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“Plasmonic Near-Field Localization of Silver Core–Shell Nanoparticle Assemblies via Wet Chemistry Nanogap Engineering”. Asapu R, Ciocarlan R-G, Claes N, Blommaerts N, Minjauw M, Ahmad T, Dendooven J, Cool P, Bals S, Denys S, Detavernier C, Lenaerts S, Verbruggen SW, ACS applied materials and interfaces 9, 41577 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.7b13965
Abstract: Silver nanoparticles are widely used in the field of plasmonics because of their unique optical properties. The wavelength-dependent surface plasmon resonance gives rise to a strongly enhanced electromagnetic field, especially at so-called hot spots located in the nanogap in-between metal nanoparticle assemblies. Therefore, the interparticle distance is a decisive factor in plasmonic applications, such as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). In this study, the aim is to engineer this interparticle distance for silver nanospheres using a convenient wet-chemical approach and to predict and quantify the corresponding enhancement factor using both theoretical and experimental tools. This was done by building a tunable ultrathin polymer shell around the nanoparticles using the layer-by-layer method, in which the polymer shell acts as the separating interparticle spacer layer. Comparison of different theoretical approaches and corroborating the results with SERS analytical experiments using silver and silver−polymer core−shell nanoparticle clusters as SERS substrates was also done. Herewith, an approach is provided to estimate the extent of plasmonic near-field enhancement both theoretically as well as experimentally.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 7.504
Times cited: 29
DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b13965
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“High thermoelectric figure of merit in p-type Mg₃Si₂Te₆: role of multi-valley bands and high anharmonicity”. Pandey T, Peeters FM, Milošević, MV, Journal of materials chemistry C : materials for optical and electronic devices 11, 11185 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1039/D3TC02169F
Abstract: Silicon-based materials are attractive for thermoelectric applications due to their thermal stability, chemical inertness, and natural abundance of silicon. Here, using a combination of first-principles and Boltzmann transport calculations we report the thermoelectric properties of the recently synthesized compound Mg3Si2Te6. Our analysis reveals that Mg3Si2Te6 is a direct bandgap semiconductor with a bandgap of 1.6 eV. The combination of heavy and light valence bands, along with a high valley degeneracy, results in a large power factor under p-type doping. We also find that Mg is weakly bonded both within and between the layers, leading to low phonon group velocities. The vibrations of the Mg atoms are localized and make a significant contribution to phonon-phonon scattering. This high anharmonicity, coupled with low phonon group velocity, results in a low lattice thermal conductivity of & kappa;(l) = 0.5 W m(-1) K-1 at room temperature, along the cross-plane direction. Combining excellent electronic transport properties and low & kappa;(l), p-type Mg3Si2Te6 achieves figure-of-merit (zT) values greater than 1 at temperatures above 600 K. Specifically, a zT of 2.0 is found at 900 K along the cross-plane direction. Our findings highlight the importance of structural complexity and chemical bonding in electronic and phonon transport, providing guiding insights for further design of Si-based thermoelectrics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 6.4
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1039/D3TC02169F
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“Classification and control of the origin of photoluminescence from Si nanocrystals”. Godefroo S, Hayne M, Jivanescu M, Stesmans A, Zacharias M, Lebedev OI, Van Tendeloo G, Moshchalkov VV, Nature nanotechnology 3, 174 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1038/nnano.2008.7
Abstract: Silicon dominates the electronics industry, but its poor optical properties mean that III-V compound semiconductors are preferred for photonics applications. Photoluminescence at visible wavelengths was observed from porous Si at room temperature in 1990, but the origin of these photons (do they arise from highly localized defect states or quantum confinement effects?) has been the subject of intense debate ever since. Attention has subsequently shifted from porous Si to Si nanocrystals, but the same fundamental question about the origin of the photoluminescence has remained. Here we show, based on measurements in high magnetic fields, that defects are the dominant source of light from Si nanocrystals. Moreover, we show that it is possible to control the origin of the photoluminescence in a single sample: passivation with hydrogen removes the defects, resulting in photoluminescence from quantum-confined states, but subsequent ultraviolet illumination reintroduces the defects, making them the origin of the light again.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 38.986
Times cited: 426
DOI: 10.1038/nnano.2008.7
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“Theoretical aspects of graphene-like group IV semiconductors”. Houssa M, van den Broek B, Scalise E, Ealet B, Pourtois G, Chiappe D, Cinquanta E, Grazianetti C, Fanciulli M, Molle A, Afanas’ev VV, Stesmans A;, Applied surface science 291, 98 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.09.062
Abstract: Silicene and germanene are the silicon and germanium counterparts of graphene, respectively. Recent experimental works have reported the growth of silicene on (1 1 1)Ag surfaces with different atomic configurations, depending on the growth temperature and surface coverage. We first theoretically study the structural and electronic properties of silicene on (1 1 1) Ag surfaces, focusing on the (4 x 4) silicene/Ag structure. Due to symmetry breaking in the silicene layer (nonequivalent number of top and bottom Si atoms), the corrugated silicene layer, with the Ag substrate removed, is predicted to be semiconducting, with a computed energy bandgap of about 0.3 eV. However, the hybridization between the Si 3p orbitals and the Ag 5s orbital in the silicene/(1 1 1)Ag slab model leads to an overall metallic system, with a distribution of local electronic density of states, which is related to the slightly disordered structure of the silicene layer on the (1 1 1)Ag surface. We next study the interaction of silicene and germanene with different hexagonal non-metallic substrates, namely ZnS and ZnSe. On reconstructed (0 0 0 1)ZnS or ZnSe surfaces, which should be more energetically stable for very thin layers, silicene and germanene are found to be semiconducting. Remarkably, the nature and magnitude of their energy bandgap can be controlled by an out-of-plane electric field, an important finding for the potential use of these materials in nanoelectronic devices. (C) 2013 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.387
