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“Co-precipitation with iron hydroxide and X-ray fluorescence analysis of trace metals in water”. Chakravorty R, Van Grieken R, International journal of environmental analytical chemistry 11, 67 (1982). http://doi.org/10.1080/03067318208071563
Abstract: Preconcentration of transition trace ions by coprecipitation on iron-hydroxide has been combined with energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence for environmental water analysis. The optimized preconcentration procedure implies adding 2 mg of iron to a 200 ml water sample, adding dilute NaOH up to pH 9, filtering off on a Nuclepore membrane after a 1 h equilibration time, and analyzing. Quantitative recoveries could then be obtained for Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb, e.g. at the 10 μg/l level in waters of varying salinity while Mn was partially collected. (In fact, for a given problem the iron carrier amount can be adjusted to obtain a satisfactory compromise between high recovery and low detection limit). The precision is 7-8% at the 10 μg/l level, and the detection limits are in the 0.5-1 μg/l range. Various environmental water samples are analysed by way of illustration.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1080/03067318208071563
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“Temperature-dependent phonon spectrum of transition metal dichalcogenides calculated from the spectral energy density: Lattice thermal conductivity as an application”. Mobaraki A, Sevik C, Yapicioglu H, Cakir D, Gulseren O, Physical review B 100, 035402 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.100.035402
Abstract: Predicting the mechanical and thermal properties of quasi-two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalco-genides (TMDs) is an essential task necessary for their implementation in device applications. Although rigorous density-functional-theory-based calculations are able to predict mechanical and electronic properties, mostly they are limited to zero temperature. Classical molecular dynamics facilitates the investigation of temperature-dependent properties, but its performance highly depends on the potential used for defining interactions between the atoms. In this study, we calculated temperature-dependent phonon properties of single-layer TMDs, namely, MoS2, MoSe2, WS2, and WSe2, by utilizing Stillinger-Weber-type potentials with optimized sets of parameters with respect to the first-principles results. The phonon lifetimes and contribution of each phonon mode in thermal conductivities in these monolayer crystals are systematically investigated by means of the spectralenergy-density method based on molecular dynamics simulations. The obtained results from this approach are in good agreement with previously available results from the Green-Kubo method. Moreover, detailed analysis of lattice thermal conductivity, including temperature-dependent mode decomposition through the entire Brillouin zone, shed more light on the thermal properties of these 2D crystals. The LA and TA acoustic branches contribute most to the lattice thermal conductivity, while ZA mode contribution is less because of the quadratic dispersion around the Brillouin zone center, particularly in MoSe2 due to the phonon anharmonicity, evident from the redshift, especially in optical modes, by increasing temperature. For all the considered 2D crystals, the phonon lifetime values are compelled by transition metal atoms, whereas the group velocity spectrum is dictated by chalcogen atoms. Overall, the lattice thermal conductivity is linearly proportional with inverse temperature.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.100.035402
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“Access to preferential loans for poverty reduction and rural development : evidence from Vietnam”. Lan Thanh Nguyen, Anh Pham Hoai Nguyen, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Lebailly P, Journal Of Economic Issues 52, 246 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1080/00213624.2018.1430953
Abstract: Preferential loans play an important role in the process of reducing poverty in developing countries. Considering the data set from the 2010 Vietnam Household Living Standards Survey, we aim to examine the influential factors in probability of households getting access to preferential loans. Additionally, we analyze the determinants of household income in association with the loans by applying a quantile regression model. Our results show that ethnicity-related factors have the largest marginal effect on the access to preferential loans. The results from the quantile regression model demonstrate that the debt factor has a deeper impact on the borrowing group at the lower quantiles of household income.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 0.581
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1080/00213624.2018.1430953
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“Well-organized zeolite nanocrystal aggregates with interconnected hierarchically micro-meso-macropore systems showing enhanced catalytic performance”. Yang X-Y, Tian G, Chen L-H, Li Y, Rooke JC, Wei Y-X, Liu Z-M, Deng Z, Van Tendeloo G, Su B-L, Chemistry: a European journal 17, 14987 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/chem.201101594
Abstract: Preparation and characterization of well-organized zeolitic nanocrystal aggregates with an interconnected hierarchically micromesomacro porous system are described. Amorphous nanoparticles in bimodal aluminosilicates were directly transformed into highly crystalline nanosized zeolites, as well as acting as scaffold template. All pores on three length scales incorporated in one solid body are interconnected with each other. These zeolitic nanocrystal aggregates with hierarchically micromesomacroporous structure were thoroughly characterized. TEM images and 29Si NMR spectra showed that the amorphous phase of the initial material had been completely replaced by nanocrystals to give a micromesomacroporous crystalline zeolitic structure. Catalytic testing demonstrated their superiority due to the highly active sites and the presence of interconnected micromesomacroporosity in the cracking of bulky 1,3,5-triisopropylbenzene (TIPB) compared to traditional zeolite catalysts. This synthesis strategy was extended to prepare various zeolitic nanocrystal aggregates (ZSM-5, Beta, TS-1, etc.) with well-organized hierarchical micromesomacroporous structures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.317
Times cited: 61
DOI: 10.1002/chem.201101594
