bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How AI originates from biology – and how it returns to it
Authors: Kurakin Georgy
Published: May 2024

The most popular types of artificial intelligence are inspired by different biological processes, such as the functioning of nervous systems or adaptive immunity. Here, I make a short dive into the history of AI to track how bio-inspired models of AI replace other models and discuss which model could be the next one.
The Accompanying Effect in Responses to Auditory Perturbations: Unconscious Vocal Adjustments to Unperturbed Parameters
Authors: Ning Li-Hsin , Hui Tak-Cheung
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

The present study examined whether participants respond to unperturbed parameters while experiencing specific perturbations in auditory feedback. For instance, we aim to determine if speakers adjust voice loudness when only pitch is artificially altered in auditory feedback. This phenomenon is referred to as the “accompanying effect” in the present study.

Method:

Thirty native Mandarin speakers were asked to sustain the vowel /ɛ/ for 3 s while their auditory feedback underwent single shifts in one of the three distinct ways: pitch shift (±100 cents; coded as PT), loudness shift (±6 dB; coded as LD), or first formant (F1) shift (±100 Hz; coded as FM). Participants were instructed to ignore the perturbations in their auditory feedback. Response types were categorized based on pitch, loudness, and F1 for each individual trial, such as Popp_Lopp_Fopp indicating opposing responses in all three domains.

Results:

The accompanying effect appeared 93% of the time. Bayesian Poisson regression models indicate that opposing responses in all three domains (Popp_Lopp_Fopp) were the most prevalent response type across the conditions (PT, LD, and FM). The more frequently used response types exhibited opposing responses and significantly larger response curves than the less frequently used response types. Following responses became more prevalent only when the perturbed stimuli were perceived as voices from someone else (external references), particularly in the FM condition. In terms of isotropy, loudness and F1 tended to change in the same direction rather than loudness and pitch.

Conclusion:

The presence of the accompanying effect suggests that the motor systems responsible for regulating pitch, loudness, and formants are not entirely independent but rather interconnected to some degree.
Single-atom catalysis in space
Authors: Pareras G. , Cabedo V. , McCoustra M. , Rimola A.
Published: May 2024

Context. The presence of grains is key to the synthesis of molecules in the interstellar medium that cannot form in the gas phase due to its low density and temperature conditions. In these reactions, the role of the grains is to enhance the encounter rate of the reactive species on their surfaces and to dissipate the energy excess of largely exothermic reactions, but less is known about their role as chemical catalysts; namely, bodies that provide low activation energy pathways with enhanced reaction rates. Different refractory materials with catalytic properties, such as those containing space-abundant d-block transition metals like iron (Fe), are present in astrophysical environments.

Aims. Here, we report for first time mechanistic insights into the Fischer-Tropsch-type (FTT) synthesis of ethanol (CH3CH2OH), through ketene (CH2CO) and acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) intermediates, and methane (CH4) via a chain growing mechanism using a single-Fe atom supported on silica (SiO2) surfaces as a heterogeneous astrocatalyst.

Methods. Quantum chemical simulations based on extended periodic surfaces were carried out to characterize the potential energy surfaces of the FTT chain growing mechanism. Calculations of the binding energies of reaction intermediates and products and Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus kinetic calculations were performed to evaluate catalytic efficiencies and determine the feasibility of the reactions in different astrophysical environments.

Results. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that the FTT chain growing mechanism enters into direct competition with FTT methanol formation, since formation of the CH2 chain growth initiator is feasible. The coupling of the CH2 with CO (forming ketene) and subsequent H2 additions yield acetaldehyde and finally ethanol, while direct H2 addition to CH2 produces methane. Thermodynamically, both processes are largely exergonic, but they present energy barriers that require external energy inputs to be overcome. Kinetic calculations demonstrate the strong temperature dependency of the FTT processes as tunneling does not dominate.

Conclusions. The results could explain the presence of CH3CH2OH and CH4 in diverse astrophysical regions where current models fail to reproduce their observational quantities. The evidence that the chain growing mechanism is operating opens a new reactivity paradigm toward the formation of complex organic molecules, which is constrained by the temperature-dependent behaviour of the FTT reactions and by making their energy features a crucial aspect.
Positive und negative (Neben)Effekte bei
Osteoporose-Sequenztherapie
Authors: Obermayer-Pietsch Barbara , Fößl Ines , Thomasius Friederike
Published: May 2024

