| Records |
| Author |
van der Sluijs, M.M.; Salzmann, B.B.V.; Arenas Esteban, D.; Li, C.; Jannis, D.; Brafine, L.C.; Laning, T.D.; Reinders, J.W.C.; Hijmans, N.S.A.; Moes, J.R.; Verbeeck, J.; Bals, S.; Vanmaekelbergh, D. |
| Title |
Study of the Mechanism and Increasing Crystallinity in the Self-Templated Growth of Ultrathin PbS Nanosheets |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Chemistry of materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
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| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
|
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Colloidal 2D semiconductor nanocrystals, the analogue of solid-state quantum wells, have attracted strong interest in material science and physics. Molar quantities of suspended quantum objects with spectrally pure absorption and emission can be synthesized. For the visible region, CdSe nanoplatelets with atomically precise thickness and tailorable emission have been (almost) perfected. For the near-infrared region, PbS nanosheets (NSs) hold strong promise, but the photoluminescence quantum yield is low and many questions on the crystallinity, atomic structure, intriguing rectangular shape, and formation mechanism remain to be answered. Here, we report on a detailed investigation of the PbS NSs prepared with a lead thiocyanate single source precursor. Atomically resolved HAADF-STEM imaging reveals the presence of defects and small cubic domains in the deformed orthorhombic PbS crystal lattice. Moreover, variations in thickness are observed in the NSs, but only in steps of 2 PbS monolayers. To study the reaction mechanism, a synthesis at a lower temperature allowed for the study of reaction intermediates. Specifically, we studied the evolution of pseudo-crystalline templates towards mature, crystalline PbS NSs. We propose a self-induced templating mechanism based on an oleylamine-lead-thiocyanate (OLAM-Pb-SCN) complex with two Pb-SCN units as a building block; the interactions between the long-chain ligands regulate the crystal structure and possibly the lateral dimensions. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
000959572100001 |
Publication Date |
2023-03-25 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0897-4756 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
8.6 |
Times cited |
2 |
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
H2020 Research Infrastructures, 731019 ; H2020 European Research Council, 692691 815128 ; Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, 715.016.002 ; |
Approved  |
Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466 |
| Call Number |
EMAT @ emat @c:irua:195894 |
Serial |
7255 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| |
| Author |
Sa, J.; Hu, N.; Heyvaert, W.; Van Gordon, K.; Li, H.; Wang, L.; Bals, S.; Liz-Marzán, L.M.; Ni, W. |
| Title |
Spontaneous Chirality Evolved at the Au–Ag Interface in Plasmonic Nanorods |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Chemistry of materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
Chem. Mater. |
| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
|
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Chiral ligands are considered a required ingredient during the synthesis of dissymmetric plasmonic metal nanocrystals. The mechanism behind the generation of chiral structures involves the formation of high Miller index chiral facets, induced by the adsorption of such chiral ligands. We found however that, chirality can also evolve spontaneously, without the involvement of any chiral ligands, during the co-deposition of Au and Ag on Au nanorods. When using a specific Au/Ag ratio, phase segregation of the two metals leads to an interface within the obtained AuAg shell, which can be exposed by removing the Ag component via oxidative etching. Although a close-to-racemic mixture of chiral Au nanorods with right and left handedness is found in solution, electron tomography analysis evidences left- and righthanded helicities, both at the Au-Ag interface and at the exposed surface of Au NRs after Ag etching. The helicity profile of the NRs indicates dominating inclination angles in a range from 30° to 60°. Single-particle optical characterization also reveals random handedness in the plasmonic response of individual nanorods. We hypothesize that, the origin of chirality is related with symmetry breaking during the co-deposition of Au and Ag, through an initial perturbation in a small region on the Au-Ag interface that eventually leads to chiral segregation throughout the nanocrystal. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001052093300001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-21 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0897-4756 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
8.6 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
The authors acknowledge the financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant 22074102). LMLM acknowledges funding from 26 MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and “ESF Investing in your future” (Grant PID2020- 117779RB-I00). This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 823717 – ESTEEM3.; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovaci?n, PID2020-117779RB-I00 ; H2020 Research Infrastructures, 823717 ; European Social Fund, PID2020-117779RB-I00 ; National Natural Science Foundation of China, 22074102 ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466 |
| Call Number |
EMAT @ emat @c:irua:198151 |
Serial |
8810 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| |
| Author |
Arenas Esteban, D.; Pacquets, L.; Choukroun, D.; Hoekx, S.; Kadu, A.A.; Schalck, J.; Daems, N.; Breugelmans, T.; Bals, S. |
| Title |
3D characterization of the structural transformation undergone by Cu@Ag core-shell nanoparticles following CO₂ reduction reaction |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Chemistry of materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
35 |
Issue |
17 |
Pages |
6682-6691 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT) |
| Abstract |
The increasing use of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) is significantly advancing the field of electrocatalysis. In particular, Cu/Ag bimetallic interfaces are widely used to enhance the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO(2)RR) toward CO and, more recently, C-2 products. However, drastic changes in the product distribution and performance when Cu@Ag core-shell configurations are used can often be observed under electrochemical reaction conditions, especially during the first few minutes of the reaction. Possible structural changes that generate these observations remain underexplored; therefore, the structure-property relationship is hardly understood. In this study, we use electron tomography to investigate the structural transformation mechanism of Cu@Ag core-shells NPs during the critical first minutes of the eCO(2)RR. In this manner, we found that the crystallinity of the Cu seed determines whether the formation of a complete and homogeneous Ag shell is possible. Moreover, by tracking the particles' transformations, we conclude that modifications of the Cu-Ag interface and Cu2O enrichment at the surface of the NPs are key factors contributing to the product generation changes. These insights provide a better understanding of how bimetallic core-shell NPs transform under electrochemical conditions. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001061530700001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-31 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0897-4756; 1520-5002 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
8.6 |
Times cited |
1 |
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
L.P. was supported through a PhD fellowship for strategicbasic research (1S56920N) of the Research Foundation – Flanders(FWO). S.H. was supported through a PhD fellowship for strategic basicresearch (1S42623N) of the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO).S.B., D.A.E., and A.A.K. acknowledge financial support from ERC Consolidator Grant Number 815128 REALNANO. This research was financed by the researchcouncil of the University of Antwerp (BOF-GOA 33928). |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:199187 |
Serial |
8825 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| |
| Author |
Mulder, J.T.T.; Jenkinson, K.; Toso, S.; Prato, M.; Evers, W.H.H.; Bals, S.; Manna, L.; Houtepen, A.J.J. |
| Title |
Nucleation and growth of bipyramidal Yb:LiYF₄ nanocrystals : growing up in a hot environment |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Chemistry of materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
35 |
Issue |
14 |
Pages |
5311-5321 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Lanthanide-doped LiYF4 (Ln:YLF) is commonlyused fora broad variety of optical applications, such as lasing, photon upconversionand optical refrigeration. When synthesized as nanocrystals (NCs),this material is also of interest for biological applications andfundamental physical studies. Until now, it was unclear how Ln:YLFNCs grow from their ionic precursors into tetragonal NCs with a well-defined,bipyramidal shape and uniform dopant distribution. Here, we studythe nucleation and growth of ytterbium-doped LiYF4 (Yb:YLF),as a template for general Ln:YLF NC syntheses. We show that the formationof bipyramidal Yb:YLF NCs is a multistep process starting with theformation of amorphous Yb:YLF spheres. Over time, these spheres growvia Ostwald ripening and crystallize, resulting in bipyramidal Yb:YLFNCs. We further show that prolonged heating of the NCs results inthe degradation of the NCs, observed by the presence of large LiFcubes and small, irregular Yb:YLF NCs. Due to the similarity in chemicalnature of all lanthanide ions our work sheds light on the formationstages of Ln:YLF NCs in general. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001021474500001 |
Publication Date |
2023-07-03 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0897-4756; 1520-5002 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