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“A new program to estimate the parameters of Preston's equation, a general formula for describing the egg shape of birds”. Shi P, Wang L, Quinn BKK, Gielis J, Symmetry 15, 231 (2023). http://doi.org/10.3390/SYM15010231
Abstract: Preston's equation is a general model describing the egg shape of birds. The parameters of Preston's equation are usually estimated after re-expressing it as the Todd-Smart equation and scaling the egg's actual length to two. This method assumes that the straight line through the two points on an egg's profile separated by the maximum distance (i.e., the longest axis of an egg's profile) is the mid-line. It hypothesizes that the photographed egg's profile is perfectly bilaterally symmetrical, which seldom holds true because of photographic errors and placement errors. The existing parameter estimation method for Preston's equation considers an angle of deviation for the longest axis of an egg's profile from the mid-line, which decreases prediction errors to a certain degree. Nevertheless, this method cannot provide an accurate estimate of the coordinates of the egg's center, and it leads to sub-optimal parameter estimation. Thus, it is better to account for the possible asymmetry between the two sides of an egg's profile along its mid-line when fitting egg-shape data. In this paper, we propose a method based on the optimization algorithm (optimPE) to fit egg-shape data and better estimate the parameters of Preston's equation by automatically searching for the optimal mid-line of an egg's profile and testing its validity using profiles of 59 bird eggs spanning a wide range of existing egg shapes. We further compared this method with the existing one based on multiple linear regression (lmPE). This study demonstrated the ability of the optimPE method to estimate numerical values of the parameters of Preston's equation and provide the theoretical egg length (i.e., the distance between two ends of the mid-line of an egg's profile) and the egg's maximum breadth. This provides a valuable approach for comparing egg shapes among conspecifics or across different species, or even different classes (e.g., birds and reptiles), in future investigations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 2.7
DOI: 10.3390/SYM15010231
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“Investigating the technical and economic potential of solid-state fungal pretreatment at nonsterile conditions for sugar production from poplar wood”. Wittner N, Vasilakou K, Broos W, Vlaeminck SE, Nimmegeers P, Cornet I, Industrial and engineering chemistry research , 1 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.IECR.3C02316
Abstract: Pretreatment is crucial for the conversion of lignocellulose to biofuels. Unlike conventional chemical/physicochemical methods, fungal pretreatment uses white-rot fungi and mild reaction conditions. However, challenges, including substrate sterilization, long duration, and low sugar yields associated with this method, contribute to lower techno-economic performance, an aspect that has rarely been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of fungal pretreatment of nonsterilized poplar wood. Various factors, including inoculum types, fermentation supplements, and cultivation methods, were investigated to optimize the process. A techno-economic assessment of the optimized processes was performed at a full biorefinery scale. The scenario using nonsterilized wood as a substrate, precolonized wood as an inoculum, and a 4 week pretreatment showed a 14.5% reduction in sugar production costs (€2.15/kg) compared to using sterilized wood. Although the evaluation of nonsterilized wood pretreatment showed promising cost reductions, fungal pretreatment remained more expensive than conventional methods due to the significant capital investment required.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Impact Factor: 4.2
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.IECR.3C02316
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“Degradation process of lead chromate in paintings by Vincent van Gogh studied by means of spectromicroscopic methods : 4 : artificial aging of model samples of co-precipitates of lead chromate and lead sulfate”. Monico L, Janssens K, Miliani C, van der Snickt G, Brunetti BG, Guidi MC, Radepont M, Cotte M, Analytical chemistry 85, 860 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1021/AC3021592
Abstract: Previous investigations about the darkening of chrome yellow pigments revealed that this form of alteration is attributable to a reduction of the original Cr(VI) to Cr(III), and that the presence of sulfur-containing compounds, most often sulfates, plays a key role during this process. We recently demonstrated that different crystal forms of chrome yellow pigments (PbCrO4 and PbCr1xSxO4) are present in paintings by Vincent van Gogh. In the present work, we show how both the chemical composition and the crystalline structure of lead chromate-based pigments influence their stability. For this purpose, oil model samples made with in-house synthesized powders of PbCrO4 and PbCr1xSxO4 were artificially aged and characterized. We observed a profound darkening only for those paint models made with PbCr1xSxO4, rich in SO42 (x ≥ 0.4), and orthorhombic phases (>30 wt %). Cr and S K-edge micro X-ray absorption near edge structure investigations revealed in an unequivocal manner the formation of up to about 60% of Cr(III)-species in the outer layer of the most altered samples; conversely, independent of the paint models chemical composition, no change in the S-oxidation state was observed. Analyses employing UVvisible diffuse reflectance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were performed on unaged and aged model samples in order to obtain additional information on the physicochemical changes induced by the aging treatment.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 6.32
Times cited: 49
DOI: 10.1021/AC3021592
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“Ion current rectification, limiting and overlimiting conductances in nanopores”. van Oeffelen L, Van Roy W, Idrissi H, Charlier D, Lagae L, Borghs G, PLoS ONE 10, e0124171 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0124171