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.09.062
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“Secondary-Phase-Assisted Grain Boundary Migration in CuInSe2”. Li C, Sanli ES, Barragan-Yani D, Stange H, Heinemann M-D, Greiner D, Sigle W, Mainz R, Albe K, Abou-Ras D, van Aken P A, Physical Review Letters 124, 095702 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.124.095702
Abstract: Significant structural evolution occurs during the deposition of CuInSe2 solar materials when the Cu content increases. We use in situ heating in a scanning transmission electron microscope to directly observe how grain boundaries migrate during heating, causing nondefected grains to consume highly defected grains. Cu substitutes for In in the near grain boundary regions, turning them into a Cu-Se phase topotactic with the CuInSe2 grain interiors. Together with density functional theory and molecular dynamics calculations, we reveal how this Cu-Se phase makes the grain boundaries highly mobile.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.6
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.124.095702
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“Insights into the C Distribution in Si:C/Si:C:P and the Annealing Behavior of Si:C Layers”. Dhayalan SK, Nuytten T, Pourtois G, Simoen E, Pezzoli F, Cinquanta E, Bonera E, Loo R, Rosseel E, Hikavyy A, Shimura Y, Vandervorst W, ECS journal of solid state science and technology 8, P209 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1149/2.0181903JSS
Abstract: Si:C and Si:C:P alloys are potential candidates for source-drain stressor applications in n-type Fin Field Effect Transistors (FinFETs). Increasing the C content to achieve high strain results in the arrangement of C atoms as third nearest neighbors (3nn) in the Si: C lattice. During thermal annealing, the presence of C atoms as 3nn may promote clustering at the interstitial sites, causing loss of stress. The concentration of C atoms as 3nn is reduced by the incorporation of a small amount of Ge atoms during the growth, whereas in-situ P doping does not influence this 3nn distribution [J Solid State Sci. Technol vol 6, p 755, 2017]. Small amounts of Ge are provided during low temperature selective epitaxial growth scheme, which are based on cyclic deposition and etching (CDE). In this work, we aim to provide physical insights into the aforementioned phenomena, to understand the behavior of 3nn C atoms and the types of defects that are formed in the annealed Si: C films. Using ab-initio simulations, the Ge-C interaction in the Si matrix is investigated and this insight is used to explain how the Ge incorporation leads to a reduced 3nn distribution of the C atoms. The interaction between C and P in the Si: C: P films is also investigated to explain why the P incorporation has not led to a reduction in the 3nn distribution. We then report on the Raman characterization of Si: C layers subjected to post epi annealing. As the penetration depth of the laser is dependent on the wavelength, Raman measurements at two different wavelengths enable us to probe the depth distribution of 3nn C atoms after applying different annealing conditions. We observed a homogeneous loss in 3nn C throughout the layer. Whereas in the kinematic modeling of high resolution X-ray diffraction spectra, a gradient in the substitutional C loss was observed close to the epitaxial layer/substrate interface. This gradient can be due to the out diffusion of C atoms into the Si substrate or to the formation of interstitial C clusters, which cannot be distinguished in HR-XRD. Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy indicated that the prominent out-diffusing species was interstitial CO complex while the interstitial C defects were also prevalent in the epi layer. (c) 2019 The Electrochemical Society.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.787
DOI: 10.1149/2.0181903JSS
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“The reduction of the substitutional C content in annealed Si/SiGeC superlattices studied by dark-field electron holography”. Denneulin T, Rouvière JL, Béché, A, Py M, Barnes JP, Rochat N, Hartmann JM, Cooper D, Semiconductor science and technology 26, 1 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0268-1242/26/12/125010
Abstract: Si/Si(1 − x − y)GexCy superlattices are used in the construction of new microelectronic architectures such as multichannel transistors. The introduction of carbon in SiGe allows for compensation of the strain and to avoid plastic relaxation. However, the formation of incoherent β-SiC clusters during annealing limits the processability of SiGeC. This precipitation leads to a modification of the strain in the alloy due to the reduction of the substitutional carbon content. Here, we investigated the strain in annealed Si/Si0.744Ge0.244C0.012 superlattices grown by reduced pressure chemical vapour deposition using dark-field electron holography. The variation of the substitutional C content was calculated by correlating the results with finite-element simulations. The obtained values were then compared with Fourier-transformed infrared spectrometry measurements. It was shown that after annealing for 2 min at 1050 °C carbon no longer has any influence on strain in the superlattice, which behaves like pure SiGe. However, a significant proportion of substitutional C atoms remain in a third-nearest neighbour (3nn) configuration. It was deduced that the influence of 3nn C on strain is negligible and that only isolated atoms have a significant contribution. It was also proposed that the 3nn configuration is an intermediary step during the formation of SiC clusters.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.305
