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Author Neven, L. file  openurl
  Title Singlet oxygen-based photoelectrochemical detection of phenolic contaminants Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2022 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 234 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract Phenolic compounds can be found everywhere in our daily lives but exhibit high toxicity, low (bio)degradability and hormone-disrupting effects when they are released in the environment. It is for this reason imperative to develop detection strategies for these pollutants. A promising approach involves the use of a photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor. In this sensor, a photosensitiser (PS) type II, which generates 1O2 under illumination, is used to oxidise phenolic compounds present in the sample. The oxidised phenols are reduced at the electrode surface leading to the generation of an electrocatalytic redox cycle. In this thesis, an in-depth understanding, through the identification of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the PEC sensing mechanism, is obtained. The detection strategy is optimised by choosing the PS with the highest 1O2 production and by optimising the detection parameters so that the PEC sensor can be successfully applied for the detection of phenols in industrial samples. First, it was determined that the use of highly fluorinated zinc phthalocyanine derivatives, F52PcZn and F64PcZn, as photocatalysts was optimal for the sensing of phenol due to their high 1O2 production and improved single-site isolation. However, next to 1O2, it was shown that the ROS O2•- and H2O2 were also generated in the PEC sensor. Their contribution to the photocurrent response was studied by rotating disk electrode measurements in function of the pH and applied potential. After this, the PEC detection strategy was optimised in terms of pH and applied potential for the detection of doxycycline, cefadroxil, and phenol. It was found that the use of alkaline pH-levels led to nmol L-1-level detection limits. The combination with square wave voltammetry (SWV) was, also, proposed to allow the quantification and identification of phenolic compounds in a specific sample. At last, the developed PEC and SWV sensors were applied for the measurement of phenolic compounds in industrial water samples. The PEC sensor could follow the decrease of the phenolic concentration throughout the wastewater treatment process while the SWV sensor provided the electrochemical fingerprints of these samples. The thesis concluded that the use of the PEC sensor was advantageous in the measurement of lower concentrated phenolic samples due to its high sensitivity and fast measurement time in comparison to commercial test kits.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187029 Serial 8932  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Blundo, E.; Faria, P.E., Jr.; Surrente, A.; Pettinari, G.; Prosnikov, M.A.; Olkowska-Pucko, K.; Zollner, K.; Wozniak, T.; Chaves, A.; Kazimierczuk, T.; Felici, M.; Babinski, A.; Molas, M.R.; Christianen, P.C.M.; Fabian, J.; Polimeni, A. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Strain-Induced Exciton Hybridization in WS2 Monolayers Unveiled by Zeeman-Splitting Measurements Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Physical review letters Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 129 Issue 6 Pages 067402  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract Mechanical deformations and ensuing strain are routinely exploited to tune the band gap energy and to enhance the functionalities of two-dimensional crystals. In this Letter, we show that strain leads also to a strong modification of the exciton magnetic moment in WS2 monolayers. Zeeman-splitting measurements under magnetic fields up to 28.5 T were performed on single, one-layer-thick WS2 microbubbles. The strain of the bubbles causes a hybridization of k-space direct and indirect excitons resulting in a sizable decrease in the modulus of they factor of the ground-state exciton. These findings indicate that strain may have major effects on the way the valley number of excitons can be used to process binary information in two-dimensional crystals.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000842367600007 Publication Date 2022-08-04  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0031-9007; 1079-7114 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198538 Serial 8936  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Pankratova, G.; Bollella, P.; Pankratov, D.; Gorton, L. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Supercapacitive biofuel cells Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Current opinion in biotechnology Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 73 Issue Pages 179-187  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract Supercapacitive biofuel cells' (SBFCs) most recent advancements are herein disclosed. In conventional SBFCs the biocomponent is employed as the pseudocapacitive component, while in self-charging biodevices it also works as the biocatalyst. The performance of different types of SBFCs are summarized according to the categorization based on the biocatalyst employed: supercapacitive microbial fuel cells (sMFCs), supercapacitive biophotovoltaics (SBPV) and supercapacitive enzymatic fuel cells (s-EFCs). SBFCs could be considered as promising 'alternative' energy devices (low-cost, environmentally friendly, and technically undemanding electric power sources etc.) being suitable for powering a new generation of miniaturized electronic applications.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000760339100024 Publication Date 2021-09-01  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0958-1669 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187287 Serial 8937  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Parrilla, M.; Detamornrat, U.; Domínguez-Robles, J.; Donnelly, R.F.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Wearable hollow microneedle sensing patches for the transdermal electrochemical monitoring of glucose Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Talanta : the international journal of pure and applied analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 249 Issue Pages 123695-123699  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract According to the World Health Organization, about 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, with 1.5 million deaths directly attributed each year. Therefore, there is still a need to effectively monitor glucose in diabetic patients for proper management. Recently, wearable patches based on microneedle (MN) sensors provide minimally invasive analysis of glucose through the interstitial fluid (ISF) while exhibiting excellent correlation with blood glucose. Despite many advances in wearable electrochemical sensors, long-term stability and continuous monitoring remain unsolved challenges. Herein, we present a highly stable electrochemical biosensor based on a redox mediator bilayer consisting of Prussian blue and iron-nickel hexacyanoferrate to increase the long-term stability of the readout coupled with a hollow MN array as a sampling unit for ISF uptake. First, the enzymatic biosensor is developed by using affordable screen-printed electrodes (SPE) and optimized for long-term stability fitting the physiological range of glucose in ISF (i.e., 2.5–22.5 mM). In parallel, the MN array is assessed for minimally invasive piercing of the skin. Subsequently, the biosensor is integrated with the MN array leaving a microfluidic spacer that works as the electrochemical cell. Interestingly, a microfluidic channel connects the cell with an external syringe to actively and rapidly withdraw ISF toward the cell. Finally, the robust MN sensing patch is characterized during in vitro and ex vivo tests. Overall, affordable wearable MN-based patches for the continuous monitoring of glucose in ISF are providing an advent in wearable devices for rapid and life-threatening decision-making processes.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000826441800002 Publication Date 2022-06-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0039-9140; 1873-3573 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188955 Serial 8955  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Parrilla, M.; Vanhooydonck, A.; Watts, R.