“Silver–Gold Bimetallic Alloy versus Core–Shell Nanoparticles: Implications for Plasmonic Enhancement and Photothermal Applications”. Borah R, Verbruggen SW, Journal Of Physical Chemistry C , acs.jpcc.0c02630 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.0c02630
Abstract: Bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles enable tuning of the optical response and chemical stability by variation of the composition. The present numerical simulation study compares Ag–Au alloy, Ag@Au core–shell, and Au@Ag core–shell bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles of both spherical and anisotropic (nanotriangle and nanorods) shapes. By studying both spherical and anisotropic (with LSPR in the near-infrared region) shapes, cases with and without interband transitions of Au can be decoupled. Explicit comparisons are facilitated by numerical models supported by careful validation and examination of optical constants of Au–Ag alloys reported in the literature. Although both Au–Ag core–shell and alloy nanoparticles exhibit an intermediary optical response between that of pure Ag and Au nanoparticles, there are noticeable differences in the spectral characteristics. Also, the effect of the bimetallic constitution in anisotropic nanoparticles is starkly different from that in spherical nanoparticles due to the absence of Au interband transitions in the former case. In general, the improved chemical stability of Ag nanoparticles by incorporation of Au comes with a cost of reduction in plasmonic enhancement, also applicable to anisotropic nanoparticles with a weaker effect. A photothermal heat transfer study confirms that increased absorption by the incorporation of Au in spherical Ag nanoparticles also results in an increased steady-state temperature. On the other hand, anisotropic nanoparticles are inherently better absorbers and hence better photothermal sources, and their photothermal properties are apparently not strongly affected by the incorporation of one metal in the other. This study of the optical/spectral and photothermal characteristics of bimetallic Au–Ag alloy versus core–shell nanoparticles provides detailed physical insight for development of new taylor-made plasmonic nanostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 3.7
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.0c02630
|
“Silver–Gold Bimetallic Alloy versus Core–Shell Nanoparticles: Implications for Plasmonic Enhancement and Photothermal Applications”. Borah R, Verbruggen SW, Journal Of Physical Chemistry C (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.0c02630
Abstract: Bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles enable tuning of the optical response and chemical stability by variation of the composition. The present numerical simulation study compares Ag–Au alloy, Ag@Au core–shell, and Au@Ag core–shell bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles of both spherical and anisotropic (nanotriangle and nanorods) shapes. By studying both spherical and anisotropic (with LSPR in the near-infrared region) shapes, cases with and without interband transitions of Au can be decoupled. Explicit comparisons are facilitated by numerical models supported by careful validation and examination of optical constants of Au–Ag alloys reported in the literature. Although both Au–Ag core–shell and alloy nanoparticles exhibit an intermediary optical response between that of pure Ag and Au nanoparticles, there are noticeable differences in the spectral characteristics. Also, the effect of the bimetallic constitution in anisotropic nanoparticles is starkly different from that in spherical nanoparticles due to the absence of Au interband transitions in the former case. In general, the improved chemical stability of Ag nanoparticles by incorporation of Au comes with a cost of reduction in plasmonic enhancement, also applicable to anisotropic nanoparticles with a weaker effect. A photothermal heat transfer study confirms that increased absorption by the incorporation of Au in spherical Ag nanoparticles also results in an increased steady-state temperature. On the other hand, anisotropic nanoparticles are inherently better absorbers and hence better photothermal sources, and their photothermal properties are apparently not strongly affected by the incorporation of one metal in the other. This study of the optical/spectral and photothermal characteristics of bimetallic Au–Ag alloy versus core–shell nanoparticles provides detailed physical insight for development of new taylor-made plasmonic nanostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 3.7
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.0c02630
|
“Heating of liquid foods in cans: Effects of can geometry, orientation, and food rheology”. Borah R, Gupta S, Mishra L, Chhabra RP, Journal Of Food Process Engineering , e13420 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1111/JFPE.13420
Abstract: In this work, the effect of geometry and orientation of food cans on the heating characteristics of processed liquid foods and the resulting lethality target values as a function of the processing times have been investigated. For this purpose, the governing differential equations have been solved numerically for elliptical and cylindrical cans of varying aspect ratios in different orientations in order to delineate their effect on the heating rate (especially of the slowest heating zone [SHZ]) and lethality values over wide ranges of rheological features including shear thinning (n < 1), Newtonian (n = 1), and shear thickening (n > 1) behaviors. The flow and heat transfer characteristics were analyzed with the help of velocity vectors, isotherm contours, average Nusselt number, SHZ temperature and heat penetration parameters, and lethality target values. Also, comparisons were made in terms of the sterilization time and heat penetration parameters to identify the preferable geometries and orientations of food cans for effective heating of non-Newtonian foodstuffs. Finally, favorable conditions in terms of the shape and orientation of the can and the rheological properties have been delineated which lead to superior heating characteristics. Practical Applications Processed foodstuffs are produced in various forms ranging from that in solid, liquid, or as heterogeneous mixtures. Often such liquid and heterogeneous suspensions products are viscous non-Newtonian in character and their thermal processing (including pasteurization, sterilization, etc.) tends to be much more challenging than that of their Newtonian counterparts like air and water. This work explores heating of non-Newtonian liquid foodstuffs in cans of various shapes, geometries and in different orientations in the free convection regime. The results show that depending upon the rheological properties of the products, some orientations and/or geometries offer potential advantages in terms of shorter processing times and lethality values. This information can be of great potential in customizing the design of containers for different food products as well as of different rheological properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 3