Abstract: Previous reports on Poisson-Nernst-Planck (PNP) simulations of solid-state nanopores have focused on steady state behaviour under simplified boundary conditions. These are Neumann boundary conditions for the voltage at the pore walls, and in some cases also Donnan equilibrium boundary conditions for concentrations and voltages at both entrances of the nanopore. In this paper, we report time-dependent and steady state PNP simulations under less restrictive boundary conditions, including Neumann boundary conditions applied throughout the membrane relatively far away from the nanopore. We simulated ion currents through cylindrical and conical nanopores with several surface charge configurations, studying the spatial and temporal dependence of the currents contributed by each ion species. This revealed that, due to slow co-diffusion of oppositely charged ions, steady state is generally not reached in simulations or in practice. Furthermore, it is shown that ion concentration polarization is responsible for the observed limiting conductances and ion current rectification in nanopores with asymmetric surface charges or shapes. Hence, after more than a decade of collective research attempting to understand the nature of ion current rectification in solid-state nanopores, a relatively intuitive model is retrieved. Moreover, we measured and simulated current-voltage characteristics of rectifying silicon nitride nanopores presenting overlimiting conductances. The similarity between measurement and simulation shows that overlimiting conductances can result from the increased conductance of the electric double-layer at the membrane surface at the depletion side due to voltage-induced polarization charges.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.806
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124171
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“Nature of the Positron State in CdSe Quantum Dots”. Shi W, Callewaert V, Barbiellini B, Saniz R, Butterling M, Egger W, Dickmann M, Hugenschmidt C, Shakeri B, Meulenberg R W, Brück E, Partoens B, Bansil A, Eijt SW H, Physical review letters 121, 057401 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.121.057401
Abstract: Previous studies have shown that positron-annihilation spectroscopy is a highly sensitive probe of the electronic structure and surface composition of ligand-capped semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) embedded in thin films. The nature of the associated positron state, however, whether the positron is confined inside the QDs or localized at their surfaces, has so far remained unresolved. Our positron-annihilation lifetime spectroscopy studies of CdSe QDs reveal the presence of a strong lifetime component in the narrow range of 358–371 ps, indicating abundant trapping and annihilation of positrons at the surfaces of the QDs. Furthermore, our ab initio calculations of the positron wave function and lifetime employing a recent formulation of the weighted density approximation demonstrate the presence of a positron surface state and predict positron lifetimes close to experimental values. Our study thus resolves the long-standing question regarding the nature of the positron state in semiconductor QDs and opens the way to extract quantitative information on surface composition and ligand-surface interactions of colloidal semiconductor QDs through highly sensitive positron-annihilation techniques.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 8.462
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.121.057401
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“Statistical consequences of applying a PCA noise filter on EELS spectrum images”. Lichtert S, Verbeeck J, Ultramicroscopy 125, 35 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2012.10.001
Abstract: Principal component analysis (PCA) noise filtering is a popular method to remove noise from experimental electron energy loss (EELS) spectrum images. Here, we investigate the statistical behaviour of this method by applying it on a simulated data set with realistic noise levels. This phantom data set provides access to the true values contained in the data set as well as to many different realizations of the noise. Using least squares fitting and parameter estimation theory, we demonstrate that even though the precision on the estimated parameters can be better as the CramérRao lower bound, a significant bias is introduced which can alter the conclusions drawn from experimental data sets. The origin of this bias is in the incorrect retrieval of the principal loadings for noisy data. Using an expression for the bias and precision of the singular values from literature, we present an evaluation criterion for these singular values based on the noise level and the amount of information present in the data set. This criterion can help to judge when to avoid PCA noise filtering in practical situations. Further we show that constructing elemental maps of PCA noise filtered data using the background subtraction method, does not guarantee an increase in the signal to noise ratio due to correlation of the spectral data as a result of the filtering process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 54
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2012.10.001
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“Effect of binder content in Cu-In-Se precursor ink on the physical and electrical properties of printed CuInSe2 solar cells”. Buffière M, Zaghi AE, Lenaers N, Batuk M, Khelifi S, Drijkoningen J, Hamon J, Stesmans A, Kepa J, Afanas’ev VV, Hadermann J, D’Haen J, Manca J, Vleugels J, Meuris M, Poortmans J;, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 118, 27201 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/jp507209h
Abstract: Printed chalcopyrite thin films have attracted considerable attention in recent years due to their potential in the high-throughput production of photovoltaic devices. To improve the homogeneity of printed CuInSe2 (CISe) layers, chemical additives such as binder can be added to the precursor ink. In this contribution, we investigate the influence of the dicyandiamide (DCDA) content, used as a binder in the precursor ink, on the physical and electrical properties of printed CISe solar cells. It is shown that the use of the binder leads to a dense absorber, composed of large CISe grains close to the surface, while the bulk of the layer consists of CISe crystallites embedded in a CuxS particle based matrix, resulting from the limited sintering of the precursor in this region. The expected additional carbon contamination of the CISe layer due to the addition of the binder appears to be limited, and the optical properties of the CISe layer are similar to the reference sample without additive. The electrical characterization of the corresponding CISe/CdS solar cells shows a degradation of the efficiency of the devices, due to a modification in the predominant recombination mechanisms and a limitation of the space charge region width when using the binder; both effects could be explained by the inhomogeneity of the bulk of the CISe absorber and high defect density at the CISe/CuxS-based matrix interface.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1021/jp507209h
