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Author Van De Vijver, E.; Delbecque, N.; Verdoodt, A.; Seuntjens, P.
Title Estimating the urban soil information gap using exhaustive land cover data: The example of Flanders, Belgium Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Geoderma Abbreviated Journal Geoderma
Volume 372 Issue Pages 114371
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Human activities related to urbanization and industrialization have established a vast territory of urban soil worldwide. On traditional soil maps, urban and industrial areas usually appear as blind spots as they were beyond the interest of national soil survey campaigns. Furthermore, these soil maps are likely already outdated with respect to urban soil due to rapid urban expansion in recent decades. This research aims to evaluate the use of land cover data to estimate the urban soil information gap considering the highly urbanized region of Flanders, Belgium, as a case study. The current extent and spatial distribution of anthropogenic urban soil (1) was estimated through reclassification of recently acquired (2012) exhaustive land cover data, discriminating three qualitative likelihood levels (high-intermediate-low) of anthropogenic influence by urbanization, and (2) compared with its occurrence as represented by the 'Technosols/Not Surveyed area' in the legacy soil map of Belgium, as this map unit best matches with the likelihood for anthropogenic urban soil at the time of the National Soil Survey conducted between end 1940s and mid 1970s. The proposed reclassification of the land cover map resulted in 16.3% and 16.7% of Flanders' total area that corresponds with a high and intermediate likelihood for anthropogenic urban soil, which highlights the underestimation of the anthropogenic urban soil extent as represented by the 'Technosol/Not Surveyed' unit in the legacy soil map (only 13.7%). Moreover, a more realistic spatial pattern of anthropogenic urban soil occurrence was obtained, providing an improved basis for urban soil spatial analysis studies. The produced anthropogenic urban soil likelihood map therefore presents a useful supporting tool for coordinating future soil surveys in urban environments.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000535713600006 Publication Date 2020-04-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0016-7061 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.1 Times cited 2 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.1; 2020 IF: 4.036
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:170153 Serial 6510
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Author Van Eynde, E.; Lenaerts, B.; Tytgat, T.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Valorization of flue gas by combining photocatalytic gas pretreatment with microalgae production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Environmental science and technology Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Technol
Volume 50 Issue 5 Pages 2538-2545
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Utilization of flue gas for algae cultivation seems to be a promising route because flue gas from fossil-fuel combustion processes contains the high amounts of carbon (CO2) and nitrogen (NO) that are required for algae growth. NO is a poor nitrogen source for algae cultivation because of its low reactivity and solubility in water and its toxicity for algae at high concentrations. Here, we present a novel strategy to valorize NO from flue gas as feedstock for algae production by combining a photocatalytic gas pretreatment unit with a microalgal photobioreactor. The photocatalytic air pretreatment transforms NO gas into NO2 gas and thereby enhances the absorption of NO in the cultivation broth. The absorbed NOx will form NO2- and NO3- that can be used as a nitrogen source by algae. The effect of photocatalytic air pretreatment on the growth and biomass productivity of the algae Thalassiosira weissflogii in a semicontinuous system aerated with a model flue gas (1% CO2 and 50 ppm of NO) is investigated during a long-term experiment. The integrated system makes it possible to produce algae with NO from flue gas as the sole nitrogen source and reduces the NOx content in the exhaust gas by 84%.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000371371700048 Publication Date 2016-02-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.198 Times cited 6 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.198
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:132348 Serial 6003
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Author De Paepe, J.; Clauwaert, P.; Gritti, M.C.; Ganigue, R.; Sas, B.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Rabaey, K.
Title Electrochemical in situ pH control enables chemical-free full urine nitrification with concomitant nitrate extraction Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Environmental Science & Technology Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Technol
Volume 55 Issue 12 Pages 8287-8298
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Urine is a valuable resource for nutrient recovery. Stabilization is, however, recommended to prevent urea hydrolysis and the associated risk for ammonia volatilization, uncontrolled precipitation, and malodor. This can be achieved by alkalinization and subsequent biological conversion of urea and ammonia into nitrate (nitrification) and organics into CO2. Yet, without pH control, the extent of nitrification is limited as a result of insufficient alkalinity. This study explored the feasibility of an integrated electrochemical cell to obtain on-demand hydroxide production through water reduction at the cathode, compensating for the acidification caused by nitritation, thereby enabling full nitrification. To deal with the inherent variability of the urine influent composition and bioprocess, the electrochemical cell was steered via a controller, modulating the current based on the pH in the bioreactor. This provided a reliable and innovative alternative to base addition, enabling full nitrification while avoiding the use of chemicals, the logistics associated with base storage and dosing, and the associated increase in salinity. Moreover, the electrochemical cell could be used as an in situ extraction and concentration technology, yielding an acidic concentrated nitrate-rich stream. The make-up of the end product could be tailored by tweaking the process configuration, offering versatility for applications on Earth and in space.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000663939900052 Publication Date 2021-06-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.198 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.198
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179779 Serial 7862
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Author Alloul, A.; Cerruti, M.; Adamczyk, D.; Weissbrodt, D.G.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Operational strategies to selectively produce purple bacteria for microbial protein in raceway reactors Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Environmental Science & Technology Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Technol
Volume 55 Issue 12 Pages 8278-8286
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) show potential for microbial protein production on wastewater as animal feed. They offer good selectivity (i.e., low microbial diversity and high abundance of one species) when grown anaerobically in the light. However, the cost of closed anaerobic photobioreactors is prohibitive for protein production. Although open raceway reactors are cheaper, their feasibility to selectively grow PNSB is thus far unexplored. This study developed operational strategies to boost PNSB abundance in the biomass of a raceway reactor fed with volatile fatty acids. For a flask reactor run at a 2 day sludge retention time (SRT), matching the chemical oxygen demand (COD) loading rate to the removal rate in the light period prevented substrate availability during the dark period and increased the PNSB abundance from 50-67 to 88-94%. A raceway reactor run at a 2 day SRT showed an increased PNSB abundance from 14 to 56% when oxygen supply was reduced (no stirring at night). The best performance was achieved at the highest surface-to-volume ratio (10 m(2) m(-3) increased light availability) showing productivities up to 0.2 g protein L-1 day(-1) and a PNSB abundance of 78%. This study pioneered in PNSB-based microbial protein production in raceway reactors, yielding high selectivity while avoiding the combined availability of oxygen, COD, and darkness.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000663939900051 Publication Date 2021-06-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.198 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.198
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179768 Serial 8334
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Author Van Eynde, E.; Hu, Z.-Y.; Tytgat, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Watte, J.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Van Driessche, I.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Diatom silica-titania photocatalysts for air purification by bio-accumulation of different titanium sources Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Environmental science : nano Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci-Nano
Volume 3 Issue 5 Pages 1052-1061
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract We present a green, biological production route for silica-titania photocatalysts using diatom microalgae. Diatoms are single-celled, eukaryotic microalgae (2-2000 mu m) that self-assemble soluble silicon (Si(OH)(4)) into intricate silica cell walls, called frustules. These diatom frustules are formed under ambient conditions and consist of hydrated silica with specific 3D morphologies and micro-meso or macroporosity. A remarkable characteristic of diatoms is their ability to bioaccumulate soluble titanium from cell culture medium and incorporate them into their nanostructured silica cell wall. Controlled cultivation of the diatom Pinnularia sp. on soluble titanium in a batch process resulted in the biological immobilisation of titanium dioxide in the porous 3D architecture of the frustules. Six different titanium sources are tested. The silica-titania frustules were isolated by treating the harvested Pinnularia cells with nitric acid (65%) or by high temperature treatment. Thermal annealing converted the amorphous titania into crystalline titania. The produced silica-titania material is evaluated towards photocatalytic activity for acetaldehyde (C2H4O) abatement. Frustules cultivated with TiBaldH showed the highest photocatalytic performance. Comparison of the photocatalytic activity with P25 reveals that P25 has a 4 fold higher photocatalytic activity, but when photocatalytic activity is normalized for titania content, the frustules show double activity. Further material characterization (morphology, crystallinity, surface area and elemental distribution) of the TiBaldH silica-titania frustules provides additional insight into their structure-activity relationship. These natural biosilicatitania materials have excellent properties for photocatalytic purposes, including high surface area (108 m(2) g(-1)) and good porosity, and show reliable immobilization of TiO2 in the ordered structure of the diatom frustule.
