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“Zeotile-2: a microporous analogue of MCM-48”. Kremer SPB, Kirschhock CEA, Aerts A, Aerts CA, Houthoofd KJ, Grobet PJ, Jacobs PA, Lebedev OI, Van Tendeloo G, Martens JA, Solid state sciences 7, 861 (2005). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.solidstatesciences.2005.01.021
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.811
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1016/j.solidstatesciences.2005.01.021
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“Synthesis of IWW-type germanosilicate zeolite using 5-azonia-spiro[4, 4]nonane as structure directing agent”. Yuan R, Claes N, Verheyen E, Tuel A, Bals S, Breynaert E, Martens J, Kirschhock CEA, New journal of chemistry 40, 4319 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/C5NJ03094C
Abstract: IWW-type zeolite with Si/Ge of 4.9 is obtained using 5-azonia-spiro[4,4]nonane as template in fluoride-free medium under hydrothermal conditions at 175 °C. In an otherwise identical synthesis, using the related 5-azonia-spiro[4,5]decane as structure directing agent, a mixture of IWW and NON zeolite types was formed. In absence of GeO2 from the reactant mixture, pure NON formed. The IWW zeolite was characterized by XRD, SEM, and HRTEM. IWW zeolite displayed a unique morphology and could be calcined at 600 °C without loss of crystallinity. The Si/Ge ratio of the IWW zeolite was increased by postsynthesis modification. Part of the germanium could be eliminated from the as-synthesized IWW zeolite by acid leaching using 6 M HCl solution. Also the calcined material could be degermanated. Here the presence of a silicon source in the acidic leaching solution minimized structural damage. This way the Si/Ge ratio of the IWW zeolite was increased from 4.9 up to 10.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.269
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1039/C5NJ03094C
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“Plasmonic ‘rainbow&rsquo, photocatalyst with broadband solar light response for environmental applications”. Verbruggen SW, Keulemans M, Goris B, Blommaerts N, Bals S, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 188, 147 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apcatb.2016.02.002
Abstract: We propose the concept of a ‘rainbow’ photocatalyst that consists of TiO2 modified with gold-silver alloy nanoparticles of various sizes and compositions, resulting in a broad plasmon absorption band that covers the entire UV–vis range of the solar spectrum. It is demonstrated that this plasmonic ‘rainbow’ photocatalyst is 16% more effective than TiO2 P25 under both simulated and real solar light for pollutant degradation at the solid-gas interface. With this we provide a promising strategy to maximize the spectral response for solar to chemical energy conversion.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 47
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2016.02.002
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“Anatase TiO2nanoparticle coating on porous COK-12 platelets as highly active and reusable photocatalysts”. Wee LH, Meledina M, Turner S, Custers K, Kerkhofs S, Sree SP, Gobechiya E, Kirschhock CEA, Van Tendeloo G, Martens JA, RSC advances 6, 46678 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/C6RA06141A
Abstract: Nanoscale TiO2 photocatalysts are widely used for biomedical applications, self-cleaning processes and wastewater treatments. The impregnation/deposition of TiO2 nanoparticles is indispensable for facile handling and separation as well as the improvement of their photocatalytic performance. In the present study, ordered mesoporous COK-12 silica thin platelets with a high-aspect-ratio and rough surfaces are demonstrated as a potential nanoporous support for homogeneous TiO2 nanoparticle coatings with high loading up to 16.7 wt%. The photocatalytic composite of COK-12 platelets and TiO2 nanoparticles is characterized in detail by HRSEM, SAXS, XRD, N2 physisorption analysis, solid-state UV-vis spectroscopy, HAADF-STEM, EDX analysis, and electron tomography. HAADF-STEM-EDX and electron tomography studies reveal a homogeneous dispersion of nanosized TiO2 nanoparticles over COK-12 platelets. The final composite material with anatase TiO2 nanoparticles that demonstrate a blueshifted semiconductor band gap energy of 3.2 eV coated on a highly porous COK-12 support shows exceptional photocatalytic catalytic activity for photodegradation of organic dyes (rhodamine 6G and methylene blue) and an organic pollutant (1-adamantanol) under UV light radiation, outperforming the commercial P25 TiO2 (Degussa) catalyst.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.108
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1039/C6RA06141A
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“Catalyst design by NH4OH treatment of USY zeolite”. Van Aelst J, Verboekend D, Philippaerts A, Nuttens N, Kurttepeli M, Gobechiya E, Haouas M, Sree SP, Denayer JFM, Martens JA, Kirschhock CEA, Taulelle F, Bals S, Baron GV, Jacobs PA, Sels BF, Advanced functional materials 25, 7130 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.201502772