8.6 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under Grant Agreement No. 766900 (Testing the large-scale limit of quantum mechanics). The authors thank Niranjan Saikumar for proof reading the manuscript. |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:197787 |
Serial |
8907 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| |
| Author |
Mayda, S.; Monico, L.; Krishnan, D.; De Meyer, S.; Cotte, M.; Garrevoet, J.; Falkenberg, G.; Sandu, I.C.A.; Partoens, B.; Lamoen, D.; Romani, A.; Miliani, C.; Verbeeck, J.; Janssens, K. |
| Title |
A combined experimental and computational approach to understanding CdS pigment oxidation in a renowned early 20th century painting |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Chemistry of materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
35 |
Issue |
24 |
Pages |
10403-10415 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS) |
| Abstract |
Cadmium sulfide (CdS)-based yellow pigments have been used in a number of early 20th century artworks, including The Scream series painted by Edvard Munch. Some of these unique paintings are threatened by the discoloration of these CdS-based yellow oil paints because of the oxidation of the original sulfides to sulfates. The experimental data obtained here prove that moisture and cadmium chloride compounds play a key role in promoting such oxidation. To clarify how these two factors effectively prompt the process, we studied the band alignment between CdS, CdCl2, and Cd-(OH)Cl as well as the radicals center dot OH and H3O center dot by density functional theory (DFT) methods. Our results show that a stack of several layers of Cd-(OH)Cl creates a pocket of positive holes at the Cl-terminated surface and a pocket of electrons at the OH-terminated surface by leading in a difference in ionization energy at both surfaces. The resulting band alignment indicates that Cd-(OH)Cl can indeed play the role of an oxidative catalyst for CdS in a moist environment, thus providing an explanation for the experimental evidence. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001133000900001 |
Publication Date |
2023-12-08 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
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| ISSN |
0897-4756; 1520-5002 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
8.6 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
The experimental research on the cadmium yellow powders/paint mock-ups and The Scream (ca. 1910) was financially supported by the European Union, research projects IPERION-CH (H2020-INFRAIA-2014-2015, GA no. 654028) and IPERION-HS (H2020-INFRAIA-2019-1, GA no. 871034) and the project AMIS within the program Dipartimenti di Eccellenza 2018-2022 (funded by MUR and the University of Perugia). For the beamtime grants received, the authors thank the ESRF-ID21 beamline (experiments HG64 and HG95), the DESY-P06 beamline, a member of the Helmholtz Association HGF (experiments I-20130221 EC and I-20160126 EC), and the project CALIPSOplus under the GA no. 730872 from the E.U. Framework Programme for Research and Innovation Horizon 2020. All of the staff of the MUNCH Museum (Conservation Department) is acknowledged for their collaboration. The computational resources and services used in this work were provided by the VSC (Flemish Supercomputer Center) and the HPC infrastructure of the University of Antwerp (CalcUA), both funded by the FWO – Vlaanderen and the Flemish Government, Department EWI. |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:202836 |
Serial |
8999 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| Author |
Shevchenko, V.A.; Glazkova, I.S.; Novichkov, D.A.; Skvortsova, I.; V. Sobolev, A.; Abakumov, A.M.; Presniakov, I.A.; Drozhzhin, O.A.; V. Antipov, E. |
| Title |
Competition between the Ni and Fe redox in the O3-NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2 cathode material for Na-ion batteries |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Chemistry of materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
35 |
Issue |
10 |
Pages |
4015-4025 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Sodium-ion batteries are attracting great attention due to their low cost and abundance of sodium. The O3-type NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2 layered oxide material is a promising candidate for positive electrodes (cathodes) in Na-ion batteries. However, its stable electrochemical performance is restricted by the upper voltage limit of 4.0 V (vs Na/Na+), which allows for reversibly removing 0.5-0.55 Na+ per formula unit, corresponding to the capacity of 120-130 mAh.g(-1). Further reduction of sodium content inevitably accelerates capacity degradation, and this issue calls for a detailed study of the redox reactions that accompany the electrochemical (de)intercalation of a large amount of sodium. Here, we present operando and ex situ studies using powder X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy combined with Fe-57 Mossbauer spectroscopy. Our approach reveals the sequence of the redox transitions that occur during the charge and discharge of O3-NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2. Our data show that in addition to nickel and iron cations oxidizing to M+4, a part of iron transforms into the “3 + delta” state owing to the fast electron exchange Fe3+ + Fe4+ <-> Fe4+ + Fe3+. This process freezes upon cooling the material to 35 K, producing Fe4+ cations, some of which occupy tetrahedral positions. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
000985970200001 |
Publication Date |
2023-05-04 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0897-4756; 1520-5002 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
8.6 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:197352 |
Serial |
9013 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| |
| Author |
Manzaneda-Gonzalez, V.; Jenkinson, K.; Pena-Rodriguez, O.; Borrell-Grueiro, O.; Trivino-Sanchez, S.; Banares, L.; Junquera, E.; Espinosa, A.; Gonzalez-Rubio, G.; Bals, S.; Guerrero-Martinez, A. |
| Title |
From multi- to single-hollow trimetallic nanocrystals by ultrafast heating |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Chemistry of materials |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
35 |
Issue |
22 |
Pages |
9603-9612 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Metal nanocrystals (NCs) display unique physicochemical features that are highly dependent on nanoparticle dimensions, anisotropy, structure, and composition. The development of synthesis methodologies that allow us to tune such parameters finely emerges as crucial for the application of metal NCs in catalysis, optical materials, or biomedicine. Here, we describe a synthetic methodology to fabricate hollow multimetallic heterostructures using a combination of seed-mediated growth routes and femtosecond-pulsed laser irradiation. The envisaged methodology relies on the coreduction of Ag and Pd ions on gold nanorods (Au NRs) to form Au@PdAg core-shell nanostructures containing small cavities at the Au-PdAg interface. The excitation of Au@PdAg NRs with low fluence femtosecond pulses was employed to induce the coalescence and growth of large cavities, forming multihollow anisotropic Au@PdAg nanostructures. Moreover, single-hollow alloy AuPdAg could be achieved in high yield by increasing the irradiation energy. Advanced electron microscopy techniques, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) tomography, X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy, and finite differences in the time domain (FDTD) simulations allowed us to characterize the morphology, structure, and elemental distribution of the irradiated NCs in detail. The ability of the reported synthesis route to fabricate multimetallic NCs with unprecedented hollow nanostructures offers attractive prospects for the fabrication of tailored high-entropy alloy nanoparticles. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001110623500001 |
Publication Date |
2023-11-06 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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| ISSN |
0897-4756; 1520-5002 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
8.6 |
Times cited |
2 |
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:202144 |
Serial |
9040 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| Author |
De Paepe, J.; Garcia Gragera, D.; Arnau Jimenez, C.; Rabaey, K.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Gòdia, F. |
| Title |
Continuous cultivation of microalgae yields high nutrient recovery from nitrified urine with limited supplementation |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Journal of environmental management |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
345 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
118500-118510 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
| Abstract |
Microalgae can play a key role in the bioeconomy, particularly in combination with the valorisation of waste streams as cultivation media. Urine is an example of a widely available nutrient-rich waste stream, and alkaline stabilization and subsequent full nitrification in a bioreactor yields a stable nitrate-rich solution. In this study, such nitrified urine served as a culture medium for the edible microalga Limnospira indica. In batch cultivation, nitrified urine without additional supplements yielded a lower biomass concentration, nutrient uptake and protein content compared to modified Zarrouk medium, as standard medium. To enhance the nitrogen uptake efficiency and biomass production, nitrified urine was supplemented with potentially limiting elements. Limited amounts of phosphorus (36 mg L−1), magnesium (7.9 mg L−1), calcium (12.2 mg L−1), iron (2.0 mg L−1) and EDTA (88.5 mg Na2-EDTA.2H2O L−1) rendered the nitrified urine matrix as effective as modified Zarrouk medium in terms of biomass production (OD750 of 1.2), nutrient uptake (130 mg N L−1) and protein yield (47%) in batch culture. Urine precipitates formed by alkalinisation could in principle supply enough phosphorus, calcium and magnesium, requiring only external addition of iron, EDTA and inorganic carbon. Subsequently, the suitability of supplemented nitrified urine as a culture medium was confirmed in continuous Limnospira cultivation in a CSTR photobioreactor. This qualifies nitrified urine as a valuable and sustainable microalgae growth medium, thereby creating novel nutrient loops on Earth and in Space, i.e., in regenerative life support systems for human deep-space missions. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001052880800001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-03 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