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Publisher Royal Society of Chemistry Place of Publication Cambridge Editor
Language Wos 000385257900011 Publication Date 2016-07-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2051-8153; 2051-8161 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.047 Times cited 7 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.047
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:144751 Serial 4644
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Author Buysse, C.; Kovalevsky, A.; Snijkers, F.; Buekenhoudt, A.; Mullens, S.; Luyten, J.; Kretzschmar, J.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Development, performance and stability of sulfur-free, macrovoid-free BSCF capillaries for high temperature oxygen separation from air Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Journal of membrane science Abbreviated Journal J Membrane Sci
Volume 372 Issue 1/2 Pages 239-248
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Capture and storage of CO2 (CCS) from fossil-fuel power plants is vital in order to counteract a pending anthropogenic global warming. High temperature oxygen transport perovskite membranes can fulfill an important role in the separation of oxygen from air needed in the oxy-fuel technologies for CCS. In this study we present the development, performance and stability of gastight, macrovoid-free and sulfur-free Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3 − δ (BSCF) mixed conductor capillary membranes prepared by phase-inversion spinning and sintering. A sulfur-free phase-inversion polymer was chosen in order to obtain a phase-pure BSCF crystal phase. Special attention was given to the polymer solution and ceramic spinning suspension in order to avoid macrovoids and achieve gastight membranes. The sulfur-free BSCF capillaries showed an average 4-point bending strength of 64 ± 8 MPa and a maximum oxygen flux of not, vert, similar5.3 Nml/(cm2 min) at 950 °C for an argon sweep flow rate of 125 Nml/min. The comparison of the performance of sulfur-free and sulfur-containing BSCF capillaries with similar dimensions revealed a profound impact of the sulfur contamination on both the oxygen flux and the activation energy of the overall oxygen transport mechanism. Both long-term oxygen permeation at different temperatures and post-operation analysis of a sulfur-free BSCF capillary were performed and discussed.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000289829200026 Publication Date 2011-02-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0376-7388 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.035 Times cited 32 Open Access
Notes ; The authors want to express their thanks to the VITO staff for their continuous support, especially B. Molenberghs, W. Doyen, H. Beckers, R. Kemps, M. Mertens, M. Schoeters and H. Chen. C. Buysse thankfully acknowledges a PhD scholarship provided by VITO and the University of Antwerp. This work is performed in the framework of the German Helmholtz Alliance Project “MEM-BRAIN”, aiming at the development of gas separation membranes for zero-emission fossil fuel power plants. ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.035; 2011 IF: 3.850
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:89916 Serial 5942
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Author Kovalevsky, A.; Buysse, C.; Snijkers, F.; Buekenhoudt, A.; Luyten, J.; Kretzschmar, J.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Oxygen exchange-limited transport and surface activation of Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-\delta capillary membranes Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Journal of membrane science Abbreviated Journal J Membrane Sci
Volume 368 Issue 1/2 Pages 223-232
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Analysis of oxygen permeation fluxes through Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ (BSCF) capillary membranes, fabricated via a phase-inversion spinning technique using polysulfone as binder, showed a significant limiting role of the surface-oxygen exchange kinetics. Within the studied temperature and oxygen partial pressure ranges, the activation of core and shell sides of the BSCF capillary with praseodymium oxide (PrOx) resulted in an increase in permeation rate of about 300%. At 11231223 K the activated BSCF membranes demonstrate almost 3-times lower activation energies for the overall oxygen transport (not, vert, similar35 kJ/mol) than the non-activated capillaries, indicating that the mechanism of oxygen transport through the activated capillaries becomes significantly controlled by bulk diffusion limitations, allowing further improvement of the overall performance by decreasing the wall thickness. XRD, EDS and EPMA studies revealed the formation of (Pr,Ba,Sr)(Co,Fe)O3−δ perovskite-type oxides on the surface of the PrOx-modified membranes, which may be responsible for the drastic increase in oxygen exchange rate. At T > 1123 K both non-activated and activated Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ membranes demonstrate stable performance with time, while at 1073 K only a small initial decrease in permeation was observed.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000286701800027 Publication Date 2010-11-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0376-7388 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.035 Times cited 21 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by the German Helmholtz Alliance Project “MEM-BRAIN”, aiming at the development of gas separation membranes for zero-emission fossil fuel power plants. Experimental assistance of B. Molenberghs, W. Doyen, H. Chen, R. Kemps, M. Mertens, I. Thijs, and W. Bouwen (VITO) is gratefully acknowledged. ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.035; 2011 IF: 3.850
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:88072 Serial 5975
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Author Buysse, C.; Kovalevsky, A.; Snijkers, F.; Buekenhoudt, A.; Mullens, S.; Luyten, J.; Kretzschmar, J.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Fabrication and oxygen permeability of gastight, macrovoid-free Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-\delta capillaries for high temperature gas separation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2010 Publication Journal of membrane science Abbreviated Journal J Membrane Sci
Volume 359 Issue 1-2 Pages 86-92
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Oxygen-permeable perovskites with mixed ionic-electronic conducting properties can play an important role in the separation of oxygen from air which is needed in the oxy-fuel and pre-combustion technologies for the removal and capture of CO2. In this work, gastight, macrovoid-free Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3−δ (BSCF) capillaries were successfully shaped by a phase-inversion spinning technique, followed by calcination and sintering. It was found that both the rheology of the ceramic suspension and the composition of bore liquid and coagulation bath are key factors for making macrovoid-free green capillaries. Gastight BSCF capillaries were obtained by sintering for 5 h at 1100 °C. The sintered BSCF capillaries contained a significant amount of BaSO4 due to a reaction with the polysulfone binder during calcination. The oxygen permeation flux through the BSCF capillaries was measured and compared to literature data on BSCF disk and hollow fiber membranes measured in similar conditions.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000279953300010 Publication Date 2009-10-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0376-7388 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.035 Times cited 38 Open Access
Notes ; The authors want to express their thanks to the VITO personnel for their continuous support, especially B. Molenberghs, W. Doyen, H. Beckers (Separation and Conversion Technology, VITO), R. Kemps, M. Mertens, I. Thijs, M. Schoeters, W. Bouwen and J. Cooymans (Materials Department, VITO). C. Buysse thankfully acknowledges a PhD scholarship provided by VITO and the University of Antwerp. This work is performed in the framework of the German Helmholtz Alliance Project “MEM-BRAIN”, aiming at the development of gas separation membranes for zero-emission fossil fuel power plants. ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 6.035; 2010 IF: 3.673
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:82008 Serial 5950
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Author Castanheiro, A.; Hofman, J.; Nuyts, G.; Joosen, S.; Spassov, S.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.; De Wael, K.; Samson, R.