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Wearable wristband-based electrochemical sensor for the detection of phenylalanine in biofluids Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Biosensors and bioelectronics Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 197 Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Product development; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract Wearable electrochemical sensors are driven by the user-friendly capability of on-site detection of key biomarkers for health management. Despite the advances in biomolecule monitoring such as glucose, still, several unmet clinical challenges need to be addressed. For example, patients suffering from phenylketonuria (PKU) should be able to monitor their phenylalanine (PHE) level in a rapid, decentralized, and affordable manner to avoid high levels of PHE in the body which can lead to a profound and irreversible mental disability. Herein, we report a wearable wristband electrochemical sensor for the monitoring of PHE tackling the necessity of controlling PHE levels in PHE hydroxylase deficiency patients. The proposed electrochemical sensor is based on a screen-printed electrode (SPE) modified with a membrane consisting of Nafion, to avoid interferences in biofluids. The membrane also consists of sodium 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulphonate for the in situ derivatization of PHE into an electroactive product, allowing its electrochemical oxidation at the surface of the SPE in alkaline conditions. Importantly, the electrochemical sensor is integrated into a wristband configuration to enhance user interaction and engage the patient with PHE self-monitoring. Besides, a paper-based sampling strategy is designed to alkalinize the real sample without the need for sample pretreatment, and thus simplify the analytical process. Finally, the wearable device is tested for the determination of PHE in saliva and blood serum. The proposed wristband-based sensor is expected to impact the PKU self-monitoring, facilitating the daily lives of PKU patients toward optimal therapy and disease management.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000719366400003 Publication Date 2021-11-02  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0956-5663 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:183086 Serial 8957  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Gao, Y.-J.; Jin, H.; Esteban, D.A.; Weng, B.; Saha, R.A.; Yang, M.-Q.; Bals, S.; Steele, J.A.; Huang, H.; Roeffaers, M.B.J. url  doi
openurl 
  Title 3D-cavity-confined CsPbBr₃ quantum dots for visible-light-driven photocatalytic C(sp³)-H bond activation Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Carbon Energy Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages e559  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract Metal halide perovskite (MHP) quantum dots (QDs) offer immense potential for several areas of photonics research due to their easy and low-cost fabrication and excellent optoelectronic properties. However, practical applications of MHP QDs are limited by their poor stability and, in particular, their tendency to aggregate. Here, we develop a two-step double-solvent strategy to grow and confine CsPbBr3 QDs within the three-dimensional (3D) cavities of a mesoporous SBA-16 silica scaffold (CsPbBr3@SBA-16). Strong confinement and separation of the MHP QDs lead to a relatively uniform size distribution, narrow luminescence, and good ambient stability over 2 months. In addition, the CsPbBr3@SBA-16 presents a high activity and stability for visible-light-driven photocatalytic toluene C(sp(3))-H bond activation to produce benzaldehyde with similar to 730 mu mol g(-1) h(-1) yield rate and near-unity selectivity. Similarly, the structural stability of CsPbBr3@SBA-16 QDs is superior to that of both pure CsPbBr3 QDs and those confined in MCM-41 with 1D channels.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001223583600001 Publication Date 2024-05-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2637-9368 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206000 Serial 9133  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Yang, C.-Q.; Yin, Z.-W.; Li, W.; Cui, W.-J.; Zhou, X.-G.; Wang, L.-D.; Zhi, R.; Xu, Y.-Y.; Tao, Z.-W.; Sang, X.; Cheng, Y.-B.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Hu, Z.-Y.; Su, B.-L. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Atomically deciphering the phase segregation in mixed halide perovskite Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Advanced functional materials Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 1-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract Mixed-halide perovskites show promising applications in tandem solar cells owing to their adjustable bandgap. One major obstacle to their commercialization is halide phase segregation, which results in large open-circuit voltage deficiency and J-V hysteresis. However, the ambiguous interplay between structural origin and phase segregation often results in aimless and unspecific optimization strategies for the device's performance and stability. An atomic scale is directly figured out the abundant Ruddlesden-Popper anti-phase boundaries (RP-APBs) within a CsPbIBr2 polycrystalline film and revealed that phase segregation predominantly occurs at RP-APB-enriched interfaces due to the defect-mediated lattice strain. By compensating their structural lead halide, such RP-APBs are eliminated, and the decreasing of strain can be observed, resulting in the suppression of halide phase segregation. The present work provides the deciphering to precisely regulate the perovskite atomic structure for achieving photo-stable mixed halide wide-bandgap perovskites of high-efficiency tandem solar cell commercial applications. The phase segregation in mixed halide perovskite film predominantly occurs at Ruddlesden-Popper anti-phase boundaries (RP-APBs)-enriched interfaces due to the defect-mediated lattice strain. The RP-APBs defects can be eliminated by compensating for their structural lead halide deficiency, resulting in the suppression of halide phase segregation. image  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001200673300001 Publication Date 2024-04-12  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1616-301x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205509 Serial 9134  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Lelouche, S.N.K.; Lemir, I.; Biglione, C.; Craig, T.; Bals, S.; Horcajada, P. url  doi
openurl 
  Title AuNP/MIL-88B-NH₂ nanocomposite for the valorization of nitroarene by green catalytic hydrogenation Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Chemistry: a European journal Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 1-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract The efficiency of a catalytic process is assessed based on conversion, yield, and time effectiveness. However, these parameters are insufficient for evaluating environmentally sustainable research. As the world is urged to shift towards green catalysis, additional factors such as reaction media, raw material availability, sustainability, waste minimization and catalyst biosafety, need to be considered to accurately determine the efficacy and sustainability of the process. By combining the high porosity and versatility of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and the activity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), efficient, cyclable and biosafe composite catalysts can be achieved. Thus, a composite based on AuNPs and the nanometric flexible porous iron(III) aminoterephthalate MIL-88B-NH2 was successfully synthesized and fully characterized. This nanocomposite was tested as catalyst in the reduction of nitroarenes, which were identified as anthropogenic water pollutants, reaching cyclable high conversion rates at short times for different nitroarenes. Both synthesis and catalytic reactions were performed using green conditions, and even further tested in a time-optimizing one-pot synthesis and catalysis experiment. The sustainability and environmental impact of the catalytic conditions were assessed by green metrics. Thus, this study provides an easily implementable synthesis, and efficient catalysis, while minimizing the environmental and health impact of the process.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001204094600001 Publication Date 2024-03-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0947-6539 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205426 Serial 9135  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Deben, C.; Freire Boullosa, L.; Rodrigues Fortes, F.; Cardenas De La Hoz, E.; Le Compte, M.; Seghers, S.; Peeters, M.; Vanlanduit, S.; Lin, A.; Dijkstra, K.K.; Van Schil, P.; Hendriks, J.M.H.; Prenen, H.; Roeyen, G.; Lardon, F.; Smits, E. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Auranofin repurposing for lung and pancreatic cancer : low CA12 expression as a marker of sensitivity in patient-derived organoids, with potentiated efficacy by AKT inhibition Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Journal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 43 Issue 1 Pages 88-15  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Antwerp Surgical Training, Anatomy and Research Centre (ASTARC); Center for Oncological Research (CORE)  