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1111/JFPE.13420
|
“The 2020 plasma catalysis roadmap”. Bogaerts A, Tu X, Whitehead JC, Centi G, Lefferts L, Guaitella O, Azzolina-Jury F, Kim H-H, Murphy AB, Schneider WF, Nozaki T, Hicks JC, Rousseau A, Thevenet F, Khacef A, Carreon M, Journal Of Physics D-Applied Physics 53, 443001 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6463/ab9048
Abstract: Plasma catalysis is gaining increasing interest for various gas conversion applications, such as CO2 conversion into value-added chemicals and fuels, CH4 activation into hydrogen, higher hydrocarbons or oxygenates, and NH3 synthesis. Other applications are already more established, such as for air pollution control, e.g. volatile organic compound remediation, particulate matter and NOx removal. In addition, plasma is also very promising for catalyst synthesis and treatment. Plasma catalysis clearly has benefits over ‘conventional’ catalysis, as outlined in the Introduction. However, a better insight into the underlying physical and chemical processes is crucial. This can be obtained by experiments applying diagnostics, studying both the chemical processes at the catalyst surface and the physicochemical mechanisms of plasma-catalyst interactions, as well as by computer modeling. The key challenge is to design cost-effective, highly active and stable catalysts tailored to the plasma environment. Therefore, insight from thermal catalysis as well as electro- and photocatalysis is crucial. All these aspects are covered in this Roadmap paper, written by specialists in their field, presenting the state-of-the-art, the current and future challenges, as well as the advances in science and technology needed to meet these challenges.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.4
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6463/ab9048
|
“Plasma Technology for CO2 Conversion: A Personal Perspective on Prospects and Gaps”. Bogaerts A, Centi G, Frontiers in energy research 8 (2020). http://doi.org/10.3389/fenrg.2020.00111
Abstract: There is increasing interest in plasma technology for CO2 conversion because it can operate at mild conditions and it can store fluctuating renewable electricity into
value-added compounds and renewable fuels. This perspective paper aims to provide a view on the future for non-specialists who want to understand the role of plasma
technology in the new scenario for sustainable and low-carbon energy and chemistry. Thus, it is prepared to give a personal view on future opportunities and challenges. First, we introduce the current state-of-the-art and the potential of plasma-based CO2 conversion. Subsequently, we discuss the challenges to overcome the current limitations and to apply plasma technology on a large scale. The final section discusses the general context and the potential benefits of plasma-based CO2 conversion for our life and the impact on climate change. It also includes a brief analysis on the future scenario for energy and chemical production, and how plasma technology may realize new paths for CO2 utilization.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.4
DOI: 10.3389/fenrg.2020.00111
|
“Modeling plasmas in analytical chemistry—an example of cross-fertilization”. Bogaerts A, Analytical And Bioanalytical Chemistry 412, 6059 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-020-02587-8
Abstract: This paper gives an overview of the modeling work developed in our group in the last 25 years for various plasmas used in analytical spectrochemistry, i.e., glow discharges (GDs), inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs), and laser ablation (LA) for sample introduction in the ICP and for laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The modeling approaches are briefly presented, which are different for each case, and some characteristic results are illustrated. These plasmas are used not only in analytical chemistry but also in other applications, and the insights obtained in these other fields were quite helpful for us to develop models for the analytical plasmas. Likewise, there is now a huge interest in plasma–liquid interaction, atmospheric pressure glow discharges (APGDs), and dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) for environmental, medical, and materials applications of plasmas. The insights obtained in these fields are also very relevant for ambient desorption/ionization sources and for liquid sampling, which are nowadays very popular in analytical chemistry, and they could be very helpful in developing models for these sources as well.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.3
DOI: 10.1007/s00216-020-02587-8
|
“Enhanced photoelectrochemical detection of an analyte triggered by its concentration by a singlet oxygen-generating fluoro photosensitizer”. Blidar A, Trashin S, Carrion EN, Gorun SM, Cristea C, De Wael K, Acs Sensors 5, 3501 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSSENSORS.0C01609
Abstract: The use of a photocatalyst (photosensitizer) which produces singlet oxygen instead of enzymes for oxidizing analytes creates opportunities for designing cost-efficient and sensitive photoelectrochemical sensors. We report that perfluoroisopropyl-substituted zinc phthalocyanine (F64PcZn) interacts specifically with a complex phenolic compound, the antibiotic rifampicin (RIF), but not with hydroquinone or another complex phenolic compound, the antibiotic doxycycline. The specificity is imparted by the selective preconcentration of RIF in the photocatalytic layer, as revealed by electrochemical and optical measurements, complemented by molecular modeling that confirms the important role of a hydrophobic cavity formed by the iso-perfluoropropyl groups of the photocatalyst. The preconcentration effect favorably enhances the RIF photoelectrochemical detection limit as well as sensitivity to nanomolar (ppb) concentrations, LOD = 7 nM (6 ppb) and 2.8 A.M-1.cm(-2), respectively. The selectivity to RIF, retained in the photosensitizer layer, is further enhanced by the selective removal of all unretained phenols via simple washing of the electrodes with pure buffer. The utility of the sensor for analyzing municipal wastewater was demonstrated. This first demonstration of enhanced selectivity and sensitivity due to intrinsic interactions of a molecular photocatalyst (photosensitizer) with an analyte, without use of a biorecognition element, may allow the design of related, robust, simple, and viable sensors.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 8.9