Title Leaf accumulation of atmospheric dust : biomagnetic, morphological and elemental evaluation using SEM, ED-XRF and HR-ICP-MS Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Atmospheric Environment Abbreviated Journal Atmos Environ
Volume 221 Issue 221 Pages 117082
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Atmospheric dust deposition on plants enables the collection of site-specific particulate matter (PM). Knowing the morphology and composition of PM aids in disclosing their emitting sources as well as the associated human health risk. Therefore, this study aimed for a leaf-level holistic analysis of dust accumulation on plant leaves. Plant species (ivy and strawberry) with distinct leaf macro- and micro-morphology were exposed during 3 months at a moderate road traffic site in Antwerp, Belgium. Leaves collected every three weeks were analyzed for their magnetic signature, morphology and elemental content, by a combination of techniques (biomagnetic analyses, ED-XRF, HR-ICP-MS, SEM). Dust accumulation on the leaves was observed both visually (SEM) and magnetically, while the metal enrichment was limited (only evident for Cr) and more variable over time. Temporal dynamics during the second half of the exposure period, due to precipitation events and reduction of atmospheric pollution input, were evidenced in our results (elements/magnetically/SEM). Ivy accumulated more dust than strawberry leaves and seemed less susceptible to wash-off, even though strawberry leaves contain trichomes and a rugged micromorphology, leaf traits considered to be important for capturing PM. The magnetic enrichment (in small-grained, SD/PSD magnetite particles), on the other hand, was not species-specific, indicating a common contributing source. Variations in pollution contributions, meteorological phenomena, leaf traits, particle deposition (and encapsulation) versus micronutrients depletion, are discussed in light of the conducted monitoring campaign. Although not completely elucidative, the complex, multifactorial process of leaf dust accumulation can better be understood through a combination of techniques.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000503097100001 Publication Date 2019-11-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1352-2310 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access
Notes ; The authors thank the Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) for their collaboration and air quality and meteorological data, and Karen Wuyts for the discussion about plant leaf characteristics. A.C. gratefully acknowledges the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for her PhD fellowship (1S21418N). J.H. received a FWO postdoctoral fellowship grant (1214816N). ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5; 2020 IF: 3.629
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:165458 Serial 5691
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Author Borah, R.; Smets, J.; Ninakanti, R.; Tietze, M.L.; Ameloot, R.; Chigrin, D.N.; Bals, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Self-assembled ligand-capped plasmonic Au nanoparticle films in the Kretschmann configuration for sensing of volatile organic compounds Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication ACS applied nano materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue 8 Pages acsanm.2c02524-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Films of close-packed Au nanoparticles are coupled electrodynamically through their collective plasmon resonances. This collective optical response results in enhanced light–matter interactions, which can be exploited in various applications. Here, we demonstrate their application in sensing volatile organic compounds, using methanol as a test case. Ordered films over several cm2 were obtained by interfacial self-assembly of colloidal Au nanoparticles (∼10 nm diameter) through controlled evaporation of the solvent. Even though isolated nanoparticles of this size are inherently nonscattering, when arranged in a close-packed film the plasmonic coupling results in a strong reflectance and absorbance. The in situ tracking of vapor phase methanol concentration through UV–vis transmission measurements of the nanoparticle film is first demonstrated. Next, in situ ellipsometry of the self-assembled films in the Kretschmann (also known as ATR) configuration is shown to yield enhanced sensitivity, especially with phase difference measurements, Δ. Our study shows the excellent agreement between theoretical models of the spectral response of self-assembled films with experimental in situ sensing experiments. At the same time, the theoretical framework provides the basis for the interpretation of the various observed experimental trends. Combining periodic nanoparticle films with ellipsometry in the Kretschmann configuration is a promising strategy toward highly sensitive and selective plasmonic thin-film devices based on colloidal fabrication methods for volatile organic compound (VOC) sensing applications.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000834348300001 Publication Date 2022-07-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2574-0970 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.9 Times cited 11 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes R.B. acknowledges financial support from the University of Antwerp Special Research Fund (BOF) for a DOCPRO4 doctoral scholarship. J.S. acknowledges financial support from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) by a Ph.D. fellowship (11H8121N) . M.L.T. acknowledges financial support from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) by a senior postdoctoral fellowship (12ZK720N) . Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.9
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189295 Serial 7095
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Author Li, J.; Zhu, W.; Dong, H.; Yang, Z.; Zhang, P.; Qiang, Z.