  Abstract Background This study explores the repurposing of Auranofin (AF), an anti-rheumatic drug, for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) adenocarcinoma and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Drug repurposing in oncology offers a cost-effective and time-efficient approach to developing new cancer therapies. Our research focuses on evaluating AF's selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells, identifying RNAseq-based biomarkers to predict AF response, and finding the most effective co-therapeutic agents for combination with AF. Methods Our investigation employed a comprehensive drug screening of AF in combination with eleven anticancer agents in cancerous PDAC and NSCLC patient-derived organoids (n = 7), and non-cancerous pulmonary organoids (n = 2). Additionally, we conducted RNA sequencing to identify potential biomarkers for AF sensitivity and experimented with various drug combinations to optimize AF's therapeutic efficacy. Results The results revealed that AF demonstrates a preferential cytotoxic effect on NSCLC and PDAC cancer cells at clinically relevant concentrations below 1 µM, sparing normal epithelial cells. We identified Carbonic Anhydrase 12 (CA12) as a significant RNAseq-based biomarker, closely associated with the NF-κB survival signaling pathway, which is crucial in cancer cell response to oxidative stress. Our findings suggest that cancer cells with low CA12 expression are more susceptible to AF treatment. Furthermore, the combination of AF with the AKT inhibitor MK2206 was found to be particularly effective, exhibiting potent and selective cytotoxic synergy, especially in tumor organoid models classified as intermediate responders to AF, without adverse effects on healthy organoids. Conclusion Our research offers valuable insights into the use of AF for treating NSCLC and PDAC. It highlights AF's cancer cell selectivity, establishes CA12 as a predictive biomarker for AF sensitivity, and underscores the enhanced efficacy of AF when combined with MK2206 and other therapeutics. These findings pave the way for further exploration of AF in cancer treatment, particularly in identifying patient populations most likely to benefit from its use and in optimizing combination therapies for improved patient outcomes.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001190581500001 Publication Date 2024-03-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1756-9966 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204924 Serial 9136  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Wang, J.; Zhao, W.-S.; Hu, Y.; Filho, R.N.C.; Peeters, F.M. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Charged vacancy in graphene : interplay between Landau levels and atomic collapse resonances Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Physical review B Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 109 Issue 10 Pages 104103-104106  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract The interplay between a magnetic field and the Coulomb potential from a charged vacancy on the electron states in graphene is investigated within the tight-binding model. The Coulomb potential removes locally Landau level degeneracy, while the vacancy introduces a satellite level next to the normal Landau level. These satellite levels are found throughout the positive-energy region, but in the negative-energy region, they turn into atomic collapse resonances. Crossings between Landau levels with different angular quantum number m are found. Unlike the point impurity system in which an anticrossing occurs between Landau levels of the same m, in this work anticrossing is found between the normal Landau level and the vacancy-induced level. The atomic collapse resonance hybridizes with the Landau levels. The charge at which the lowest Landau level m = -1, N = 1 crosses E = 0 increases with enhancing magnetic field. A Landau level scaling anomaly occurs when the charge is larger than the critical charge beta 0.6 and this critical charge is independent of the magnetic field.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001199561900008 Publication Date 2024-03-04  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2469-9969; 2469-9950 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205508 Serial 9137  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Osorio-Tejada, J.; Escriba-Gelonch, M.; Vertongen, R.; Bogaerts, A.; Hessel, V. url  doi
openurl 
  Title CO₂ conversion to CO via plasma and electrolysis : a techno-economic and energy cost analysis Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Energy & environmental science Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract Electrification and carbon capture technologies are essential for achieving net-zero emissions in the chemical sector. A crucial strategy involves converting captured CO2 into CO, a valuable chemical feedstock. This study evaluates the feasibility of two innovative methods: plasma activation and electrolysis, using clean electricity and captured CO2. Specifically, it compares a gliding arc plasma reactor with an embedded novel carbon bed system to a modern zero-gap type low-temperature electrolyser. The plasma method stood out with an energy cost of 19.5 GJ per tonne CO, marking a 43% reduction compared to electrolysis and conventional methods. CO production costs for plasma- and electrolysis-based plants were $671 and $962 per tonne, respectively. However, due to high uncertainty regarding electrolyser costs, the CO production costs in electrolysis-based plants may actually range from $570 to $1392 per tonne. The carbon bed system in the plasma method was a key factor in facilitating additional CO generation from O-2 and enhancing CO2 conversion, contributing to its cost-effectiveness. Challenges for electrolysis included high costs of equipment and low current densities. Addressing these limitations could significantly decrease production costs, but challenges arise from the mutual relationship between intrinsic parameters, such as CO2 conversion, CO2 input flow, or energy cost. In a future scenario with affordable feedstocks and equipment, costs could drop below $500 per tonne for both methods. While this may be more challenging for electrolysis due to complexity and expensive catalysts, plasma-based CO production appears more viable and competitive.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001218045900001 Publication Date 2024-05-06  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1754-5692; 1754-5706 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205986 Serial 9138  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Ahmadi Eshtehardi, H. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Combined computational-experimental study on plasma and plasma catalysis for N2 fixation Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 160 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract Humanity feels the urge of shifting to a sustainable society more than at any other time in its history. Electrification of chemical industry plays a key role in this transition. The possibility of producing fertilizers from air using renewable electricity, and simultaneously, no greenhouse gas emission, resulted in an increasing interest toward plasma technology as a solution for electrification of a part of the chemical industry in the past few years. Additionally, the activation of nitrogen molecules by vibrational and electronic excitation reactions in plasma can lead to an energy-efficient process. Last but not least, the modularity (fast on/off characteristic) of plasma technology makes it capable of using intermittent renewable electricity on site for the production of fertilizers using air. All these advantages offered by plasma technology make it a potential solution for the on-site production of fertilizers in small and decentralized plants using air and renewable electricity, which leads to a considerable reduction in fertilizer production and transportation costs. However, industrialization of plasma-based NF suffers from several challenges, including challenges of plasma catalysis for the selective production of desired species, the high energy cost of plasma-based NF compared to current industrial processes, and the design and development of scaled up and energy-efficient plasma reactors for industrial purposes. In the framework of this thesis we have tried to add to the state-of-the-art (SOTA) in plasma-based NOx production and deal with its limitations using a combination of experimental and modelling work.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-06-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205246 Serial 9139  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Yao, W.; Hui, C.; Wang, L.; Wang, J.; Gielis, J.; Shi, P. doi  openurl
  Title Comparison of the performance of two polar equations in describing the geometries of elliptical fruits Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Botany letters Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp engineering, PhotoElectroChemistry & Sensing (A-PECS)  
  Abstract In nature, the two-dimensional (2D) profiles of fruits from many plants often resemble ellipses. However, it remains unclear whether these profiles strictly adhere to the ellipse equation, as many natural shapes resembling ellipses are actually better described as superellipses. The superellipse equation, which includes an additional parameter n compared to the ellipse equation, can generate a broader range of shapes, with the ellipse being just a special case of the superellipse. To investigate whether the 2D profiles of fruits are better described by ellipses or superellipses, we collected a total of 751 mature and undamaged fruits from 31 naturally growing plants of Cucumis melo L. var. agrestis Naud. Our analysis revealed that most adjusted root-mean-square errors (> 92% of the 751 fruits) for fitting the superellipse equation to the fruit profiles were consistently less than 0.0165. Furthermore, there were 638 of the 751 fruits (ca. 85%) with the 95% confidence intervals of the estimated parameter n in the superellipse equation not including 2. These findings suggest that the profiles of C. melo var. agrestis fruits align more closely with the superellipse equation than with the ellipse equation. This study provides evidence for the existence of the superellipse in fruit profiles, which has significant implications for studying fruit geometries and estimating fruit volumes using the solid of revolution formula. Furthermore, this discovery may contribute to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving the evolution of fruit shapes.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001219634500001 Publication Date 2024-05-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2381-8107; 2381-8115 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205955 Serial 9140  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Blagojević, J.; Mijin, S.D.; Bekaert, J.; Opačić, M.; Liu, Y.; Milošević, M.V.; Petrović, C.; Popović, Z.V.; Lazarević, N. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Competition of disorder and electron-phonon coupling in 2H-TaSe2-xSx (0≤x≤2) as evidenced by Raman spectroscopy Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Physical review materials Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 8 Issue 2 Pages 024004-24008  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract The vibrational properties of 2H-TaSe<sub>2-x</sub>S<sub>x</sub> (0≤x≤2) single crystals were probed using Raman spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations. The end members revealed two out of four symmetry-predicted Raman active modes, together with the pronounced two-phonon structure, attributable to the enhanced electron-phonon coupling. Additional peaks become observable due to crystallographic disorder for the doped samples. The evolution of the E<sub>2</sub>g<sup>2</sup> mode Fano parameter reveals that the disorder has a weak impact on electron-phonon coupling, which is also supported by the persistence of two-phonon structure in doped samples. As such, this research provides thorough insights into the lattice properties, the effects of crystallographic disorder on Raman spectra, and the interplay of this disorder with the electron-phonon coupling in 2H-TaSe<sub>2-x</sub>S<sub>x</sub> compounds.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001171649400004 Publication Date 2024-02-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2475-9953 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204404 Serial 9141  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Khan, S.U.; Matshitse, R.; Borah, R.; Nemakal, M.; Moiseeva, E.O.; Dubinina, T.V.; Nyokong, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; De Wael, K. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Coupling of phthalocyanines with plasmonic gold nanoparticles by click chemistry for an enhanced singlet oxygen based photoelectrochemical sensing Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication ChemElectroChem Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 1-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab); Antwerp engineering, PhotoElectroChemistry & Sensing (A-PECS)  
  Abstract Coupling photosensitizers (PSs) with plasmonic nanoparticles increases the photocatalytic activity of PSs as the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of plasmonic nanoparticles leads to extreme concentration of light in their vicinity known as the near-field enhancement effect. To realize this in a colloidal phase, efficient conjugation of the PS molecules with the plasmonic nanoparticle surface is critical. In this work, we demonstrate the coupling of phthalocyanine (Pc) molecules with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in the colloidal phase via click chemistry. This conjugated Pc-AuNPs colloidal system is shown to enhance the photocatalytic singlet oxygen (1O2) production over non-conjugated Pcs and hence improve the photoelectrochemical detection of phenols. The plasmonic enhancement of the 1O2 generation by Pcs was clearly elucidated by complementary experimental and computational classical electromagnetic models. The dependence of plasmonic enhancement on the spectral position of the excitation laser wavelength and the absorbance of the Pc molecules with respect to the wavelength specific near-field enhancement is clearly demonstrated. A high similar to 8 times enhancement is obtained with green laser (532 nm) at the LSPR due to the maximum near-field enhancement at the resonance wavelength. Zinc phthalocyanine is covalently linked to plasmonic AuNPs via click chemistry to investigate the synergistic effect that boosts the overall activity toward the detection of HQ under visible light illumination. The 1O2 quantum yield of ZnPc improved significantly after conjugating with AuNPs, resulting in enhanced photoelectrochemical activity. image  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001214481000001 Publication Date 2024-05-02  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2196-0216 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205962 Serial 9142  
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Author Cioni, M.; Delle Piane, M.; Polino, D.; Rapetti, D.; Crippa, M.; Arslan Irmak, E.; Pavan, G.M.; Van Aert, S.; Bals, S. doi  openurl
  Title Data for Sampling Real‐Time Atomic Dynamics in Metal Nanoparticles by Combining Experiments, Simulations, and Machine Learning Type Dataset