DOI: 10.1088/0268-1242/26/12/125010
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“Insights on growth and nanoscopic investigation of uncommon iron oxide polymorphs”. Carraro G, Maccato C, Bontempi E, Gasparotto A, Lebedev OI, Turner S, Depero LE, Van Tendeloo G, Barreca D, European journal of inorganic chemistry , 5454 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1002/ejic.201300873
Abstract: Si(100)-supported Fe2O3 nanomaterials were developed by a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) approach. The syntheses, which were performed at temperatures between 400 and 550 °C, selectively yielded the scarcely studied β- and ϵ-Fe2O3 polymorphs under O2 or O2 + H2O reaction environments, respectively. Correspondingly, the observed morphology underwent a progressive evolution from interconnected nanopyramids to vertically aligned nanorods. The present study aims to provide novel insights into Fe2O3 nano-organization by a systematic investigation of the system structure/morphology and of their interrelations with growth conditions. In particular, for the first time, the β- and ϵ-Fe2O3 preparation process has been accompanied by a thorough multitechnique investigation, which, beyond X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), is carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), electron diffraction (ED), scanning TEM electron energy-loss spectroscopy (STEM-EELS), and high-angle annular dark-field STEM (HAADF-STEM). Remarkably, the target materials showed a high structural and compositional homogeneity throughout the whole thickness of the nanodeposit. In particular, spatially resolved EELS chemical maps through the spectrum imaging (SI) technique enabled us to gain important information on the local Fe coordination, which is of crucial importance in determining the system reactivity. The described preparation method is in fact a powerful tool to simultaneously tailor phase composition and morphology of iron(III) oxide nanomaterials, the potential applications of which include photocatalysis, magnetic devices, gas sensors, and anodes for Li-ion batteries.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.444
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1002/ejic.201300873
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“Faceted sidewalls of silicon nanowires: Au-induced structural reconstructions and electronic properties”. Xu T, Nys J-P, Addad A, Lebedev OI, Urbieta A, Salhi B, Berthe M, Grandidier B, Stievenard D, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 115403 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.115403
Abstract: Si nanowires with a ⟨111⟩ orientation, synthesized by vapor-liquid-solid process with low silane partial pressure reactant and gold as the catalyst, are known to exhibit sawtooth facets containing gold adsorbates. We report herein the study of the nanowire morphology by means of transmission electron microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy. The nanowires consist of faceted sidewalls. The number of the sidewalls changes from 12 to 6 along the growth axis, giving rise to nanowires with an irregular hexagonal cross section at their base. The sidewalls are covered with Au-rich clusters. Their facets also exhibit atomic structures that reveal the presence of gold, resulting from the diffusion of gold during the growth. Based on these observations, the tapering of the nanowire is found to be related to two contributions: the reduction in the catalyst particle size during the growth and lateral overgrowth from the direct incorporation of Si species onto the nanowire sidewalls. Because the rearrangement of atoms at surfaces and interfaces might affect the growth kinetics, the trigonal symmetry as well as the higher lateral growth rate on the widest sidewalls are explained from the existence of an interfacial atomic structure with two inequivalent parts in the unit cell. Finally, spectroscopic measurements were performed on the major facets and revealed a metallic behavior at 77 K.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 42
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.115403
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“Preventing cation intermixing enables 50% quantum yield in sub-15 nm short-wave infrared-emitting rare-earth based core-shell nanocrystals”. Arteaga Cardona F, Jain N, Popescu R, Busko D, Madirov E, Arús BA, Gerthsen D, De Backer A, Bals S, Bruns OT, Chmyrov A, Van Aert S, Richards BS, Hudry D, Nature communications 14, 4462 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-40031-4
Abstract: Short-wave infrared (SWIR) fluorescence could become the new gold standard in optical imaging for biomedical applications due to important advantages such as lack of autofluorescence, weak photon absorption by blood and tissues, and reduced photon scattering coefficient. Therefore, contrary to the visible and NIR regions, tissues become translucent in the SWIR region. Nevertheless, the lack of bright and biocompatible probes is a key challenge that must be overcome to unlock the full potential of SWIR fluorescence. Although rare-earth-based core-shell nanocrystals appeared as promising SWIR probes, they suffer from limited photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY). The lack of control over the atomic scale organization of such complex materials is one of the main barriers limiting their optical performance. Here, the growth of either homogeneous (α-NaYF<sub>4</sub>) or heterogeneous (CaF<sub>2</sub>) shell domains on optically-active α-NaYF<sub>4</sub>:Yb:Er (with and without Ce<sup>3+</sup>co-doping) core nanocrystals is reported. The atomic scale organization can be controlled by preventing cation intermixing only in heterogeneous core-shell nanocrystals with a dramatic impact on the PLQY. The latter reached 50% at 60 mW/cm<sup>2</sup>; one of the highest reported PLQY values for sub-15 nm nanocrystals. The most efficient nanocrystals were utilized for in vivo imaging above 1450 nm.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 16.6
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40031-4
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“Improving the resource footprint evaluation of products recovered from wastewater : a discussion on appropriate allocation in the context of circular economy”. Sfez S, De Meester S, Vlaeminck SE, Dewulf J, Resources, conservation and recycling 148, 132 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2019.03.029