Title Impact of carrier on ammonia and organics removal from zero-discharge marine recirculating aquaculture system with sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR) Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Environmental Science And Pollution Research Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Pollut R
Volume 27 Issue 28 Pages 34614-34623
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Marine recirculating aquaculture system (MRAS) is an effective technology that provides sustainable farming of food fish globally. However, dissolved organics material (chemical oxygen demand, COD) and especially ammonia are produced from uneaten feed and metabolic wastes of fish. To purify the MRAS water, this study adopted a sequencing biofilm batch reactor (SBBR) and comparatively investigated the performances of four different carriers on ammonia and COD removal. Results indicated that the NH4+-N removal rates were 0.045 +/- 0.05, 0.065 +/- 0.008, 0.089 +/- 0.005, and 0.093 +/- 0.003 kg/(m(3)center dot d), and the COD removal rates were 0.019 +/- 0.010, 0.213 +/- 0.010, 0.255 +/- 0.015, and 0.322 +/- 0.010 kg/(m(3)center dot d) in the SBBRs packed with porous plastic, bamboo ring, maifan stone, and ceramsite carriers, respectively. Among the four carriers, ceramsite exhibited the best performance for both NH4+-N (80%) and COD (33%) removal after the SBBR reached the steady-state operation conditions. For all carriers studied, the NH4+-N removal kinetics could be well simulated by the first-order model, and the NH4+-N and COD removal rates were logarithmically correlated with the carrier's specific surface area. Due to its high ammonia removal, stable performance and easy operation, the ceramsite-packed SBBR is feasible for MRAS water treatment.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000565020300005 Publication Date 2019-04-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0944-1344; 1614-7499 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.8 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.8; 2020 IF: 2.741
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:171932 Serial 6542
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Author Spanoghe, J.; Grunert, O.; Wambacq, E.; Sakarika, M.; Papini, G.; Alloul, A.; Spiller, M.; Derycke, V.; Stragier, L.; Verstraete, H.; Fauconnier, K.; Verstraete, W.; Haesaert, G.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Storage, fertilization and cost properties highlight the potential of dried microbial biomass as organic fertilizer Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Microbial biotechnology Abbreviated Journal Microb. Biotechnol.
Volume Issue Pages 1-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The transition to sustainable agriculture and horticulture is a societal challenge of global importance. Fertilization with a minimum impact on the environment can facilitate this. Organic fertilizers can play an important role, given their typical release pattern and production through resource recovery. Microbial fertilizers (MFs) constitute an emerging class of organic fertilizers and consist of dried microbial biomass, for instance produced on effluents from the food and beverage industry. In this study, three groups of organisms were tested as MFs: a high-rate consortium aerobic bacteria (CAB), the microalga Arthrospira platensis (‘Spirulina’) and a purple non-sulfur bacterium (PNSB) Rhodobacter sp. During storage as dry products, the MFs showed light hygroscopic activity, but the mineral and organic fractions remained stable over a storage period of 91 days. For biological tests, a reference organic fertilizer (ROF) was used as positive control, and a commercial organic growing medium (GM) as substrate. The mineralization patterns without and with plants were similar for all MFs and ROF, with more than 70% of the organic nitrogen mineralized in 77 days. In a first fertilization trial with parsley, all MFs showed equal performance compared to ROF, and the plant fresh weight was even higher with CAB fertilization. CAB was subsequently used in a follow-up trial with petunia and resulted in elevated plant height, comparable chlorophyll content and a higher amount of flowers compared to ROF. Finally, a cost estimation for packed GM with supplemented fertilizer indicated that CAB and a blend of CAB/PNSB (85%/15%) were most cost competitive, with an increase of 6% and 7% in cost compared to ROF. In conclusion, as biobased fertilizers, MFs have the potential to contribute to sustainable plant nutrition, performing as good as a commercially available organic fertilizer, and to a circular economy.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000563539700001 Publication Date 2020-03-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1751-7915 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors would like to kindly acknowledge (i) the MIP i‐Cleantech Flanders (Milieu‐innovatieplatform; Environment innovation platform) project Microbial Nutrients on Demand (MicroNOD) for financial support, (ii) the DOCPRO4 project ‘PurpleTech’, funded by the BOF (Bijzonder onderzoeksfonds; Special research fund) from the University of Antwerp for financially supporting J.S., (iii) all MicroNOD partners, including the University of Antwerp, Ghent University, AgrAqua, Greenyard Horticulture and Avecom; and (iv) all steering committee members, including Greenyard Frozen, Agristo, AVBS, Vlakwa, het Innovatiesteunpunt, VCM and OVAM. Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.7; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:167595 Serial 6357
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Author Sakarika, M.; Spanoghe, J.; Sui, Y.; Wambacq, E.; Grunert, O.; Haesaert, G.; Spiller, M.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Purple non-sulphur bacteria and plant production: benefits for fertilization, stress resistance and the environment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Microbial biotechnology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 13 Issue 5 Pages 1336-1365
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Purple non-sulphur bacteria (PNSB) are phototrophic microorganisms, which increasingly gain attention in plant production due to their ability to produce and accumulate high-value compounds that are beneficial for plant growth. Remarkable features of PNSB include the accumulation of polyphosphate, the production of pigments and vitamins and the production of plant growth-promoting substances (PGPSs). Scattered case studies on the application of PNSB for plant cultivation have been reported for decades, yet a comprehensive overview is lacking. This review highlights the potential of using PNSB in plant production, with emphasis on three key performance indicators (KPIs): fertilization, resistance to stress (biotic and abiotic) and environmental benefits. PNSB have the potential to enhance plant growth performance, increase the yield and quality of edible plant biomass, boost the resistance to environmental stresses, bioremediate heavy metals and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Here, the mechanisms responsible for these attributes are discussed. A distinction is made between the use of living and dead PNSB cells, where critical interpretation of existing literature revealed the better performance of living cells. Finally, this review presents research gaps that remain yet to be elucidated and proposes a roadmap for future research and implementation paving the way for a more sustainable crop production.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000482388700001 Publication Date 2019-08-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1751-7915 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.7 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to acknowledge: (i) the MIP i-Cleantech Flanders (Milieu-innovatieplatform; Environment innovation platform) project Microbial Nutrients on Demand (MicroNOD) for financial support; (ii) the China Scholarship Council for financially supporting Y. Sui (File No. 201507650015); (iii) the DOCPRO4 project 'PurpleTech', funded by the BOF (Bijzonder onderzoeksfonds); Special research fund from the University of Antwerp for financially supporting J. Spanoghe, and (iv) E. Koutsoukou for constructing components of Figs 5 and 6. ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.7; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162876 Serial 6587
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Author Cerruti, M.; Stevens, B.; Ebrahimi, S.; Alloul, A.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Weissbrodt, D.G.
