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“Solution-gel-based surface modification of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4-δ with amorphous Li-Ti-O coating”. Ulu Okudur F, Batuk M, Hadermann J, Safari M, De Sloovere D, Kumar Mylavarapu S, Joos B, D'Haen J, Van Bael MK, Hardy A, RSC advances 13, 33146 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1039/D3RA05599J
Abstract: LNMO (LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4-delta) is a high-energy density positive electrode material for lithium ion batteries. Unfortunately, it suffers from capacity loss and impedance rise during cycling due to electrolyte oxidation and electrode/electrolyte interface instabilities at high operating voltages. Here, a solution-gel synthesis route was used to coat 0.5-2.5 mu m LNMO particles with amorphous Li-Ti-O (LTO) for improved Li conduction, surface structural stability and cyclability. High-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) analysis coupled with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) showed Ti-rich amorphous coatings/islands or Ti-rich spinel layers on many of the LTO-modified LNMO facets, with a thickness varying from about 1 to 10 nm. The surface modification in the form of amorphous islands was mostly possible on high-energy crystal facets. Physicochemical observations were used to propose a molecular mechanism for the surface modification, combining insights from metalorganic chemistry with the crystallographic properties of LNMO. The improvements in functional properties were investigated in half cells. The cell impedance increased faster for the bare LNMO compared to amorphous LTO modified LNMO, resulting in R-ct values as high as 1247 Omega (after 1000 cycles) for bare LNMO, against 216 Omega for the modified material. At 10C, the modified material boosted a 15% increase in average discharge capacity. The improvements in electrochemical performance were attributed to the increase in electrochemically active surface area, as well as to improved HF-scavenging, resulting in the formation of protective byproducts, generating a more stable interface during prolonged cycling.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.9
DOI: 10.1039/D3RA05599J
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“Band-gap tuning of graphene by Be doping and Be, B co-doping : a DFT study”. Ullah S, Hussain A, Syed WA, Saqlain MA, Ahmad I, Leenaerts O, Karim A, RSC advances 5, 55762 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5ra08061d
Abstract: First-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to investigate the structural and electronic properties of beryllium (Be) doped and Be and boron (B) co-doped graphene systems. We observed that not only the concentration of impurity atoms is important to tune the band-gap to some desired level, but also the specific substitution sites play a key role. In our system, which consists of 32 atoms, a maximum of 4Be and, in the co-doped state, 2Be and 3B atom substitutions are investigated. Both dopants are electron deficient relative to C atoms and cause the Fermi level to shift downward (p-type doping). A maximum band gap of 1.44 eV can be achieved on incorporation of 4Be atoms. The introduction of Be is more sensitive in terms of geometry and stability than B. However, in opening the energy gap, Be is more effective than B and N (nitrogen). Our results offer the possibility to modify the band-gap of graphene sufficiently for utilization in diverse electronic device applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.108
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1039/c5ra08061d
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“Structural aspects of AuCu I or AuCu II and a cuboidal black configuration of f.c.c. disordered phase in AuCu-Pt and AuCu-Ag pseudobinary alloys”. Udoh K-I, El- Araby AM, Tanaka Y, Hisatsune K, Yasuda K, Van Tendeloo G, van Landuyt J, Materials science and engineering: part A: structural materials: properties, microstructure and processing 203, 154 (1995). http://doi.org/10.1016/0921-5093(95)09850-X
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.567
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1016/0921-5093(95)09850-X
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“Tunable porous nanoallotropes prepared by post-assembly etching of binary nanoparticle superlattices”. Udayabhaskararao T, Altantzis T, Houben L, Coronado-Puchau M, Langer J, Popovitz-Biro R, Liz-Marzán LM, Vuković, L, Král P, Bals S, Klajn R, Science 358, 514 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1126/science.aan6046
Abstract: Self-assembly of inorganic nanoparticles has been used to prepare hundreds of different colloidal crystals, but almost invariably with the restriction that the particles must be densely packed. Here,we show that non–close-packed nanoparticle arrays can be fabricated through the selective removal of one of two components comprising binary nanoparticle superlattices. First, a variety of binary nanoparticle superlattices were prepared at the liquid-air interface, including several arrangements that were previously unknown. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed the particular role of the liquid in templating the formation of superlattices not achievable through self-assembly in bulk solution. Second, upon stabilization, all of these binary superlattices could be transformed into distinct “nanoallotropes”—nanoporous materials having the same chemical composition but differing in their nanoscale architectures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 37.205