Abstract: Hierarchical zeolites are a class of superior catalysts which couples the intrinsic zeolitic properties to enhanced accessibility and intracrystalline mass transport to and from the active sites. The design of hierarchical USY (Ultra-Stable Y) catalysts is achieved using a sustainable postsynthetic room temperature treatment with mildly alkaline NH4OH ( 0.02(M)) solutions. Starting from a commercial dealuminated USY zeolite (Si/Al = 47), a hierarchical material is obtained by selective and tuneable creation of interconnected and accessible small mesopores (2- 6 nm). In addition, the treatment immediately yields the NH4+ form without the need for additional ion exchange. After NH4OH modification, the crystal morphology is retained, whereas the microporosity and relative crystallinity are decreased. The gradual formation of dense amorphous phases throughout the crystal without significant framework atom leaching rationalizes the very high material yields (>90%). The superior catalytic performance of the developed hierarchical zeolites is demonstrated in the acid-catalyzed isomerization of alpha-pinene and the metal-catalyzed conjugation of safflower oil. Significant improvements in activity and selectivity are attained, as well as a lowered susceptibility to deactivation. The catalytic performance is intimately related to the introduced mesopores, hence enhanced mass transport capacity, and the retained intrinsic zeolitic properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.124
Times cited: 64
DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201502772
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“PDMS membranes containing ZIF-coated mesoporous silica spheres for efficient ethanol recovery via pervaporation”. Naik PV, Wee LH, Meledina M, Turner S, Li Y, Van Tendeloo G, Martens JA, Vankelecom IFJ, Journal of materials chemistry A : materials for energy and sustainability 4, 12790 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/C6TA04700A
Abstract: The design of functional micro- and mesostructured composite materials is significantly important for separation processes. Mesoporous silica is an attractive material for fast diffusion, while microporous zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) are beneficial for selective adsorption and diffusion. In this work, ZIF-71 and ZIF-8 nanocrystals were grown on the surface of mesoporous silica spheres (MSS) via the seeding and regrowth approach in order to obtain monodispersed MSS-ZIF-71 and MSS-ZIF-8 spheres with a particle size of 2-3 mm. These MSS-ZIF spheres were uniformly dispersed into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix to prepare mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). These MMMs were evaluated for the separation of ethanol from water via pervaporation. The pervaporation results reveal that the MSS-ZIF filled MMMs substantially improve the ethanol recovery in both aspects viz. flux and separation factor. These MMMs outperforms the unfilled PDMS membranes and the conventional carbon and zeolite filled MMMs. As expected, the mesoporous silica core allows very fast flow of the permeating compound, while the hydrophobic ZIF coating enhances the ethanol selectivity through its specific pore structure, hydrophobicity and surface chemistry. It can be seen that ZIF-8 mainly has a positive impact on the selectivity, while ZIF-71 enhances fluxes more significantly.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.867
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1039/C6TA04700A
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“Synthesis of aluminum-containing hierarchical mesoporous materials with columnar mesopore ordering by evaporation induced self assembly”. Kurttepeli M, Locus R, Verboekend D, de Clippel F, Breynaert E, Martens J, Sels B, Bals S, Microporous and mesoporous materials: zeolites, clays, carbons and related materials 234, 186 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROMESO.2016.07.002
Abstract: The incorporation of aluminum into the silica columns of hierarchical mesoporous materials (HMMs) was studied. The HMMs were synthesized by a combination of hard and soft templating methods, forming mesoporous SBA-15-type silica columns inside the pores of anodic aluminum oxide membranes via evaporation induced self-assembly (EISA). By adding Al-isopropoxide to the EISA-mixture a full tetrahedral incorporation of Al and thus the creation of acid sites was achieved, which was proved by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Electron microscopy showed that the use of Al-isopropoxide as an Al source for the HMMs led to a change in the mesopore ordering of silica material from circular hexagonal (donut-like) to columnar hexagonal and a 37% increase in specific surface (BET surface). These results were confirmed by a combination of nitrogen physisorption and small-angle X-ray scattering experiments and can be attributed to a swelling of the P123 micelles with isopropanol. The columnar mesopore ordering of silica is advantageous towards the pore accessibility and therefore preferential for many possible applications including catalysis and adsorption on the acid tetrahedral Al-sites. (C) 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.615
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROMESO.2016.07.002
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“The Chemical Route to a Carbon Dioxide Neutral World”. Martens JA, Bogaerts A, De Kimpe N, Jacobs PA, Marin GB, Rabaey K, Saeys M, Verhelst S, Chemsuschem 10, 1039 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.201601051
Abstract: Excessive CO2 emissions in the atmosphere from anthropogenic activity can be divided into point sources and diffuse sources. The capture of CO2 from flue gases of large industrial installations and its conversion into fuels and chemicals with fast catalytic processes seems technically possible. Some emerging technologies are already being demonstrated on an industrial scale. Others are still being tested on a laboratory or pilot scale. These emerging chemical technologies can be implemented in a time window ranging from 5 to 20 years. The massive amounts of energy needed for capturing processes and the conversion of CO2 should come from low-carbon energy sources, such as tidal, geothermal, and nuclear energy, but also, mainly, from the sun. Synthetic methane gas that can be formed from CO2 and hydrogen gas is an attractive renewable energy carrier with an existing distribution system. Methanol offers advantages as a liquid fuel and is also a building block for the chemical industry. CO2 emissions from diffuse sources is a difficult problem to solve, particularly for CO2 emissions from road, water, and air transport, but steady progress in the development of technology for capturing CO2 from air is being made. It is impossible to ban carbon from the entire energy