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords Dataset; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract Even at low temperatures, metal nanoparticles (NPs) possess atomic dynamics that are key for their properties but challenging to elucidate. Recent experimental advances allow obtaining atomic‐resolution snapshots of the NPs in realistic regimes, but data acquisition limitations hinder the experimental reconstruction of the atomic dynamics present within them. Molecular simulations have the advantage that these allow directly tracking the motion of atoms over time. However, these typically start from ideal/perfect NP structures and, suffering from sampling limits, provide results that are often dependent on the initial/putative structure and remain purely indicative. Here, by combining state‐of‐the‐art experimental and computational approaches, how it is possible to tackle the limitations of both approaches and resolve the atomistic dynamics present in metal NPs in realistic conditions is demonstrated. Annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy enables the acquisition of ten high‐resolution images of an Au NP at intervals of 0.6 s. These are used to reconstruct atomistic 3D models of the real NP used to run ten independent molecular dynamics simulations. Machine learning analyses of the simulation trajectories allows resolving the real‐time atomic dynamics present within the NP. This provides a robust combined experimental/computational approach to characterize the structural dynamics of metal NPs in realistic conditions.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205843 Serial 9143  
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Author Morad, V.; Stelmakh, A.; Svyrydenko, M.; Feld, L.G.; Boehme, S.C.; Aebli, M.; Affolter, J.; Kaul, C.J.; Schrenker, N.J.; Bals, S.; Sahin, Y.; Dirin, D.N.; Cherniukh, I.; Raino, G.; Baumketner, A.; Kovalenko, M.V. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Designer phospholipid capping ligands for soft metal halide nanocrystals Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Nature Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 626 Issue Pages 542-548  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract The success of colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) in science and optoelectronics is inextricable from their surfaces. The functionalization of lead halide perovskite NCs1-5 poses a formidable challenge because of their structural lability, unlike the well-established covalent ligand capping of conventional semiconductor NCs6,7. We posited that the vast and facile molecular engineering of phospholipids as zwitterionic surfactants can deliver highly customized surface chemistries for metal halide NCs. Molecular dynamics simulations implied that ligand-NC surface affinity is primarily governed by the structure of the zwitterionic head group, particularly by the geometric fitness of the anionic and cationic moieties into the surface lattice sites, as corroborated by the nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy data. Lattice-matched primary-ammonium phospholipids enhance the structural and colloidal integrity of hybrid organic-inorganic lead halide perovskites (FAPbBr3 and MAPbBr3 (FA, formamidinium; MA, methylammonium)) and lead-free metal halide NCs. The molecular structure of the organic ligand tail governs the long-term colloidal stability and compatibility with solvents of diverse polarity, from hydrocarbons to acetone and alcohols. These NCs exhibit photoluminescence quantum yield of more than 96% in solution and solids and minimal photoluminescence intermittency at the single particle level with an average ON fraction as high as 94%, as well as bright and high-purity (about 95%) single-photon emission. Phospholipids enhance the structural and colloidal integrity of hybrid organic-inorganic lead halide perovskites and lead-free metal halide nanocrystals, which then exhibit enhanced robustness and optical properties.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001176943100001 Publication Date 2023-12-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0028-0836; 1476-4687 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204796 Serial 9144  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Pascucci, F.; Conti, S.; Perali, A.; Tempère, J.; Neilson, D. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Effects of intralayer correlations on electron-hole double-layer superfluidity Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Physical review B Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 109 Issue 9 Pages 094512-94515  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Theory of quantum systems and complex systems; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract We investigate the intralayer correlations acting within the layers in a superfluid system of electron -hole spatially separated layers. In this system, superfluidity is predicted to be almost exclusively confined to the Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) and crossover regimes where the electron -hole pairs are well localized. In this case, Hartree-Fock is an excellent approximation for the intralayer correlations. We find in the BEC regime that the effect of the intralayer correlations on superfluid properties is negligible but in the BCS-BEC crossover regime the superfluid gap is significantly weakened by the intralayer correlations. This is caused by the intralayer correlations boosting the number of low -energy particle -hole excitations that drive the screening. We further find that the intralayer correlations suppress the predicted phenomenon in which the average pair size passes through a minimum as the crossover regime is traversed.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001199662600001 Publication Date 2024-03-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2469-9969; 2469-9950 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205476 Serial 9145  
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Author Manaigo, F.; Bahnamiri, O.S.; Chatterjee, A.; Panepinto, A.; Krumpmann, A.; Michiels, M.; Bogaerts, A.; Snyders, R. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Electrical stability and performance of a nitrogen-oxygen atmospheric pressure gliding arc plasma Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication ACS Sustainable Chemistry and Engineering Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 12 Issue 13 Pages 5211-5219  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract Nonthermal plasmas are currently being studied as a green alternative to the Haber-Bosch process, which is, today, the dominant industrial process allowing for the fixation of nitrogen and, as such, a fundamental component for the production of nitrogen-based industrial fertilizers. In this context, the gliding arc plasma (GAP) is considered a promising choice among nonthermal plasma options. However, its stability is still a key parameter to ensure industrial transfer of the technology. Nowadays, the conventional approach to stabilize this plasma process is to use external resistors. Although this indeed allows for an enhancement of the plasma stability, very little is reported about how it impacts the process efficiency, both in terms of NOx yield and energy cost. In this work, this question is specifically addressed by studying a DC-powered GAP utilized for nitrogen fixation into NOx at atmospheric pressure stabilized by variable external resistors. Both the performance and the stability of the plasma are reported as a function of the utilization of the resistors. The results confirm that while the use of a resistor indeed allows for a strong stabilization of the plasma without impacting the NOx yield, especially at high plasma current, it dramatically impacts the energy cost of the process, which increases from 2.82 to 7.9 MJ/mol. As an alternative approach, we demonstrate that the replacement of the resistor by an inductor is promising since it allows for decent stabilization of the plasma, while it does not affect either the energy cost of the process or the NOx yield.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001186347900001 Publication Date 2024-03-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2168-0485 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204774 Serial 9146  
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Author De Luca, F.; Abate, S.; Bogaerts, A.; Centi, G. url  openurl