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| ISSN |
0301-4797 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
8.7 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
Not_Open_Access: Available from 03.02.2024 |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.7; 2023 IF: 4.01 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:199049 |
Serial |
8844 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| Author |
Vermeulen, S.; Cools, J.; Staes, J.; Van Passel, S. |
| Title |
A review of economic assessments of drought risk reduction approaches in agriculture |
Type |
Administrative Services |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Journal of environmental management |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
345 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
118909-118912 |
| Keywords |
Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Ecosphere; Engineering Management (ENM) |
| Abstract |
Due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of droughts are expected to increase. To improve resilience to droughts, proactive drought management is essential. Economic assessments are typically included to decide on the drought risk-reducing investments to make. The choice of both methods and scope of economic assessments influences the outcome, and thus the investment choice. This paper aims to identify how comprehensively economic assessments are applied in practice. Through a systematic literature review, 14 actual economic assessments are identified and their methods are evaluated based on seven criteria for economic assessments as derived from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The results show that in practice, economic assessments rarely address all criteria. Applying a limited number of criteria reduces the scope and narrows the approach, possibly leading to the underestimation of drought risk reduction approaches’ related benefits. Applying the seven criteria in practice will improve the results of economic assessments of drought risk reduction measures, allowing for optimal investment selection. Based on the different criteria, a Framework for Economic Assessments of Drought Risk-Reducing Applications (FEADRRA) is proposed. Applying the criteria of the framework can support decision-makers in drought risk management and in carrying out the most fitting drought interventions. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001080044100001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-31 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0301-4797 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
8.7 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.7; 2023 IF: 4.01 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:199661 |
Serial |
9222 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| Author |
Parrilla, M.; Detamornrat, U.; Domínguez-Robles, J.; Tunca, S.; Donnelly, R.F.; De Wael, K. |
| Title |
Wearable microneedle-based array patches for continuous electrochemical monitoring and drug delivery : toward a closed-loop system for methotrexate treatment |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
ACS sensors |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
acssensors.3c01381-10 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
| Abstract |
Wearable devices based on microneedle (MN) technology have recently emerged as tools for in situ transdermal sensing or delivery in interstitial fluid (ISF). Particularly, MN-based electrochemical sensors allow the continuous monitoring of analytes in a minimally invasive manner through ISF. Exogenous small molecules found in ISF such as therapeutic drugs are ideal candidates for MN sensors due to their correlation with blood levels and their relevance for the optimal management of personalized therapies. Herein, a hollow MN array patch is modified with conductive pastes and functionalized with cross-linked chitosan to develop an MN-based voltammetric sensor for continuous monitoring of methotrexate (MTX). Interestingly, the chitosan coating avoids biofouling while enabling the adsorption of MTX at the electrode’s surface for sensitive analysis. The MN sensor exhibits excellent analytical performance in vitro with protein-enriched artificial ISF and ex vivo under a Franz diffusion cell configuration. The MN sensor shows a linear range from 25 to 400 μM, which fits within the therapeutic range of high-dose MTX treatment for cancer patients and an excellent continuous operation for more than two days. Moreover, an iontophoretic hollow MN array patch is developed with the integration of both the anode and cathode in the single MN array patch. The ex vivo characterization demonstrates the transdermal on-demand drug delivery of MTX. Overall, the combination of both MN patches represents impactful progress in closed-loop systems for therapeutic drug management in disorders such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or psoriasis. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
001109702900001 |
Publication Date |
2023-10-19 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
2379-3694 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
8.9 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
Not_Open_Access: Available from 19.04.2024 |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 8.9; 2023 IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:200074 |
Serial |
8956 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Voordeckers, D.; Lauriks, T.; Baetens, D.; Ysebaert, T.; Denys, S.; Billen, P.; Tytgat, T.; Van Acker, M. |
| Title |
Numerical study on the impact of traffic lane adjustments and low boundary walls on pedestrian exposure to NO2 in street canyons |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Landscape and urban planning |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
243 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
104974-13 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Law; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Research Group for Urban Development; Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS); Research Group for Urban Development; Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS) |
| Abstract |
Mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution, especially on human health, is one of the greater contemporary challenges for cities. Street canyons have herein been identified as bottleneck areas in urbanized environments. Focusing on the necessity of fast-response interventions, strategies to control source-receptor pathways (e.g. implementing low boundary walls (LBWs)) are gaining interest. A potential strategy which is greatly overlooked is the adjustment (reduction or displacement) of traffic lanes in order to increase the distance between source (traffic) and recipient (pedestrians). Within our study, computation fluid dynamics (CFD) is used to simulate the impact of alternations to traffic lanes (whether or not combined with LBWs) on the pedestrian exposure to NO2 for a specific case-study (Belgie center dot lei, Antwerp) under two prevailing wind directions. The average differences in NO2 concentrations for the entire pedestrian area ranged between +1.0 % to-3.6 %. On specific locations, reduction up to-8.0 % were reached. In case of perpendicular winds, a lateral displacement of all traffic lanes towards the windward facade including LBWs was found most beneficial to reduce pedestrian exposure. LBWs also showed to be efficient in reducing potential adverse effects of lane displacement under less frequent wind directions. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
001134403700001 |
Publication Date |
2023-12-06 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0169-2046 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
9.1 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.1; 2023 IF: 4.563 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:201400 |
Serial |
9065 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Baetens, D.; Schoofs, K.; Somers, N.; Denys, S. |
| Title |
A brief review on Multiphysics modelling of the various physical and chemical phenomena occurring in active oxidation reactors |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Current opinion in green and sustainable chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
40 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
100764-100766 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
| Abstract |
Heterogeneous photocatalysis can be used as an advanced oxidation technology frequently studied for application in photoreactors for air and water treatment. Extensive experimental investigation entails high costs and is also time consuming. Multiphysics modelling, a relatively new numerical method, provides a cost-effective and valuable alternative. By reconstructing the reactor geometry in dedicated software, meshing it and solving for occurring physical and chemical phenomena, Multiphysics models can be used to evaluate the performance of different reactor designs, increase insight into the occurring phenomena and study the influence of operational parameters on reactor performance. Finally, Multiphysics models are also developed for various applications like optimising the operational parameters, creating the ideal reactor design or scaling up a lab-scale reactor to a realistic prototype. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
000947344000001 |
Publication Date |
2023-02-02 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