Title Enrichment and aggregation of purple non-sulfur bacteria in a mixed-culture sequencing-batch photobioreactor for biological nutrient removal from wastewater Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 8 Issue Pages 557234
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Mixed-culture biotechnologies are widely used to capture nutrients from wastewater. Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB), a guild of anoxygenic photomixotrophic organisms, rise interest for their ability to directly assimilate nutrients in the biomass. One challenge targets the aggregation and accumulation of PNSB biomass to separate it from the treated water. Our aim was to enrich and produce a concentrated, fast-settling PNSB biomass with high nutrient removal capacity in a 1.5-L, stirred-tank, anaerobic sequencing-batch photobioreactor (SBR). PNSB were rapidly enriched after inoculation with activated sludge at 0.1 gVSS L–1 in a first batch of 24 h under continuous irradiance of infrared (IR) light (>700 nm) at 375 W m–2, with Rhodobacter reaching 54% of amplicon sequencing read counts. SBR operations with decreasing hydraulic retention times (48 to 16 h, i.e., 1–3 cycles d–1) and increasing volumetric organic loading rates (0.2–1.3 kg COD d–1 m–3) stimulated biomass aggregation, settling, and accumulation in the system, reaching as high as 3.8 g VSS L–1. The sludge retention time (SRT) increased freely from 2.5 to 11 days. Acetate, ammonium, and orthophosphate were removed up to 96% at a rate of 1.1 kg COD d–1 m–3, 77% at 113 g N d–1 m–3, and 73% at 15 g P d–1 m–3, respectively, with COD:N:P assimilation ratio of 100:6.7:0.9 m/m/m. SBR regime shifts sequentially selected for Rhodobacter (90%) under shorter SRT and non-limiting concentration of acetate during reaction phases, for Rhodopseudomonas (70%) under longer SRT and acetate limitation during reaction, and Blastochloris (10%) under higher biomass concentrations, underlying competition for substrate and photons in the PNSB guild. With SBR operations we produced a fast-settling biomass, highly (>90%) enriched in PNSB. A high nutrient removal was achieved by biomass assimilation, reaching the European nutrient discharge limits. We opened further insights on the microbial ecology of PNSB-based processes for water resource recovery.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000603626100001 Publication Date 2021-06-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2296-4185 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.7; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174085 Serial 7921
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Masschaele, K.; Moortgat, E.; Korany, T.E.; Hauchecorne, B.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Factors driving the activity of commercial titanium dioxide powders towards gas phase photocatalytic oxidation of acetaldehyde Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Catalysis science & technology Abbreviated Journal Catal Sci Technol
Volume 2 Issue 11 Pages 2311-2318
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The photocatalytic activity of two commercial titanium dioxide powders (Cristal Global, Millennium PC500 and Evonik, P25) is compared towards acetaldehyde degradation in the gas phase. In contrast to the extensive literature available, we found a higher activity for the PC500 than for the P25 coating. Here, we present a comprehensive characterization of the bulk and surface properties of both powders. Our comparison shows that the material properties that dominate the overall photocatalytic activity in gas phase differ from those required for the photodegradation of water-borne pollutants.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000310863900020 Publication Date 2012-06-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2044-4753; 2044-4761 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.773 Times cited 33 Open Access
Notes ; S.W.V. acknowledges the Research Foundation of Flanders (FWO) for the financial support. J.A.M acknowledges long term funding (Methusalem). ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.773; 2012 IF: 3.753
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:105162 Serial 5952
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Author Alloul, A.; Spanoghe, J.; Machado, D.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Unlocking the genomic potential of aerobes and phototrophs for the production of nutritious and palatable microbial food without arable land or fossil fuels Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Microbial biotechnology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 15 Issue 1 Pages 6-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The increasing world population and living standards urgently necessitate the transition towards a sustainable food system. One solution is microbial protein, i.e. using microbial biomass as alternative protein source for human nutrition, particularly based on renewable electron and carbon sources that do not require arable land. Upcoming green electrification and carbon capture initiatives enable this, yielding new routes to H2, CO2 and CO2-derived compounds like methane, methanol, formic- and acetic acid. Aerobic hydrogenotrophs, methylotrophs, acetotrophs and microalgae are the usual suspects for nutritious and palatable biomass production on these compounds. Interestingly, these compounds are largely un(der)explored for purple non-sulfur bacteria, even though these microbes may be suitable for growing aerobically and phototrophically on these substrates. Currently, selecting the best strains, metabolisms and cultivation conditions for nutritious and palatable microbial food mainly starts from empirical growth experiments, and mostly does not stretch beyond bulk protein. We propose a more target-driven and efficient approach starting from the genome-embedded potential to tuning towards, for instance, essential amino- and fatty acids, vitamins, taste,... Genome-scale metabolic models combined with flux balance analysis will facilitate this, narrowing down experimental variations and enabling to get the most out of the 'best' combinations of strain and electron and carbon sources.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000613868600001 Publication Date 2021-02-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1751-7915 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176174 Serial 7225
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Author Niklas, K.J.; Shi, P.; Gielis, J.; Schrader, J.; Niinemets, U.