Indikationen und Abläufe rund um pharmakologischen Optionen für die
Osteoporosetherapie wurden in den vergangenen Jahren neu beleuchtet. Dazu zählen
neben den bekannten therapeutischen Effekten auf Knochenstoffwechsel, -struktur
und Frakturrisiko auch teils weniger bekannte positive (Neben-)Effekte und
einige, wenn auch seltene, gravierende Nebenwirkungen dieser Medikamente. Als
positive (Neben-)Effekte wurden bei Bisphosphonaten u. a. die Reduktion von
kardiovaskulären Ereignissen, die verminderte Inzidenz von Karzinomen und eine
insgesamt verminderte Mortalität beschrieben, es gab bei suffizienter
Basistherapie aber u. a. auch reduzierte Raten für COVID-Infektionen und
-Hospitalisierungen. Antiresorptiva können seltene, aber erhebliche
Nebenwirkungen bei Betroffenen bewirken, u. a. sind es atypische
Schenkelhalsbrüche (AFF, „atypical femoral fractures“), die in 0.02% der Fälle
bei langdauernder Behandlung auftreten. Vielbeachtet sind Kieferosteonekrosen
(MRONJ, „Medication-Related OsteoNecrosis of the Jaw“), die vermehrt bei hohen
und häufigen Dosen, etwa bei onkologischer Indikation auftreten und bei
Osteoporose-Indikation in 0.001%-0.01% der Betroffenen mit
Osteoporosetherapie-Schemata gefunden werden. Zu Augen-assoziierten Symptomen
(BROSE, „Bisphosphonat-Related Ocular Side Effects”) sind bisher etwa zwei
Dutzend Fälle weltweit publiziert worden. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit werden
wichtige Daten und Mechanismen zu Nebeneffekten der Osteoporose-Therapeutika
auch bei speziellen Personengruppen zusammengefasst und neue Entwicklungen im
Rahmen einer Osteoporose-Sequenztherapie sowie Vorsorgemaßnahmen
beschrieben.
A scaffolded learning approach to increasing student comfort with Microsoft Excel
Authors: Weathers Danny , Swain Scott D.
Published: May 2024

As the availability and importance of data to support marketing decision-making continue to grow, universities need to prepare students for working in data-rich environments. Part of this preparation involves equipping students with skills necessary to access, manipulate, organize, explore, summarize, and visualize data. Microsoft Excel is a widely used tool for these tasks. We present results obtained across four years and seven sections of an undergraduate Marketing Metrics and Analytics courses that demonstrate the effectiveness of a scaffolded learning approach for enhancing student comfort with Excel. To support instructors who teach Marketing Metrics and Analytics courses, we provide the framework of assignments that we have found to effectively grow student confidence in using Excel.
Stability and long time asymptotic for the 2D anisotropic micropolar Rayleigh–Bénard problem with horizontal dissipation
Authors: Luo Zehua , Li Dan , Wang Yuzhu
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we investigate the initial value problem for the 2D anisotropic micropolar Rayleigh–Bénard problem with horizontal dissipation. Based on the energy method and the bootstrapping argument, global classical solutions are proved under the assumptions of small initial data. Moreover, time-decay rates of the oscillation part of global classical solutions are obtained by combining the energy method and Poincaré type inequality.
Two types of Witten zeta functions
Authors: Levin A. , Olshanetsky M.
Published: May 2024

We define two types of Witten’s zeta functions according to Cartan’s classification of compact symmetric spaces. The type II is the original Witten zeta function constructed by means of irreducible representations of the simple compact Lie group U. The type I Witten zeta functions, we introduce here, are related to the irreducible spherical representations of U. They arise in the harmonic analysis on compact symmetric spaces of the form U/K, where K is the maximal subgroup of U. To construct the type I zeta function we calculate the partition functions of 2d YM theory with broken gauge symmetry using the Migdal–Witten approach. We prove that for the rank one symmetric spaces the generating series for the values of the type I functions with integer arguments can be defined in terms of the generating series of the Riemann zeta-function.
On the selective formation of cubic tetrastack crystals from tetravalent patchy particles
Authors: Baran Łukasz , Tarasewicz Dariusz , Kamiński Daniel M. , Patrykiejew Andrzej , Rżysko Wojciech
Published: May 2024

Achieving the formation of target open crystalline lattices from colloidal particles is of paramount importance for their potential application in photonics. Examples of such desired structures are the diamond, tetrastack, and pyrochlore lattices. Here, we demonstrate that the self-assembly of tetravalent patchy particles results in the selective formation of cubic tetrastack crystals, both in the bulk and in the systems subjected to external fields exerted by the solid substrate. It is demonstrated that the presence of an external field allows for the formation of well-defined single crystals with a low density of defects. Moreover, depending on the strength of the applied external field, the mechanism of epitaxial growth changes. For weakly attractive external fields, the crystallization occurs in a similar manner as in the bulk, since the fluid does not wet the substrate. Nonetheless, the formed crystal is considerably better ordered than the crystals formed in bulk, since the surface induces the ordering in the first layer. On the other hand, it is demonstrated that the formation of well-ordered cubic tetrastack crystals is considerably enhanced by the increase in external field strength, and the formation of the thick crystalline film occurs via a series of layering transitions.
A novel transfer learning strategy for wind power prediction based on TimesNet-GRU architecture
Authors: Li Dan , Hu Yue , Yang Baohua , Fang Zeren , Liang Yunyan , He Shuai
Published: May 2024