Abstract: Shifting from a linear to a circular economy has consequences on how the sustainability of products is assessed. This is the case for products recovered from resources such as sewage sludge. The “zero-burden” assumption is commonly used in Life Cycle Assessment and considers that waste streams are burden-free, which becomes debatable when comparing waste-based with virgin material-based products in the context of the growing circular economy. If waste streams are considered as resources rather than waste, upstream burdens should be partly allocated to all products to allow a fair comparison with their virgin material-based equivalents. In this paper, five allocation approaches are applied to allocate the resource use of upstream processes (consumer goods production) to products recovered from the processing of sewage sludge in the Netherlands, which produces biogas, (phosphorus-based) chemicals and building materials. Except for the approach which allocates 100% of the impact from resource recovery processes to the preceding consumer goods, the allocation approaches show a resource use 27 to 80% higher than with the “zero-burden” assumption. In this particular case, using these allocation approaches is likely to find little support from recyclers. The producers of household products, recyclers and policy makers should find a consensus to consider the shift from a linear to a circular economy in sustainability assessment studies while avoiding discouraging the implementation of recovery technologies. This paper suggests starting the discussion with the approach which allocates the impacts from upstream processes degressively to the downstream products as it best translates the industrial ecology principles.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2019.03.029
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“EPXMA survey of shelf sediments (Southern Bight, North Sea): a glance beyond the XRD-invisible”. de Maeyer-Worobiec A, Dekov VM, Laane RWPM, Van Grieken R, Microchemical journal 91, 21 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2008.07.001
Abstract: Shelf sediments of the southern North Sea, were studied with a microanalytical [electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA)] and two bulk [X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF)] techniques. The investigation proved that the promptness of the microanalytical method is combined with a reasonable analytical reliability. XRD studies of such a type of sediments with monotonous mineral composition are not able to provide mineralogical information beyond the main well-crystalline minerals and the mineralogical quantitative characteristic of the sediment based on XRD estimations are incorrect. The EPXMA mineralogical interpretations are based on the statistical evaluation of a huge data set (thousands of mineral particles) and provide a rather correct quantitative determination of the main minerals. The comparative EPXMAXRF study revealed that the Al, Si, K, Ca, Fe and to some extent Ti contents estimated by EPXMA are fairly reliable. In this respect the accuracy of the EPXMA-based mineral identification of the pure silicates, pure aluminosilicates, and Al-, Ca-, Fe- and Ti-containing minerals with simple composition is very high. Mg-calcite, augite and apatite determinations are assessed to be correct. The supposed accuracy of the clay mineral determinations is slightly lower (7080%) than that of the other main minerals due to the complex and varying composition of the clays. The identification of XRD-invisible accessory minerals and quantification of their presence in the sediments is an essential advantage of the EPXMA, which makes it a useful approach in tracing the origin of the sediments, the pathways of their transport and the geochemical processes they have undergone. However, the EPXMA has several flaws, which need to be solved in the future sediment investigations: (1) calibration with natural standards is needed in order to provide a higher accuracy of the mineral determinations; (2) any EPXMA study of sediments needs to be secured with XRF examinations of selected samples since EPXMA gives only semi-quantitative information about the abundance of the elements; (3) ultra-thin window EPXMA of low-Z elements has to be used since some of them (O, C) are always present in the main sediment components: silicates, aluminosilicates, carbonates and metal oxyhydroxides; (4) the interpretations of the clay fraction have to be supported with detailed XRD investigations of selected samples, while the mineralogy of the silt and sand fractions needs to be backed up with optical microscopy studies. The information from different analytical techniques (EPXMA with XRFXRD-optical microscopy of selected samples) combined with the knowledge about the most possible minerals in a given environment, would give the most reliable results in studying mineralogical composition of shelf sediments.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2008.07.001
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“Galvanic Replacement Coupled to Seeded Growth as a Route for Shape-Controlled Synthesis of Plasmonic Nanorattles”. Polavarapu L, Zanaga D, Altantzis T, Rodal-Cedeira S, Pastoriza-Santos I, Pérez-Juste J, Bals S, Liz-Marzán LM, Journal of the American Chemical Society 138, 11453 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.6b06706
Abstract: Shape-controlled synthesis of metal nanoparticles (NPs) requires mechanistic understanding toward the development of modern nanoscience and nanotechnology. We demonstrate here an unconventional shape transformation of Au@Ag core−shell NPs (nanorods and nanocubes) into octahedral nanorattles via roomtemperature galvanic replacement coupled with seeded growth. The corresponding morphological and chemical transformations were investigated in three dimensions, using state-of-the-art X-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopy (XEDS) tomography. The addition of a reducing agent (ascorbic acid) plays a key role in this unconventional mechanistic path, in which galvanic replacement is found to dominate initially when the shell is made of Ag, while seeded growth suppresses transmetalation when a composition of Au:Ag (∼60:40) is reached in the shell, as revealed by quantitative XEDS tomography. This work not only opens new avenues toward the shape control of hollow NPs beyond the morphology of sacrificial templates, but also expands our understanding of chemical transformations in nanoscale galvanic replacement reactions. The XEDS electron tomography study presented here can be generally applied to investigate a wide range of nanoscale morphological and chemical transformations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.858