Title Editorial: leaf functional traits : ecological and evolutionary implications Type Editorial
Year 2023 Publication Frontiers in plant science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 14 Issue Pages 1169558-5
Keywords Editorial; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000964122500001 Publication Date 2023-03-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1664-462x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.6 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.6; 2023 IF: 4.298
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:196076 Serial 7834
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Author Alloul, A.; Muys, M.; Hertoghs, N.; Kerckhof, F.-M.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Cocultivating aerobic heterotrophs and purple bacteria for microbial protein in sequential photo- and chemotrophic reactors Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Bioresource Technology Abbreviated Journal Bioresource Technol
Volume 319 Issue Pages 124192
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Aerobic heterotrophic bacteria (AHB) and purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) are typically explored as two separate types of microbial protein, yet their properties as respectively a bulk and added-value feed ingredient make them appealing for combined use. The feasibility of cocultivation in a sequential photo- and chemotrophic approach was investigated. First, mapping the chemotrophic growth kinetics for four Rhodobacter, Rhodopseudomonas and Rhodospirillum species on different carbon sources showed a preference for fructose (µmax 2.4–3.9 d−1 28 °C; protein 36–59%DW). Secondly, a continuous photobioreactor inoculated with Rhodobacter capsulatus (VFA as C-source) delivered the starter culture for an aerobic batch reactor (fructose as C-source). This two-stage system showed an improved nutritional quality compared to AHB production: higher protein content (45–71%DW), more attractive amino/fatty acid profile and contained up to 10% PNSB. The findings strengthen protein production with cocultures and might enable the implementation of the technology for resource recovery on streams such as wastewater.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000613136600013 Publication Date 2020-09-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.651 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.651
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:171766 Serial 7677
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Author Spanoghe, J.; Vermeir, P.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Microbial food from light, carbon dioxide and hydrogen gas : kinetic, stoichiometric and nutritional potential of three purple bacteria Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Bioresource Technology Abbreviated Journal Bioresource Technol
Volume 337 Issue Pages 125364
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The urgency for a protein transition towards more sustainable solutions is one of the major societal challenges. Microbial protein is one of the alternative routes, in which land- and fossil-free production should be targeted. The photohydrogenotrophic growth of purple bacteria, which builds on the H2– and CO2-economy, is unexplored for its microbial protein potential. The three tested species (Rhodobacter capsulatus, Rhodobacter sphaeroides and Rhodopseudomonas palustris) obtained promising growth rates (2.3–2.7 d−1 at 28°C) and protein productivities (0.09–0.12 g protein L−1 d−1), rendering them likely faster and more productive than microalgae. The achieved protein yields (2.6–2.9 g protein g−1 H2) transcended the ones of aerobic hydrogen oxidizing bacteria. Furthermore, all species provided full dietary protein matches for humans and their fatty acid content was dominated by vaccenic acid (82–86%). Given its kinetic and nutritional performance we recommend to consider Rhodobacter capsulatus as a high-potential sustainable source of microbial food.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000694862500007 Publication Date 2021-06-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.651 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.651
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178752 Serial 8243
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Author Van Tendeloo, M.; Xie, Y.; Van Beeck, W.; Zhu, W.; Lebeer, S.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Oxygen control and stressor treatments for complete and long-term suppression of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria in biofilm-based partial nitritation/anammox Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Bioresource Technology Abbreviated Journal Bioresource Technol
Volume 342 Issue Pages 125996
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Mainstream nitrogen removal by partial nitritation/anammox (PN/A) can realize energy and cost savings for sewage treatment. Selective suppression of nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) remains a key bottleneck for PN/A implementation. A rotating biological contactor was studied with an overhead cover and controlled air/N2 inflow to regulate oxygen availability at 20 °C. Biofilm exposure to dissolved oxygen concentrations < 0.51 ± 0.04 mg O2 L-1 when submerged in the water and < 1.41 ± 0.31 mg O2 L-1 when emerged in the headspace (estimated), resulted in complete and long-term NOB suppression with a low relative nitrate production ratio of 10 ± 4%. Additionally, weekly biofilm stressor treatments with free ammonia (FA) (29 ± 1 mg NH3-N L-1 for 3 h) could improve the NOB suppression while free nitrous acid treatments had insufficient effect. This study demonstrated the potential of managing NOB suppression in biofilm-based systems by oxygen control and recurrent FA exposure, opening opportunities for resource efficient nitrogen removal.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000704455300005 Publication Date 2021-09-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.651 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.651
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181301 Serial 8355
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Author Wang, Y.-T.; Wu, S.-M.; Luo, G.-Q.; Tian, G.; Wang, L.-Y.; Xiao, S.-T.; Wu, J.-X.; Wu, A.; Wu, K.-J.; Lenaerts, S.; Yang, X.-Y.
Title A core-shell confined Pd@TS-1 @meso-SiO2 catalyst and its synergy effect on styrene oxidation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Applied catalysis : A : general Abbreviated Journal
Volume 650 Issue Pages 119016-6
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Dual active sites from acidic zeolite and Pd are not only capable of catalyzing multiple type of reactions, but could also generate unique functions owing to the synergy between metals and acidic sites. However, there are only a few reports on the investigation of the synergy of acid/Pd dual sites in TS-1. Herein, TS-1 confined Pd catalyst with mesoporous silica shell (Pd@TS-1 @meso-SiO2) has been successfully synthesized and its synergy effect contributes to the enhanced conversion rate (19.2%) and selectivity (74.7%) on styrene oxidation. The interaction between Pd and TS-1 has been investigated by EPR and 1H NMR techniques, the experimental measurements show an obvious change in the signal distribution of weakly acidic terminal hydroxyls and hydrogen-bonding silanols. The schematic illustration of selective styrene oxidation in the model of Pd@TS-1 @meso-SiO2 is proposed to clarify the synergistic effect on styrene oxidation between TS-1 and Pd nanoparticles at an atomic-/nanoscale.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001015700000001 Publication Date 2022-12-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0926-860x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.5 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.5; 2023 IF: 4.339
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:197805 Serial 8826
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Author Dingenen, F.; Borah, R.; Ninakanti, R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Probing oxygen activation on plasmonic photocatalysts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Frontiers in Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Front Chem
Volume 10 Issue Pages 988542-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this work we present an assay to probe the oxygen activation rate on plasmonic nanoparticles under visible light. Using a superoxide-specific XTT molecular probe, the oxygen activation rate on bimetallic gold-silver “rainbow” nanoparticles with a broadband visible light (> 420 nm) response, is determined at different light intensities by measuring its conversion into the colored XTT-formazan derivate. A kinetic model is applied to enable a quantitative estimation of the rate constant, and is shown to match almost perfectly with the experimental data. Next, the broadband visible light driven oxygen activation capacity of this plasmonic rainbow system, supported on nano-sized SiO 2 , is demonstrated towards the oxidation of aniline to azobenzene in DMSO. To conclude, a brief theoretical discussion is devoted to the possible mechanisms behind such plasmon-driven reactions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000860818400001 Publication Date 2022-09-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2296-2646 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 5.5 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.5
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190868 Serial 7197
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Author Spanoghe, J.; Ost, K.J.; Van Beeck, W.; Vermeir, P.; Lebeer, S.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Purple bacteria screening for photoautohydrogenotrophic food production : are new H₂-fed isolates faster and nutritionally better than photoheterotrophically obtained reference species? Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication New biotechnology Abbreviated Journal New Biotechnol
Volume 72 Issue Pages 38-47
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Photoautohydrogenotrophic enrichments of wastewater treatment microbiomes were performed to obtain hypothetically high-potential specialist species for biotechnological applications. From these enrichment cultures, ten photoautohydrogenotrophic species were isolated: six Rhodopseudomonas species, three Rubrivivax members and Rhodobacter blasticus. The performance of these isolates was compared to three commonly studied, and originally photoheterotrophically enriched species (Rhodopseudomonas palustris, Rhodobacter capsulatus and Rhodobacter sphaeroides), designated as reference species. Repeated subcultivations were applied to improve the initial poor performance of the isolates (acclimation effect), which resulted in increases in both maximum growth rate and protein productivity. However, the maximum growth rate of the reference species remained 3–7 times higher compared to the isolates (0.42–0.84 d−1 at 28 °C), while protein productivities remained 1.5–1.7 times higher. This indicated that H2-based enrichment did not result in photoautohydrogenotrophic specialists, suggesting that the reference species are more suitable for intensified biomass and protein production. On the other hand, the isolates were able to provide equally high protein quality profiles as the references species, providing full dietary essential amino acid matches for human food. Lastly, the effect of metabolic carbon/electron switching (back and forth between auto- to heterotrophic conditions) initially boosted µmax when returning to photoautohydrogenotrophic conditions. However, the switch negatively impacted lag phase, protein productivities and pigment contents. In the case of protein productivity, the acquired acclimation was partially lost with decreases of up to 44 % and 40 % respectively for isolates and reference species. Finally, the three reference species, and specifically Rh. capsulatus, remained the most suitable candidate(s) for further biotechnological development.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000861078800005 Publication Date 2022-08-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1871-6784; 1876-4347 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190188 Serial 7199
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Author Rocha Segundo, I.; Landi Jr., S.; Margaritis, A.; Pipintakos, G.; Freitas, E.; Vuye, C.; Blom, J.; Tytgat, T.; Denys, S.; Carneiro, J.