Currently, data-driven deep learning models are widely applied in the field of wind power prediction. However, when historical data are insufficient, deep learning models struggle to exhibit satisfactory predictive performance. In order to overcome the issue of limited training data for new wind farms, this study proposes a novel transfer learning strategy to address the challenge of less-sample learning in short-term wind power prediction. The research is conducted in two stages. In the pre-training stage, the TimesNet-GRU prediction model is established using data from a source wind farm. Parallel TimesNet modules are employed to extract multi-period features from various input feature sequences, followed by the extraction of long- and short-term features from the time series through gate recurrent unit (GRU). In the transfer learning stage, an effective transfer strategy is designed to freeze and retrain certain parameters of the TimesNet-GRU, thereby constructing a prediction model for the target wind farm. To validate the effectiveness of this approach, the results from testing with actual data from five wind farms in northwest China demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits significant advantages over models without transfer learning as explored in this study.
Multiple positive solutions of the quasilinear Schrödinger–Poisson system with critical exponent in D1,p(R3)
Authors: Huang Lanxin , Su Jiabao
Published: May 2024

This paper is concerned with the quasilinear Schrödinger–Poisson system −Δpu−l(x)ϕ|u|p−2u=|u|p*−2u+μh(x)|u|q−2u in R3 and −Δϕ = l(x)|u|p in R3, where μ > 0, p*=3p3−p and Δpu = div(|∇u|p−2∇u). By using the Ekeland’s variational principle and the mountain pass theorem, we prove that the system admits two positive solutions for 1 ⩽ q < p and 1 < p < 3, and the system admits one positive solution for p ⩽ q < p* and 32<p<3.
The effect of grain boundaries and precipitates on the mechanical behavior of the refractory compositionally complex alloy NbMoCrTiAl
Authors: Wang Jin , Basu Silva , Kauffmann Alexander , Heilmaier Martin , Schwaiger Ruth
Published: May 2024

Refractory compositionally complex alloys (CCAs) have been found to exhibit promising high-temperature properties. However, the brittleness of most CCAs at room temperature limits their application. To understand the influence of microstructure on the deformation behavior of these alloys, we conducted micromechanical experiments, including nanoindentation and micropillar compression tests, on a representative NbMoCrTiAl alloy at room temperature. The indentation at the grain boundaries showed increased shear stress and hardness compared to the matrix (ordered B2 crystal structure) due to the presence of local intermetallic precipitates (C14 and A15 phases). Although the NbMoCrTiAl alloy exhibits no ductility at the millimeter scale as shown in previous studies, the micropillars at the grain boundaries, which were decorated with precipitates, demonstrated higher yield strength and significant plastic strain >30% at room temperature. Numerous slip lines were observed, while cracks and fracture occurred at higher levels of deformation. The grain boundaries with precipitates increased the probability of crack initiation and propagation, but they did not necessarily lead to catastrophic failure of the pillars.
Development of a microfurnace dedicated to in situ scanning electron microscope observation up to 1300 °C. III. In situ high temperature experiments
Authors: Mendonça Jérôme , Lautru Joseph , Brau Henri-Pierre , Nogues Dorian , Candeias Antoine , Podor Renaud
Published: May 2024

The FurnaSEM microfurnace was installed in the chamber of a scanning electron microscope to carry out in situ experiments at high temperatures and test its limits. The microfurnace was used in combination with different types of detectors (Everhart–Thornley for the collection of secondary electrons in a high vacuum, gas secondary electron detector for the specific collection of secondary electrons in the presence of gas, and Karmen© detector for the collection of backscattered electrons at high temperature). Experiments carried out on various samples (metal alloys and ceramics) show that the microfurnace operates in both high-vacuum and low-vacuum modes. Temperature ramp rates during temperature cycles applied to the sample range from 1 to 120 °C/min (temperature rise) and 1 to 480 °C/min (controlled and natural cooling). The maximum temperature at which images were recorded up to 25 k × magnification was 1340 °C, with a residual air atmosphere of 120 Pa. The choice of a flat furnace with the sample placed directly above it has enabled innovative experiments to be carried out, such as low-voltage imaging (using a shorter working distance—up to 10 mm—than is possible with conventional furnaces), 3D imaging (by tilting the stage by up to 10°), and high-temperature backscattered electron imaging (using a dedicated detector).
Exploring for the Future: new geomechanical data in frontier Australian basins
Authors: Bailey Adam , Dewhurst David , Wang Liuqi , Carson Chris , Anderson Jade , Butcher Grace , Henson Paul
Published: May 2024