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“Integrated X-ray fluorescence and diffuse visible-to-near-infrared reflectance scanner for standoff elemental and molecular spectroscopic imaging of paints and works on paper”. Delaney JK, Conover DM, Dooley KA, Glinsman L, Janssens K, Loew M, Heritage science 6, 31 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1186/S40494-018-0197-Y
Abstract: Prior studies have shown the improved ability to identify artists' pigments by combining results from X-ray fluorescence (XRF), which provides elemental information, with reflectance spectroscopy in the visible to near infrared (400-1000 nm) that provides information on electronic transitions. Extending the spectral range of reflectance spectroscopy into the UV, 350-400 nm, allows identification of several white pigments since their electronic transitions occur in this region (e.g., zinc white and rutile and anatase forms of titanium white). Extending the range further into the infrared, out to 2500 nm, provides information on vibrational transitions of various functional groups, such as hydroxyl, carbonate, and methyl groups. This allows better identification of mineral-based pigments and some paint binders. The combination of elemental information with electronic and vibrational transitions provides a more robust method to identify artists' materials in situ. The collection of both sets of spectral information across works of art, such as paintings and works on paper, allows generating a more complete map of artists' materials. Here, we describe a 2-D scanner that simultaneously collects XRF spectra and reflectance spectra from 350 to 2500 nm across the surfaces of works of art. The scanner consists of a stationary, single pixel XRF spectrometer and fiber optic reflectance spectrometer along with a 2-D position-controlled easel that moves the artwork in front of the two detection systems. The dual-mode scanner has been tested on a variety of works of art from illuminated manuscripts (0.1 x 0.1 m(2)) to paintings as large as 1.7 x 1.9 m(2). The scanner is described and two sets of results are presented. The first is the XRF scanning of a large warped panel painting by Andrea del Sarto titled Charity. The second is a combined XRF and reflectance scan of Georges Seurat's painting titled Haymakers at Montfermeil. The XRF was collected at 1 mm spatial sampling and the reflectance spectral data at 3 mm. Combining the results from the data sets was found to enhance the identification of pigments as well as yield distribution maps, in spite of the relatively low reflectance spatial sampling. The elemental and reflectance maps allowed the identification and mapping of lead white, cobalt blue, viridian, ochres, and likely chrome yellow. The maps also provide information on the mixing of pigments. While the reflectance image cube has 10-20x larger spatial samples than desired, the elimination of having to use two hyperspectral cameras to cover the range from 400 to 2500 nm makes for a low cost dual modality scanner.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1186/S40494-018-0197-Y
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“Platinum and palladium on carbon nanotubes : experimental and theoretical studies”. Adjizian JJ, De Marco P, Suarez-Martinez I, El Mel AA, Snyders R, Gengler RYN, Rudolf P, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Bittencourt C, Ewels CP;, Chemical physics letters 571, 44 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cplett.2013.03.079
Abstract: Pristine and oxygen plasma functionalised carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were studied after the evaporation of Pt and Pd atoms. High resolution transmission electron microscopy shows the formation of metal nanoparticles at the CNT surface. Oxygen functional groups grafted by the plasma functionalization act as nucleation sites for metal nanoparticles. Analysis of the C1s core level spectra reveals that there is no covalent bonding between the Pt or Pd atoms and the CNT surface. Unlike other transition metals such as titanium and copper, neither Pd nor Pt show strong oxygen interaction or surface oxygen scavenging behaviour.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.815
Times cited: 23
DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2013.03.079
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“Iron minerals within specific microfossil morphospecies of the 1.88 Ga Gunflint Formation”. Lepot K, Addad A, Knoll AH, Wang J, Troadec D, Béché, A, Javaux EJ, Nature communications 8, 14890 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1038/ncomms14890
Abstract: Problematic microfossils dominate the palaeontological record between the Great Oxidation Event 2.4 billion years ago (Ga) and the last Palaeoproterozoic iron formations, deposited 500–600 million years later. These fossils are often associated with iron-rich sedimentary rocks, but their affinities, metabolism, and, hence, their contributions to Earth surface oxidation and Fe deposition remain unknown. Here we show that specific microfossil populations of the 1.88 Ga Gunflint Iron Formation contain Fe-silicate and Fe-carbonate nanocrystal concentrations in cell interiors. Fe minerals are absent in/on all organically preserved cell walls. These features are consistent with in vivo intracellular Fe biomineralization, with subsequent in situ recrystallization, but contrast with known patterns of post-mortem Fe mineralization. The Gunflint populations that display relatively large cells (thick-walled spheres, filament-forming rods) and intra-microfossil Fe minerals are consistent with oxygenic photosynthesizers but not with other Fe-mineralizing microorganisms studied so far. Fe biomineralization may have protected oxygenic photosynthesizers against Fe2+ toxicity during the Palaeoproterozoic.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.124
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1038/ncomms14890
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“Azimuthal and radial flow patterns of 1g-Geldart B-type particles in a gas-solid vortex reactor”. Gonzalez-Quiroga A, Kulkarni SR, Vandewalle L, Perreault P, Goel C, Heynderickx GJ, van Geem KM, Marin GB, Powder technology 354, 410 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.POWTEC.2019.06.015