supply of mankind with the current technological knowledge, but a transition to a mixed carbon–hydrogen economy can reduce net CO2 emissions and ultimately lead to a CO2-neutral world.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 7.226
Times cited: 75
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201601051
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“3D porous nanostructured platinum prepared using atomic layer deposition”. Pulinthanathu Sree S, Dendooven J, Geerts L, Ramachandran RK, Javon E, Ceyssens F, Breynaert E, Kirschhock CEA, Puers R, Altantzis T, Van Tendeloo G, Bals S, Detavernier C, Martens JA, Journal of materials chemistry A : materials for energy and sustainability 5, 19007 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1039/C7TA03257A
Abstract: A robust and easy to handle 3D porous platinum structure was created via replicating the 3D channel system
of an ordered mesoporous silica material using atomic layer deposition (ALD) over micrometer distances.
After ALD of Pt in the silica material, the host template was digested using hydrogen fluoride (HF). A fully
connected ordered Pt nanostructure was obtained with morphology and sizes corresponding to that of
the pores of the host matrix, as revealed with high-resolution scanning transmission electron
microscopy and electron tomography. The Pt nanostructure consisted of hexagonal Pt rods originating
from the straight mesopores (11 nm) of the host structure and linking features resulting from Pt
replication of the interconnecting mesopore segments (2–4 nm) present in the silica host structure.
Electron tomography of partial replicas, made by incomplete infilling of Zeotile-4 material with Pt,
provided insight in the connectivity and formation mechanism of the Pt nanostructure by ALD. The Pt
replica was evaluated for its potential use as electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction, one of
the half-reactions of water electrolysis, and as microelectrode for biomedical sensing. The Pt replica
showed high activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction and electrochemical characterization revealed
a large impedance improvement in comparison with reference Pt electrodes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.867
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1039/C7TA03257A
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“1D-2D-3D Transformation Synthesis of Hierarchical Metal-Organic Framework Adsorbent for Multicomponent Alkane Separation”. Wee LH, Meledina M, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Zhang K, Marleny Rodriguez-Albelo L, Masala A, Bordiga S, Jiang J, Navarro JAR, Kirschhock CEA, Martens JA, Journal of the American Chemical Society 139, 819 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/JACS.6B10768
Abstract: A new hierarchical MOF consisting of Cu(II) centers connected by benzene-tricarboxylates (BTC) is prepared by thermoinduced solid transformation of a dense CuBTC precursor phase. The mechanism of the material formation has been thoroughly elucidated and revealed a transformation of a ribbon-like 1D building unit into 2D layers and finally a 3D network. The new phase contains excess copper, charge compensated by systematic hydroxyl groups, which leads to an open microporous framework with tunable permanent mesoporosity. The new phase is particularly attractive for molecular separation. Energy consumption of adsorptive separation processes can be lowered by using adsorbents that discriminate molecules based on adsorption entropy rather than enthalpy differences. In separation of a 11-component mixture of C-1-C-6 alkanes, the hierarchical phase outperforms the structurally related microporous HKUST-1 as well as silicate-based hierarchical materials. Grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulation provides microscopic insight into the structural host-guest interaction, confirming low adsorption enthalpies and significant entropic contributions to the molecular separation. The unique three-dimensional hierarchical structure as well as the systematic presence of Cu(II) unsaturated coordination sites cause this exceptional behavior.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.858
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1021/JACS.6B10768
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“Independent tuning of size and coverage of supported Pt nanoparticles using atomic layer deposition”. Dendooven J, Ramachandran RK, Solano E, Kurttepeli M, Geerts L, Heremans G, Ronge J, Minjauw MM, Dobbelaere T, Devloo-Casier K, Martens JA, Vantomme A, Bals S, Portale G, Coati A, Detavernier C, Nature communications 8, 1074 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1038/S41467-017-01140-Z
Abstract: Synthetic methods that allow for the controlled design of well-defined Pt nanoparticles are highly desirable for fundamental catalysis research. In this work, we propose a strategy that allows precise and independent control of the Pt particle size and coverage. Our approach exploits the versatility of the atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique by combining two ALD processes for Pt using different reactants. The particle areal density is controlled by tailoring the number of ALD cycles using trimethyl(methylcyclopentadienyl) platinum and oxygen, while subsequent growth using the same Pt precursor in combination with nitrogen plasma allows for tuning of the particle size at the atomic level. The excellent control over the particle morphology is clearly demonstrated by means of in situ and ex situ X-ray fluorescence and grazing incidence small angle X-ray scattering experiments, providing information about the Pt loading, average particle dimensions, and mean center-to-center particle distance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.124