Title Physicochemical and rheological properties of a transparent asphalt binder modified with nano-TiO₂ Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Nanomaterials Abbreviated Journal Nanomaterials-Basel
Volume 10 Issue 11 Pages 2152
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings (EMIB)
Abstract Transparent binder is used to substitute conventional black asphalt binder and to provide light-colored pavements, whereas nano-TiO2 has the potential to promote photocatalytic and self-cleaning properties. Together, these materials provide multifunction effects and benefits when the pavement is submitted to high solar irradiation. This paper analyzes the physicochemical and rheological properties of a transparent binder modified with 0.5%, 3.0%, 6.0%, and 10.0% nano-TiO2 and compares it to the transparent base binder and conventional and polymer modified binders (PMB) without nano-TiO2. Their penetration, softening point, dynamic viscosity, master curve, black diagram, Linear Amplitude Sweep (LAS), Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were obtained. The transparent binders (base and modified) seem to be workable considering their viscosity, and exhibited values between the conventional binder and PMB with respect to rutting resistance, penetration, and softening point. They showed similar behavior to the PMB, demonstrating signs of polymer modification. The addition of TiO2 seemed to reduce fatigue life, except for the 0.5% content. Nevertheless, its addition in high contents increased the rutting resistance. The TiO2 modification seems to have little effect on the chemical functional indices. The best percentage of TiO2 was 0.5%, with respect to fatigue, and 10.0% with respect to permanent deformation.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000593731700001 Publication Date 2020-10-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2079-4991 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.3 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.3; 2020 IF: 3.553
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:172621 Serial 6580
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Author Xiao, S.; Lu, Y.; Xiao, B.-Y.; Wu, L.; Song, J.-P.; Xiao, Y.-X.; Wu, S.-M.; Hu, J.; Wang, Y.; Chang, G.-G.; Tian, G.; Lenaerts, S.; Janiak, C.; Yang, X.-Y.; Su, B.-L.
Title Hierarchically dual-mesoporous TiO2 microspheres for enhanced photocatalytic properties and lithium storage Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Chemistry: a European journal Abbreviated Journal Chem-Eur J
Volume 24 Issue 50 Pages 13246-13252
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Hierarchically dual‐mesoporous TiO2 microspheres have been synthesized via a solvothermal process in the presence of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylmidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIm][BF4]) and diethylenetriamine (DETA) as co‐templates. Secondary mesostructured defects in the hierarchical TiO2 microspheres produce the oxygen vacancies, which not only significantly enhance the photocatalytic activity on degrading methyl blue (over 1.7 times to P25) and acetone (over 2.9 times of P25), but which also are beneficial for lithium storage. Moreover, we propose a mechanism to obtain a better understanding of the role of dual mesoporosity of TiO2 microspheres for enhancing the molecular diffusion, ion transportation and electron transformation.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000443804100025 Publication Date 2018-06-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0947-6539 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.317 Times cited 6 Open Access
Notes ; This work is supported by the National Key R&D Program of China (2017YFC1103800), the Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University (IRT 15R52), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (U1662134, U1663225, 51472190, 51611530672, 51503166, 21706199, 21711530705), the International Science & Technology Cooperation Program of China (2015DFE52870), the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province (2016CFA033, 2017CFB487), the Open Project Program of State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Pollution Control (PPC2016007), and the CNPC Research Institute of Safety and Environmental Technology. ; Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.317
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:151812 Serial 5957
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Author Borah, R.; Ninakanti, R.; Nuyts, G.; Peeters, H.; Pedrazo-Tardajos, A.; Nuti, S.; Vande Velde, C.; De Wael, K.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.
Title Selectivity in ligand functionalization of photocatalytic metal oxide nanoparticles for phase transfer and self‐assembly applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Chemistry-A European Journal Abbreviated Journal Chem-Eur J
Volume Issue Pages chem.202100029-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Functionalization of photocatalytic metal oxide nanoparticles of TiO 2 , ZnO, WO 3 and CuO with amine‐terminated (oleylamine) and thiol‐terminated (1‐dodecanethiol) alkyl chained ligands was studied under ambient conditions. A high selectivity was observed in the binding specificity of a ligand towards nanoparticles of these different oxides. It was observed that oleylamine binds stably to only TiO 2 and WO 3 , while 1‐dodecanethiol binds stably only to ZnO and CuO. Similarly, polar to non‐polar solvent phase transfer of TiO 2 and WO 3 nanoparticles could be achieved by using oleylamine, but not by 1‐dodecanethiol, while the contrary holds for ZnO and CuO. The surface chemistry of ligand functionalized nanoparticles was probed by ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy, that enabled to elucidate the occupation of the ligands at the active sites. The photo‐stability of the ligands on the nanoparticle surface was determined by the photocatalytic self‐cleaning properties of the material. While TiO 2 and WO 3 degrade the ligands within 24 hours under both UV and visible light, ligands on ZnO and CuO remain unaffected. The gathered insights are also highly relevant from an application point of view. As an example, since the ligand functionalized nanoparticles are hydrophobic in nature, they can thus be self‐assembled at the air‐water interface, for obtaining nanoparticle films with demonstrated photocatalytic as well as anti‐fogging properties.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000652651400001 Publication Date 2021-04-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0947-6539 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.317 Times cited 15 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes R.B. and S.W.V. acknowledge financial support from the University of Antwerp Special Research Fund (BOF) for a DOCPRO4 doctoral scholarship. S.B. and A.P.-T. acknowledge financial support from the European Commission under the Horizon 2020 Program by means of the grant agreement no. 731019 EUSMI and the ERC Consolidator grant no. 815128 REALNANO.; sygmaSB Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.317
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177495 Serial 6787
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Author Volders, J.; Elen, K.; Raes, A.; Ninakanti, R.; Kelchtermans, A.-S.; Sastre, F.; Hardy, A.; Cool, P.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Buskens, P.; Van Bael, M.K.