Abstract: Processes requiring intensive interfacial momentum, mass and heat exchange between gases and particulate solids can be greatly enhanced by operating in a centrifugal field. This is realized in the Gas-Solid Vortex Reactor (GSVR) with centrifugal accelerations up to two orders of magnitude higher than the Earth's gravitational acceleration. Here, the flow patterns of two 1g-Geldart B-type particles are experimentally assessed, over the gas inlet velocity range 82–126 m s−1, in an 80 mm diameter and 15 mm height GSVR. The particles are monosized aluminum spheres of 0.5 mm diameter, and walnut shell in the sieve fraction 0.50–0.56 mm and aspect ratio 1.3 ± 0.2. Two dimensional Particle Image Velocimetry combined with Digital Image Analysis and pressure measurements revealed that periodic fluctuations in solids azimuthal and radial velocity between gas inlet slots are strongly related to the average solids azimuthal velocity and bed uniformity. Aluminum particles feature steeper changes in azimuthal velocity and more attenuated changes in radial velocity than walnut shell particles. Within the assessed gas inlet velocity range the solids bed of aluminum exhibits average azimuthal velocities and bed voidages 40–50% and ≈10% lower than those of walnut shell. The aerodynamic response time of the particles, i.e. ρsdp2/18μg, emerged as an important parameter to assess the influence of the carrier gas jet on the radial deflection of the particles and the interaction solids bed-outer wall. Too low aerodynamic response time relates to nonuniformity in bed voidage due to solids radial velocity fluctuations. Excessive aerodynamic response time indicates low solids azimuthal velocities due to solids bed-outer wall friction.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.POWTEC.2019.06.015
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“Organic farming and small-scale farmers : main opportunities and challenges”. Jouzi Z, Azadi H, Taheri F, Zarafshani K, Gebrehiwot K, Van Passel S, Lebailly P, Ecological Economics 132, 144 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2016.10.016
Abstract: Producing enough food to meet the needs of a growing population has always been the greatest concern of food policy-makers around the world. Given the increasing attention to organic farming (OF), we conducted this study to investigate the main opportunities and challenges of the food production system of small-scale farmers in developing countries with an emphasis on their livelihoods. The study showed that the most significant advantages of OF are environmental protection and a higher resilience to environmental changes, increasing farmers' income and reducing external input cost, enhancing social capacity and increasing employment opportunities. A s well as enhancing food security primarily by increasing the food purchasing power of local people. However, the main challenges of this food production system include lower yields in comparison to conventional systems, difficulties with soil nutrient management, certification and market barriers, and the educational and research needs of small-holders. The paper concludes that even though OF might present some significant challenges to small-scale farmers, it could/should still be considered as a part of the solution and means of improving their livelihoods.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.965
Times cited: 39
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2016.10.016
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“Safe use of metal-contaminated agricultural land by cultivation of energy maize (Zea mays)”. Van Slycken S, Witters N, Meers E, Peene A, Michels E, Adriaensen K, Ruttens A, Vangronsveld J, Du Laing G, Wierinck I, Van Dael M, Van Passel S, Tack FMG, Environmental Pollution 178, 375 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2013.03.032
Abstract: Production of food crops on trace element-contaminated agricultural lands in the Campine region (Belgium) can be problematic as legal threshold values for safe use of these crops can be exceeded. Conventional sanitation of vast areas is too expensive and alternatives need to be investigated. Zea mays on a trace element-contaminated soil in the region showed an average yield of 53 ± 10 Mg fresh or 20 ± 3 Mg dry biomass ha−1. Whole plant Cd concentrations complied with legal threshold values for animal feed. Moreover, threshold values for use in anaerobic digestion were met. Biogas production potential did not differ between maize grown on contaminated and non-contaminated soils. Results suggested favorable perspectives for farmers to generate non-food crops profitably, although effective soil cleaning would be very slow. This demonstrates that a valuable and sustainable alternative use can be generated for moderately contaminated soils on which conventional agriculture is impaired.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics
Impact Factor: 5.099
Times cited: 30
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVPOL.2013.03.032
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“Identification of substitutional nitrogen and surface paramagnetic centers in nanodiamond of dynamic synthesis by electron paramagnetic resonance”. Orlinskii SB, Bogomolov RS, Kiyamova AM, Yavkin BV, Mamin GM, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Shiryaev AA, Vlasov II, Shenderova O, Nanoscience and nanotechnology letters 3, 63 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1166/nnl.2011.1121
Abstract: Production of nanodiamond particles containing substitutional nitrogen is important for a wide variety of advanced applications. In the current work nanodiamond particles synthesized from a mixture of graphite and hexogen were analyzed to determine the presence of substitutional nitrogen using pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Nitrogen paramagnetic centers in the amount of 1.2 ppm have been identified. The spin relaxation characteristics for both nitrogen and surface defects are also reported. A new approach for efficient depletion of the strong non-nitrogen EPR signal in nanodiamond material by immersing nanodiamond particles into ice matrix is suggested. This approach allows an essential decrease of the spin relaxation time of the dominant non-nitrogen defects, while preserving the substitutional nitrogen spin relaxation time.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.889
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1166/nnl.2011.1121
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“A systematic comparison of commercially produced struvite : quantities, qualities and soil-maize phosphorus availability”. Muys M, Phukan R, Brader G, Samad A, Moretti M, Haiden B, Pluchon S, Roest K, Vlaeminck SE, Spiller M, Science Of The Total Environment 756, 143726 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.143726