  Title Electrified CO2 conversion : integrating experimental, computational, and process simulation methods for sustainable chemical synthesis Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages xv, 152 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract Nowadays, the burning of fossil fuels, particularly petroleum, natural gas, and coal, meets the rising need for power and fuels for automobiles and industries. This has given rise to ecological and climate challenges. This thesis explores these issues from three distinct perspectives: (i) experimental, (ii) computational, and (iii) process simulation, with a focus on studying CO2 as an alternative and economically viable raw material. Firstly, the experimental study is focused on the synthesis, characterization, and testing of novel catalysts for electroreduction of CO2 and oxalic acid, an intermediate product of CO2. Electrocatalysts based on Cu supported by citrus (orange and lemon) peel biomass are prepared. These catalysts exhibit activity in the electrochemical reduction of CO2, emphasizing the effectiveness of biomasses, particularly orange peels, as environmentally friendly precursors for sustainable and efficient electrocatalysts. In addition, graphitic carbon nitrides/TiO2 nanotubes (g-C3N4/TiNT) composites are prepared for the electrocatalytic reduction of oxalic acid to glycolic acid, revealing superior electrocatalytic properties compared to pristine TiNT. Characterization by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electronic microscopy were performed for all the prepared electrocatalysts. Delving into the reduction of CO2 on Cu catalysts, a computational study about the synthesis of methanol on Cu(111) surface is performed by using the Vienna Ab initio Simulation Package. A systematic study is carried out to define the activation energies of the elementary reactions by using mGGA DF. Consequently, it is shown that the rate-controlling step is CH3O* hydrogenation and the formate pathway on Cu(111) proceeds through the HCOOH* intermediate. Finally, the process simulation, performed by using the software Aspen Plus 11 from AspenTech Inc., is based on the comparison of a catalytic (oxidation of ethylene glycol) and an electrocatalytic process (CO2 electroreduction chain) to synthesize glycolic acid. An economic analysis of the operational and investment costs reveals that the catalytic process is more cost-effective due to the current instability of electrocatalysts and proton exchange membranes, resulting in increased maintenance costs and, consequently, higher prices for the product.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205262 Serial 9147  
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Author Wu, X.; Ding, J.; Cui, W.; Lin, W.; Xue, Z.; Yang, Z.; Liu, J.; Nie, X.; Zhu, W.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Sang, X. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Enhanced electrical properties of Bi2-xSbxTe3 nanoflake thin films through interface engineering Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Energy & environment materials Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages e12755-8  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract The structure-property relationship at interfaces is difficult to probe for thermoelectric materials with a complex interfacial microstructure. Designing thermoelectric materials with a simple, structurally-uniform interface provides a facile way to understand how these interfaces influence the transport properties. Here, we synthesized Bi2-xSbxTe3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4) nanoflakes using a hydrothermal method, and prepared Bi2-xSbxTe3 thin films with predominantly (0001) interfaces by stacking the nanoflakes through spin coating. The influence of the annealing temperature and Sb content on the (0001) interface structure was systematically investigated at atomic scale using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. Annealing and Sb doping facilitate atom diffusion and migration between adjacent nanoflakes along the (0001) interface. As such it enhances interfacial connectivity and improves the electrical transport properties. Interfac reactions create new interfaces that increase the scattering and the Seebeck coefficient. Due to the simultaneous optimization of electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient, the maximum power factor of the Bi1.8Sb0.2Te3 nanoflake films reaches 1.72 mW m(-1) K-2, which is 43% higher than that of a pure Bi2Te3 thin film.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001204495900001 Publication Date 2024-04-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205438 Serial 9148  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vlasov, E. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Exploiting secondary electrons in transmission electron microscopy for 3D characterization of nanoparticle morphologies Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages x, 118 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract Electron tomography (ET) is an indispensable tool for determining the three-dimensional (3D) structure of nanomaterials in (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM). ET enables 3D characterization of a variety of nanomaterials across different fields, including life sciences, chemistry, solid-state physics, and materials science down to atomic resolution. However, the acquisition of a conventional tilt series for ET is a time-consuming process and thus cannot capture fast transformations of materials in realistic conditions. Moreover, only a limited number of nanoparticles (NPs) can be investigated, hampering a general understanding of the average properties of the material. Therefore, alternative characterization techniques that allow for high-resolution characterization of the surface structure without the need to acquire a full tilt series in ET are required which would enable a more time-efficient investigation with better statistical value. In the first part of this work, an alternative technique for the characterization of the morphology of NPs to improve the throughput and temporal resolution of ET is presented. The proposed technique exploits surface-sensitive secondary electron (SE) imaging in STEM employed using a modification of electron beam-induced current (EBIC) setup. The time- and dose efficiency of SEEBIC are tested in comparison with ET and superior spatial resolution is shown compared to conventional scanning electron microscopy. Finally, contrast artefacts arising in SEEBIC images are described, and their origin is discussed. The second part of my thesis focuses on real applications of the proposed technique and introduces a high-throughput methodology that combines images acquired by SEEBIC with quantitative image analysis to retrieve information about the helicity of gold nanorods. It shows that SEEBIC imaging overcomes the limitation of ET providing a general understanding of the connection between structure and chiroptical properties.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-06-17  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204905 Serial 9149  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Ozdemir, I.; Arkin, H.; Milošević, M.V.; V. Barth, J.; Aktuerk, E. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Exploring the adsorption mechanisms of neurotransmitter and amino acid on Ti3C2-MXene monolayer : insights from DFT calculations Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Surfaces and interfaces Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 46 Issue Pages 104169-9  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract In this study, we conducted a systematic density functional theory (DFT) investigation of the interaction between Ti3C2-MXene monolayer and biological molecules dopamine (DA) and serine (Ser) as neurotransmitter and amino acid, respectively. Our calculations show good agreement with previous literature findings for the optimized Ti3C2 monolayer. We found that DA and Ser molecules bind to the Ti3C2 surface with adsorption energies of -2.244 eV and -3.960 eV, respectively. The adsorption of Ser resulted in the dissociation of one H atom. Electronic density of states analyses revealed little changes in the electronic properties of the Ti3C2-MXene monolayer upon adsorption of the biomolecules. We further investigated the interaction of DA and Ser with Ti3C2 monolayers featuring surface -termination with OH functional group, and Ti -vacancy. Our calculations indicate that the adsorption energies significantly decrease in the presence of surface termination, with adsorption energies of -0.097 eV and -0.330 eV for DA and Ser, respectively. Adsorption energies on the Ti -vacancy surface, on the other hand, are calculated to be -3.584 eV and -3.856 eV for DA and Ser, respectively. Our results provide insights into the adsorption behavior of biological molecules on Ti3C2-MXene, demonstrating the potential of this material for biosensing and other biomedical applications. These findings highlight the importance of surface modifications in the development of functional materials and devices based on Ti3C2-MXene, and pave the way for future investigations into the use of 2D materials for biomedical applications.