DOI: 10.1021/ACSSENSORS.0C01609
|
“Research frontiers in energy-related materials and applications for 2020-2030”. Blay V, Galian RE, Muresan LM, Pancratov D, Pinyou P, Zampardi G, Advanced sustainable systems 4, 1900145 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADSU.201900145
Abstract: This article delineates the state of the art for several materials used in the harvest, conversion, and storage of energy, and analyzes the challenges to be overcome in the decade ahead for them to reach the market and benefit society. The materials covered have had a special interest in recent years and include perovskites, materials for batteries and supercapacitors, graphene, and materials for hydrogen production and storage. Looking at the common challenges for these different systems, scientists in basic research should carefully consider commercial requirements when designing new materials. These include cost and ease of synthesis, abundance of precursors, recyclability of spent devices, toxicity, and stability. Improvements in these areas deserve more attention, as they can help bridge the gap for these technologies and facilitate the creation of partnerships between academia and industry. These improvements should be pursued in parallel with the design of novel compositions, nanostructures, and devices, which have led most interest during the past decade. Research groups are encouraged to adopt a cross-disciplinary mindset, which may allow more efficient use of existing knowledge and facilitate breakthrough innovation in both basic and applied research of energy-related materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 7.1
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1002/ADSU.201900145
|
“Eliciting policymakers&rsquo, preferences for technologies to decarbonise transport: A discrete choice experiment”. Bjørnåvold A, Lizin S, Van Dael M, Arnold F, Van Passel S, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions 35, 21 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.eist.2019.12.002
Abstract: Socio-technical transitions are often hindered by the resilience of existing infrastructures, as policymakers are reluctant to invest in novel products or services. Using the example of carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) based fuels, we set up a discrete choice experiment to assess whether European policymakers have a tendency to avoid investing in novel, and more disruptive technologies, and rather prefer to invest in technologies that resemble the incumbent. Results indicate that policymakers prefer to allocate funding to dominant technologies. The results also revealed an overall positive perception of CCU technologies among policymakers. As the commercialisation of such products and processes continues, acceptance among this group of stakeholders is key.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 7.2
DOI: 10.1016/j.eist.2019.12.002
|
“Signature of ballistic band-tail tunneling current in tunnel FET”. Bizindavyi J, Verhulst AS, Sorée B, Groeseneken G, Ieee Transactions On Electron Devices 67, 3486 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1109/TED.2020.3004119
Abstract: To improve the interpretation of the tunnel field-effect transistor (TFET) measurements, we theoretically identify the signatures of the ballistic band-tail (BT) tunneling (BTT) current in the transfer and output characteristics of the TFETs. In particular, we demonstrate that the temperature dependence of a BTT-dominated subthreshold swing (SS) is in agreement with the reported experimental results. We explain how the temperature dependence of the output characteristics can be used to distinguish between a current dominated by BTT and a current dominated by trap-assisted tunneling. Finally, we propose an expression that relates the energetic extension of the quasi-extended BT states in the bandgap to the onset voltage for tunneling.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.1
DOI: 10.1109/TED.2020.3004119
|
“Dual improvement of beta-MnO₂, oxygen evolution electrocatalysts via combined substrate control and surface engineering”. Bigiani L, Gasparotto A, Maccato C, Sada C, Verbeeck J, Andreu T, Morante JR, Barreca D, Chemcatchem , 1 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1002/CCTC.202000999
Abstract: The development of catalysts with high intrinsic activity towards the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a critical role in sustainable energy conversion and storage. Herein, we report on the development of efficient (photo)electrocatalysts based on functionalized MnO(2)systems. Specifically,beta-MnO(2)nanostructures grown by plasma enhanced-chemical vapor deposition on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) or Ni foams were decorated with Co(3)O(4)or Fe(2)O(3)nanoparticles by radio frequency sputtering. Upon functionalization, FTO-supported materials yielded a performance increase with respect to bare MnO2, with current densities at 1.65 Vvs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) up to 3.0 and 3.5 mA/cm(2)in the dark and under simulated sunlight, respectively. On the other hand, the use of highly porous and conductive Ni foam substrates enabled to maximize cooperative interfacial effects between catalyst components. The best performing Fe2O3/MnO(2)system provided a current density of 17.9 mA/cm(2)at 1.65 Vvs. RHE, an overpotential as low as 390 mV, and a Tafel slope of 69 mV/decade under dark conditions, comparing favorably with IrO(2)and RuO(2)benchmarks. Overall, the control of beta-MnO2/substrate interactions and the simultaneous surface property engineering pave the way to an efficient energy generation from abundant natural resources.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.5
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1002/CCTC.202000999
|
“Au-manganese oxide nanostructures by a plasma-assisted process as electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution : a chemico-physical investigation”. Bigiani L, Gasparotto A, Andreu T, Verbeeck J, Sada C, Modin E, Lebedev OI, Morante JR, Barreca D, Maccato C, Advanced sustainable systems , 2000177 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADSU.202000177