2452-2236 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
9.3 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.3; 2023 IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:195208 |
Serial |
7278 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Perreault, P.; Van Hoecke, L.; Pourfallah, H.; Kummamuru, N.B.; Boruntea, C.-R.; Preuster, P. |
| Title |
Critical challenges towards the commercial rollouts of a LOHC-based H2 economy |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Current opinion in green and sustainable chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
41 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
100836-100838 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
| Abstract |
This short review discusses recent developments related to the storage and release of hydrogen from liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs). It focusses on three areas of recent literature: the application and development of novel, alternative LOHC systems, process development and process integration in the storage and release of hydrogen from LOHCs, and the electrochemical conversion of LOHCs. For the novel LOHC systems, we briefly focus on reaction enthalpy and storage capacity as main KPIs for the comparison of those systems and discuss the technical availability on a relevant scale. In the field of process- and reactor development our emphasis lies on the power density of the chemical conversion units. The LOHC technology still requires further development to reach the necessary energy efficiency, flexibility and overall research maturity for market competitivity and commercial impact. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
001019180100001 |
Publication Date |
2023-05-18 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
2452-2236 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
9.3 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.3; 2023 IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:196520 |
Serial |
8845 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Perreault, P.; Preuster, P. |
| Title |
Editorial hydrogen production storage and use |
Type |
Editorial |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Current opinion in green and sustainable chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
44 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
100861-100863 |
| Keywords |
Editorial; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
| Abstract |
In the pursuit of clean and sustainable energy sources, hydrogen has emerged as a key contender, offering high energy density and the potential to serve as a carbon-neutral fuel. However, one of the major challenges associated with hydrogen is efficient and safe storage and transportation. In this Special Edition, we delve into the exciting developments in the upcoming hydrogen economy, from its sustainable production to chemical hydrogen storage. Some of our reviews focus on particular technologies namely on liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) and the utilization of ammonia as a hydrogen carrier. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
001079651000001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-09 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
2452-2236 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
9.3 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.3; 2023 IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:198505 |
Serial |
8853 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Verbruggen, S.W.; Mul, G. |
| Title |
Editorial overview : photocatalysis 2022 shining light on a diversity of research opportunities |
Type |
Editorial |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Current opinion in green and sustainable chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
42 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
100838-2 |
| Keywords |
Editorial; Engineering sciences. Technology |
| Abstract |
|
| Address |
|
| Corporate Author |
|
Thesis |
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| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
001034184800001 |
Publication Date |
2023-06-03 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
2452-2236 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
9.3 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.3; 2023 IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:197220 |
Serial |
8854 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Fang, C.; Verbrigghe, N.; Sigurdsson, B.D.D.; Ostonen, I.; Leblans, N.I.W.; Maranon-Jimenez, S.; Fuchslueger, L.; Sigurosson, P.; Meeran, K.; Portillo-Estrada, M.; Verbruggen, E.; Richter, A.; Sardans, J.; Penuelas, J.; Bahn, M.; Vicca, S.; Janssens, I.A. |
| Title |
Decadal soil warming decreased vascular plant above and belowground production in a subarctic grassland by inducing nitrogen limitation |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
New phytologist |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
240 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
565-576 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change |
| Abstract |
Below and aboveground vegetation dynamics are crucial in understanding how climate warming may affect terrestrial ecosystem carbon cycling. In contrast to aboveground biomass, the response of belowground biomass to long-term warming has been poorly studied. Here, we characterized the impacts of decadal geothermal warming at two levels (on average +3.3 degrees C and +7.9 degrees C) on below and aboveground plant biomass stocks and production in a subarctic grassland. Soil warming did not change standing root biomass and even decreased fine root production and reduced aboveground biomass and production. Decadal soil warming also did not significantly alter the root-shoot ratio. The linear stepwise regression model suggested that following 10 yr of soil warming, temperature was no longer the direct driver of these responses, but losses of soil N were. Soil N losses, due to warming-induced decreases in organic matter and water retention capacity, were identified as key driver of the decreased above and belowground production. The reduction in fine root production was accompanied by thinner roots with increased specific root area. These results indicate that after a decade of soil warming, plant productivity in the studied subarctic grassland was affected by soil warming mainly by the reduction in soil N. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
001043561400001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-07 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0028-646x |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
9.4 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.4; 2023 IF: 7.33 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:198443 |
Serial |
9199 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Bhatia, H.; Martin, C.; Keshavarz, M.; Dovgaliuk, I.; Schrenker, N.J.; Ottesen, M.; Qiu, W.; Fron, E.; Bremholm, M.; Van de Vondel, J.; Bals, S.; Roeffaers, M.B.J.; Hofkens, J.; Debroye, E. |
| Title |
Deciphering the role of water in promoting the optoelectronic performance of surface-engineered lead halide perovskite nanocrystals |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
ACS applied materials and interfaces |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
15 |
Issue |
5 |
Pages |
7294-7307 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Lead halide perovskites are promising candidates for applicability is limited by their structural instability toward moisture. Although a deliberate addition of water to the precursor solution has recently been shown to improve the crystallinity and optical properties of perovskites, the corresponding thin films still do not exhibit a near-unity quantum yield. Herein, we report that the direct addition of a minute amount of water to post-treated substantially enhances the stability while achieving a 95% photoluminescence quantum yield in a NC thin film. We unveil the mechanism of how moisture assists in the formation of an additional NH4Br component. Alongside, we demonstrate the crucial role of moisture in assisting localized etching of the perovskite crystal, facilitating the partial incorporation of NH4+, which is key for improved performance under ambient conditions. Finally, as a proof-of-concept, the application of post-treated and watertreated perovskites is tested in LEDs, with the latter exhibiting a superior performance, offering opportunities toward commercial application in moisture-stable optoelectronics. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
|
Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
000931729400001 |
Publication Date |
2023-01-27 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1944-8244 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
9.5 |
Times cited |
3 |
Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
| Notes |
H.B. would like to express her sincere gratitude to Dr. Peter Erk (formerly BASF SE, Germany) for very insightful discussions. The authors acknowledge financial support from the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO grant numbers S002019N, 1514220N, G.0B39.15, G.0B49.15, G098319N, and ZW15_09-GOH6316) , the KU Leuven Research Fund (C14/19/079, iBOF-21-085 PERSIST, and STG/21/010) , the Flemish government through long-term structural funding Methusalem (CASAS2, Meth/15/04) , the Hercules Founda-tion (HER/11/14) , and the ERC through the Marie Curie ITN iSwitch Ph.D. fellowship to H.B. (grant number 642196) . C.M. acknowledges the financial support from grants PID2021-128761OA-C22 funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 by the ?European Union? and SBPLY/21/180501/000127 funded by JCCM and by the EU through Fondo Europeo de Desarollo Regional? (FEDER) . Martin Bremholm and Martin Ottesen acknowledge funding from the Danish Council for Independent Research, Natural Sciences, under the Sapere Aude program (grant no. 7027-00077B) and VILLUM FONDEN through the Centre of Excellence for Dirac Materials (grant no. 11744) . Affiliation with the Center for Integrated Materials Research (iMAT) at Aarhus University is gratefully acknowledged.-N.J.S. acknowledges financial support from the research foundation Flanders (FWO) through a postdoctoral fellowship (FWO grant no. 1238622N) . S.B. acknowledges financial support from the European Commission by the ERC Consolidator grant REALNANO (no. 815128) . |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.5; 2023 IF: 7.504 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:195375 |