Times cited: 88
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-017-01140-Z
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“Highly selective gas separation membrane using in situ amorphised metal-organic frameworks”. Kertik A, Wee LH, Pfannmöller M, Bals S, Martens JA, Vankelecom IFJ, Energy &, environmental science 10, 2342 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1039/C7EE01872J
Abstract: Conventional carbon dioxide (CO2) separation in the petrochemical industry via cryogenic distillation is energy intensive and environmentally unfriendly. Alternatively, polymer membrane-based separations are of significant interest owing to low production cost, low-energy consumption and ease of upscaling. However, the implementation of commercial polymeric membranes is limited by their permeability and selectivity trade-off and the insufficient thermal and chemical stability. Herein, a novel type of amorphous mixed matrix membrane (MMM) able to separate CO2/CH4 mixtures with the highest selectivities ever reported for MOF based MMMs is presented. The MMM consists of an amorphised metal-organic framework (MOF) dispersed in an oxidatively cross-linked matrix achieved by fine tuning of the thermal treatment temperature in air up to 350 degrees C which drastically boosts the separation properties of the MMM. Thanks to the protection of the surrounding polymer, full oxidation of this MOF (i.e. ZIF-8) is prevented, and amorphisation of the MOF is realized instead, thus in situ creating a molecular sieve network. In addition, the treatment also improves the filler-polymer adhesion and induces an oxidative cross-linking of the polyimide matrix, resulting in MMMs with increased stability or plasticization resistance at high pressure up to 40 bar, marking a new milestone as new molecular sieve MOF MMMs for challenging natural gas purification applications. A new field for the use of amorphised MOFs and a variety of separation opportunities for such MMMs are thus opened.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 29.518
Times cited: 122
DOI: 10.1039/C7EE01872J
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“Postsynthetic high-alumina zeolite crystal engineering in organic free hyper-alkaline media”. Van Tendeloo L, Wangermez W, Vandekerkhove A, Willhammar T, Bals S, Maes A, Martens JA, Kirschhock CEA, Breynaert E, Chemistry of materials 29, 629 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.CHEMMATER.6B04052
Abstract: Postsynthetic modification of high -alumina zeolites in hyper alkaline media can be tailored toward alteration of framework topology, crystal size and morphology, or desired Si/A1 ratio. FAU, EMT, MAZ, KFI, HEU, and LTA starting materials were treated with 1.2 M MOH (M = Na, K, RE, or Cs), leading to systematic ordered porosity or fully transformed frameworks with new topology and adjustable Si/Al ratio. In addition to the versatility of this tool for zeolite crystal engineering, these alterations improve understanding of the crystal chemistry. Such knowledge can guide further development in zeolite crystal engineering. Postsynthetic alteration also provides insight on the long-term stability of aluminosilicate zeolites that are used as a sorption sink in concrete -based waste disposal facilities in harsh alkaline conditions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.466
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.CHEMMATER.6B04052
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“Activity versus selectivity in photocatalysis : morphological or electronic properties tipping the scale”. Keulemans M, Verbruggen SW, Hauchecorne B, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Journal of catalysis 344, 221 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCAT.2016.09.033
Abstract: In this paper a structure-activity and structure-selectivity relation is established for three commercial TiO2 sources (P25, P90, and PC500). Morphological and electronic parameters of the photocatalysts are determined using widely applicable and inexpensive characterization procedures. More specifically, the electronic properties are rigorously characterized using an electron titration method yielding quantitative information on the amount of defect sites present in the catalyst. Surface photovoltage measurements on the other hand provide complementary information on the charge carrier recombination process. As model reaction, the degradation of a solid layer of stearic acid is studied using an in situ FTIR reaction cell that enables to investigate the catalyst surface and possible formation of reaction intermediates while the reactions are ongoing. We show that the order of photocatalytic conversion is PC500 > P90 > P25, matching the order of favorable morphological properties. In terms of selectivity to CO2 formation (complete mineralization), however, this trend is reversed: P25 > P90 > PC500, now matching the order of advantageous electronic properties, i.e. low charge carrier recombination and high charge carrier generation. With this we intend to provide new mechanistic insights using a wide variety of physical, (wet) chemical and operando analysis methods that aid the development of performant (self-cleaning) photocatalytic materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 6.844
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCAT.2016.09.033
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“The benefit of glass bead supports for efficient gas phase photocatalysis : case study of a commercial and a synthesised photocatalyst”. Verbruggen SW, Ribbens S, Tytgat T, Hauchecorne B, Smits M, Meynen V, Cool P, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Chemical engineering journal 174, 318 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2011.09.038