Abstract: Earth-abundant and eco-friendly manganese oxides are promising platforms for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water electrolysis. Herein, a versatile and potentially scalable route to gold-decorated manganese oxide-based OER electrocatalysts is reported. In particular, MnxOy(MnO2, Mn2O3) host matrices are grown on conductive glasses by plasma assisted-chemical vapor deposition (PA-CVD), and subsequently functionalized with gold nanoparticles (guest) as OER activators by radio frequency (RF)-sputtering. The final selective obtainment of MnO2- or Mn2O3-based systems is then enabled by annealing under oxidizing or inert atmosphere, respectively. A detailed material characterization evidences the formation of high-purity Mn(x)O(y)dendritic nanostructures with an open morphology and an efficient guest dispersion into the host matrices. The tailoring of Mn(x)O(y)phase composition and host-guest interactions has a remarkable influence on OER activity yielding, for the best performing Au/Mn(2)O(3)system, a current density of approximate to 5 mA cm(-2)at 1.65 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and an overpotential close to 300 mV at 1 mA cm(-2). Such results, comparing favorably with literature data on manganese oxide-based materials, highlight the importance of compositional control, as well as of surface and interface engineering, to develop low-cost and efficient anode nanocatalysts for water splitting applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.1
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1002/ADSU.202000177
|
“Engineering Au/MnO₂, hierarchical nanoarchitectures for ethanol electrochemical valorization”. Bigiani L, Andreu T, Maccato C, Fois E, Gasparotto A, Sada C, Tabacchi G, Krishnan D, Verbeeck J, Ramon Morante J, Barreca D, Journal Of Materials Chemistry A 8, 16902 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1039/D0TA05972B
Abstract: The design of eco-friendly electrocatalysts for ethanol valorization is an open challenge towards sustainable hydrogen production. Herein we present an original fabrication route to effective electrocatalysts for the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). In particular, hierarchical MnO(2)nanostructures are grown on high-area nickel foam scaffolds by a plasma-assisted strategy and functionalized with low amounts of optimally dispersed Au nanoparticles. This strategy leads to catalysts with a unique morphology, designed to enhance reactant-surface contacts and maximize active site utilization. The developed nanoarchitectures show superior performances for ethanol oxidation in alkaline media. We reveal that Au decoration boosts MnO(2)catalytic activity by inducing pre-dissociation and pre-oxidation of the adsorbed ethanol molecules. This evidence validates our strategy as an effective route for the development of green electrocatalysts for efficient electrical-to-chemical energy conversion.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 11.9
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1039/D0TA05972B
|
“Observation of a gel of quantum vortices in a superconductor at very low magnetic fields”. Benito Llorens J, Embon L, Correa A, Gonzalez JD, Herrera E, Guillamon I, Luccas RF, Azpeitia J, Mompean FJ, Garcia-Hernandez M, Munuera C, Aragon Sanchez J, Fasano Y, Milošević, MV, Suderow H, Anahory Y, Physical review research 2, 013329 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVRESEARCH.2.013329
Abstract: A gel consists of a network of particles or molecules formed for example using the sol-gel process, by which a solution transforms into a porous solid. Particles or molecules in a gel are mainly organized on a scaffold that makes up a porous system. Quantized vortices in type-II superconductors mostly form spatially homogeneous ordered or amorphous solids. Here we present high-resolution imaging of the vortex lattice displaying dense vortex clusters separated by sparse or entirely vortex-free regions in beta-Bi2Pd superconductor. We find that the intervortex distance diverges upon decreasing the magnetic field and that vortex lattice images follow a multifractal behavior. These properties, characteristic of gels, establish the presence of a novel vortex distribution, distinctly different from the well-studied disordered and glassy phases observed in high-temperature and conventional superconductors. The observed behavior is caused by a scaffold of one-dimensional structural defects with enhanced stress close to the defects. The vortex gel might often occur in type-II superconductors at low magnetic fields. Such vortex distributions should allow to considerably simplify control over vortex positions and manipulation of quantum vortex states.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVRESEARCH.2.013329
|
“On the Anti-Cancer Effect of Cold Atmospheric Plasma and the Possible Role of Catalase-Dependent Apoptotic Pathways”. Bengtson C, Bogaerts A, Cells 9, 2330 (2020). http://doi.org/10.3390/cells9102330
Abstract: Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a promising new agent for (selective) cancer treatment, but the underlying cause of the anti-cancer effect of CAP is not well understood yet. Among different theories and observations, one theory in particular has been postulated in great detail and consists of a very complex network of reactions that are claimed to account for the anti-cancer effect of CAP. Here, the key concept is a reactivation of two specific apoptotic cell signaling pathways through catalase inactivation caused by CAP. Thus, it is postulated that the anti-cancer effect of CAP is due to its ability to inactivate catalase, either directly or indirectly. A theoretical investigation of the proposed theory, especially the role of catalase inactivation, can contribute to the understanding of the underlying cause of the anti-cancer effect of CAP. In the present study, we develop a mathematical model to analyze the proposed catalase-dependent anti-cancer effect of CAP. Our results show that a catalase-dependent reactivation of the two apoptotic pathways of interest is unlikely to contribute to the observed anti-cancer effect of CAP. Thus, we believe that other theories of the underlying cause should be considered and evaluated to gain knowledge about the principles of CAP-induced cancer cell death.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.3390/cells9102330
|
“Seasonality of ship emission related atmospheric pollution over coastal and open waters of the North Sea”. Bencs L, Horemans B, Buczyńska AJ, Deutsch F, Degraeuwe B, Van Poppel M, Van Grieken R, Atmospheric Environment: X 7, 100077 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.AEAOA.2020.100077
