synthesis of practically important oligomers of various unsaturated compounds is established. The authors highlight that the aluminosilicate present in kaolin may also be used in the production of zeolitic materials, and some details of this application are explained. The adsorptive features of PAAm-Ch-Z for Th4+ are investigated in view of its dependency on pH, concentration, time, temperature and ionic strength. The parameters derived from the compatibility of experimentally obtained data to Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich, van t'Hoff, pseudo frist-/second-order and Weber Morris models are utilized in the evaluation of adsorption and its thermodynamics and kinetics. Lastly, the authors consider a possible mechanism for the generation of an acetyl-zeolite intermediate via transfer from different acetyl donors through theoretical studies using a cluster model of H-ZSM-5 zeolite designed by three TO4 tetrahedral units.

Minerals existed long before any forms of life, playing a key role in the origin and evolution of life; an interaction with biological systems that we are only now beginning to understand. Exploring the traditional strand of mineralogy, which emphasises the important mineral families, the well-established analytical methods (optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction) and the dramatic developments made in techniques over recent decades, David Vaughan also introduces the modern strand of mineralogy, which explores the role minerals play in the plate tectonic cycle and how they interact with the living world. Demonstrating how minerals can be critical for human health and illness by providing essential nutrients and releasing poisons, Vaughan explores the multitude of ways in which minerals have aided our understanding of the world. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Metal usage by humans is vigorously increasing day-by-day. Since the turn of the new millennium, human needs have mainly depended on different types of metal. Ores and minerals are the primary natural sources of metals. In order to process metals, manufacturers require certain methods and technology. This reference book provides six widely used varieties of metal synthesizing and the chapters are contributed by internationally reputed professors and researchers. Chapter One focuses on biomineralization. Biomineralisation is an art of nature; it is an important process where organisms produce hierarchical mineral structures with diverse functions for their survival. This process happens through the self-organisation of organic and inorganic molecules under ambient conditions, resulting in highly structured materials with remarkable physical and chemical properties. Chapter Two refers to the application of biological methods in mineral processing. Chapter Three describes monazite mineral processing; monazite is the main resource of rare earth metals such as uranium and thorium. In this chapter, monazite mining, beneficiation and metallurgical routes are discussed. Chapter Four defines the hydrometallurgy of rare earth metals, including scandium. Chapter Five deals with ore extraction technology through computer aided engineering techniques. The final chapter concludes with the processing technology used to treat primary and secondary sources for base metal recovery.

Die Beugung von Rontgenstrahlen wird heute in vielen Labors zur schnellen, sicheren und zerstorungsfreien Identifikation von Festkorperproben benutzt. Der Einsatz von Kleinrechnern (PCs) und von schnelleren Detektoren hat in der Rontgenpulverdiffraktometrie zu einer Renaissance sowohl in der Phasenanalyse von Gemischen als auch in der Strukturverfeinerung aus Pulverdaten gefuhrt. Das Buch ist aus mehreren Vorlesungen und Ubungen des Autors entstanden und dient als praxisbezogenes Lehrbuch mit zahlreichen Abbildungen Studenten der Kristallographie, Mineralogie, Geologie, Chemie und der Materialwissenschaften. Es wird ausserdem als Nachschlagewerk von jedem mit dieser Methode arbeitenden Wissenschaftler verwendet. Dies ist die zweite Auflage des Buches. Gegenuber der ersten Auflage wird die Rietveld-Methode und die neue Methode der Profilanpassung durch die Verwendung von physikalisch sinnvollen Fundamentalparametern ausfuhrlicher behandelt."

Hematite is the mineral form of iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3), one of several iron oxides. In this book, the authors present current research in the study of the sources, properties and applications of hematite. Topics discussed include nanostructured hematite for solar driven hydrogen generation; reactions at the hematite surface with Fe(II) and environmental contaminants; the catalytic properties of sulphated hematite in toluene disproportionation; hematite nanotubes and nanorings; and the synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic property of nanostructured hematite.