Times cited: 113
DOI: 10.1126/science.aan6046
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“Structure and formation mechanism of rolled-in oxide areas on aluminum lithographic printing sheets”. Tzedaki G, M, Turner S, Godet S, De Graeve I, Kernig B, Hasenclever J, Terryn H, Scripta materialia 68, 233 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.scriptamat.2012.10.021
Abstract: The subsurface area introduced during rolling on the 1100 aluminum alloy series alters its surface properties, which makes it more susceptible to corrosion. A combination of different transmission electron microscopy techniques is employed to observe the orientation of small grain structures and the distribution elements in the subsurface layer. This approach provided valuable insight into the formation mechanism of the layer and the phenomena taking place during rolling.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.747
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/j.scriptamat.2012.10.021
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“Immobilization of TiO2 into self-supporting photocatalytic foam : influence of calcination temperature”. Tytgat T, Smits M, Lenaerts S, Verbruggen SW, International journal of applied ceramic technology 11, 714 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1111/IJAC.12086
Abstract: Immobilization of photocatalytic powder is crucial to obtain industrially relevant purification processes. To achieve this goal, self-supporting TiO2 foams were manufactured by a polyacrylamide gel process. These gels were calcined at different temperatures to study the effect of the calcination temperature on foam characteristics (rigidity, crystallinity, and porosity) and its influence on photocatalytic activity. The results show that an optimal degradation is achieved for those foams calcined between 700 and 800°C. Calcination at higher temperatures results in a steep decrease in activity, explained by stability issues of the material due to formation of Na2SO4 phases and a larger rutile fraction.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 1.048
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1111/IJAC.12086
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“Concept and validation of a fully automated photocatalytic test setup”. Tytgat T, Hauchecorne B, Smits M, Verbruggen S, Lenaerts S, Journal of laboratory automation 17, 134 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1177/2211068211424554
Abstract: Photocatalytic activity can be studied by several methods, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. To study photocatalytic activity in an easy, user-friendly, and realistic way, a completely new setup has been built. The setup is modularly constructed around Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy at the heart of it, resulting in great versatility. Complementary software has been written for automatic control of the setup and for processing the generated data. Two pollutants, oil and n-octane, are tested to validate the performance of the setup. These validation experiments confirm the usefulness and added value of the setup in general and of the FTIR detection methodology as well. It becomes clear that a system of online measurements with good repeatability, accuracy, and user-friendliness has been created.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 2.85
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1177/2211068211424554
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“Photocatalytic process optimisation for ethylene oxidation”. Tytgat T, Hauchecorne B, Abakumov AM, Smits M, Verbruggen SW, Lenaerts S, Chemical engineering journal 209, 494 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2012.08.032
Abstract: When studying photocatalysis it is important to consider, beside the chemical approach, the engineering part related to process optimisation. To achieve this a fixed bed photocatalytic set-up consisting of different catalyst placings, in order to vary catalyst distribution, is studied. The use of a fixed quantity of catalyst placed packed or randomly distributed in the reactor, results in an almost double degradation for the distributed catalyst. Applying this knowledge leads to an improved performance with limited use of catalyst. A reactor only half filled with catalyst leads to higher degradation performance compared to a completely filled reactor. Taking into account this simple process optimisation by better distributing the catalyst a more sustainable photocatalytic air purification process is achieved. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 6.216
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2012.08.032
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“Assisted spray pyrolysis production and characterisation of ZnO nanoparticles with narrow size distribution”. Turner S, Tavernier SMF, Huyberechts G, Bals S, Batenburg KJ, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of nanoparticle research 12, 615 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-009-9630-1