Abstract: The seasonal changes of a large set of atmospheric pollutants (i.e., gases, water-soluble aerosols, metallic/elemental components and black carbon (BC) content) have been studied over the southern bight of the North Sea (the Belgian Continental Shelf) and the English Channel during several marine sampling campaigns, carried out in 2010-2011. A coastal research station at De Haan, Belgium was concurrently used as a background air monitoring site. Size-segregated aerosols (PM1, PM2.5-1, PM10-2.5) were analyzed for particulate mass, elemental content and water-soluble (ionic) compounds, while the equivalent BC content in PM10 was monitored with an Aethalometer. The results clearly demonstrated that the aerosols originating from ship exhaust emissions contributed mostly to fine fraction (PM1), and to a lesser extent to medium-sized fraction (PM2.5-1), whereas components of sea spray and of mineral/soil origin were dominating in the medium-size and coarse aerosol fractions. Looking at seasonal differences, more ship emission related components occurred in the fine and medium-sized PM during winter. Mineral aerosol components were more apparent in coarse PM and especially during the cold season, increased levels were noted. Similarly, higher concentrations of marine fine PM were found during winter, likely due to more extensive ship emissions and/or calm weather conditions. Gaseous pollutants (e.g., HNO2, HNO3, HCl, SO2, NH3) originating from exhaust fumes of ocean-going ships mostly reached the maximum levels in the cold season as well, thus supporting the more intense formation of secondary aerosols. The seasonal trends of total (inorganic) ionic species sampled on the open sea and at the coastal station were usually similar to those of the corresponding PM masses, peaking in the cold season. Sea salt bound fine sulfate and nitrate peaked in spring or the cold season for marine areas, whereas for the coastal site they clearly reached the maximum in the cold season. Ammonium-bound nitrates and sulfates in each PM fraction reached their peak air levels in the cold season over marine sites. Similar seasonal trends could be observed for the coastal station. The general tendency of aerosol distribution over the study areas was independent of the sampling site: the higher the aerosol mass on the open sea with ship traffic, the higher the suspended particulate mass sampled at the coast.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.AEAOA.2020.100077
|
“Direct correlation of nanoscale morphology and device performance to study photocurrent generation in donor-enriched phases of polymer solar cells”. Ben Dkhil S, Perkhun P, Luo C, Mueller D, Alkarsifi R, Barulina E, Quiroz YAA, Margeat O, Dubas ST, Koganezawa T, Kuzuhara D, Yoshimoto N, Caddeo C, Mattoni A, Zimmermann B, Wuerfel U, Pfannmöller M, Bals S, Ackermann J, Videlot-Ackermann C, Acs Applied Materials &, Interfaces 12, 28404 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSAMI.0C05884
Abstract: The nanoscale morphology of polymer blends is a key parameter to reach high efficiency in bulk heterojunction solar cells. Thereby, research typically focusing on optimal blend morphologies while studying nonoptimized blends may give insight into blend designs that can prove more robust against morphology defects. Here, we focus on the direct correlation of morphology and device performance of thieno[3,4-b]-thiophene-alt-benzodithiophene (PTB7):[6,6]phenyl C-71 butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) bulk heterojunction (BHJ) blends processed without additives in different donor/acceptor weight ratios. We show that while blends of a 1:1.5 ratio are composed of large donor-enriched and fullerene domains beyond the exciton diffusion length, reducing the ratio below 1:0.5 leads to blends composed purely of polymer-enriched domains. Importantly, the photocurrent density in such blends can reach values between 45 and 60% of those reached for fully optimized blends using additives. We provide here direct visual evidence that fullerenes in the donor-enriched domains are not distributed homogeneously but fluctuate locally. To this end, we performed compositional nanoscale morphology analysis of the blend using spectroscopic imaging of low-energy-loss electrons using a transmission electron microscope. Charge transport measurement in combination with molecular dynamics simulations shows that the fullerene substructures inside the polymer phase generate efficient electron transport in the polymer-enriched phase. Furthermore, we show that the formation of densely packed regions of fullerene inside the polymer phase is driven by the PTB7:PC71BM enthalpy of mixing. The occurrence of such a nanoscale network of fullerene clusters leads to a reduction of electron trap states and thus efficient extraction of photocurrent inside the polymer domain. Suitable tuning of the polymer-acceptor interaction can thus introduce acceptor subnetworks in polymer-enriched phases, improving the tolerance for high-efficiency BHJ toward morphological defects such as donor-enriched domains exceeding the exciton diffusion length.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.5
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.0C05884
|
“Crystal structure, vibrational, electrical, optical and DFT study of C₂H₁0N₂(IO₃)₂.HIO₃”. Ben Abdallah MA, Bacchi A, Parisini A, Canossa S, Bergamonti L, Balestri D, Kamoun S, Journal Of Molecular Structure 1215, 128254 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MOLSTRUC.2020.128254
Abstract: The reinvestigation of the EDA-HIO3-H2O system using a different stoichiometric ratio gives rise to a new iodate salt C2H10N2(IO3)(2 center dot)HIO3 denoted as EBIMIA. In this study, we reported the structural properties of ethylenediammonium bis iodate mono iodic acid using X-ray powder and single crystal diffraction at room temperature. The Hirshfeld and the potential energy surface analysis reveal that I center dot center dot center dot O and N-H center dot center dot center dot O are the most noticeable interactions that took place inside the crystal and contribute to the cohesion and stability of the synthesized compound. The DSC measurement shows that this iodate salt undergoes two structural phase transitions, the first occurs at T = 290 K while the second occurs at T = 363 K. However, the dielectric analysis confirms only the second transition because it lies in the studied temperature domain 338-413K. Besides, the impedance data obey a circuit model consisting of a parallel combination of a bulk resistance and CPE. The frequency dispersion of the conductivity follows Jonscher's law and the charge carrier transport may be interpreted using the correlation barrier hopping mechanism (CBH). Finally, the electronic properties and the vibrational analysis of this novel iodate salt are studied using DFT and compared to the experimental data given by the FT-IR, Raman and UV-visible spectroscopies. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.MOLSTRUC.2020.128254
|
“First-principles exploration of superconductivity in MXenes”. Bekaert J, Sevik C, Milošević, MV, Nanoscale 12, 17354 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1039/D0NR03875J