Led by Geoscience Australia, Exploring for the Future (EFTF) is a A$225 million Australian Government program dedicated to exploring Australia’s resource potential and boosting investment. The EFTF program energy component aimed to attract industry investment by delivering a suite of new precompetitive geoscience data in prospective Australian sedimentary basins. Through EFTF, Geoscience Australia has acquired significant amounts of new geomechanical data from underexplored onshore sedimentary basins with identified hydrocarbon prospectivity, from both legacy and newly acquired samples. These data were acquired to build a better understanding of basin sediment rock properties, particularly looking at the reservoir and seal potential of postulated unconventional and conventional targets. Four major datasets are presented herein, representing prospective intervals from the Paleozoic Canning Basin of Western Australia, the Neoproterozoic-Paleozoic Officer Basin of South Australia and Western Australia, the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic South Nicholson region of the Northern Territory and northwest Queensland, and the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic Birrindudu Basin of the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Additionally, the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic McArthur Basin of the Northern Territory is represented by a small number of analyses. Tests include unconfined compressive strength tests, laboratory ultrasonic measurements, single and multi-stage triaxial tests and Brazilian tensile strength tests. These datasets are a precompetitive resource that can facilitate investment decisions in frontier regions, helping to identify elements of conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon systems as well as providing essential data to assess geological storage opportunities.
Decarbonisation – how are we tracking against plans
Authors: Wilkes Martin
Published: May 2024

Globally many countries have committed to reducing carbon dioxide emissions and their dependence on fossil fuels with most large emitting countries now committing to ‘net-zero’ targets sometime in the second half of this century and earlier intermediate targets in 2030. With only 6 years to go until the deadline to meet 2030 emission reduction targets, what is the verdict? How are Australian and global emission reduction projects tracking? World electricity demand in 2022 was 28,500 TWh with 39.3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emitted in the same year as a result. The global energy mix hasn’t changed much: fossil fuel consumption as a percentage of primary energy in 2022 remained steady at 82% and in July 2023 the International Energy Agency projected 2023 oil demand to be 102.1 million barrels a day, an all-time high. This paper will take a look at decarbonisation efforts around the world and provide an overview of what was targeted in previous years and compare it with what has actually been achieved. How far are we truly on the road to decarbonisation? Are decarbonisation initiatives including carbon capture, utilisation and storage, hydrogen projects, solar and wind farms providing the intended results? Incorporating recent key regulatory initiatives from governments around the world including the US, Australia and the EU, this paper will outline progress to date and attempt to show possible paths going forward in answering the question whether it is possible to achieve the proposed emission reduction targets in 6 years.
Hydrogen and carbon capture utilisation and storage policy for progress on climate change mitigation
Authors: Koller Thomas
Published: May 2024

This paper highlights the need for Australia to enhance its climate change policies, arguing that the introduction of Contracts for Difference (CfD) policy mechanisms is an appropriate successor to Hydrogen Headstart and would support the development of hydrogen and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) industries. CfDs are financial agreements designed to provide price certainty, support investment, and bridge the cost gap between new and established technologies. With explanation of different CfD structures and examples from other countries the paper argues that implementing CfDs could attract investors, provide confidence to the sector, and ultimately help Australia meet its climate change obligations.
Gross depositional environment mapping in the onshore South Australian Otway Basin: an example of data integration
Authors: Cubitt C. , Kirk R. , Rady T. , Tiainen S.
Published: May 2024

As part of a greater petroleum systems modelling project, gross depositional environment maps were made for six key intervals in the onshore portion of the Jurassic to Late-Cretaceous Otway Basin in South Australia. This mapping interpreted varied depositional systems including anoxic, extensive ice-influenced lacustrine, lacustrine turbidite, extensive fluvial/lacustrine, fluvial/flood plain and growth fault-bound ribbon-like alluvial fan aprons.
Empowering process safety hazard awareness and technical learning in energy operations
Authors: Ledrut Laurence
Published: May 2024

The Process Safety Management discipline is still misunderstood and deemed complex despite the efforts and progress that have been made over the past decades in the energy industry. This is important as the energy industry turns towards the energy transition and needs to remember the fundamentals of managing process safety risks in emerging technologies. At Origin Energy, leadership, risk management and learning are tightly connected when it comes to ensuring good process safety. In this context, Origin Energy’s Integrated Gas Business Unit has implemented Process Safety Management initiatives over the last 5 years grouped under three Process Safety Management strategic pillars: empowered process safety leadership; open-minded learning culture and best practice process hazard management. The aim of these initiatives was to develop a heightened process safety culture across the business unit. The approach used was to demystify process safety concepts to generate engagement and ownership at all levels. This was supplemented with implementing a companywide Engineering and Technical Community of Practice to enable sharing of technical learning across boundaries and building strong process safety risk awareness foundations supported by a Process Hazard Analysis Revalidation program.
Operating in the context of evolving climate disclosure practices and frameworks
Authors: Smyth Mark , Einfeld Edward
Published: May 2024