Abstract: Nano-sized ZnO particles with a narrow size distribution and high crystallinity were prepared from aqueous solutions with high concentrations of Zn2+ containing salts and citric acid in a conventional spray pyrolysis setup. Structure, morphology and size of the produced material were compared to ZnO material produced by simple spray pyrolysis of zinc nitrates in the same experimental setup. Using transmission electron microscopy and electron tomography it has been shown that citric acid-assisted spray pyrolysed material is made up of micron sized secondary particles comprising a shell of lightly agglomerated, monocrystalline primary ZnO nanoparticles with sizes in the 2030 nm range, separable by a simple ultrasonic treatment step.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 2.02
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1007/s11051-009-9630-1
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“Direct imaging of boron segregation at dislocations in B:diamond heteroepitaxial films”. Turner S, Idrissi H, Sartori AF, Korneychuck S, Lu Y-G, Verbeeck J, Schreck M, Van Tendeloo G, Nanoscale 8, 2212 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5nr07535a
Abstract: A thin film of heavily B-doped diamond has been grown epitaxially by microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition on an undoped diamond layer, on top of a Ir/YSZ/Si(001) substrate stack, to study the boron segregation and boron environment at the dislocations present in the film. The density and nature of the dislocations were investigated by conventional and weak-beam dark-field transmission electron microscopy techniques, revealing the presence of two types of dislocations: edge and mixed-type 45 degrees dislocations. The presence and distribution of B in the sample was studied using annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and spatially resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy. Using these techniques, a segregation of B at the dislocations in the film is evidenced, which is shown to be intermittent along the dislocation. A single edge-type dislocation was selected to study the distribution of the boron surrounding the dislocation core. By imaging this defect at atomic resolution, the boron is revealed to segregate towards the tensile strain field surrounding the edge-type dislocations. An investigation of the fine structure of the B-K edge at the dislocation core shows that the boron is partially substitutionally incorporated into the diamond lattice and partially present in a lower coordination (sp(2)-like hybridization).
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.367
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1039/c5nr07535a
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“Site-specific mapping of transition metal oxygen coordination in complex oxides”. Turner S, Egoavil R, Batuk M, Abakumov AA, Hadermann J, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Applied physics letters 101, 241910 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4770512
Abstract: We demonstrate site-specific mapping of the oxygen coordination number for transition metals in complex oxides using atomically resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy in an aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscope. Pb2Sr2Bi2Fe6O16 contains iron with a constant Fe3+ valency in both octahedral and tetragonal pyramidal coordination and is selected to demonstrate the principle of site-specific coordination mapping. Analysis of the site-specific Fe-L2,3 data reveals distinct variations in the fine structure that are attributed to Fe in a six-fold (octahedron) or five-fold (distorted tetragonal pyramid) oxygen coordination. Using these variations, atomic resolution coordination maps are generated that are in excellent agreement with simulations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1063/1.4770512
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“Synthesis of MAX Phases in the Zr-Ti-Al-C System”. Tunca B, Lapauw T, Karakulina OM, Batuk M, Cabioc’h T, Hadermann J, Delville R, Lambrinou K, Vleugels J, Inorganic chemistry 56, 3489 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.inorgchem.6b03057
Abstract: This study reports on the synthesis and characterization of MAX phases in the (Zr,Ti)n+1AlCn system. The MAX phases were synthesized by reactive hot pressing and pressureless sintering in the 1350–1700 °C temperature range. The produced ceramics contained large fractions of 211 and 312 (n = 1, 2) MAX phases, while strong evidence of a 413 (n = 3) stacking was found. Moreover, (Zr,Ti)C, ZrAl2, ZrAl3, and Zr2Al3 were present as secondary phases. In general, the lattice parameters of the hexagonal 211 and 312 phases followed Vegard’s law over the complete Zr-Ti solid solution range, but the 312 phase showed a non-negligible deviation from Vegard’s law around the (Zr0.33,Ti0.67)3Al1.2C1.6 stoichiometry. High-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy combined with X-ray diffraction demonstrated ordering of the Zr and Ti atoms in the 312 phase, whereby Zr atoms occupied preferentially the central position in the close-packed M6X octahedral layers. The same ordering was also observed in 413 stackings present within the 312 phase. The decomposition of the secondary (Zr,Ti)C phase was attributed to the miscibility gap in the ZrC-TiC system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.857