Abstract: MXenes are an emerging class of two-dimensional materials, which in their thinnest limit consist of a monolayer of carbon or nitrogen (X) sandwiched between two transition metal (M) layers. We have systematically searched for superconductivity among MXenes for a range of transition metal elements, based on a full first-principles characterization in combination with the Eliashberg formalism. Thus, we identified six superconducting MXenes: three carbides (Mo2C, W2C and Sc2C) and three nitrides (Mo2N, W2N and Ta2N). The highest critical temperature of similar to 16 K is found in Mo2N, for which a successful synthesis method has been established [Urbankowskiet al.,Nanoscale, 2017,9, 17722-17730]. Moreover, W2N presents a novel case of competing superconducting and charge density wave phases.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 6.7
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1039/D0NR03875J
|
“Enhanced superconductivity in few-layer TaS₂, due to healing by oxygenation”. Bekaert J, Khestanova E, Hopkinson DG, Birkbeck J, Clark N, Zhu M, Bandurin DA, Gorbachev R, Fairclough S, Zou Y, Hamer M, Terry DJ, Peters JJP, Sanchez AM, Partoens B, Haigh SJ, Milošević, MV, Grigorieva I V, Nano Letters 20, 3808 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.0C00871
Abstract: When approaching the atomically thin limit, defects and disorder play an increasingly important role in the properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials. While defects are generally thought to negatively affect superconductivity in 2D materials, here we demonstrate the contrary in the case of oxygenation of ultrathin tantalum disulfide (TaS2). Our first-principles calculations show that incorporation of oxygen into the TaS2 crystal lattice is energetically favorable and effectively heals sulfur vacancies typically present in these crystals, thus restoring the electronic band structure and the carrier density to the intrinsic characteristics of TaS2. Strikingly, this leads to a strong enhancement of the electron-phonon coupling, by up to 80% in the highly oxygenated limit. Using transport measurements on fresh and aged (oxygenated) few-layer TaS2, we found a marked increase of the superconducting critical temperature (T-c) upon aging, in agreement with our theory, while concurrent electron microscopy and electron-energy loss spectroscopy confirmed the presence of sulfur vacancies in freshly prepared TaS2 and incorporation of oxygen into the crystal lattice with time. Our work thus reveals the mechanism by which certain atomic-scale defects can be beneficial to superconductivity and opens a new route to engineer T-c in ultrathin materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 10.8
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.0C00871
|
“Stable single-layers of calcium halides (CaX₂, X = F, Cl, Br, I)”. Baskurt M, Yagmurcukardes M, Peeters FM, Sahin H, Journal Of Chemical Physics 152, 164116 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0006011
Abstract: By means of density functional theory based first-principles calculations, the structural, vibrational, and electronic properties of 1H- and 1T-phases of single-layer CaX2 (X = F, Cl, Br, or I) structures are investigated. Our results reveal that both the 1H- and 1T-phases are dynamically stable in terms of their phonon band dispersions with the latter being the energetically favorable phase for all single-layers. In both phases of single-layer CaX2 structures, significant phonon softening occurs as the atomic radius increases. In addition, each structural phase exhibits distinctive Raman active modes that enable one to characterize either the phase or the structure via Raman spectroscopy. The electronic band dispersions of single-layer CaX2 structures reveal that all structures are indirect bandgap insulators with a decrease in bandgaps from fluorite to iodide crystals. Furthermore, the calculated linear elastic constants, in-plane stiffness, and Poisson ratio indicate the ultra-soft nature of CaX2 single-layers, which is quite important for their nanoelastic applications. Overall, our study reveals that with their dynamically stable 1T- and 1H-phases, single-layers of CaX2 crystals can be alternative ultra-thin insulators.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.4
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1063/5.0006011
|
“Vanadium dopant- and strain-dependent magnetic properties of single-layer VI₃”. Baskurt M, Eren I, Yagmurcukardes M, Sahin H, Applied Surface Science 508, 144937 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APSUSC.2019.144937
Abstract: Motivated by the recent synthesis of two-dimensional VI3 [Kong et al. Adv. Mater. 31, 1808074 (2019)], we investigate the effect of V doping on the magnetic and electronic properties of monolayer VI3 by means of first-principles calculations. The dynamically stable semiconducting ferromagnetic (FM) and antiferromagnetic (AFM) phases of monolayer VI3 are found to display distinctive vibrational features that the magnetic state can be distinguished by Raman spectroscopy. In order to clarify the effect of experimentally observed excessive V atoms, the magnetic and electronic properties of the V-doped VI3 structures are analyzed. Our findings indicate that partially doped VI3 structures display FM ground state while the fully-doped structure exhibits AFM ground state. The fully-doped monolayer VI3 is found to be a semiconductor with a relatively larger band gap than its pristine structure. In addition, strain-dependent electronic and magnetic properties of fully- and partially-doped VI3 structures reveal that pristine monolayer displays a FM-to-AFM phase transition with robust semiconducting nature for 5% of compressive strain, while fully-doped monolayer VI3 structure possesses AFM-to-FM semiconducting transition at tensile strains larger than 4%. In contrast, the partially-doped VI3 monolayers are found to display robust FM ground state under biaxial strain. Its dopant and strain tunable electronic and magnetic nature makes monolayer VI3 a promising material for applications in nanoscale spintronic devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 6.7
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2019.144937
|
“The impact of local hydrodynamics on high-rate activated sludge flocculation in laboratory and full-scale reactors”. Balemans S, Vlaeminck SE, Torfs E, Hartog L, Zaharova L, Rehman U, Nopens I, Processes 8, 131 (2020). http://doi.org/10.3390/PR8020131