Serial |
7293 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Mulder, J.T.; Meijer, M.S.; van Blaaderen, J.J.; du Fosse, I.; Jenkinson, K.; Bals, S.; Manna, L.; Houtepen, A.J. |
| Title |
Understanding and preventing photoluminescence quenching to achieve unity photoluminescence quantum yield in Yb:YLF nanocrystals |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
ACS applied materials and interfaces |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
15 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
3274-3286 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Ytterbium-doped LiYF4 (Yb:YLF) is a commonly used material for laser applications, as a photon upconversion medium, and for optical refrigeration. As nanocrystals (NCs), the material is also of interest for biological and physical applications. Unfortunately, as with most phosphors, with the reduction in size comes a large reduction of the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), which is typically associated with an increase in surface-related PL quenching. Here, we report the synthesis of bipyramidal Yb:YLF NCs with a short axis of similar to 60 nm. We systematically study and remove all sources of PL quenching in these NCs. By chemically removing all traces of water from the reaction mixture, we obtain NCs that exhibit a near-unity PLQY for an Yb3+ concentration below 20%. At higher Yb3+ concentrations, efficient concentration quenching occurs. The surface PL quenching is mitigated by growing an undoped YLF shell around the NC core, resulting in near-unity PLQY values even for fully Yb3+-based LiYbF4 cores. This unambiguously shows that the only remaining quenching sites in core-only Yb:YLF NCs reside on the surface and that concentration quenching is due to energy transfer to the surface. Monte Carlo simulations can reproduce the concentration dependence of the PLQY. Surprisingly, Fo''rster resonance energy transfer does not give satisfactory agreement with the experimental data, whereas nearest-neighbor energy transfer does. This work demonstrates that Yb3+-based nanophosphors can be synthesized with a quality close to that of bulk single crystals. The high Yb3+ concentration in the LiYbF4/LiYF4 core/shell nanocrystals increases the weak Yb3+ absorption, making these materials highly promising for fundamental studies and increasing their effectiveness in bioapplications and optical refrigeration. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
000912997300001 |
Publication Date |
2023-01-06 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1944-8244 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
9.5 |
Times cited |
3 |
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under Grant Agreement No. 766900 (Testing the Large-Scale Limit of Quantum Mechanics). A.J.H. and I.d.F. further acknowledge the European Research Council Horizon 2020 ERC Grant Agreement No. 678004 (Doping on Demand) for financial support. The authors thank Freddy Rabouw and Andries Meijerink (Utrecht University) for very fruitful discussions and extremely useful advice. The author s thank Jos Thieme for his help with the laser setups used . The authors furthermore thank Niranjan Saikumar for proofreading the manuscript. |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.5; 2023 IF: 7.504 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:194317 |
Serial |
7348 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Li, L.; Nijs, I.; De Boeck, H.; Vinduskova, O.; Reynaert, S.; Donnelly, C.; Zi, L.; Verbruggen, E. |
| Title |
Longer dry and wet spells alter the stochasticity of microbial community assembly in grassland soils |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Soil biology and biochemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
178 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
108969-9 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; ADReM Data Lab (ADReM); Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change |
| Abstract |
Climate change is increasing the duration of alternating wet and dry spells. These fluctuations affect soil water availability and other soil properties which are crucial drivers of soil microbial communities. While soil microbial communities have a moderate capacity to recover once a drought ceases, the expected alternation of strongly opposing regimes can challenge their capacity to adapt. Here, we set up experimental grassland mesocosms where precipitation frequency was adjusted along a gradient while holding total precipitation constant. The gradient varied the duration of wet and dry spells from 1 to 60 days during a total of 120 days, where we hy-pothesized that especially intermediate durations would increase the importance of stochastic community as-sembly due to frequent alternation of opposing environmental regimes. We examined bacterial and fungal community composition, diversity, co-occurrence patterns and assembly mechanisms across these different precipitation treatments. Our results show that 1) intermediate regimes of wet and dry spells increased the stochasticity of microbial community assembly whereas microbial communities at low and high regimes were subjected to more deterministic assembly, and 2) more persistent precipitation regimes (>6 days duration) reduced the fungal diversity and network connectivity but had little effect on bacterial communities. Collec-tively, these findings indicate that longer alternating wet and dry events lead to a less predictable and connected soil microbial community. This study provides new insight into the likely mechanisms through which precipi-tation persistence alters soil microbial communities and their predictability. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
|
Wos |
000930582500001 |
Publication Date |
2023-01-28 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0038-0717 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
9.7 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.7; 2023 IF: 4.857 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:195257 |
Serial |
9211 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Muys, M.; González Cámara, S.J.; Derese, S.; Spiller, M.; Verliefde, A.; Vlaeminck, S.E. |
| Title |
Dissolution rate and growth performance reveal struvite as a sustainable nutrient source to produce a diverse set of microbial protein |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
The science of the total environment |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
866 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
161172-161179 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
| Abstract |
To provide for the globally increasing demand for proteinaceous food, microbial protein (MP) has the potential to become an alternative food or feed source. Phosphorus (P), on the other hand, is a critical raw material whose global reserves are declining. Growing MP on recovered phosphorus, for instance, struvite obtained from wastewater treatment, is a promising MP production route that could supply protein-rich products while handling P scarcity. The aim of this study was to explore struvite dissolution kinetics in different MP media and characterize MP production with struvite as sole P-source. Different operational parameters, including pH, temperature, contact surface area, and ion concentrations were tested, and struvite dissolution rates were observed between 0.32 and 4.7 g P/L/d and a solubility between 0.23 and 2.22 g P-based struvite/L. Growth rates and protein production of the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris and Limnospira sp. (previously known as Arthrospira sp.), and the purple non‑sulfur bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris on struvite were equal to or higher than growth on conventional potassium phosphate. For aerobic heterotrophic bacteria, two slow-growing communities showed decreased growth on struvite, while the growth was increased for a third fast-growing one. Furthermore, MP protein content on struvite was always comparable to the one obtained when grown on standard media. Together with the low content in metals and micropollutants, these results demonstrate that struvite can be directly applied as an effective nutrient source to produce fast-growing MP, without any previous dissolution step. Combining a high purity recovered product with an efficient way of producing protein results in a strong environmental win-win. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
|
Editor |
|
| Language |
|
Wos |
000922040000001 |
Publication Date |
2022-12-24 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
|
| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0048-9697; 1879-1026 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
9.8 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.8; 2023 IF: 4.9 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:192943 |
Serial |
7297 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Koch, K.; Wuyts, K.; Denys, S.; Samson, R. |
| Title |
The influence of plant species, leaf morphology, height and season on PM capture efficiency in living wall systems |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
The science of the total environment |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
905 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
167808-167811 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
| Abstract |