Abstract: In the field of photocatalytic air purification, the immobilisation of catalyst particles on support surfaces without loss of photon efficiency is an important challenge. Therefore, an immobilisation method involving a one-step suspension coating of pre-synthesised photocatalysts on glass beads was applied. The various benefits are exemplified in the gas phase photodegradation of ethylene. Coating of glass beads is easy, fast, cheap and offers a more efficient alternative to bulk catalyst pellets. Furthermore, this coating procedure allows to use porous, pre-synthesised catalysts to their full potential, as the surface area and morphology of the initial powder is barely altered after coating, in strong contrast to pelletising. With this technique it became possible to study the gas phase photocatalytic activity of commercial titanium dioxide, trititanate nanotubes and mixed phase anatase/trititanate nanotubes in a packed bed reactor towards the degradation of ethylene without changing the catalyst properties. Coating of glass beads with the photocatalyst revealed the superior activity of the as-prepared nanotubes, compared to TiO2 Aerolyst® 7710 in gaseous phase.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 6.216
Times cited: 39
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2011.09.038
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“Controllable nitrogen doping in as deposited TiO2 film and its effect on post deposition annealing”. Deng S, Verbruggen SW, Lenaerts S, Martens JA, Van den Berghe S, Devloo-Casier K, Devulder W, Dendoover J, Deduytsche D, Detavernier C, Journal of vacuum science and technology: A: vacuum surfaces and films 32, 01a123 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1116/1.4847976
Abstract: In order to narrow the band gap of TiO2, nitrogen doping by combining thermal atomic layer deposition (TALD) of TiO2 and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) of TiN has been implemented. By altering the ratio between TALD TiO2 and PEALD TiN, the as synthesized TiOxNy films showed different band gaps (from 1.91 eV to 3.14 eV). In situ x-ray diffraction characterization showed that the crystallization behavior of these films changed after nitrogen doping. After annealing in helium, nitrogen doped TiO2 films crystallized into rutile phase while for the samples annealed in air a preferential growth of the anatase TiO2 along (001) orientation was observed. Photocatalytic tests of the degradation of stearic acid were done to evaluate the effect of N doping on the photocatalytic activity.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 1.374
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1116/1.4847976
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“Elucidating the photocatalytic degradation pathway of acetaldehyde : an FTIR in situ study under atmospheric conditions”. Hauchecorne B, Terrens D, Verbruggen S, Martens JA, van Langenhove H, Demeestere K, Lenaerts S, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 106, 630 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APCATB.2011.06.026
Abstract: In this paper, new insights of the photocatalytic oxidation pathway of acetaldehyde are obtained by means of an in-house constructed FTIR in situ reactor. It is shown that there are generally three different intermediates present: acetic acid, formic acid and formaldehyde. By means of FTIR in situ spectroscopy, this study revealed that these intermediates are bound on the TiO2 surface in different ways, resulting in the presence of more intermediate species, such as molecularly adsorbed acetic acid, bidentate acetate, molecularly adsorbed formic acid, monodentate formate, bidentate formate, formaldehyde and dioxymethylene. Furthermore, spectroscopic evidence is obtained concerning the formation of 3-hydroxybutanal and crotonaldehyde upon adsorption of acetaldehyde on TiO2 prior to UV illumination. The presented results thus give new insights in the photocatalytic oxidation pathway of acetaldehyde.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 46
DOI: 10.1016/J.APCATB.2011.06.026
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“Factors driving the activity of commercial titanium dioxide powders towards gas phase photocatalytic oxidation of acetaldehyde”. Verbruggen SW, Masschaele K, Moortgat E, Korany TE, Hauchecorne B, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Catalysis science &, technology 2, 2311 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1039/C2CY20123B
Abstract: The photocatalytic activity of two commercial titanium dioxide powders (Cristal Global, Millennium PC500 and Evonik, P25) is compared towards acetaldehyde degradation in the gas phase. In contrast to the extensive literature available, we found a higher activity for the PC500 than for the P25 coating. Here, we present a comprehensive characterization of the bulk and surface properties of both powders. Our comparison shows that the material properties that dominate the overall photocatalytic activity in gas phase differ from those required for the photodegradation of water-borne pollutants.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 5.773
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1039/C2CY20123B
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“Harvesting hydrogen gas from air pollutants with an un-biased gas phase photo-electrochemical cell”. Verbruggen SW, Van Hal M, Bosserez T, Rongé, J, Hauchecorne B, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Chemsuschem 10, 1413 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1002/CSSC.201601806