This book deals with the synthesis, properties and applications of titanium dioxide (TiO2) which is a naturally occurring oxide of the element titanium. In nature these oxides are found in well-known minerals such as Rutile, Anatase and Brookite. However, it is most commonly extracted from titanium tetrachloride by carbon reduction and re-oxidisation. Alternatively, it may be processed from another oxide called ilmenite, which is subjected to reduction with sulphuric acid to achieve pure titanium dioxide.

Vancouver Island is an excellent place to hunt for unusual minerals, gems, semi-precious stones, fossils and gold. With its unique geological environment it is one of the finest locations for rockhounding in Western Canada. Featuring detailed maps ranging from Victoria through the Chemainus Valley and up to Port Hardy, "A Field Guide to Gold, Gemstone & Mineral Sites of British Columbia, Vol. 1" covers more than 100 sites on Vancouver Island and adjacent islands.

All Earth Science students need to understand the origins, environments, and basic processes that produce igneous and metamorphic rocks. This concise introductory textbook provides students with the essential knowledge needed to understand how petrology relates to other topics in the geologic sciences, and has been written specifically for one-semester courses. Throughout, the emphasis is on interpreting the mineralogy and petrology of rock suites in terms of origin and environment, with the first half of the book concentrating on igneous rocks, and the second half on metamorphic rocks. This Second Edition has been thoroughly revised and brought completely up-to-date. It now includes a new chapter on the application of stable and radiogenic isotopes in petrology, introducing students to the concept of isotopic fractionation and describing the process of radioactive decay. The discussions of phase diagrams, connections between igneous and metamorphic rock suites, and convergent margin magmatism have also been expanded. There is a new glossary of terms, updated end-of-chapter exercises, and updated further readings.

Many common terms in metamorphic petrology vary in their usage and meaning between countries. The International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) Subcommission on the Systematics of Metamorphic Rocks (SCMR) has aimed to resolve this, and to present systematic terminology and rock definitions that can be used worldwide. This 2007 book is the result of discussion and consultation lasting 20 years and involving hundreds of geoscientists worldwide. It presents a complete nomenclature of metamorphic rocks, with a comprehensive glossary of definitions, sources and etymology of over 1200 terms, and a list of mineral abbreviations. Twelve multi-authored sections explain how to derive the correct names for metamorphic rocks and processes, and discuss the rationale behind the more important terms. These sections deal with rocks from high- to low- and very-low-grade. This book will form a key reference and international standard for all geoscientists studying metamorphic rocks.

Emerald-green hiddenite, a gem so valuable that it is said "a June bug can carry away $1,000 worth," is only found in one area of North America: Alexander County, North Carolina. Now known as the village of Hiddenite, the area has continuously produced gems of great beauty since 1875, including the largest natural emerald and the largest faceted emerald in North America. The beauty of the area's free-standing minerals of emerald green beryl and spodumene, as well as amethyst, smoky quartz, calcite, and rutile have attracted collectors, adventurers, and miners since their discovery. The search for emeralds and other gemstones over more than 100 years has generated true drama: controversies about mineral names, who discovered what, tragic fatal accidents, and physical strife between individuals. This book reveals the whole story. Alongside the fascinating history of the area, it includes detailed information about the geology of the region, and will be of interest to the historian, mineral enthusiast, and the curious reader alike.

Zeolites are natural or synthetic materials with porous chemical structures that are valuable due to their absorptive and catalytic qualities. Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are manmade organometallic polymers with similar porous structures. This introductory book, with contributions from top-class researchers from all around the world, examines these materials and explains the different synthetic routes available to prepare zeolites and MOFs. The book also highlights how the substances are similar yet different and how they are used by science and industry in situations ranging from fueling cars to producing drugs.

This book gathers selected papers from the 8th International Field Exploration and Development Conference (IFEDC 2018) and addresses a broad range of topics, including: Reservoir Surveillance and Management, Reservoir Evaluation and Dynamic Description, Reservoir Production Stimulation and EOR, Ultra-Tight Reservoirs, Unconventional Oil and Gas Resources Technology, Oil and Gas Well Production Testing, and Geomechanics. In brief, the papers introduce readers to upstream technologies used in oil & gas development, the main principles of the process, and various related design technologies. The conference not only provided a platform to exchange experiences, but also promoted the advancement of scientific research in oil & gas exploration and production. The book is chiefly intended for industry experts, professors, researchers, senior engineers, and enterprise managers.