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001206950300001 Publication Date 2024-03-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2468-0230 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205977 Serial 9150  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Shafiei, M.; Fazileh, F.; Peeters, F.M.; Milošević, M.V. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Floquet engineering of axion and high-Chern number phases in a topological insulator under illumination Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication SciPost Physics Core Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 7 Issue 7 Pages 024-16  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract Quantum anomalous Hall, high-Chern number, and axion phases in topological insulators are characterized by its Chern invariant C (respectively, C = 1, integer C > 1, and C = 0 with half-quantized Hall conductance of opposite signs on top and bottom surfaces). They are of recent interest because of novel fundamental physics and prospective applications, but identifying and controlling these phases has been challenging in practice. Here we show that these states can be created and switched between in thin films of Bi2Se3 by Floquet engineering, using irradiation by circularly polarized light. We present the calculated phase diagrams of encountered topological phases in Bi2Se3, as a function of wavelength and amplitude of light, as well as sample thickness, after properly taking into account the penetration depth of light and the variation of the gap in the surface states. These findings open pathways towards energy-efficient optoelectronics, advanced sensing, quantum information processing and metrology.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001217885300001 Publication Date 2024-05-01  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205972 Serial 9151  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Xu, H.; Li, H.; Gauquelin, N.; Chen, X.; Wu, W.-F.; Zhao, Y.; Si, L.; Tian, D.; Li, L.; Gan, Y.; Qi, S.; Li, M.; Hu, F.; Sun, J.; Jannis, D.; Yu, P.; Chen, G.; Zhong, Z.; Radovic, M.; Verbeeck, J.; Chen, Y.; Shen, B. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Giant tunability of Rashba splitting at cation-exchanged polar oxide interfaces by selective orbital hybridization Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Advanced materials Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract The 2D electron gas (2DEG) at oxide interfaces exhibits extraordinary properties, such as 2D superconductivity and ferromagnetism, coupled to strongly correlated electrons in narrow d-bands. In particular, 2DEGs in KTaO3 (KTO) with 5d t2g orbitals exhibit larger atomic spin-orbit coupling and crystal-facet-dependent superconductivity absent for 3d 2DEGs in SrTiO3 (STO). Herein, by tracing the interfacial chemistry, weak anti-localization magneto-transport behavior, and electronic structures of (001), (110), and (111) KTO 2DEGs, unambiguously cation exchange across KTO interfaces is discovered. Therefore, the origin of the 2DEGs at KTO-based interfaces is dramatically different from the electronic reconstruction observed at STO interfaces. More importantly, as the interface polarization grows with the higher order planes in the KTO case, the Rashba spin splitting becomes maximal for the superconducting (111) interfaces approximately twice that of the (001) interface. The larger Rashba spin splitting couples strongly to the asymmetric chiral texture of the orbital angular moment, and results mainly from the enhanced inter-orbital hopping of the t2g bands and more localized wave functions. This finding has profound implications for the search for topological superconductors, as well as the realization of efficient spin-charge interconversion for low-power spin-orbitronics based on (110) and (111) KTO interfaces. An unambiguous cation exchange is discovered across the interfaces of (001), (110), and (111) KTaO3 2D electron gases fabricated at room temperature. Remarkably, the (111) interfaces with the highest superconducting transition temperature also turn out to show the strongest electron-phonon interaction and the largest Rashba spin splitting. image  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001219658400001 Publication Date 2024-03-13  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0935-9648 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206037 Serial 9152  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Yorulmaz, U.; Šabani, D.; Sevik, C.; Milošević, M.V. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Goodenough-Kanamori-Anderson high-temperature ferromagnetism in tetragonal transition-metal xenes Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication 2D materials Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 11 Issue 3 Pages 035013-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract Seminal Goodenough-Kanamori-Anderson (GKA) rules provide an inceptive understanding of the superexchange interaction of two magnetic metal ions bridged with an anion, and suggest fostered ferromagnetic interaction for orthogonal bridging bonds. However, there are no examples of two-dimensional (2D) materials with structure that optimizes the GKA arguments towards enhanced ferromagnetism and its critical temperature. Here we reveal that an ideally planar GKA ferromagnetism is indeed stable in selected tetragonal transition-metal xenes (tTMXs), with Curie temperature above 300 K found in CrC and MnC. We provide the general orbitally-resolved analysis of magnetic interactions that supports the claims and sheds light at the mechanisms dominating the magnetic exchange process in these structures. Furthermore, we propose the set of three GKA-like rules that will guarantee room temperature ferromagetnism. With recent advent of epitaxially-grown tetragonal 2D materials, our findings earmark tTMXs for facilitated spintronic and magnonic applications, or as a desirable magnetic constituent of functional 2D heterostructures.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001208053200001 Publication Date 2024-04-12  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2053-1583 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205464 Serial 9153  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Bampouli, A.; Goris, Q.; Hussain, M.N.; Louisnard, O.; Stefanidis, G.D.; Van Gerven, T. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Importance of design and operating parameters in a sonication system for viscous solutions : effects of input power, horn tip diameter and reactor capacity Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Chemical engineering and processing Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 198 Issue Pages 109715-12  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)  
  Abstract This study investigates the distribution of ultrasound (US) energy in a batch system for solutions with viscosity ranging from 1 to approximately 3000 mPas. Sonication was performed using horn type configurations operating at 20-30 kHz and rated power capacity of 50 or 200 W. Two different tip diameters (3 or 7 mm) and two insertion depths (35 or 25 mm) within vessels of different sizes ( approximate to 60 or 130 ml) were utilized. Additionally, a special conical tip design was employed. For each experimental setup, the calorimetric efficiency was estimated, the cavitationally active regions were visualized using the sonochemiluminescence (SCL) method and bubble cluster formation inside the vessel was macroscopically observed using a high speed camera (HSC). In the viscosity range tested, the calorimetry results showed that the efficiency and continuous operation of the device depend on both the rated power and the horn tip diameter. The ratio between electrical and calorimetric power input remained consistently around 40 to 50% across the different configurations for water, but for the 123.2 mPas solution exhibited significant variation ranging from 40 to 85%. Moreover, the power density in the smaller reactor was found to be nearly double compared to the larger one. The SCL analysis showed multiple cavitationally active zones in all setups, and the zones intensity decreased considerably with increase of the solutions viscosity. The results for the cone tip were not conclusive, but can be used as the basis for further investigation. The current research highlights the importance of thoroughly understanding the impact of each design parameter, and of establishing characterization methodologies to assist in the future development of scaled-up, commercial applications.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001218630800001 Publication Date 2024-02-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0255-2701 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206003 Serial 9154  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Tsonev, I.; Ahmadi Eshtehardi, H.; Delplancke, M.-P.; Bogaerts, A. doi  openurl
