Microdroplets initiate organic-inorganic interactions and mass transfer in thermal hydrous geosystems

Guanghui Yuan (), Zihao Jin, Yingchang Cao (), Hans-Martin Schulz, Jon Gluyas, Keyu Liu, Xingliang He and Yanzhong Wang
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Guanghui Yuan: China University of Petroleum (East China)
Zihao Jin: China University of Petroleum (East China)
Yingchang Cao: China University of Petroleum (East China)
Hans-Martin Schulz: GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences
Jon Gluyas: Durham University
Keyu Liu: China University of Petroleum (East China)
Xingliang He: China Geological Survey
Yanzhong Wang: China University of Petroleum (East China)

Nature Communications, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: Abstract Organic-inorganic interactions regulate the dynamics of hydrocarbons, water, minerals, CO2, and H2 in thermal rocks, yet their initiation remains debated. To address this, we conducted isotope-tagged and in-situ visual thermal experiments. Isotope-tagged studies revealed extensive H/O transfers in hydrous n-C20H42-H2O-feldspar systems. Visual experiments observed water microdroplets forming at 150–165 °C in oil phases near the water-oil interface without surfactants, persisting until complete miscibility above 350 °C. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) detected hydroxyl free radicals concurrent with microdroplet formation. Here we propose a two-fold mechanism: water-derived and n-C20H42-derived free radicals drive interactions with organic species, while water-derived and mineral-derived ions trigger mineral interactions. These processes, facilitated by microdroplets and bulk water, blur boundaries between organic and inorganic species, enabling extensive interactions and mass transfer. Our findings redefine microscopic interplays between organic and inorganic components, offering insights into diagenetic and hydrous-metamorphic processes, and mass transfer cycles in deep basins and subduction zones.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49293-y

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