Times cited: 75
DOI: 10.1021/jacs.6b06706
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“The role of phase compatibility in martensite”. Salman OU, Finel A, Delville R, Schryvers D, Journal of applied physics
T2 –, 22nd International Symposium on Integrated Functionalities (ISIF), JUN 13-16, 2010, San Juan, PR 111, 103517 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4712629
Abstract: Shape memory alloys inherit their macroscopic properties from their mesoscale microstructure originated from the martensitic phase transformation. In a cubic to orthorhombic transition, a single variant of martensite can have a compatible (exact) interface with the austenite for some special lattice parameters in contrast to conventional austenite/twinned martensite interface with a transition layer. Experimentally, the phase compatibility results in a dramatic drop in thermal hysteresis and gives rise to very stable functional properties over cycling. Here, we investigate the microstructures observed in Ti50Ni50-xPdx alloys that undergo a cubic to orthorhombic martensitic transformation using a three-dimensional phase field approach. We will show that the simulation results are in very good agreement with transmission electron microscopy observations. However, the understanding of the drop in thermal hysteresis requires the coupling of phase transformation with plastic activity. We will discuss this point within the framework of thermoelasticity, which is a generic feature of the martensitic transformation. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4712629]
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1063/1.4712629
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“Shape control in ZIF-8 nanocrystals and metal nanoparticles@ZIF-8 heterostructures”. Zheng G, Chen Z, Sentosun K, Pérez-Juste I, Bals S, Liz-Marzán LM, Pastoriza-Santos I, Pérez-Juste J, Hong M, Nanoscale 9, 16645 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1039/C7NR03739B
Abstract: Shape control in metal-organic frameworks still remains a challenge. We propose a strategy based on the capping agent modulator method to control the shape of ZIF-8 nanocrystals. This approach requires the use of a surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and a second capping agent, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (TRIS), to obtain ZIF-8 nanocrystals with morphology control in aqueous media. Semiempirical computational simulations suggest that both shape-inducing agents adsorb onto different surface facets of ZIF-8, thereby slowing down their crystal growth rates. While CTAB molecules preferentially adsorb onto the {100} facets, leading to ZIF-8 particles with cubic morphology, TRIS preferentially stabilizes the {111} facets, inducing the formation of octahedral crystals. Interestingly, the presence of both capping agents leads to nanocrystals with irregular shapes and higher index facets, such as hexapods and burr puzzles. Additionally, the combination of ZIF-8 nanocrystals with other materials is expected to impart additional properties due to the hybrid nature of the resulting nanocomposites. In the present case, the presence of CTAB and TRIS molecules as capping agents facilitates the synthesis of metal nanoparticle@ZIF-8 nanocomposites, due to synergistic effects which could be of use in a number of applications such as catalysis, gas sensing and storage.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.367
Times cited: 109
DOI: 10.1039/C7NR03739B
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“The use of convergent beam electron diffraction for stress measurements in shallow trench isolation structures”. Stuer C, van Landuyt J, Bender H, Rooyackers R, Badenes G, Materials science in semiconductor processing 4, 117 (2001). http://doi.org/10.1016/S1369-8001(00)00110-4
Abstract: Shallow trench isolation (STI) is a promising technology for the isolation structures of the new generation of ULSI devices with dimensions below 0.18 mum. The various processing steps cause stress fields in STI structures, which can lead to defect formation in the silicon substrate. In their turn, stress fields affect the electrical parameters and the reliability of devices. Convergent beam electron diffraction (CBED) is used in this study to examine the influence of a wet and a dry pre-gate oxidation on the stress distribution around STI structures. The measurements are performed on STI structures with different width and spacing. CBED analysis is compared with bright-field TEM images. Defects are observed in high-strain areas of small isolated structures. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.359
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/S1369-8001(00)00110-4
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“Reduced dimensionality in different forms of carbon”. Van Tendeloo G, Bernaerts D, Amelinckx S, Fullerenes and carbon based materials , 487 (1998)
Abstract: Several TEM techniques are used to characterise the local structure of low dimensional forms of carbon. HREM is particularly useful to describe the defect structure of thin films of diamond or fullerenes and C-60-C-70 nanoclusters. A columnar form of graphite is analysed, mainly by electron diffraction which allowed us to propose a growth mechanism. Diffraction contrast dark field microscopy, in combination with electron diffraction, allows a detailed characterisation of carbon nanotubes; e.g. the chirality distribution of tubes in ropes of single wall tubes is studied by selected area electron diffraction. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
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“Ab initio study of the spectroscopy, kinetics, and thermochemistry of the C2N and CN2 molecules”. Martin JML, Taylor PR, François JP, Gijbels R, Chemical physics letters 226, 475 (1994). http://doi.org/10.1016/0009-2614(94)00758-6