  Title Importance of geometric effects in scaling up energy-efficient plasma-based nitrogen fixation Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Sustainable energy & fuels Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 1-19  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract Despite the recent promising potential of plasma-based nitrogen fixation, the technology faces significant challenges in efficient upscaling. To tackle this challenge, we investigate two reactors, i.e., a small one, operating in a flow rate range of 5-20 ln min-1 and current range of 200-500 mA, and a larger one, operating at higher flow rate (100-300 ln min-1) and current (400-1000 mA). Both reactors operate in a pin-to-pin configuration and are powered by direct current (DC) from the same power supply unit, to allow easy comparison and evaluate the effect of upscaling. In the small reactor, we achieve the lowest energy cost (EC) of 2.8 MJ mol-1, for a NOx concentration of 1.72%, at a flow rate of 20 ln min-1, yielding a production rate (PR) of 33 g h-1. These values are obtained in air; in oxygen-enriched air, the results are typically better, at the cost of producing oxygen-enriched air. In the large reactor, the higher flow rates reduce the NOx concentration due to lower SEI, while maintaining a similar EC. This stresses the important effect of the geometrical configuration of the arc, which is typically concentrated in the center of the reactor, resulting in limited coverage of the reacting gas flow, and this is identified as the limiting factor for upscaling. However, our experiments reveal that by changing the reactor configuration, and thus the plasma geometry and power deposition mechanisms, the amount of gas treated by the plasma can be enhanced, leading to successful upscaling. To obtain more insights in our experiments, we performed thermodynamic equilibrium calculations. First of all, they show that our measured lowest EC closely aligns with the calculated minimum thermodynamic equilibrium at atmospheric pressure. In addition, they reveal that the limited NOx production in the large reactor results from the contracted nature of the plasma. To solve this limitation, we let the large reactor operate in so-called torch configuration. Indeed, the latter enhances the NOx concentrations compared to the pin-to-pin configuration, yielding a PR of 80 g h-1 at an EC of 2.9 MJ mol-1 and NOx concentration of 0.31%. This illustrates the importance of reactor design in upscaling. With the focus on feasibility evaluation of scaling-up plasma-based nitrogen fixation by combined experiments and thermodynamic modelling, we aim to tackle the challenge of design and development of an energy-efficient and scaled-up plasma reactor.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001203657700001 Publication Date 2024-04-11  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205435 Serial 9155  
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Author Leigh, S.; Doyle, S.J.; Smith, G.J.; Gibson, A.R.; Boswell, R.W.; Charles, C.; Dedrick, J.P. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Ionization and neutral gas heating efficiency in radio frequency electrothermal microthrusters : the role of driving frequency Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Physics of plasmas Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 31 Issue 2 Pages 023509-23513  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract The development of compact, low power, charge-neutral propulsion sources is of significant recent interest due to the rising application of micro-scale satellite platforms. Among such sources, radio frequency (rf) electrothermal microthrusters present an attractive option due to their scalability, reliability, and tunable control of power coupling to the propellant. For micropropulsion applications, where available power is limited, it is of particular importance to understand how electrical power can be transferred to the propellant efficiently, a process that is underpinned by the plasma sheath dynamics. In this work, two-dimensional fluid/Monte Carlo simulations are employed to investigate the effects of applied voltage frequency on the electron, ion, and neutral heating in an rf capacitively coupled plasma microthruster operating in argon. Variations in the electron and argon ion densities and power deposition, and their consequent effect on neutral-gas heating, are investigated with relation to the phase-averaged and phase-resolved sheath dynamics for rf voltage frequencies of 6-108 MHz at 450 V. Driving voltage frequencies above 40.68 MHz exhibit enhanced volumetric ionization from bulk electrons at the expense of the ion heating efficiency. Lower driving voltage frequencies below 13.56 MHz exhibit more efficient ionization due to secondary electrons and an increasing fraction of rf power deposition into ions. Thermal efficiencies are improved by a factor of 2.5 at 6 MHz as compared to the more traditional 13.56 MHz, indicating a favorable operating regime for low power satellite applications.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001207449000001 Publication Date 2024-02-23  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1070-664x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205506 Serial 9156  
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Author Vermeulen, B.B.; Monteiro, M.G.; Giuliano, D.; Sorée, B.; Couet, S.; Temst, K.; Nguyen, V.D. doi  openurl
  Title Magnetization-switching dynamics driven by chiral coupling Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Physical review applied Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 21 Issue 2 Pages 024050-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)  
  Abstract The Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) is known to play a central role in stabilizing chiral spin textures such as skyrmions and domain walls (DWs). Electrical manipulation of DW and skyrmion motion offers possibilities for next-generation, scalable and energy-efficient spintronic devices. However, achieving the full potential of these nanoscale devices requires overcoming several challenges, including reliable electrical write and read techniques for these magnetic objects, and addressing pinning and Joule-heating concerns. Here, through micromagnetic simulations and analytical modeling, we show that DMI can directly induce magnetization switching of a nanomagnet with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). We find that the switching is driven by the interplay between the DMI-induced magnetic frustration and the PMA. By introducing magnetic tunnel junctions to electrically access and control the magnetization direction of the PMA nanomagnet, we first show the potential of this concept to enable high-density fieldfree spin-orbit torque magnetic random-access memory. Ultimately, we demonstrate that it offers a way of transferring and processing spin information for logic operation without relying on current-driven DW or skyrmion motion.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001187487900001 Publication Date 2024-02-26  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2331-7019 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved (down) no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205518 Serial 9157  
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