Abstract: The concept of an all-gas-phase photo-electrochemical cell (PEC) producing hydrogen gas from volatile organic contaminated gas and light is presented. Without applying any external bias, organic contaminants are degraded and hydrogen gas is produced in separate electrode compartments. The system works most efficiently with organic pollutants in inert carrier gas. In the presence of oxygen gas, the cell performs less efficiently but still significant photocurrents are generated, showing the cell can be run on organic contaminated air. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate new application opportunities of PEC technology and to encourage further advancement toward photo-electrochemical remediation of air pollution with the attractive feature of simultaneous energy recovery and pollution abatement.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 7.226
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1002/CSSC.201601806
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“A non-aqueous synthesis of TiO2SiO2 composites in supercritical CO2 for the photodegradation of pollutants”. Jammaer J, Aprile C, Verbruggen SW, Lenaerts S, Pescarmona PP, Martens JA, Chemsuschem 4, 1457 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/CSSC.201100059
Abstract: Titania/silica composites with different Ti/Si ratios are synthesized via a nonconventional synthesis route. The synthesis involves non-aqueous reaction of metal alkoxides and formic acid at 75 °C in supercritical carbon dioxide. The as-prepared composite materials contain nanometer-sized anatase crystallites and amorphous silica. Large specific surface areas are obtained. The composites are evaluated in the photocatalytic degradation of phenol in aqueous medium, and in the elimination of acetaldehyde from air. The highest photocatalytic activity in both processes is achieved with a composite containing 40 wt % TiO2.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 7.226
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1002/CSSC.201100059
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“Photocatalysis assisted simultaneous carbon oxidation and NOx reduction”. Liao L, Heylen S, Sree SP, Vallaey B, Keulemans M, Lenaerts S, Roeffaers MBJ, Martens JA, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 202, 381 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APCATB.2016.09.042
Abstract: Photocatalysis assisted oxidation of carbon black was performed using TiO2 photocatalyst under UV illumination in an atmosphere with NO, O-2 and water vapor at 150 degrees C. Carbon is oxidized mainly to CO2 while NO is selectively converted to N-2. Enhanced O-2 and NO concentrations have a positive effect on the carbon oxidation rate. At a concentration of 3000 ppm NO and 13.3% O-2 in the gas phase the carbon oxidation rate reaches 2.3 mu g(carbon)/mg(TiO2) h, at a formal electron/photon quantum efficiency of 0.019. HR SEM images reveal uniform gradual reduction of the carbon particle size irrespective of the distance to TiO2 photocatalyst particles in the presence of NO, O-2 and H2O. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1016/J.APCATB.2016.09.042
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“Photocatalytic carbon oxidation with nitric oxide”. Liao L, Heylen S, Vallaey B, Keulemans M, Lenaerts S, Roeffaers MBJ, Martens JA, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 166, 374 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APCATB.2014.11.051
Abstract: The photocatalytic oxidation of carbon black on TiO2 using nitric oxide as an oxidizing agent was investigated. Layer-wise deposited carbon and TiO2 powder was illuminated with UVA light in the presence of NO at parts per million concentrations in dry and hydrated carrier gas at a temperature of 150 degrees C. Carbon was photocatalytically converted mainly into CO2, and NO mainly into N-2. Carbon oxidation rates of 7.2 mu g/h/mgTiO(2) were achieved in the presence of 3000 ppm NO. Under these experimental conditions in the absence of molecular oxygen, formation of surface nitrates causing TiO2 photocatalyst deactivation is suppressed. Addition of water enhances surface nitrate formation and catalyst deactivation. NO and carbon particulate matter are air pollutants emitted by diesel engines. Elimination of soot collected on a diesel particulate filter through oxidation is a demanding reaction requiring temperatures in excess of 250 degrees C. The present study opens perspectives for a low-temperature regeneration strategy for the diesel particulate filter that simultaneously performs DeNO(x) reactions. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1016/J.APCATB.2014.11.051
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“Plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition of silver using Ag(fod)(PEt3) and NH3-plasma”. Minjauw MM, Solano E, Sree SP, Asapu R, Van Daele M, Ramachandran RK, Heremans G, Verbruggen SW, Lenaerts S, Martens JA, Detavernier C, Dendooven J, Chemistry of materials 29, 7114 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.CHEMMATER.7B00690
