Some fundamental issues in computational hydrodynamics of mineralization: A review

This paper presents a general discussion on some fundamental issues associated with the current research status in the field of computational hydrodynamics of mineralization. Based on the scientific characteristics of mineral forming systems within the upper crust of the Earth, the fundamental issues under consideration include: (1) simulation of multi-process aspects of a mineral forming system; (2) simulation of multi-scale aspects of a mineral forming system; (3) simulation of fluid convection associated with a mineral forming system; (4) simulation of fluid focusing and mixing associated with a mineral forming system; and (5) simulation of reactive mass transport associated with a mineral forming system. After the current status of each fundamental issue is briefly summarized, the future development in the field of computational hydrodynamics of mineralization is discussed on the basis of further improving the treatments of the fundamental issues considered in this investigation.