Widely used in adsorption, catalysis and ion exchange, the family of molecular sieves such as zeolites has been greatly extended and many advances have recently been achieved in the field of molecular sieves synthesis and related porous materials. Chemistry of Zeolites and Related Porous Materials focuses on the synthetic and structural chemistry of the major types of molecular sieves. It offers a systematic introduction to and an in-depth discussion of microporous, mesoporous, and macroporous materials and also includes metal-organic frameworks.* Provides focused coverage of the key aspects of molecular sieves* Features two frontier subjects: molecular engineering and host-guest advanced materials* Comprehensively covers both theory and application with particular emphasis on industrial uses This book is essential reading for researches in the chemical and materials industries and research institutions. The book is also indispensable for researches and engineers in R&D (for catalysis) divisions of companies in petroleum refining and the petrochemical and fine chemical industries.

Der deutsche Mineraloge Alfred Eppler (1867 - 1923) verfasste dieses Werk uber Schmuck- und Edelsteine im Auftrag des deutschen Werkbundes als gewerbliche Materialkunde. Als Ergebnis liegt nun ein ausfuhrliches Buch vor, welches die Eigenschaften und Erkennungsmerkmale (Kristallformen, Spaltbarkeit, Harte, spezifisches Gewicht) beschreibt. Eppler geht umfangreich auf Falschungen und Imitationen ein. Er erlautert verschiedene Untersuchungsmethoden, beschreibt die verschiedenen Arten der Schmuck- und Edelsteine, die Lagerstatten und Gewinnung sowie den Handel mit Rohsteinen und die Schmuckindustrie. Im Anhang findet der Leser farbige Abbildungen der verschiedenen Arten von Schmuck- und Edelsteinen. Der Autor hat einen auch fur interessierte Laien gut lesbaren Schriftstil verwendet.

Great importance has been placed on the development of new technologies for the synthesis of nanoparticles and nanostructured materials, which are profitable for industrial production and environmentally safe. As such, in Fluorite: Structure, Chemistry and Applications, crystal structure of fluorites, point defects, specific properties, innovative methods of nanopowders synthesis and properties of ceria-based materials are discussed. Next, the dispersion and attenuation of ultrasonic bulk modes in cubic crystals is described in the framework of a phenomenological approach, whereas the contribution of the subsystem of Jahn-Teller complexes is presented through microscopic theory and Jahn-Teller effect problems. Lastly, the authors review the substitution strategies that have been attempted to introduce mixed conductivity into fluorite zirconia materials, the solubility of such transition metal dopants and the resultant electrical properties. Potential mixed conducting ternary systems are discussed.

La croissance demographique de Ouagadougou entraine des problemes d'alimentation en Eau en quantite et surtout en qualite. Cette etude permet de faire l'etat de la ressource en eau souterraine et de sa vulnerabilite. Ouagadougou est batie sur des formations de socle cristallin du paleo proterozoique, recoupees par de grandes fractures orientees Nord-sud et Est-ouest. On a trois niveaux plus ou moins aquiferes mais generalement deux nappes et les fractures constituent les voies privilegiees d'arrivee de polluants. Les outils hydrogeochimiques ont permis de comprendre la complexite des aquiferes, leur fonctionnement et d'identifier la pollution au niveau des eaux des puits dont la conductivite augmente avec l'alcalinite avec la mineralisation de la matiere organique. Une cartographie des nitrates sur 1800 puits met en evidence trois grandes zones avec des teneurs excessives jusqu'a 150 mg/l.La degradation de la qualite des eaux s'accompagne de la presence de bacteries.La cartographie de la vulnerabilite de la nappe inferieure montre deux zones tres vulnerables sur lesquelles une grande attention doit etre portee a l'occupation des sols et l'assainissement.