Title Sunlight-powered reverse water gas shift reaction catalysed by plasmonic Au/TiO₂ nanocatalysts : effects of Au particle size on the activity and selectivity Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Nanomaterials Abbreviated Journal Nanomaterials-Basel
Volume 12 Issue 23 Pages 4153-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract This study reports the low temperature and low pressure conversion (up to 160 °C, p = 3.5 bar) of CO2 and H2 to CO using plasmonic Au/TiO2 nanocatalysts and mildly concentrated artificial sunlight as the sole energy source (up to 13.9 kW·m-2 = 13.9 suns). To distinguish between photothermal and non-thermal contributors, we investigated the impact of the Au nanoparticle size and light intensity on the activity and selectivity of the catalyst. A comparative study between P25 TiO2-supported Au nanocatalysts of a size of 6 nm and 16 nm displayed a 15 times higher activity for the smaller particles, which can only partially be attributed to the higher Au surface area. Other factors that may play a role are e.g., the electronic contact between Au and TiO2 and the ratio between plasmonic absorption and scattering. Both catalysts displayed ≥84% selectivity for CO (side product is CH4). Furthermore, we demonstrated that the catalytic activity of Au/TiO2 increases exponentially with increasing light intensity, which indicated the presence of a photothermal contributor. In dark, however, both Au/TiO2 catalysts solely produced CH4 at the same catalyst bed temperature (160 °C). We propose that the difference in selectivity is caused by the promotion of CO desorption through charge transfer of plasmon generated charges (as a non-thermal contributor).
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000896093900001 Publication Date 2022-11-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2079-4991 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.3 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.3
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191843 Serial 7341
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Author Shi, P.; Chen, L.; Quinn, B.K.; Yu, K.; Miao, Q.; Guo, X.; Lian, M.; Gielis, J.; Niklas, K.J.
Title A simple way to calculate the volume and surface area of avian eggs Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences Abbreviated Journal
Volume 1524 Issue 1 Pages 118-131
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Egg geometry can be described using Preston's equation, which has seldom been used to calculate egg volume (V) and surface area (S) to explore S versus V scaling relationships. Herein, we provide an explicit re-expression of Preston's equation (designated as EPE) to calculate V and S, assuming that an egg is a solid of revolution. The side (longitudinal) profiles of 2221 eggs of six avian species were digitized, and the EPE was used to describe each egg profile. The volumes of 486 eggs from two avian species predicted by the EPE were compared with those obtained using water displacement in graduated cylinders. There was no significant difference in V using the two methods, which verified the utility of the EPE and the hypothesis that eggs are solids of revolution. The data also indicated that V is proportional to the product of egg length (L) and maximum width (W) squared. A 2/3-power scaling relationship between S and V for each species was observed, that is, S is proportional to (LW2)(2/3). These results can be extended to describe the shapes of the eggs of other species to study the evolution of avian (and perhaps reptilian) eggs.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000975679400001 Publication Date 2023-04-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0077-8923; 1749-6632 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.2; 2023 IF: 4.706
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:196724 Serial 8827
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Author Borah, R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Effect of size distribution, skewness and roughness on the optical properties of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Colloids and surfaces: A: physicochemical and engineering aspects Abbreviated Journal Colloid Surface A
Volume 640 Issue Pages 128521
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract It is a generally accepted idea that the particle size distribution strongly affects the optical spectra of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles. It is often quoted as one of the main reasons while explaining the mismatch between the theoretical and experimental optical spectra of such nanoparticles. In this work, these aspects are critically analyzed by means of a bottom up statistical approach that considers variables such as mean, standard deviation and skewness of the nanoparticle size distribution independently from one another. By assuming normal and log-normal distributions of the particle size, the effect of the statistical parameters on the Mie analytical optical spectra of colloidal nanoparticles was studied. The effect of morphology was also studied numerically in order to understand to what extent it can play a role. It is our finding that the particle polydispersity, skewness and surface morphology in fact only weakly impact the optical spectra. While, the selection of suitable optical constants with regard to the crystallinity of the nanoparticles is a far more influential factor for correctly predicting both the plasmon band position and the plasmon bandwidth in theoretical simulations of the optical spectra. It is shown that the mean particle size can be correctly estimated directly from the plasmon band position, as it is the mean that determines the resonance wavelength. The standard deviation can on the other hand be estimated from the intensity distribution data obtained from dynamic light scattering experiments. The results reported herein clear the ambiguity around particle size distribution and optical response of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Elservier Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000765946900002 Publication Date 2022-02-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-7757 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.2
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:185704 Serial 6908
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Author Shi, P.; Gielis, J.; Quinn, B.K.; Niklas, K.J.; Ratkowsky, D.A.; Schrader, J.; Ruan, H.; Wang, L.; Niinemets, Ü.; Niinennets, U.
Title ‘biogeom’ : an R package for simulating and fitting natural shapes Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences Abbreviated Journal Ann Ny Acad Sci
Volume 1516 Issue 1 Pages 123-134
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Many natural objects exhibit radial or axial symmetry in a single plane. However, a universal tool for simulating and fitting the shapes of such objects is lacking. Herein, we present an R package called 'biogeom' that simulates and fits many shapes found in nature. The package incorporates novel universal parametric equations that generate the profiles of bird eggs, flowers, linear and lanceolate leaves, seeds, starfish, and tree-rings, and three growth-rate equations that generate the profiles of ovate leaves and the ontogenetic growth curves of animals and plants. 'biogeom' includes several empirical datasets comprising the boundary coordinates of bird eggs, fruits, lanceolate and ovate leaves, tree rings, seeds, and sea stars. The package can also be applied to other kinds of natural shapes similar to those in the datasets. In addition, the package includes sigmoid curves derived from the three growth-rate equations, which can be used to model animal and plant growth trajectories and predict the times associated with maximum growth rate. 'biogeom' can quantify the intra- or interspecific similarity of natural outlines, and it provides quantitative information of shape and ontogenetic modification of shape with important ecological and evolutionary implications for the growth and form of the living world.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000829772300001 Publication Date 2022-07-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0077-8923; 1749-6632 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved (down) Most recent IF: 5.2
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189314 Serial 7131
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