Abstract: Several structures and electronic states of the C2N and CN2 molecules have been studied using complete active space SCF (CASSCF), multireference configuration interaction (MRCI), and coupled cluster (CCSD(T)) methods. Both molecules are very stable. Our best computed total atomization energies SIGMAD(e) are 288.6 +/- 2 kcal/mol for CN2, and 294.1 +/- 2 kcal/mol for C2N. The CNC and CCN structures for C2N are nearly isoenergetic. CNN(3PI) lies about 30 kcal/mol above NCN(3PI(g)), but has a high barrier towards interconversion and is therefore observed experimentally. Computed harmonic frequencies for CNN are sensitive to the correlation treatment: they are reproduced well using multireference methods as well as the CCSD(T) method. High spin contamination has a detrimental effect on computed harmonic frequencies at the CCSD(T) level.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.897
Times cited: 46
DOI: 10.1016/0009-2614(94)00758-6
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“Investigation of inclusions trapped inside Libyan desert glass by Raman microscopy”. Swaenen M, Stefaniak EA, Frost R, Worobiec A, Van Grieken R, Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry 397, 2659 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1007/S00216-009-3351-2
Abstract: Several specimens of Libyan desert glass (LDG), an enigmatic natural glass from Egypt, were subjected to investigation by micro-Raman spectroscopy. The spectra of inclusions inside the LDG samples were successfully measured through the layers of glass and the mineral species were identified on this basis. The presence of cristobalite as typical for high-temperature melt products was confirmed, together with co-existing quartz. TiO2 was determined in two polymorphic species rutile and anatase. Micro-Raman spectroscopy proved also the presence of minerals unusual for high-temperature glasses such as anhydrite and aragonite.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1007/S00216-009-3351-2
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“Optimization of a simple spotting procedure for x-ray fluorescence analysis of waters”. Smits J, Van Grieken R, Analytica chimica acta 88, 97 (1977). http://doi.org/10.1016/S0003-2670(01)96053-2
Abstract: Several sample preparation methods for waters for energy-dispersive x.r.f. were examined, as well as the influence of sample size on the analytical characteristics. The most satisfactory simple, rapid method proved to be spotting of 1.5 ml of water sample on a Whatman-41 cellulose filter paper provided with a wax ring of 29-mm diameter and evaporating the water with an unheated air stream from underneath. Sensitivities are below 100 p.p.b. for most elements and often below 50 p.p.b. when the optimal secondary fluorescer is used. Accuracy and precision are usually in the 1520 % range. The method is applicable to many dilute aqueous solutions as is illustrated by analysis of industrial water samples and ashed biological material.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/S0003-2670(01)96053-2
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“Integrated assessment of agro-ecological systems : the case study of the “Alta Murgia&rdquo, National park in Italy”. Moretti M, De Boni A, Roma R, Fracchiolla M, Van Passel S, Agricultural Systems 144, 144 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.AGSY.2016.02.007
Abstract: Several indicators and methods are already applied for sustainability assessment in agriculture. The links between sustainability indicators, agricultural management and policies are not well explained. The aim of this study is to combine biophysical and monetary sustainability assessment tools to support agriculture policy decision-making. Three methodological steps are considered: i) the environmental impacts of farms are assessed using terrestrial acidification, freshwater eutrophication, soil and freshwater ecotoxicity as well as natural land transformation; ii) the most relevant indicators of agriculture damages on ecosystems quality are aggregated into an index; iii) the farms' index scores are integrated with farm assets, land and labor, into the Sustainable Value approach (SVA), as indicator of natural resources used by farms. As a case study, the methodology was applied to arable farms with and without animal husbandry of the “Alta Murgia” National Park. The crop farms, in our sample, have a higher sustainable value using their economic and environmental resources. Mixed farms need to improve their resources use efficiency. Although crop farms have lower land-use efficiency compared to mixed farms, our results suggest supporting, by means of policy options, the specialized crop farms that, on average, perform better in terms of ecosystems quality preservation. Finally, we find that Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to soundly measure the environmental impacts clearly enriches the SVA. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.571
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/J.AGSY.2016.02.007
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“Selective leaching of Pb, Cu, Ni and Zn from secondary lead smelting residues”. Kim E, Horckmans L, Spooren J, Vrancken KC, Quaghebeur M, Broos K, Hydrometallurgy 169, 372 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.HYDROMET.2017.02.027
Abstract: Several HNO3-based leaching approaches were tested and optimized to selectively recover Pb and other minor metals (Cu, Ni, Zn) from secondary lead smelter residues (i.e., slag and matte). Firstly, the leaching behaviors of Pb and the matrix element Fe were studied at atmospheric pressure in the temperature range 25-70 degrees C. These elements were present in both materials studied as sulfide and oxide phases. For the sulfur-rich matte residue, the Pb leaching increased from 63% to 69% upon increasing the HNO3 concentration from 0.2 M to 0.5 M. However, by adding Fe(III) as an oxidation agent, Pb leaching from the matte amounted to 90% at 25 degrees C. At a higher temperature, Pb leaching was reduced due to PbSO4 precipitation. In this process, Cu, Zn and Ni leaching was insignificant. For the slag residue, HNO3 could not leach Pb (0.03% Pb leached), while Fe leaching was 19.8% due to a galvanic effect. However, Pb leaching of the slag was 82% in the presence of additional Fe(III). Secondly, to enhance