Green infrastructure (GI) is already known to be a suitable way to enhance air quality in urban environments. Living wall systems (LWS) can be implemented in locations where other forms of GI, such as trees or hedges, are not suitable. However, much debate remains about the variables that influence their particulate matter (PM) accumulation efficiency. This study attempts to clarify which plant species are relatively the most efficient in capturing PM and which traits are decisive when it comes to the implementation of a LWS. We investigated 11 plant species commonly used on living walls, located close to train tracks and roads. PM accumulation on leaves was quantified by magnetic analysis (Saturation Isothermal Remanent Magnetization (SIRM)). Several leaf morphological variables that could potentially influence PM capture were assessed, as well as the Wall Leaf Area Index. A wide range in SIRM values (2.74–417 μA) was found between all species. Differences in SIRM could be attributed to one of the morphological parameters, namely SLA (specific leaf area). This suggest that by just assessing SLA, one can estimate the PM capture efficiency of a plant species, which is extremely interesting for urban greeners. Regarding temporal variation, some species accumulated PM over the growing season, while others actually decreased in PM levels. This decrease can be attributed to rapid leaf expansion and variations in meteorology. Correct assessment of leaf age is important here; we suggest individual labeling of leaves for further studies. Highest SIRM values were found close to ground level. This suggests that, when traffic is the main pollution source, it is most effective when LWS are applied at ground level. We conclude that LWS can act as local sinks for PM, provided that species are selected correctly and systems are applied according to the state of the art. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2023-10-13 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0048-9697; 1879-1026 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
9.8 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.8; 2023 IF: 4.9 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:201033 |
Serial |
9049 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Li, L.; Lin, Q.; Nijs, I.; De Boeck, H.; Beemster, G.T.S.; Asard, H.; Verbruggen, E. |
| Title |
More persistent weather causes a pronounced soil microbial legacy but does not impact subsequent plant communities |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
The science of the total environment |
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
903 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
166570-166578 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change |
| Abstract |
A soil history of exposure to extreme weather may impact future plant growth and microbial community assembly. Currently, little is known about whether and how previous precipitation regime (PR)-induced changes in soil microbial communities influence plant and soil microbial community responses to a subsequent PR. We exposed grassland mesocosms to either an ambient PR (1 day wet-dry alternation) or a persistent PR (30 days consecutive wet-dry alternation) for one year. This conditioned soil was then inoculated as a 10 % fraction into 90 % sterilized “native” soil, after which new plant communities were established and subjected to either the ambient or persistent PR for 60 days. We assessed whether past persistent weather-induced changes in soil microbial community composition affect soil microbial and plant community responses to subsequent weather persistence. The historical regimes caused enduring effects on fungal communities and only temporary effects on bacterial communities, but did not trigger soil microbial legacy effects on plant productivity when exposed to either current PR. This study provides experimental evidence for soil legacy of climate persistence on grassland ecosystems in response to subsequent climate persistence, helping to understand and predict the influences of future climate change on soil biota. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001116596100001 |
Publication Date |
2023-08-24 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
0048-9697; 1879-1026 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
9.8 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
|
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.8; 2023 IF: 4.9 |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:200463 |
Serial |
9213 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Biondo, O.; van Deursen, C.F.A.M.; Hughes, A.; van de Steeg, A.; Bongers, W.; van de Sanden, M.C.M.; van Rooij, G.; Bogaerts, A. |
| Title |
Avoiding solid carbon deposition in plasma-based dry reforming of methane |
Type |
A1 Journal Article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Green Chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
Green Chem. |
| Volume |
25 |
Issue |
24 |
Pages |
10485-10497 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal Article; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ; |
| Abstract |
Solid carbon deposition is a persistent challenge in dry reforming of methane (DRM), affecting both classical and plasma-based processes. In this work, we use a microwave plasma in reverse vortex flow configuration to overcome this issue in CO<sub>2</sub>/CH<sub>4</sub>plasmas. Indeed, this configuration efficiently mitigates carbon deposition, enabling operation even with pure CH<sub>4</sub>feed gas, in contrast to other configurations. At the same time, high reactor performance is achieved, with CO<sub>2</sub>and CH<sub>4</sub>conversions reaching 33% and 44% respectively, at an energy cost of 14 kJ L<sup>−1</sup>for a CO<sub>2</sub> : CH<sub>4</sub>ratio of 1 : 1. Laser scattering and optical emission imaging demonstrate that the shorter residence time in reverse vortex flow lowers the gas temperature in the discharge, facilitating a shift from full to partial CH<sub>4</sub>pyrolysis. This underscores the pivotal role of flow configuration in directing process selectivity, a crucial factor in complex chemistries like CO<sub>2</sub>/CH<sub>4</sub>mixtures and very important for industrial applications. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001110100100001 |
Publication Date |
2023-11-24 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
1463-9262 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
9.8 |
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
Universiteit Antwerpen; Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek; HORIZON EUROPE Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, 813393 ; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.8; 2023 IF: 9.125 |
| Call Number |
PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:202138 |
Serial |
8978 |
| Permanent link to this record |
| |
|
| |
| Author |
Bagherpour, A.; Baral, P.; Colla, M.-S.; Orekhov, A.; Idrissi, H.; Haye, E.; Pardoen, T.; Lucas, S. |
| Title |
Tailoring Mechanical Properties of a-C:H:Cr Coatings |
Type |
A1 Journal Article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
Coatings |
Abbreviated Journal |
Coatings |
| Volume |
13 |
Issue |
12 |
Pages |
2084 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ; |
| Abstract |
The development of coatings with tunable performances is critical to meet a wide range of technological applications each one with different requirements. Using the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) process, scientists can create hydrogenated amorphous carbon coatings doped with metal (a-C:H:Me) with a broad range of mechanical properties, varying from those resembling polymers to ones resembling diamond. These diverse properties, without clear relations between the different families, make the material selection and optimization difficult but also very rich. An innovative approach is proposed here based on projected performance indices related to fracture energy, strength, and stiffness in order to classify and optimize a-C:H:Me coatings. Four different a-C:H:Cr coatings deposited by PECVD with Ar/C2H2 discharge under different bias voltage and pressures are investigated. A path is found to produce coatings with a selective critical energy release rate between 5–125 J/m2 without compromising yield strength (1.6–2.7 GPa) and elastic limit (≈0.05). Finally, fine-tuned coatings are categorized to meet desired applications under different testing conditions. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001136013600001 |
Publication Date |
2023-12-14 |
| Series Editor |
|
Series Title |
|
Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
|
Series Issue |
|
Edition |
|
| ISSN |
2079-6412 |
ISBN |
|
Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
| Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
|
Open Access |
|
| Notes |
Walloon region under the PDR FNRS, C 62/5—PDR/OL 33677636 ; Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research, CDR—J.0113.20 ; National Fund for Scientific Reaserch; |
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
EMAT @ emat @c:irua:202390 |
Serial |
8982 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| |
| Author |
Vlasov, E.; Denisov, N.; Verbeeck, J. |
| Title |
Low-cost electron detector for scanning electron microscope |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
HardwareX |
Abbreviated Journal |
HardwareX |
| Volume |
14 |
Issue |
|
Pages |
e00413 |
| Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Electron microscopy is an indispensable tool for the characterization of (nano) materials. Electron microscopes are typically very expensive and their internal operation is often shielded from the user. This situation can provide fast and high quality results for researchers focusing on e.g. materials science if they have access to the relevant instruments. For researchers focusing on technique development, wishing to test novel setups, however, the high entry price can lead to risk aversion and deter researchers from innovating electron microscopy technology further. The closed attitude of commercial entities about how exactly the different parts of electron microscopes work, makes it even harder for newcomers in this field. Here we propose an affordable, easy-to-build electron detector for use in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The aim of this project is to shed light on the functioning of such detectors as well as show that even a very modest design can lead to acceptable performance while providing high flexibility for experimentation and customization. |