The standards for companies reporting on the environmental impacts of their operations have changed drastically over the last decade and are about to become even more complex. Initially, limited regulation or guidance available to companies in relation to climate disclosures led to widely diverging practices. This has resulted in many companies facing allegations of ‘greenwashing’ and in some cases litigation and shareholder activism. However, the Australian Government has recently announced it will implement mandatory climate reporting commencing from 1 July 2024 for many Australian companies. Additional climate disclosures – encouraged by pressure from stakeholders and required by the new reporting regulations – will make environmental risk management more complex. The additional disclosures will also provide further opportunities for interference with the approval process for new projects, if there are inconsistencies between a company’s climate disclosures generally and what they have said in their project approval documents. In this paper, we provide an overview of effective strategies and mitigation steps that can be taken to reduce this risk of disruption and disincentivise activist interference more generally, drawing from recent climate change proceedings and experience advising energy and resources clients in relation to climate change and Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) issues more broadly. In particular, we will cover the aspects of the new mandatory climate reporting regime that will be most difficult to comply with; common greenwashing pitfalls; stakeholder/activist engagement planning; and how Boards should approach these issues.
Global focus on ESG in the supply chain – insights into supply chain management of Environmental, Social and Governance requirements and trends both locally and globally
Authors: Bibby David
Published: May 2024

In our increasingly interconnected world, responsible business operation has become a normal, critical part of doing business for virtually all industries. Consumers, investors, and other company stakeholders are demanding businesses take responsibility for their current and future impacts on people and the environment. When assessing the role corporations play in a more sustainable future, many turn their focus to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors that help define and measure sustainable business. Given the wide variety of topics encompassed in ESG, companies often identify which are material, or prioritised by company stakeholders. Quantitative and qualitative information for material ESG topics is often reported using a standard or framework such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures; Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures; Sustainability Accounting Standards Board; the Global Reporting Initiative and the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), along with other region-specific standards. One reporting challenge includes extending ESG strategies and data collection to a company’s value chain. By including ESG-related requirements in service contracts or pre-qualification metrics, expectations can be clearly communicated and data aggregation becomes simpler. Engaging with vendors on the importance of material topics and providing educational tools and opportunities is necessary for accurate data collection. Benchmarking companies against their peers allows organisations to make informed decisions to continue or halt business relationships. Every company’s approach to ESG will look different, but protecting the business’s reputation and customer expectations is critical to continuous operations. Outcomes: understanding different components of ESG. Recognition of the types of reporting disclosure frameworks. Best practices with contractors and suppliers.
Repurposing oil and gas infrastructure as artificial reefs – a global perspective
Authors: Saeed Anam , Parnum Bethan
Published: May 2024

More than 7000 offshore oil and gas (O&G) installations are found across 53 countries throughout the world’s oceans. During their life span, these structures provide a habitat for marine life and can support diverse assemblages. At the end of planned service life, they are decommissioned which usually involves the complete removal of infrastructure from the ocean, resulting in the loss of these marine communities. Various countries have repurposed O&G platforms as artificial reefs as an alternative solution to decommissioning, such as the Rigs-to-Reefs (R2R) program developed by the United States (US). The repurposing of O&G platforms may have benefits in preserving or enhancing ecological communities, as well as reducing the impacts and costs associated with removal and disposal onshore. The placement of O&G platforms in the ocean as artificial reefs demands prudent planning and high-level management to ensure the anticipated benefits are delivered and potential impacts are managed. The US National Artificial Reef Program (NARP) along with the R2R program provides guidelines on various aspects of artificial reef use, including planning, site selection, design and management. Since 1980, the US has successfully converted more than 593 O&G platforms to permanent artificial reefs due to the active participation and support of O&G operators, government, local fishing and diving communities. Other countries are also taking initiatives to repurpose their O&G infrastructure. The aim of this paper is to identify key considerations in the repurposing of O&G infrastructure as artificial reefs, using the US R2R program and other geographies as examples.
A path to make well-informed decisions when considering the decommissioning of subsea pipelines
Authors: Chikin Andrey
Published: May 2024

Australia’s law mandates the removal of infrastructure once not in use unless the Titleholder can demonstrate an equal or superior safety and environmental outcome. Around 100 infield and export pipelines in Australian waters, with an approximate total length of 5000 km, are nearing their end-of-life period. Three common decommissioning options are considered for subsea pipelines: complete removal, partial removal, or in-situ abandonment. Decommissioning these pipelines will cost an estimated US$13 billion, ~33% of the cumulative Australian offshore decommissioning liability, should the full removal option be selected. When decommissioning subsea pipelines, it is essential to consider that they have been exposed to hazardous fluids and aggressive environments. Careful assessments should determine the recyclability of recovered materials, decontamination, and the environmental risks associated with each decommissioning option. A holistic approach is needed to identify and quantify contaminants in subsea pipelines. In the early stages of decommissioning, planning, sampling, and laboratory testing are necessary to identify plastic coating types, degradation mechanisms, constituents released to the environment, types and mechanisms related to mercury/naturally occurring radioactive materials, and chemical stability. This paper aims to identify and present effective methods for addressing the impact of pipeline constituents on the Marine Environment Assessment while assessing potential decommissioning options and explains how tools can support decision-making. In summary, decommissioning subsea pipelines requires careful assessment and planning to ensure environmental and safety compliance. The paper provides a guide to understanding the process, highlighting the importance of quality assurance, risk assessment, and the selection of appropriate decommissioning options.
Steps to accelerate net zero delivery
Authors: Anderson Clare , Ebert Paul , Adamson Kerry-Ann , Greig Chris
Published: May 2024