Abstract: Production of struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) from waste streams is increasingly implemented to recover phosphorus (P), which is listed as a critical raw material in the European Union (EU). To facilitate EU-wide trade of P-containing secondary raw materials such as struvite, the EU issued a revised fertilizer regulation in 2019. A comprehensive overview of the supply of struvite and its quality is presently missing. This study aimed: i) to determine the current EU struvite production volumes, ii) to evaluate all legislated physicochemical characteristics and pathogen content of European struvite against newly set regulatory limits, and iii) to compare not-regulated struvite characteristics. It is estimated that in 2020, between 990 and 1250 ton P are recovered as struvite in the EU. Struvite from 24 European production plants, accounting for 30% of the 80 struvite installations worldwide was sampled. Three samples failed the physicochemical legal limits; one had a P content of <7% and three exceeded the organic carbon content of 3% dry weight (DW). Mineralogical analysis revealed that six samples had a struvite content of 80–90% DW, and 13 samples a content of >90% DW. All samples showed a heavy metal content below the legal limits. Microbiological analyses indicated that struvite may exceed certain legal limits. Differences in morphology and particle size distribution were observed for struvite sourced from digestate (rod shaped; transparent; 82 mass% < 1 mm), dewatering liquor (spherical; opaque; 65 mass% 1–2 mm) and effluent from upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor processing potato wastewater (spherical; opaque; 51 mass% < 1 mm and 34 mass% > 2 mm). A uniform soil-plant P-availability pattern of 3.5–6.5 mg P/L soil/d over a 28 days sampling period was observed. No differences for plant biomass yield were observed. In conclusion, the results highlight the suitability of most struvite to enter the EU fertilizer market.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.143726
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“Drought risk assessment: Towards drought early warning system and sustainable environment in western Iran”. Sharafi L, Zarafshani K, Keshavarz M, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Ecological Indicators 114, 106276 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2020.106276
Abstract: Prolonged drought is considered as a creeping natural hazard, which has created a financial burden and unsustainable environment in Iran. Moreover, the effect of drought phenomenon in rural areas is more extensive, causing significant challenges to the rural economy in general and agricultural production in particular. A common strategy to manage drought is based on crisis management (ex-ante). However, for effective drought management, risk management seems to be more in line with drought early warning systems. This quantitative study used risk assessment, which is the function of two elements such as hazard (SPI and SDI indices) and vulnerability (exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity). This study aims to build the foundations for drought early warning systems in limited resource areas such as Kermanshah Township in the northwestern part of Iran. The population of this study comprised of wheat farmers in which 293 farmers were selected using multistage cluster sampling method. In the next step, the drought risk map for Kermanshah Township was developed, which revealed that the majority of villages are at intense environmental risk. The result of this study has implications for drought management practitioners. For example, the results can aid policymakers in the design of an early warning system in order to reduce risk and thus empower farmers toward resilient farming.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Drought; Early warning system; Risk management; Vulnerability; Environmental risk; Resilient farming; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2020.106276
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“Apical application of nanosecond-pulsed dielectric barrier discharge plasma causes the basolateral release of adenosine triphosphate as a damage-associated molecular pattern from polarized HaCaT cells”. Truong B, Siegert K, Lin A, Miller V, Krebs FC, Plasma medicine 7, 117 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1615/PLASMAMED.2017019120
Abstract: Promising biomedical uses for nonthermal plasma (NTP) in the fields of regenerative medicine, cancer therapy, and vaccine delivery involve the noninvasive application of uniform nonequilibrium plasma (including dielectric barrier discharge plasma) to living skin. Whereas most investigations have focused on achieving desired therapeutic outcomes, fewer studies have examined the mechanisms and pathways by which epithelial cells respond to NTP exposure. Using a transwell apical-basolateral-chambered system to culture the human keratinocyte HaCaT cell line, in vitro experiments were performed to demonstrate the effects of nanosecond-pulsed dielectric barrier discharge (nsDBD) plasma on polarized epithelial cell viability, monolayer permeability, intracellular oxidative stress, and the release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Application of nsDBD plasma at 60 Hz or below had minimal or no effect on HaCaT monolayer viability or permeability. nsDBD plasma exposure did, however, result in frequency-dependent reductions in intracellular glutathione (indicating direct induction of oxidative stress by nsDBD plasma) and increased extracellular ATP concentrations in the ba-solateral (subepithelial) media, which are indicators of cellular stress and an NTP-induced inflammatory response. These studies provide new insights into nsDBD plasma-induced inflammation and local innate immune responses initiated by polarized epithelial tissues.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
DOI: 10.1615/PLASMAMED.2017019120
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“InGaAs tunnel diodes for the calibration of semi-classical and quantum mechanical band-to-band tunneling models”. Smets Q, Verreck D, Verhulst AS, Rooyackers R, Merckling C, Van De Put M, Simoen E, Vandervorst W, Collaert N, Thean VY, Sorée B, Groeseneken G, Heyns MM;, Journal of applied physics 115, 184503 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4875535