| Address |
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| Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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| Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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| Language |
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Wos |
001042486000001 |
Publication Date |
2023-03-10 |
| Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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| Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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| ISSN |
2468-0672 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
| Impact Factor |
|
Times cited |
1 |
Open Access |
OpenAccess |
| Notes |
The authors acknowledge the financial support of the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO, Belgium) project SBO [Grant No. S000121N]. JV acknowledges funding from the HORIZON-INFRA-2022-TECH-01-01 project IMPRESS [Grant No. 101094299]. |
Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
EMAT @ emat @c:irua:195886 |
Serial |
7252 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| |
| Author |
Van Alphen, S. |
| Title |
Modelling plasma reactors for sustainable CO2 conversion and N2 fixation |
Type |
Doctoral thesis |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
|
Abbreviated Journal |
|
| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
202 p. |
| Keywords |
Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT) |
| Abstract |
200 years ago, humanity started the industrial revolution by discovering fossil fuels, which lead to unprecedented technological advancements. However it has become alarmingly clear that the major environmental concerns associated with fossil fuels require a short-term transition from a carbon-based energy economy to a sustainable one based on green electricity. A key step concerning this transition exists in developing electricity-driven alternatives for chemical processes that rely on fossil fuels as a raw material. A technology that is gaining increasing interest to achieve this, is plasma technology. Using plasmas to induce chemical reactions by selectively heating electrons in a gas has already delivered promising results for gas conversion applications like CO2 conversion and N2 fixation, but plasma reactors still require optimization to be considered industrially competitive to existing fossil fuel-based processes and emerging other electricity-based technologies. In this thesis I develop computational models to describe plasma reactors and identify key mechanisms in three different plasma reactors for three different gas conversion applications, i.e. N2 fixation, combined CO2-CH4 conversion and CO2 splitting. I first developed models to describe a new rotating gliding arc (GA) reactor operating in two arc modes, which, as revealed by my model, are characterized by distinct plasma chemistry pathways. Subsequently, my colleague and I study the quenching effect of an effusion nozzle to this rotating GA reactor, reaching the best results to date for N2 fixation into NOx at atmospheric pressure, i.e., NOx concentrations up to 5.9%, at an energy cost down to 2.1 MJ/mol. Afterwards, I investigate the possible improvement of N2 admixtures in plasma-based CO2 and CH4 conversion, as significant amounts of N2 are often found in industrial CO2 waste streams, and gas separations are financially costly. Through combining my models with the experiment from a fellow PhD student, we reveal that moderate amounts of N2 (i.e. around 20%) increase both the electron density and the gas temperature to yield an overall energy cost reduction of 21%. Finally, I model quenching nozzles for plasma-based CO2 conversion in a microwave reactor, to explain the enhancements in CO2 conversion that were demonstrated in experiments. Through computational modelling I reveal that the nozzle introduces fast gas quenching resulting in the suppression of recombination reactions, which have more impact at low flow rates, where recombination is the most limiting factor in the conversion process. |
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Publication Date |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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| Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:194811 |
Serial |
7270 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| Author |
Kovács, A. |
| Title |
A structured methodology for natural deep eutectic solvent selection and formulation for enzymatic reactions |
Type |
Doctoral thesis |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
|
Abbreviated Journal |
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| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
viii, 216 p. |
| Keywords |
Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS) |
| Abstract |
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) show great promise as media for enzymatic reactions in areas where (bio)compatibility with natural or medicinal products is a must. While in theory they can be tailored to the intended reaction to ensure optimized yields, the knowledge to date is predominantly empirical, with some mechanistic reports providing a fragmented view at best. Therefore, it is not easy to explain experimental observations, let alone make predictions. The aim of this study was to develop a structured, holistic understanding of the effects of NADES media on enzymatic reactions, distinguishing between effects on solubility, solvation, viscosity, inhibition and denaturation. Experimental and computational chemistry methods were combined to separately study the interactions between enzyme, substrate, and NADES as reaction media. The initial enzyme activity and the final conversion of vinyl laurate transesterification by immobilized Candida antarctica lipase were studied experimentally. The direct effect of NADES on the same enzyme was modeled by molecular dynamics simulation. The effect of solubility was studied by both experimental and computational methods. To predict the solubility and viscosity of NADES, data-driven models were developed by combining group contribution and machine learning methods, based on the accumulated experimental knowledge on NADES found in the literature. Finally, the composed relationships and prediction models were applied to the practical example of deacetylation of mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs). The experimental findings show that the chosen NADES system has a significant effect on both the apparent initial activity and the final conversion. However, in the simulations, the enzyme retains its original structure; moreover, NADES has an additional stabilizing effect on the enzyme. In addition, changes in the molar ratio of the compounds in NADES do not show a significant effect on the stability of the enzyme. These results indicate that the main effect of NADES on the reaction is mainly related to the substrate-solvent interactions (solvation energy) and the viscosity of the system. On the other hand, the experimental results only confirmed the significance of solvation, viscosity did not show a clear correlation with the studied reaction parameters. The machine learning models built for solubility and viscosity gave quantitative predictions of these properties. The accumulated knowledge was used to optimize the yield in the deacetylation reaction of MELs. The combination of these methods provides fundamental knowledge about the effect of NADES on biocatalysis, but the results are also applicable to other uses of NADES. |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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| Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:194886 |
Serial |
7276 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| Author |
De Backer, J. |
| Title |
The versatile nature of cytoglobin, the Swiss army knife among globins, with a preference for oxidative stress |
Type |
Doctoral thesis |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
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Abbreviated Journal |
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| Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
XVIII, 232 p. |
| Keywords |
Doctoral thesis; Pharmacology. Therapy; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Proteinscience, proteomics and epigenetic signaling (PPES) |
| Abstract |
Since its discovery 20 years ago, many studies have been performed to gain insight into the functional role of cytoglobin (Cygb). However, Cygb has been proven to be a promiscuous protein. Yet, there is a consensus that Cygb is a cytoprotective protein involved in redox homeostasis. CYGB is a ubiquitously expressed hexacoordinated globin that is highly expressed in melanocytes and is often found to be downregulated during melanocyte-to-melanoma transition. In Chapter III, we investigated the molecular mechanism through which CYGB could be involved in redox regulation. Here, we showed that CYGB contains two redox-sensitive cysteine residues and that the formation of an intramolecular disulfide bridge resulted in the heme group becoming more accessible to external ligands. This supports the hypothesis that Cys38 and Cys83 serve as sensitive redox sensors. In Chapter IV we showed that CYGB mRNA and protein levels were elevated upon exposure to hypoxia. Interestingly, this upregulation was most likely HIF-2α-dependent. We propose that in melanoma, HIF-2α, rather than HIF-1α, positively regulates CYGB under hypoxic conditions in a cell type specific way. In Chapter V, the cytotoxic effect of indirect NTP treatment in two melanoma cell lines with divergent endogenous CYGB expression levels was investigated. We confirmed that NTP endows cytotoxicity that induces cell death through apoptosis and that this was mediated through the production of ROS. Moreover, we showed that CYGB protects melanoma cells from ROS-induced apoptosis by the scavenging of ROS. Interestingly, CYGB expression influenced the expression of NRF2 and HO-1. We identified the lncRNA MEG3 as a possible mechanism through which NRF2 expression and its downstream target HO-1 can be regulated by CYGB. In chapter VI, increased basal ROS levels and higher degree of lipid peroxidation upon RSL3 treatment contributed to the increased sensitivity of CYGB knockdown G361 cells to ferroptosis. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis demonstrates the enrichment of multiple cancer malignancy pathways upon CYGB knockdown, supporting a tumor-suppressive role for CYGB. Remarkably, CYGB expression regulation was identified as a critical determinant of the ferroptosis–pyroptosis therapy response. This suggests that CYGB is involved in the regulation of multiple modes of programmed cell death. FInally, we sought to delineate the RONS that are responsible for plasma-induced ICD. Our results highlight the importance of the short-lived species. Furthermore, we are first to demonstrate that NTP-created vaccine is safely prepared and offers complete protection. Moreover, we provide conclusive evidence that direct application of NTP induces ICD in melanoma. |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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| Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:193568 |