Abstract: High rate activated sludge (HRAS) processes have a high potential for carbon and energy recovery from sewage, yet they suffer frequently from poor settleability due to flocculation issues. The process of flocculation is generally optimized using jar tests. However, detailed jar hydrodynamics are often unknown, and average quantities are used, which can significantly differ from the local conditions. The presented work combined experimental and numerical data to investigate the impact of local hydrodynamics on HRAS flocculation for two different jar test configurations (i.e., radial vs. axial impellers at different impeller velocities) and compared the hydrodynamics in these jar tests to those in a representative section of a full scale reactor using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The analysis showed that the flocculation performance was highly influenced by the impeller type and its speed. The axial impeller appeared to be more appropriate for floc formation over a range of impeller speeds as it produced a more homogeneous distribution of local velocity gradients compared to the radial impeller. In contrast, the radial impeller generated larger volumes (%) of high velocity gradients in which floc breakage may occur. Comparison to local velocity gradients in a full scale system showed that also here, high velocity gradients occurred in the region around the impeller, which might significantly hamper the HRAS flocculation process. As such, this study showed that a model based approach was necessary to translate lab scale results to full scale. These new insights can help improve future experimental setups and reactor design for improved HRAS flocculation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.3390/PR8020131
|
“Free energy barriers from biased molecular dynamics simulations”. Bal KM, Fukuhara S, Shibuta Y, Neyts EC, Journal Of Chemical Physics 153, 114118 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0020240
Abstract: Atomistic simulation methods for the quantification of free energies are in wide use. These methods operate by sampling the probability density of a system along a small set of suitable collective variables (CVs), which is, in turn, expressed in the form of a free energy surface (FES). This definition of the FES can capture the relative stability of metastable states but not that of the transition state because the barrier height is not invariant to the choice of CVs. Free energy barriers therefore cannot be consistently computed from the FES. Here, we present a simple approach to calculate the gauge correction necessary to eliminate this inconsistency. Using our procedure, the standard FES as well as its gauge-corrected counterpart can be obtained by reweighing the same simulated trajectory at little additional cost. We apply the method to a number of systems—a particle solvated in a Lennard-Jones fluid, a Diels–Alder reaction, and crystallization of liquid sodium—to demonstrate its ability to produce consistent free energy barriers that correctly capture the kinetics of chemical or physical transformations, and discuss the additional demands it puts on the chosen CVs. Because the FES can be converged at relatively short (sub-ns) time scales, a free energy-based description of reaction kinetics is a particularly attractive option to study chemical processes at more expensive quantum mechanical levels of theory.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.4
DOI: 10.1063/5.0020240
|
“Ensemble-Based Molecular Simulation of Chemical Reactions under Vibrational Nonequilibrium”. Bal KM, Bogaerts A, Neyts EC, Journal Of Physical Chemistry Letters 11, 401 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpclett.9b03356
Abstract: We present an approach to incorporate the effect of vibrational nonequilibrium in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. A perturbed canonical ensemble, in which selected modes are excited to higher temperature while all others remain equilibrated at low temperature, is simulated by applying a specifically tailored bias potential. Our method can be readily applied to any (classical or quantum mechanical) MD setup at virtually no additional computational cost and allows the study of reactions of vibrationally excited molecules in nonequilibrium environments such as plasmas. In combination with enhanced sampling methods, the vibrational efficacy and mode selectivity of vibrationally stimulated reactions can then be quantified in terms of chemically relevant observables, such as reaction rates and apparent free energy barriers. We first validate our method for the prototypical hydrogen exchange reaction and then show how it can capture the effect of vibrational excitation on a symmetric SN2 reaction and radical addition on CO2.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 5.7
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.9b03356
|
“Electro-optical properties of monolayer and bilayer boron-doped C₃N: Tunable electronic structure via strain engineering and electric field”. Bafekry A, Yagmurcukardes M, Shahrokhi M, Ghergherehchi M, Carbon 168, 220 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CARBON.2020.06.082
Abstract: In this work, the structural, electronic and optical properties of monolayer and bilayer of boron doped C3N are investigated by means of density functional theory-based first-principles calculations. Our results show that with increasing the B dopant concentration from 3.1% to 12.5% in the hexagonal pattern, an indirect-to-direct band gap (0.8 eV) transition occurs. Furthermore, we study the effect of electric field and strain on the B doped C3N bilayer (B-C3N@2L). It is shown that by increasing E-field strength from 0.1 to 0.6V/angstrom, the band gap displays almost a linear decreasing trend, while for the > 0.6V/angstrom, we find dual narrow band gap with of 50 meV (in parallel E-field) and 0.4 eV (in antiparallel E-field). Our results reveal that in-plane and out-of-plane strains can modulate the band gap and band edge positions of the B-C3N@2L. Overall, we predict that B-C3N@2L is a new platform for the study of novel physical properties in layered two-dimensional materials (2DM) which may provide new opportunities to realize high-speed low-dissipation devices. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 10.9
Times cited: 21
DOI: 10.1016/J.CARBON.2020.06.082
|
“Van der Waals heterostructures of MoS₂, and Janus MoSSe monolayers on graphitic boron-carbon-nitride (BC₃, C₃N, C₃N₄, and C₄N₃) nanosheets: a first-principles study”. Bafekry A, Yagmurcukardes M, Akgenc B, Ghergherehchi M, Nguyen C, Journal Of Physics D-Applied Physics , 1 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6463/AB876C