Abstract: A plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (ALD) process using the Ag(fod)(PEt3) precursor [(triethylphosphine)(6,6,7,7,8,8,8-heptafluoro-2,2-dimethy1-3,5-octanedionate)silver(I)] in combination with NH3-plasma is reported. The steady growth rate of the reported process (0.24 +/- 0.03 nm/cycle) was found to be 6 times larger than that of the previously reported Ag ALD process based on the same precursor in combination with H-2-plasma (0.04 +/- 0.02 nm/cycle). The ALD characteristics of the H-2-plasma and NH3-plasma processes were verified. The deposited Ag films were polycrystalline face-centered cubic Ag for both processes. The film morphology was investigated by ex situ scanning electron microscopy and grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering, and it was found that films grown with the NH3-plasma process exhibit a much higher particle areal density and smaller particle sizes on oxide substrates compared to those deposited using the H-2-plasma process. This control over morphology of the deposited Ag is important for applications in catalysis and plasmonics. While films grown with the H-2-plasma process had oxygen impurities (similar to 9 atom %) in the bulk, the main impurity for the NH3-plasma process was nitrogen (similar to 7 atom %). In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy experiments suggest that these nitrogen impurities are derived from NH surface groups generated during the NH3-plasma, which interact with the precursor molecules during the precursor pulse. We propose that the reaction of these surface groups with the precursor leads to additional deposition of Ag atoms during the precursor pulse compared to the H-2-plasma process, which explains the enhanced growth rate of the NH3-plasma process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.466
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.CHEMMATER.7B00690
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“Predicting the surface plasmon resonance wavelength of gold-silver alloy nanoparticles”. Verbruggen SW, Keulemans M, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 117, 19142 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1021/JP4070856
Abstract: Gold-silver alloy nanoparticles display surface plasmon resonance (SPR) over a broad range of the UV-vis spectrum. We propose a model to predict the SPR wavelength of gold-silver alloy colloids based on the combined effect of alloy composition and particle size. The SPR wavelength is derived from extinction spectra simulated using available experimental dielectric constant data and accounts for particle size by applying Mie theory. Comparison of calculated values with experimental data evidences the accuracy of the model. The new SPR wavelength estimation tool will be of particular interest for developing dedicated bimetallic plasmonic nanostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 51
DOI: 10.1021/JP4070856
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“Surface photovoltage measurements : a quick assessment of the photocatalytic activity?”.Verbruggen SW, Dirckx JJJ, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Catalysis today 209, 215 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CATTOD.2012.11.010
Abstract: Surface photovoltage (SPV) measurements can contribute to a better understanding of electronic properties of photocatalysts under illumination. Direct linking of SPV data to the actual photocatalytic activity remains troublesome. This work aims to discuss SPV measurements from a photocatalytic point of view. By means of several application-based scenarios we illustrate that the trend between SPV and photocatalysis strongly depends on parameters such as the crystal structure, surface modifications, morphology and humidity. This makes the interpretation far from straightforward.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 4.636
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1016/J.CATTOD.2012.11.010
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“Cost-effectiveness analysis to assess commercial TiO2 photocatalysts for acetaldehyde degradation in air”. Verbruggen SW, Tytgat T, Van Passel S, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Chemicke zvesti 68, 1273 (2014). http://doi.org/10.2478/S11696-014-0557-3
Abstract: In the commercialisation of photocatalytic air purifiers, the performance as well as the cost of the catalytic material plays an important role. Where most comparative studies only regard the photocatalytic activity as a decisive parameter, in this study both activity and cost are taken into account. Using a cost-effectiveness analysis, six different commercially available TiO2-based catalysts are evaluated in terms of their activities in photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde as a model reaction for indoor air purification.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 1.258
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.2478/S11696-014-0557-3
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“High-performance CO2-selective hybrid membranes by exploiting MOF-breathing effects”. Kertik A, Wee LH, Şentosun K, Navarro JAR, Bals S, Martens JA, Vankelecom IFJ, Acs Applied Materials &, Interfaces 12, 2952 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSAMI.9B17820
Abstract: Conventional CO2 separation in the petrochemical industry via cryogenic distillation or amine-based absorber-stripper units is energy-intensive and environmentally unfriendly. Membrane-based gas separation technology, in contrast, has contributed significantly to the development of energy-efficient systems for processes such as natural gas purification. The implementation of commercial polymeric membranes in gas separation processes is restricted by their permeability-selectivity trade-off and by their insufficient thermal and chemical stability. Herein, we present the fabrication of a Matrimid-based membrane loaded with a breathing metal-organic framework (MOF) (NH2-MIL-53(Al)) which is capable of separating binary CO2/CH4 gas mixtures with high selectivities without sacrificing much of its CO2 permeabilities. NH2-MIL-53(Al) crystals were embedded in a polyimide (PI) matrix, and the mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) were treated at elevated temperatures (up to 350 degrees C) in air to trigger PI cross-linking and to create PI-MOF bonds at the interface to effectively seal the grain boundary. Most importantly, the MOF transitions from its narrow-pore form to its large-pore form during this treatment, which allows the PI chains to partly penetrate the pores and cross-link with the amino functions at the pore mouth of the NH2-MIL-53(Al) and stabilizes the open-pore form of NH2-MIL-53(Al). This cross-linked MMM, with MOF pore entrances was made more selective by the anchored PI-chains and achieves outstanding CO2/CH4 selectivities. This approach provides significant advancement toward the design of selective MMMs with enhanced thermal and chemical stabilities which could also be applicable for other potential applications, such as separation of hydrocarbons (olefin/paraffin or isomers), pervaporation, and solvent-resistant nanofiltration.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.5