Worley and Princeton University’s Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment are working together to shift the net zero narrative from what is needed, to how to meet this immense infrastructure delivery challenge. Together, we assert that this challenge cannot be met through a traditional project delivery approach. We have developed a new delivery paradigm, which identifies five key shifts in infrastructure delivery practices to build the durable, responsible, and pragmatic means of achieving the required scale and speed of mid-century net zero. We believe that the new delivery paradigm needs to be in place by 2030, and an annual survey conducted by Princeton University is tracking the uptake by industry. The third instalment in our thought leadership series ‘From Ambition to Reality (FATR): Steps to accelerate net zero delivery’, explores the scale of the EU’s 2030 Hydrogen ambition and how the five key shifts could accelerate the delivery of 10 million tonnes per annum of renewable hydrogen in the next 6 years. This has led to our proposed EU Renewable H2 Plan, which has been further globalised to our 2024 FATR Plan for application to any low carbon sector or supply chain. In this paper, we examine the initiatives set out in the 2024 FATR Plan in the context of the Australian oil and gas industry. We outline the steps that can be taken right now to support the decarbonisation of the Australian oil and gas industry alongside the development of a new hydrogen industry.
Monitoring geomechanical pumped storage in horizontal fluid-filled lenses with surface tiltmeters
Authors: Kasperczyk Dane , Salimzadeh Saeed , Wright Scott , Lau Henry
Published: May 2024

Geomechanical Pumped Storage is a long duration energy storage technology that assists with integrating variable renewable energy sources into the electricity grid. The concept involves cycling fluid in artificial subsurface lenses. These lenses act as high-pressure reservoirs, storing and releasing pressurised fluid to drive a turbine and generate power. Similar in nature to traditional pumped storage hydropower, but lower cost, modular, and without the specific topography requirements. This work describes the surface monitoring and analysis from several lenses manufactured in the Eagle Ford Shale at Quidnet Energy’s Castilleja pilot storage site in Texas. Up to 12 high-precision tiltmeters were used to verify dip and orientation of the lens as well as provide a predictive map of the lens geometry and symmetry or asymmetry of the lens growth. The surface tiltmeters used as a diagnostic tool for lens creation have been proven to be useful. It provides operators with confidence and feedback on fundamental lens behaviour and response. These improvements will help scale the technology to commercially viable modular energy storage systems.
Hydrogen carriers – transporting hydrogen from producers to export power markets
Authors: Hosey Andrea , O’Neil Phil
Published: May 2024

As a global energy transition community there is a lot of talk about producing hydrogen in Australia, South America, the Middle East and now the USA, and transporting that as an energy source to markets such as Japan, Korea, Singapore and Europe. How will we do this, what are the carriers available, and what are the advantages and challenges of each? This is a practical assessment of the situation highlighting where we need to focus our efforts as a global community and Australia’s role in enabling hydrogen supply chains of the future to succeed.
New dog old tricks – process safety for the energy transition
Authors: Cooper Steve , Stembridge Alice
Published: May 2024

The energy transition is gathering pace and it’s apparent there is not one solution to replace our traditional means of sourcing energy from fossil fuels. The energy transition embraces renewable power generation, whether in the form of solar, wind, hydro or using waste materials and plant feedstocks such as biomass to produce fuels of the future. There is a colourful range of hydrogen solutions in grey, blue or green available, with blue requiring a carbon capture and storage solution. The solutions being considered for the energy landscape are on a scale not seen before. All of these new energy solutions have one thing in common, they present known hazards, but the application and simple scale of their use is significantly greater than when they are produced or consumed today. When we discuss renewable energy, it is perceived that generally it is safer than sourcing and processing conventional energy forms. Conventional fuels have a long history of process safety and have been well regulated for more than 20 years as major hazard facilities. The expectations of communities and regulators are that renewable energy will be delivered reliably and safely and to the same standard as conventional energy forms. We call this process safety equivalency. We will examine a few areas as examples of some of the early problems being addressed and solved today.
The migration of hydrogen in sedimentary basins
Authors: Lodhia Bhavik Harish , Peeters Luk
Published: May 2024