Abstract: Promising predictions are made for III-V tunnel-field-effect transistor (FET), but there is still uncertainty on the parameters used in the band-to-band tunneling models. Therefore, two simulators are calibrated in this paper; the first one uses a semi-classical tunneling model based on Kane's formalism, and the second one is a quantum mechanical simulator implemented with an envelope function formalism. The calibration is done for In0.53Ga0.47As using several p+/intrinsic/n+ diodes with different intrinsic region thicknesses. The dopant profile is determined by SIMS and capacitance-voltage measurements. Error bars are used based on statistical and systematic uncertainties in the measurement techniques. The obtained parameters are in close agreement with theoretically predicted values and validate the semi-classical and quantum mechanical models. Finally, the models are applied to predict the input characteristics of In0.53Ga0.47As n- and p-lineTFET, with the n-lineTFET showing competitive performance compared to MOSFET.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 34
DOI: 10.1063/1.4875535
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“Valley filtering using electrostatic potentials in bilayer graphene”. da Costa DR, Chaves A, Sena SHR, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 92, 045417 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.92.045417
Abstract: Propagation of an electron wave packet through a quantum point contact (QPC) defined by electrostatic gates in bilayer graphene is investigated. The gates provide a bias between the layers, in order to produce an energy gap. If the gates on both sides of the contact produce the same bias, steps in the electron transmission probability are observed, as in the usual QPC. However, if the bias is inverted on one of the sides of the QPC, only electrons belonging to one of the Dirac valleys are allowed to pass, which provides a very efficient valley filtering.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 47
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.92.045417
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“Geophysical applicability of aerosol size distribution measurements using cascade impactors and proton-induced X-ray-emission”. Van Grieken RE, Johansson TB, Akselsson KR, Winchester JW, Nelson JW, Chapman KR, Atmospheric environment : an international journal 10, 571 (1976). http://doi.org/10.1016/0004-6981(76)90040-8
Abstract: Proton Induced X-ray Emission, (PIXE), is capable of high precision analysis for trace element components of aerosol particle size fractions sampled by cascade impactor. A statistical evaluation of data quality has been carried out in order to distinguish between analytical uncertainties in the PIXE procedure, errors caused by cascade impactor performance and by other factors in the sampling procedure, and geophysical causes of differences in composition and particle size distributions of the elements in aerosols. Replicate analyses and simultaneous samplings taken in north Florida and St. Louis have been used for the data evaluation. In addition to the analytical error the sampling procedure contributes an error of ~ 10% to be added quadratically. The resulting precision is sufficient to evaluate the data in geophysical terms. This is illustrated by means of sample sets taken simultaneously in an urban, forest and coastal environment of the same region.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0004-6981(76)90040-8
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“Chemical and Structural Configuration of Pt Doped Metal Oxide Thin Films Prepared by Atomic Layer Deposition”. Ramachandran RK, Filez M, Solano E, Poelman H, Minjauw MM, Van Daele M, Feng J-Y, La Porta A, Altantzis T, Fonda E, Coati A, Garreau Y, Bals S, Marin GB, Detavernier C, Dendooven J, Chemistry of materials 31, 9673 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.chemmater.9b03066
Abstract: Pt doped semiconducting metal oxides and Pt metal clusters embedded in an oxide matrix are of interest for applications such as catalysis and gas sensing, energy storage and memory devices. Accurate tuning of the dopant level is crucial for adjusting the properties of these materials. Here, a novel atomic layer deposition (ALD) based method for doping Pt into In2O3 in specific, and metals in metal oxides in general, is demonstrated. This approach combines alternating exposures of Pt and In2O3 ALD processes in a single ‘supercycle’, followed by supercycle repetition leading to multilayered nanocomposites. The atomic level control of ALD and its conformal nature make the method suitable for accurate dopant control even on high surface area supports. Oxidation state, local structural environment and crystalline phase of the embedded Pt dopants were obtained by means of X-ray characterization methods and high angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). In addition, this approach allows characterization of the nucleation stages of metal ALD processes, by stacking those states multiple times in an oxide matrix. Regardless of experimental conditions, a few Pt ALD cycles leads to the formation of oxidized Pt species due to their highly dispersed nature, as proven by X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS) and highresolution scanning transmission electron microscopy, combined with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (HR-STEM/EDXS) show that Pt is evenly distributed in the In2O3 metal oxide matrix without the formation of clusters. For a larger number of Pt ALD
cycles, typ. > 10, the oxidation state gradually evolves towards fully metallic, and metallic Pt clusters are obtained within the In2O3 metal oxide matrix. This work reveals how tuning of the ALD supercycle approach for Pt doping allows controlled engineering of the Pt compositional and structural configuration within a metal oxide matrix.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Impact Factor: 9.466
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemmater.9b03066
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“Three-Dimensional Quantification of the Facet Evolution of Pt Nanoparticles in a Variable Gaseous Environment”. Altantzis T, Lobato I, De Backer A, Béché, A, Zhang Y, Basak S, Porcu M, Xu Q, Sánchez-Iglesias A, Liz-Marzán LM, Van Tendeloo G, Van Aert S, Bals S, Nano letters 19, 477 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.nanolett.8b04303