Serial |
7277 |
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| Author |
Khan, S.U. |
| Title |
Singlet oxygen-based photoelectrocatalysis : from photosensitizer structures to plasmonic enhancement |
Type |
Doctoral thesis |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
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Abbreviated Journal |
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| Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
182 p. |
| Keywords |
Doctoral thesis; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
| Abstract |
Singlet molecular oxygen (1O2) has continuously attracted researchers' interest because of its involvement in various processes, such as in photodynamic reactions in biological and chemical systems. 1O2 is an effective electrophile and potent oxidizing agent and can be easily generated by photosensitization via the illumination of organic dyes with visible light. As described in Chapter 1, 1O2 has gained prominence in various applications such as wastewater treatment, photodynamic therapy of cancer, organic synthesis, and recently developed 1O2-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensing of phenolic compounds. Phenolic compounds are a potential source of contaminants that originates from industrial effluents and waste products of chemical and pharmaceutical industries. These phenolic compounds pose severe threats to humans and aquatic life after reaching the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to develop photoactive materials that efficiently generate 1O2 and oxidize phenolic compounds and antibiotics. The existing 1O2 generating photosensitizers (PSs) include porphyrins, phthalocyanines (Pcs), subphthalocyanines (SubPcs), and other dyes such as derivatives of xanthene (e.g., Rose Bengal (RB)), and fluorinated boron-dipyrromethene (BODIPYs), and phenothiazinium dyes (e. g. Methylene Blue (MB)) which display long-lived triplet excited state and can be used in 1O2-based applications. This thesis focuses on preparing efficient hybrid materials based on newly synthesized Pcs, different surface area titanium dioxide (TiO2) and plasmonic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for their use in the PEC detection of phenolic compounds. The first focus was on developing a fast amperometric method to test the photo-electrocatalytic activity of 1O2 producing PSs dissolved in MeOH based on the redox cycling of an electroactive phenolic compound, hydroquinone (HQ) (Chapter 2). This method of testing PSs does not require the accumulation of a reaction product since the amperometric signal develops near instantly when the light is on, which enables dynamic monitoring of a PSs activity at varying conditions in a single experiment. This method was crucial to measure high 1O2 quantum yield and low yield in the same experimental conditions. Moreover, the obtained results revealed a range of working parameters affecting the PEC activity of PSs. The next goal was to immobilize tert-butyl substituted aluminum Pc (t-BuPcAlCl) on the solid support, which showed a high 1O2 quantum yield. However, before immobilizing Pc on a solid support such as TiO2, it is essential to know the electronic energy level of Pcs for the possible electron transfers from Pcs to TiO2. Therefore, Chapter 3 explored the (spectro)electrochemical properties of t-BuPcAlCl Pc. Next, in Chapter 4, t-BuPcAlCl Pc and other tert-butyl substituted Pcs with Zn central metal, t-BuPcZn, and its metal-free derivative t-BuPcH2 were immobilized on different surface area TiO2. The PEC activity of immobilized Pcs on TiO2 toward different phenols and antibiotics was studied, and the action mechanism was revealed and compared with sterically hindered fluorinated Pc F64PcZn. In the final part of this thesis plasmonic AuNPs were introduced combined with trimethylsilane-protected acetylene functionalized ZnPc (TMSZnPc) to study the synergistic effect that boosts the overall activity toward the detection of phenols under visible light illumination (Chapter 5) . The TMSZnPc was coupled with AuNPs via a click chemistry approach. The 1O2 quantum yield of TMSZnPc improved significantly after conjugating with AuNPs, and, subsequently, the PEC activity for detecting HQ. The theoretical and experimental investigation demonstrated that the plasmonic enhancement of TMSZnPc is driven by the near-field mechanism. This shows the importance of plasmonic AuNPs with other photoactive species for their use in 1O2-based applications. The fundamental knowledge obtained in this doctoral study will ultimately deepen the understanding of developing 1O2-based PEC sensors for detecting phenolic compounds and pharmaceuticals in the wastewater stream, helping to choose efficient materials and, in the last instance, a more sustainable future especially access to clean water for everyone. |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
| Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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| Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
| Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:193342 |
Serial |
7337 |
| Permanent link to this record |
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| Author |
Yang, T. |
| Title |
Characterization of Laves phase structural evolution and regulation of its precipitation behavior in Al-Zn-Mg based alloys |
Type |
Doctoral thesis |
| Year |
2023 |
Publication |
|
Abbreviated Journal |
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| Volume |
|
Issue |
|
Pages |
ii, 106 p. |
| Keywords |
Doctoral thesis; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
| Abstract |
Al-Zn-Mg-based high strength alloys are widely used in aerospace applications due to their low density and excellent mechanical properties. A systematic study of the structural evolution of the nano-precipitation phase and its growth mechanism is an important guide for the design of new high-strength alloys. In this work, the Laves structure precipitates in Al-Zn-Mg(-Cu/Y) alloy was systematically characterized. Based on the structure evolution, the structure of submicron Laves particles and quasicrystalline particles in the alloy at microscale, as well as the regulation of the precipitation behavior after adding Y at nanoscale were further investigated. The main innovative results are summarized as follows: (1) Investigation on coexistence of defect structures in Laves structural nanoprecipitates. Three types of Laves structures can coexist within the η-MgZn2 precipitates: C14, C15 and C36, and the Laves structure transition sequence of C14→C36→C15 in this system was determined. Meanwhile, it was found that there are diverse defect structures in the MgZn2 phase, including stacking faults, planar defects and five-fold domain structures, which have significant effects on relieving the internal stress/strain of the precipitates. (2) Investigation on multiple phase transition of Laves structural nanoprecipitates from C14 to C36 and from C14 to quasicrystal clusters. It is found that C14 precipitates can be completely transformed into the C36 precipitates. And it is also found that the C14 Laves phase structure can also transform into quasicrystalline clusters. These investigations on various phase transition mechanisms among Laves phases provide theoretical support for the microstructural characterization of materials containing multi-scale Laves phases. (3) Characterization of Laves and quasicrystal structural particles in submicron scale. Submicron-scale quasicrystal particles were obtained in conventional casting Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys for the first time. Industrial impurity elements Fe and Ni can induce the formation of quasicrystalline particles. When there is no Fe/Ni enriched in particles, the structure is characterized as C15-Laves phase. When Fe/Ni is as quasicrystalline core, a stable core-shell quasicrystalline structure with Al-Fe-Ni nucleus and Mg-Cu-Zn shell can be formed. (4) Investigation on the regulation of nanoscale Laves precipitates’ growth. To regulate the defect structure of the precipitates, rare earth element Y was added in Al-Zn-Mg alloys and its influence on the precipitation behavior was investigated. The addition of Y element can dynamically combine with different alloying elements during aging process, which can refine the size of precipitate and further improve the nucleation rate and precipitation rate of the precipitates. |
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UA library record |
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Most recent IF: NA |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:196404 |
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7631 |
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