Abstract: In this work, we extensively investigate the structural and electronic properties of van der Waals heterostructures (HTs) constructed by MoS${2}$/$BC3$, MoS${2}$/$C3N$, MoS${2}$/$C3N4$, MoS${2}$/$C4N3$ and those using Janus MoSSe instead of MoS$2$ by performing density functional theory calculations. The electronic band structure calculations and the corresponding partial density of states reveal that the significant changes are driven by quite strong layer-layer interaction between the constitutive layers. Our results show that although all monolayers are semiconductors as free-standing layers, the MoS${2}$/$C3N$ and MoS${2}$/$C4N3$ bilayer HTs display metallic behavior as a consequence of transfer of charge carriers between two constituent layers. In addition, it is found that in MoSSe/$C3N$ bilayer HT, the degree of metallicity is affected by the interface chalcogen atom type when Se atoms are facing to $C3N$ layer, the overlap of the bands around the Fermi level is smaller. Moreover, the half-metallic magnetic $C4N3$ is shown to form magnetic half-metallic trilayer HT with MoS$2$ independent of the stacking sequence, i.e. whether it is sandwiched or two $C4N3$ layer encapsulate MoS$2$ layer. We further analyze the trilayer HTs in which MoS$2$ is encapsulated by two different monolayers and it is revealed that at least with one magnetic monolayer, it is possible to construct a magnetic trilayer. While the trilayer of $C4N3$/MoS${2}$/$BC3$ and $C4N3$/MoS${2}$/$C3N4$ exhibit half-metallic characteristics, $C4N3$/MoS${_2}$/$C3$N possesses a magnetic metallic ground state. Overall, our results reveal that holly structures of BCN crystals are suitable for heterostructure formation even over van der Waals type interaction which significantly changes electronic nature of the constituent layers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.4
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6463/AB876C
|
“Oxygen vacancies in the single layer of Ti₂CO₂, MXene: effects of gating voltage, mechanical strain, and atomic impurities”. Bafekry A, Van Nguyen C, Stampfl C, Akgenc B, Ghergherehchi M, Physica Status Solidi B-Basic Solid State Physics , 2000343 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1002/PSSB.202000343
Abstract: Herein, using first-principles calculations the structural and electronic properties of the Ti(2)CO(2)MXene monolayer with and without oxygen vacancies are systematically investigated with different defect concentrations and patterns, including partial, linear, local, and hexagonal types. The Ti(2)CO(2)monolayer is found to be a semiconductor with a bandgap of 0.35 eV. The introduction of oxygen vacancies tends to increase the bandgap and leads to electronic phase transitions from nonmagnetic semiconductors to half-metals. Moreover, the semiconducting characteristic of O-vacancy Ti(2)CO(2)can be adjusted via electric fields, strain, and F-atom substitution. In particular, an electric field can be used to alter the nonmagnetic semiconductor of O-vacancy Ti(2)CO(2)into a magnetic one or into a half-metal, whereas the electronic phase transition from a semiconductor to metal can be achieved by applying strain and F-atom substitution. The results provide a useful guide for practical applications of O-vacancy Ti(2)CO(2)monolayers in nanoelectronic and spinstronic nanodevices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.6
DOI: 10.1002/PSSB.202000343
|
“A first-principles study of C3N nanostructures : control and engineering of the electronic and magnetic properties of nanosheets, tubes and ribbons”. Bafekry A, Stampfl C, Shayesteh SF, Chemphyschem 21, 164 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1002/CPHC.201900852
Abstract: Using first-principles calculations we systematically investigate the atomic, electronic and magnetic properties of novel two-dimensional materials (2DM) with a stoichiometry C3N which has recently been synthesized. We investigate how the number of layers affect the electronic properties by considering monolayer, bilayer and trilayer structures, with different stacking of the layers. We find that a transition from semiconducting to metallic character occurs which could offer potential applications in future nanoelectronic devices. We also study the affect of width of C3N nanoribbons, as well as the radius and length of C3N nanotubes, on the atomic, electronic and magnetic properties. Our results show that these properties can be modified depending on these dimensions, and depend markedly on the nature of the edge states. Functionalization of the nanostructures by the adsorption of H adatoms is found induce metallic, half-metallic, semiconducting and ferromagnetic behavior, which offers an approach to tailor the properties, as can the application of strain. Our calculations give insight into this new family of C3N nanostructures, which reveal unusual electronic and magnetic properties, and may have great potential in applications such as sensors, electronics and optoelectronic at the nanoscale.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.9
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1002/CPHC.201900852
|
“Dirac half-metallicity of thin PdCl₃, nanosheets : investigation of the effects of external fields, surface adsorption and defect engineering on the electronic and magnetic properties”. Bafekry A, Stampfl C, Peeters FM, Scientific Reports 10, 213 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1038/S41598-019-57353-3
Abstract: PdCl3 belongs to a novel class of Dirac materials with Dirac spin-gapless semiconducting characteristics. In this paper based, on first-principles calculations, we have systematically investigated the effect of adatom adsorption, vacancy defects, electric field, strain, edge states and layer thickness on the electronic and magnetic properties of PdCl3 (palladium trichloride). Our results show that when spin-orbital coupling is included, PdCl3 exhibits the quantum anomalous Hall effect with a non-trivial band gap of 24 meV. With increasing number of layers, from monolayer to bulk, a transition occurs from a Dirac half-metal to a ferromagnetic metal. On application of a perpendicular electrical field to bilayer PdCl3, we find that the energy band gap decreases with increasing field. Uniaxial and biaxial strain, significantly modifies the electronic structure depending on the strain type and magnitude. Adsorption of adatom and topological defects have a dramatic effect on the electronic and magnetic properties of PdCl3. In particular, the structure can become a metal (Na), half-metal (Be, Ca, Al, Ti, V, Cr, Fe and Cu with, respective, 0.72, 9.71, 7.14, 6.90, 9.71, 4.33 and 9.5 μB magnetic moments), ferromagnetic-metal (Sc, Mn and Co with 4.55, 7.93 and 2.0 μB), spin-glass semiconductor (Mg, Ni with 3.30 and 8.63 μB), and dilute-magnetic semiconductor (Li, K and Zn with 9.0, 9.0 and 5.80 μB magnetic moment, respectively). Single Pd and double Pd + Cl vacancies in PdCl3 display dilute-magnetic semiconductor characteristics, while with a single Cl vacancy, the material becomes a half-metal. The calculated optical properties of PdCl3 suggest it could be a good candidate for microelectronic and optoelectronics devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.6
Times cited: 29
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-019-57353-3
|