leaching of the other base metals (Cu, Zn and Ni) from the matte, roasting followed by water leaching and (microwave assisted or autoclave) pressurized leaching in 0.5 M HNO3 were applied. During roasting, the FeS phase converted to Fe2O3 above 500 degrees C, and PbS and Pb phases were transformed into insoluble PbSO4 above 400 degrees C. Cu, Ni and Zn leaching was drastically enhanced by a roasting step at 600 degrees C followed by leaching with 0.5 M HNO3 at 50 degrees C, or by pressurized HNO3 leaching above 130 degrees C, whereby Pb leaching almost ceased due to PbSO4 precipitation. During the roasting above 600 degrees C, or microwave assisted extraction (MAE) at 160 degrees C for 15 min, FeS was completely converted to iron oxides that can be used as raw material for pig iron production. Based on the results, the methods investigated can be combined as process steps of two possible routes for the selective recovery of valuable metals and the production of a clean source of Fe oxides from the secondary lead smelting residues studied. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.HYDROMET.2017.02.027
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“Exploring different inelastic projection mechanisms for electron tomography”. Goris B, Bals S, van den Broek W, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Ultramicroscopy 111, 1262 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2011.02.007
Abstract: Several different projection mechanisms that all make use of inelastically scattered electrons are used for electron tomography. The advantages and the disadvantages of these methods are compared to HAADFSTEM tomography, which is considered as the standard electron tomography technique in materials science. The different inelastic setups used are energy filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM), thickness mapping based on the log-ratio method and bulk plasmon mapping. We present a comparison that can be used to select the best inelastic signal for tomography, depending on different parameters such as the beam stability and nature of the sample. The appropriate signal will obviously also depend on the exact information which is requested.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 21
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2011.02.007
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“Improved calculation of displacements per atom cross section in solids by gamma and electron irradiation”. Pinera I, Cruz CM, Leyva A, Abreu Y, Cabal AE, van Espen P, Van Remortel N, Interactions With Materials And Atoms 339, 1 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.NIMB.2014.08.020
Abstract: Several authors had estimated the displacements per atom cross sections under different approximations and models, including most of the main gamma- and electron-material interaction processes. These previous works used numerical approximation formulas which are applicable for limited energy ranges. We proposed the Monte Carlo assisted Classical Method (MCCM), which relates the established theories about atom displacements to the electron and positron secondary fluence distributions calculated from the Monte Carlo simulation. In this study the MCCM procedure is adapted in order to estimate the displacements per atom cross sections for gamma and electron irradiation. The results obtained through this procedure are compared with previous theoretical calculations. An improvement in about 10-90% for the gamma irradiation induced dpa cross section is observed in our results on regard to the previous evaluations for the studied incident energies. On the other hand, the dpa cross section values produced by irradiation with electrons are improved by our calculations in about 5-50% when compared with the theoretical approximations. When thin samples are irradiated with electrons, more precise results are obtained through the MCCM (in about 20-70%) with respect to the previous studies. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Particle Physics Group; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.NIMB.2014.08.020
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“Understanding the (in)stability of semiconductor pigments by a thermodynamic approach”. Anaf W, Schalm O, Janssens K, De Wael K, Dyes and pigments 113, 409 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.DYEPIG.2014.09.015
Abstract: Several artists pigments are semiconductors. Some of these materials appear stable over time, whereas others already show remarkable signs of degradation after limited time periods. The (in)stability of these pigments can be understood using a thermodynamic approach. For several pigment-related materials, the thermodynamic oxidation and reduction potential (ϕox and ϕred) were determined and evaluated considering the absolute energy positions of the valence and conduction band edges and the water redox potentials. The positions of ϕox and ϕred can be used in a fast screening of the stability of semiconductor pigments towards photoinduced corrosion in an aqueous/humid environment. This theoretical approach corresponds well with experimental data on pigment permanence and degradation phenomena found in literature.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Impact Factor: 3.473
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1016/J.DYEPIG.2014.09.015
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“Serum bromine levels in psoriasis”. Shani J, Barak S, Ram M, Levi D, Pfeifer Y, Schlesinger T, Avrach WW, Robberecht H, Van Grieken R, Pharmacology 25, 297 (1982). http://doi.org/10.1159/000137756
Abstract: Serum bromine levels in psoriatic Danes increased 2- to 3-fold during a 4-week bathing course in the Dead Sea. This increase correlated well with the improvement in their clinical and psychic condition. Serum bromine levels in psoriatic Danes were somewhat lower than those in healthy subjects residing in Denmark, but the difference was not significant. Israelis working in the open air in the Dead Sea area (air bromine 20-fold higher than in Jerusalem) had higher bromine levels than psoriatic or healthy Israelis residing in Jerusalem or healthy Israelis working in air-conditioned rooms in the Dead Sea area (p < 0.05), but those levels were still within the normal range. As our animal experimentation indicates that the skin is a major target organ for 82Br, applied either by bathing or as an aerosol, we conclude that the higher bromine levels noticed in the psoriatic Danes after their 4-week stay at the Dead Sea may be equally due to their contact with the bromine-containing aerosol and the high bromine level of the Dead Sea waters.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1159/000137756