Abstract: Pt nanoparticles play an essential role in a wide variety of catalytic reactions. The activity of the particles strongly depends on their three-dimensional (3D) structure and exposed facets, as well as on the reactive environment. High-resolution electron microscopy has often been used to characterize nanoparticle catalysts but unfortunately most observations so far have been either performed in vacuum and/or using conventional (2D) in situ microscopy. The latter however does not provide direct 3D morphological information. We have implemented a quantitative methodology to measure variations of the 3D atomic structure of nanoparticles under the flow of a selected gas. We were thereby able to quantify refaceting of Pt nanoparticles with atomic resolution during various oxidation−reduction cycles. In a H2 environment, a more faceted surface morphology of the particles was observed with {100} and {111} planes being dominant. On the other hand, in O2 the percentage of {100} and {111} facets decreased and a significant increase of higher order facets was found, resulting in a more rounded morphology. This methodology opens up new opportunities toward in situ characterization of catalytic nanoparticles because for the first time it enables one to directly measure 3D morphology variations at the atomic scale in a specific gaseous reaction environment.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.712
Times cited: 82
DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.8b04303
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“Towards biolubricant compatible vegetable oils by pore mouth hydrogenation with shape-selective Pt/ZSM-5 catalysts”. Van Aelst J, Philippaerts A, Bartholomeeusen E, Fayad E, Thibault-Starzyk F, Lu J, Schryvers D, Ooms R, Verboekend D, Jacobs P, Sels B, Catalysis science &, technology 6, 2820 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/C6CY00498A
Abstract: Pt/ZSM-5 catalysts with various crystal sizes were prepared via competitive ion-exchange, followed by a slow activation procedure. Even when using very large ZSM-5 crystals, highly dispersed Pt nano-clusters were contained within the zeolite crystal's voids, as ascertained by 2D pressure-jump IR spectroscopy of adsorbed CO and focussed ion-beam transmission electron microscopy. The shape-selective properties of the Pt/ZSM-5 catalysts were evaluated in the partial hydrogenation of soybean oil. Unique hydrogenation selectivities were observed, as the fatty acids located at the central position of the triacylglycerol (TAG) molecules were preferentially hydrogenated. The resulting oil has therefore high levels of intermediately melting TAGs, which are compatible with biolubricants due to their improved oxidative stability and still appropriate low-temperature fluidity. The TAG distribution in the partially hydrogenated soybean oil samples was independent from the zeolite crystal size, while the hydrogenation activity linearly increases with the crystal's external surface area. This trend was confirmed with a Pt loaded mesoporous ZSM-5 zeolite, obtained via a mild alkaline treatment. These observations imply and confirm a genuine pore mouth catalysis mechanism, in which only one fatty acid chain of the TAG is able to enter the micropores of ZSM-5, where the double bonds are hydrogenated by the crystal encapsulated Pt-clusters.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.773
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1039/C6CY00498A
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“On central focusing for contrast optimization in direct electron ptychography of thick samples”. Gao C, Hofer C, Pennycook TJ, Ultramicroscopy 256, 113879 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2023.113879
Abstract: Ptychography provides high dose efficiency images that can reveal light elements next to heavy atoms. However, despite ptychography having an otherwise single signed contrast transfer function, contrast reversals can occur when the projected potential becomes strong for both direct and iterative inversion ptychography methods. It has recently been shown that these reversals can often be counteracted in direct ptychography methods by adapting the focus. Here we provide an explanation of why the best contrast is often found with the probe focused to the middle of the sample. The phase contribution due to defocus at each sample slice above and below the central plane in this configuration effectively cancels out, which can prevent contrast reversals when dynamical scattering effects are not overly strong. In addition we show that the convergence angle can be an important consideration for removal of contrast reversals in relatively thin samples.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.2
DOI: 10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2023.113879
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“Overcoming contrast reversals in focused probe ptychography of thick materials: An optimal pipeline for efficiently determining local atomic structure in materials science”. Gao C, Hofer C, Jannis D, Béché, A, Verbeeck J, Pennycook TJ, Applied physics letters 121, 081906 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0101895
Abstract: Ptychography provides highly efficient imaging in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), but questions have remained over its applicability to strongly scattering samples such as those most commonly seen in materials science. Although contrast reversals can appear in ptychographic phase images as the projected potentials of the sample increase, we show here how these can be easily overcome by a small amount of defocus. The amount of defocus is small enough that it not only can exist naturally when focusing using the annular dark field (ADF) signal but can also be adjusted post acquisition. The ptychographic images of strongly scattering materials are clearer at finite doses than other STEM techniques and can better reveal light atomic columns within heavy lattices. In addition, data for ptychography can now be collected simultaneously with the fastest of ADF scans. This combination of sensitivity and interpretability presents an ideal workflow for materials science.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1063/5.0101895
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“Enhanced 77K vortex-pinning in YBa2Cu3O7−x films with Ba2YTaO6 and mixed Ba2YTaO6 + Ba2YNbO6 nano-columnar inclusions with irreversibility field to 11T”. Rizzo F, Augieri A, Angrisani Armenio A, Galluzzi V, Mancini A, Pinto V, Rufoloni A, Vannozzi A, Bianchetti M, Kursumovic A, MacManus-Driscoll JL, Meledin A, Van Tendeloo G, Celentano G, APL materials 4, 061101 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4953436
Abstract: Pulsed laser deposited thin YBa2Cu3O7−x (YBCO) films with pinning additions of 5at.% Ba2YTaO6 (BYTO) were compared to films with 2.5at.% Ba2YTaO6 + 2.5at.% Ba2YNbO6 (BYNTO) additions. Excellent magnetic flux-pinning at 77 K was obtained with remarkably high irreversibility fields greater than 10T (YBCO-BYTO) and 11T (YBCO-BYNTO), representing the highest ever achieved values in YBCO films.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.335
Times cited: 19
DOI: 10.1063/1.4953436
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