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.9B17820
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“Towards green ammonia synthesis through plasma-driven nitrogen oxidation and catalytic reduction”. Hollevoet L, Jardali F, Gorbanev Y, Creel J, Bogaerts A, Martens JA, Angewandte Chemie-International Edition (2020). http://doi.org/10.1002/ANIE.202011676
Abstract: Ammonia is an industrial large-volume chemical, with its main application in fertilizer production. It also attracts increasing attention as a green-energy vector. Over the past century, ammonia production has been dominated by the Haber-Bosch process, in which a mixture of nitrogen and hydrogen gas is converted to ammonia at high temperatures and pressures. Haber-Bosch processes with natural gas as the source of hydrogen are responsible for a significant share of the global CO(2)emissions. Processes involving plasma are currently being investigated as an alternative for decentralized ammonia production powered by renewable energy sources. In this work, we present the PNOCRA process (plasma nitrogen oxidation and catalytic reduction to ammonia), combining plasma-assisted nitrogen oxidation and lean NO(x)trap technology, adopted from diesel-engine exhaust gas aftertreatment technology. PNOCRA achieves an energy requirement of 4.6 MJ mol(-1)NH(3), which is more than four times less than the state-of-the-art plasma-enabled ammonia synthesis from N(2)and H(2)with reasonable yield (>1 %).
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 16.6
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1002/ANIE.202011676
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“Spherical core–shell alumina support particles for model platinum catalysts”. Geerts L, Geerts-Claes H, Skorikov A, Vermeersch J, Vanbutsele G, Galvita V, Constales D, Chandran CV, Radhakrishnan S, Seo JW, Breynaert E, Bals S, Sree SP, Martens JA, Nanoscale 13, 4221 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1039/D0NR08456E
Abstract: γ- and δ-alumina are popular catalyst support materials. Using a hydrothermal synthesis method starting from aluminum nitrate and urea in diluted solution, spherical core–shell particles with a uniform particle size of about 1 μm were synthesized. Upon calcination at 1000 °C, the particles adopted a core–shell structure with a γ-alumina core and δ-alumina shell as evidenced by 2D and 3D electron microscopy and<sup>27</sup>Al magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The spherical alumina particles were loaded with Pt nanoparticles with an average size below 1 nm using the strong electrostatic adsorption method. Electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed a homogeneous platinum dispersion over the alumina surface. These platinum loaded alumina spheres were used as a model catalyst for bifunctional catalysis. Physical mixtures of Pt/alumina spheres and spherical zeolite particles are equivalent to catalysts with platinum deposited on the zeolite itself facilitating the investigation of the catalyst components individually. The spherical alumina particles are very convenient supports for obtaining a homogeneous distribution of highly dispersed platinum nanoparticles. Obtaining such a small Pt particle size is challenging on other support materials such as zeolites. The here reported and well-characterized Pt/alumina spheres can be combined with any zeolite and used as a bifunctional model catalyst. This is an interesting strategy for the examination of the acid catalytic function without the interference of the supported platinum metal on the investigated acid material.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.367
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1039/D0NR08456E
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“Energy‐Efficient Small‐Scale Ammonia Synthesis Process with Plasma‐enabled Nitrogen Oxidation and Catalytic Reduction of Adsorbed NOx”. Hollevoet L, Vervloessem E, Gorbanev Y, Nikiforov A, De Geyter N, Bogaerts A, Martens JA, Chemsuschem (2022). http://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.202102526
Abstract: Industrial ammonia production without CO2 emission and with low energy consumption is one of the technological grand challenges of this age. Current Haber-Bosch ammonia mass production processes work with a thermally activated iron catalyst needing high pressure. The need for large volumes of hydrogen gas and the continuous operation mode render electrification of Haber-Bosch plants difficult to achieve. Electrochemical solutions at low pressure and temperature are faced with the problematic inertness of the nitrogen molecule on electrodes. Direct reduction of N2 to ammonia is only possible with very reactive chemicals such as lithium metal, the regeneration of which is energy intensive. Here, the attractiveness of an oxidative route for N2 activation was presented. N2 conversion to NOx in a plasma reactor followed by reduction with H2 on a heterogeneous catalyst at low pressure could be an energy-efficient option for small-scale distributed ammonia production with renewable electricity and without intrinsic CO2 footprint.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 8.4
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202102526
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