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“Health implications of atmospheric aerosols from asbestos-bearing road pavements traditionally used in Southern Brazil”. Godoi RHM, Goncalves SJ Jr, Sayama C, Polezer G, Reis Neto JM, Alfoldy B, Van Grieken R, Riedi CA, Yamamoto CI, Godoi AFL, Bencs L, Environmental Science and Pollution Research
T2 –, 1st International Caparica Conference on Pollutant Toxic Ions and, Molecules (PTIM), 2015, Caparica, PORTUGAL 23, 25180 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1007/S11356-016-7586-0
Abstract: Serpentine and amphibole asbestos occur naturally in certain geologic settings worldwide, most commonly in association with ultramafic rocks, along associated faults. Ultramafic rocks have been used in Pin County, Southern Brazil for decades for the purpose of road paving in rural and urban areas, but without the awareness of their adverse environmental and health impact. The aim of this study was the chemical characterization of aerosols re-suspended in two rural roads of Pin, paved with ultramafic rocks and to estimate the pulmonary deposition of asbestos aerosols. Bulk aerosol samples were analyzed by means of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and X-ray diffraction analysis, in order to characterize elemental composition and crystallinity. Single-particle compositions of aerosols were analyzed by computer-controlled electron-probe microanalysis, indicating the presence of a few percentages of serpentine and amphibole. Given the chemical composition and size distribution of aerosol particles, the deposition efficiency of chrysotile, a sub-group of serpentine, in two principal segments of the human respiratory system was estimated using a lung deposition model. As an important finding, almost half of the inhaled particles were calculated to be deposited in the respiratory system. Asbestos depositions were significant (similar to 25 %) in the lower airways, even though the selected breathing conditions (rest situation, nose breathing) implied the lowest rate of respiratory deposition. Considering the fraction of inhalable suspended chrysotile near local roads, and the long-term exposure of humans to these aerosols, chrysotile may represent a hazard, regarding more frequent development of lung cancer in the population of the exposed region.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1007/S11356-016-7586-0
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“Statistical grouping and controlling factors of dissolved trace elements in a surface water system”. Vandelannoote R, Blommaert W, Van 't dack L, Gijbels R, van Grieken R, Environmental technology letters 4, 363 (1983). http://doi.org/10.1080/09593338309384219
Abstract: Sensitive multi‐element analytical techniques were applied to determine 24 dissolved trace components in 25 different water samples from a 10 km2 zone in Brittany, France. Correspondence factor and multiple regression analyses showed that the elements considered are influenced mainly by the presence of: Fe‐Mn oxide accumulations, a local poly‐metallic sulfide mineralization, and non‐mineralized host rocks, agricultural activity and abundant organic material in local swamps. Via these numerical techniques the location of the poly‐metallic ore body can be derived from the data set.
Keywords: A3 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1080/09593338309384219
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“Trace-elemental anomalies in surface water near a small lead-zinc mineralization at Menez-Albot (Brittany, France)”. Vandelannoote R, Blommaert W, Sadurski A, Van 'T Dack L, Gijbels R, Van Grieken R, Bosch B, Leleu M, Rochon J, Sarcia C, Sureau JF;, Journal of geochemical exploration 20, 33 (1984). http://doi.org/10.1016/0375-6742(84)90088-8
Abstract: Sensitive multi-element analysis techniques were applied to water samples collected in the vicinity of a small Zn-Pb-Cu sulfide mineralization in the region of Menez-Albot (Finistère, France). The variation of the trace-element content along a local stream shows the presence of the mineralization, mainly through a simultaneous positive anomaly in solution for a group of about 10 elements (e.g. Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sb) which are connected with this type of mineralization. The anomaly decreases steeply due to the influx of swamp water rich in Fe, Mn and organic matter. The precipitation barrier is reflected in the stream sediment composition. Contamination from fertilizers was observed in some samples.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 2.747
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/0375-6742(84)90088-8
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“Hydrogeochemistry in the zinclead mining district of Les Malines (Gard, France)”. Bosch B, Leleu M, Oustrière P, Sarcia C, Sureau JF, Blommaert W, Gijbels R, Sadurski A, Vandelannoote R, Van Grieken R, Van 'T Dack L;, Chemical geology 55, 31 (1986). http://doi.org/10.1016/0009-2541(86)90125-7
Abstract: Sensitive multi-element analysis techniques together with major-element and isotopic analyses were applied to spring, mine and surface waters in the vicinity of an important known zinclead deposit in a carbonate environment, in the Les Malines area (Gard, France). Both the dissolved and suspended phases were investigated, and concretions and sediments were also considered in some cases. This methodological test shows that the ore body leaves various clear fingerprints, such as the Zn, As, Sb, Pb and U levels in the dissolved phase, the sulfate increment and the δ 34S. Some of the elements in solution are controlled by slightly soluble compounds, e.g. Zn by smithsonite and hydrozincite, Ba by barite, and Pb by hydrocerussite. Mapping the saturation indices for these elements appears useful for displaying the hydrogeochemical anomaly.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.524
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1016/0009-2541(86)90125-7
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