Understanding the mechanisms of large-scale, subsurface hydrogen migration is essential for natural hydrogen exploration and for hydrogen storage assessment. The unique properties of hydrogen make the timescales of hydrogen migration within geological basins vary from thousands of years to days. Within the shallow Earth, diffusive and advective transport mechanisms are dependent on a wide range of parameters, including geological structure, microbial activity and subsurface environmental factors (e.g. salinity, temperature and pressure). In this study, we review the nature and timescale of hydrogen migration in geological basins. We also review the mechanisms and timescales of hydrogen migration within diffusive, advective and biologically moderated systems within the shallow Earth. We calculate maximum vertical velocity for several key rock types, including sandstone and micrite, and discuss the importance of capillary pressure in controlling the mode of hydrogen migration in sedimentary rocks. Finally, we discuss the potential application of causal analyses methods to constrain complex processes in hydrogen systems and assess the challenges of conventional reservoir modelling for hydrogen migration.
Sediment provenance analysis of the early Permian reservoirs of the Perth Basin
Authors: Munday Stuart , Riley David , Gallagher Liam
Published: May 2024

The sediment provenance of Early Permian reservoirs (‘Kingia’ and High Cliff sandstones) of the onshore North Perth Basin is poorly understood. Bulk rock inorganic geochemistry, detrital zircon geochronology and heavy mineral data have been used to assess spatial and temporal changes in provenance in the vicinity of the Waitsia, Lockyer Deep, West Erregulla and Beharra Springs Deep discoveries. The geochemical data provides a chemostratigraphic framework for the Early Permian that can be confidently correlated throughout the basin. The detrital zircon and Raman data have recognised significant regional variabilities. The zircon data defines western and eastern regions that were separated and/or infilled by different depositional systems, likely defined by the Mountain Bridge Fault. Raman analysis demonstrates that the High Cliff and ‘Kingia’ sediments in the vicinity of Waitsia have different zircon age populations and heavy mineral assemblages, with the ‘Kingia sandstone’ dominated by apatite indicating access to a granitic source at this time. This is poorly represented by wells in the northern Dongara Terrace and Allanooka Terrace, where sediments are dominated by garnet. Analysis of Lockyer Deep and West Erregulla discovery wells in the northern Dandaragan Trough, also demonstrate only minor amounts of apatite, but also include a significant mafic component, the source of which is uncertain. The geochemical data demonstrates that the top of these reservoirs is defined by a highly consistent change in provenance, coincident with a switch to garnet-rich sediments and different dominant zircon age populations.
Early exploration modelling of natural hydrogen systems through the use of existing open source data
Authors: Baxter Clare , La Pedalina Frank , McMahon Andrew , Lim Toon Hoong
Published: May 2024

Natural hydrogen’s viability as a sustainable energy source will be enhanced through comprehensive geological modelling. This paper integrates existing open-source data to delve into the geological aspects of natural hydrogen exploration and proposes possible workflows. Geological and geophysical modelling entails characterising subsurface formations conducive to natural hydrogen generation and trapping. Utilising geological surveys, field observation, geophysical seismic and gravity data, alongside existing well logs, this analysis looks to identify regions with favourable geological conditions for the generation, migration and structures for accumulation of natural hydrogen. Furthermore, understanding the subsurface geology aids in the development of safe and efficient extraction techniques. By incorporating geological modelling into the evaluation of natural hydrogen, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of its potential as a sustainable energy solution. Leveraging existing open-source data alongside geological insights ensures a robust foundation for decision-making in exploration, production, storage, and utilisation strategies. This integrated approach empowers stakeholders to make informed choices in shaping a greener, more sustainable energy landscape.
The role of salt basins in the race to net zero: a focus on Australian basins and key research topics
Authors: Kernen Rachelle , Amos Kathryn J. , Anell Ingrid , Evans Sian , Rodriguez-Blanco Leticia
Published: May 2024

Globally, many salt basins host highly productive fossil fuel resources and provide excellent opportunities for developing economically viable clean energy systems such as (1) energy storage in salt caverns, including hydrogen, helium, natural gas, and other economic gases; (2) permanent sequestration of carbon dioxide; (3) development of geothermal energy; (4) critical mineral exploration and extraction, and (5) natural hydrogen production. Despite the high potential to deploy financially viable clean energy solutions related to the formation and evolution of salt basins, our current knowledge regarding critical aspects of salt basin characterisation in Australia is limited. New research is necessary to develop these sustainable energy systems and achieve net zero emissions; therefore, it is critical to re-evaluate the geology of salt basins. Key research areas to enable these opportunities relate to the precipitation, deposition, and deformation of salt basins. This paper reviews the potential for a range of energy systems within salt basins, outlines emerging research topics, and demonstrates the value of Australian salt basin outcrop analogues for improved subsurface interpretation globally.
Implications of Western Australia’s updated domestic gas policy
Authors: Birda Krishan Pal , Ramesh Kaushal , Bogle Sally
Published: May 2024

In August 2023, Western Australia (WA) updated its domestic gas reservation policy to restrict onshore gas exports through the existing pipeline network, primarily affecting the Perth Basin. While the policy update aimed to secure domestic gas supplies amid projected shortfalls, it may complicate the outlook for the WA gas market through restricted access to capital, reduced incentives for substantial investments in large-scale developments, and the elimination of a potential future gas demand source for the state. WA’s domestic gas consumption is expected to peak by the end of this decade and then steadily decline as part of the state’s net-zero emission ambitions. In contrast, the liquefied natural gas (LNG) market especially in Australia’s main buying partners in Asia is set to grow into the 2040s, offering lenders demand certainty. This paper assesses the potential implications of WA’s updated domestic gas policy. The state’s domestic gas market is projected to require 8–10 tcf of gas over 2023–50. Currently producing and under-development fields are expected to supply approximately 5 tcf during this period, leaving around a 2 tcf gap to be filled by the onshore resource base and potential new Domestic Market Obligations (DMOs). The paper reiterates the importance of gas in WA’s energy transition and the need to ensure future supply failing which prices could rise to LNG netback or trigger further intervention.
Beetaloo’s gas bounty: potential for LNG exports and domestic supply
Authors: Birda Krishan Pal , Ramesh Kaushal
Published: May 2024

Recent drilling in the Beetaloo Basin has yielded promising results for the emerging shale gas play, enabling the explorers to secure funding and establish a range of non-binding commercial agreements. Notably, Beetaloo wells have exhibited initial production rates over 30 days (IP30), spanning from 1.1 to 5.2 mmcf/day, and there is an evident trend of increasing frac stages with each new well as operators continuously optimise stimulation. This research paper presents comprehensive Beetaloo modelling results, encompassing well type curves, a comparative analysis with the renowned Marcellus shale play in the United States (frequently used as a reference point for Beetaloo), production forecasts, economic assessments, and an examination of potential commercialisation pathways. Based on our modelling findings, Beetaloo’s estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) per well ranges from 7 to 14 bcf, with deeper wells into the Velkerri B Shale demonstrating relatively higher productivity. We anticipate that, with full-scale development, Beetaloo could attain peak production rates of 1 bcf/day, supported by a peak annual drilling rate averaging 50–60 wells. Overall, the Beetaloo Basin possesses the potential to recover close to 8 tcf of low reservoir CO2 gas, opening doors to the possibility of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports reaching up to 4.5 mtpa and domestic gas supplies of around 94 mmcf/day, limited to the existing infrastructure capacity connecting to the east coast gas markets.
Neighbourhood watch: the future of Asian LNG demand growth
Authors: Ramesh Kaushal
Published: May 2024

The global liquefied natural gas (LNG) market has returned to a semblance of calm after a tumultuous 2022. European and Chinese demand is on the path to a slow recovery, while a nuclear power renaissance is underway in Japan and South Korea. This paper will detail our expectations for LNG demand growth, discuss demand drivers and market development opportunities for Australian LNG between the late 2020s to early 2030s. We see LNG demand in the region increasing from 260 Mtpa in 2023 to 479 Mtpa by 2035. The largest source of growth continues to be China with demand growing from 68 to 150 Mtpa, driven by uptake of LNG in the industrial and buildings sectors. We will also see South Asian demand growing from 33 to 100 Mtpa, and Southeast Asian demand from 24 to 103 Mtpa. Even in legacy markets of Japan and Korea where we see demand declining in this timeframe, we will see the emergence of new buyers and the impact of market liberalisation measures. The expiry of legacy contracts and the rising influence of US LNG is set to complicate market dynamics further. We discuss the challenges of the energy transition in a region that must balance emissions considerations with energy demand. We conclude that Australian projects with their proximate location and legacy relationships will remain an attractive proposition for Asian buyers. Ullage at existing LNG plants will support backfill economics, with decarbonisation measures taken under the Safeguard Mechanism demonstrating genuine emissions reduction action.
An uneasy truce: a post-intervention gas market in Eastern Australia
Authors: Ramesh Kaushal , Birda Krishan Pal , Dixon David
Published: May 2024

We present our analysis of the East Coast fundamentals and our long-term gas price assumptions through 2033 in Wallumbilla and the southern states. The paper concludes that the market has a chance to return from the brink of dysfunction. The replacement of lower-cost legacy supply near demand centres with higher-cost coal seam gas (CSG) from a remote region in another state through limited infrastructure – or liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports – fundamentally signals higher prices even as domestic demand declines from 520 PJ in 2023 to 425 PJ in 2033 with possible intermittent increases during coal retirements. Added to the mix is long-term demand and policy uncertainty, the current era of monetary tightening and vanishing finance for fossil fuel projects. The relationship between East Coast gas producers in Australia and the federal government appears to have de-escalated following the inclusion of potential price cap exemptions in the recently released mandatory code of conduct for the domestic wholesale gas market. Gas remains a crucial long-term input in the manufacturing sector and will continue to support gas intensive industries if price alignment can be achieved, which is what will be needed to ensure the gas sector’s longevity in the energy transition. We also discuss the role of gas in the National Electricity Market which is headed for an increasingly chaotic coal exit, keeping gas extremely relevant to support system resilience.