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.6b03057
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“Compatibility of Zr₂AlC MAX phase-based ceramics with oxygen-poor, static liquid lead-bismuth eutectic”. Tunca B, Lapauw T, Callaert C, Hadermann J, Delville R, Caspi E'ad N, Dahlqvist M, Rosen J, Marshal A, Pradeep KG, Schneider JM, Vleugels J, Lambrinou K, Corrosion Science 171, 108704 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CORSCI.2020.108704
Abstract: This work investigates the compatibility of Zr2AlC MAX phase-based ceramics with liquid LBE, and proposes a mechanism to explain the observed local Zr2AlC/LBE interaction. The ceramics were exposed to oxygen-poor (C-O <= 2.2 x 10(-10) mass%), static liquid LBE at 500 degrees C for 1000 h. A new Zr-2(Al,Bi,Pb)C MAX phase solid solution formed in-situ in the LBE-affected Zr2AlC grains. Out-of-plane ordering was favorable in the new solid solution, whereby A-layers with high and low-Bi/Pb contents alternated in the crystal structure, in agreement with first-principles calculations. Bulk Zr-2(Al,Bi,Pb)C was synthesized by reactive hot pressing to study the crystal structure of the solid solution by neutron diffraction.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.3
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1016/J.CORSCI.2020.108704
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“Composition and crystal structure of resorbable calcium phosphate thin films”. Tuck L, Sayer M, Mackenzie M, Hadermann J, Dunfield D, Pietak A, Reid JW, Stratilatov AD, Journal of materials science 41, 4273 (2006). http://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-005-5532-5
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.599
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1007/s10853-005-5532-5
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“Lowering of the spatial symmetry at the gamma ->alpha phase transition in cerium”. Tsvyashchenko AV, Nikolaev AV, Velichkov AI, Salamatin AV, Fomicheva LN, Ryasny GK, Sorokin AA, Kochetov OI, Budzynski M, Michel KH, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 82, 1 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.82.092102
Abstract: Using time-differential perturbed angular correlation spectroscopy we have measured the electric field gradient (EFG) at 111Cd probe nuclei in solid Ce in a pressure range up to 8 GPa. Covering various allotropic phases of Ce, we find that the value of the EFG in the cubic α phase is almost four times larger than in the cubic γ phase and close to values in the noncubic phases α′ and α″. These results together with the differences in time modulation of the spectra are interpreted as evidence for quadrupolar electronic charge-density ordering and symmetry lowering at the γ→α transition while the lattice remains face-centered cubic
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.82.092102
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“Preliminary experiment of total reflection x-ray fluorescence using two glancing x-ray beams excitation”. Tsuji K, Sato T, Wagatsuma K, Claes M, Van Grieken R, The review of scientific instruments 70, 1621 (1999). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.1149687
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1063/1.1149687
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“Comparison of grazing-exit particle-induced X-ray emission with other related methods”. Tsuji K, Huisman M, Spolnik Z, Wagatsuma K, Mori Y, Van Grieken RE, Vis RD, Spectrochimica acta: part B : atomic spectroscopy 55, 1009 (2000). http://doi.org/10.1016/S0584-8547(00)00148-8
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/S0584-8547(00)00148-8
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“Importance of geometric effects in scaling up energy-efficient plasma-based nitrogen fixation”. Tsonev I, Ahmadi Eshtehardi H, Delplancke M-P, Bogaerts A, Sustainable energy &, fuels , 1 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1039/D3SE01615C
Abstract: Despite the recent promising potential of plasma-based nitrogen fixation, the technology faces significant challenges in efficient upscaling. To tackle this challenge, we investigate two reactors, i.e., a small one, operating in a flow rate range of 5-20 ln min-1 and current range of 200-500 mA, and a larger one, operating at higher flow rate (100-300 ln min-1) and current (400-1000 mA). Both reactors operate in a pin-to-pin configuration and are powered by direct current (DC) from the same power supply unit, to allow easy comparison and evaluate the effect of upscaling. In the small reactor, we achieve the lowest energy cost (EC) of 2.8 MJ mol-1, for a NOx concentration of 1.72%, at a flow rate of 20 ln min-1, yielding a production rate (PR) of 33 g h-1. These values are obtained in air; in oxygen-enriched air, the results are typically better, at the cost of producing oxygen-enriched air. In the large reactor, the higher flow rates reduce the NOx concentration due to lower SEI, while maintaining a similar EC. This stresses the important effect of the geometrical configuration of the arc, which is typically concentrated in the center of the reactor, resulting in limited coverage of the reacting gas flow, and this is identified as the limiting factor for upscaling. However, our experiments reveal that by changing the reactor configuration, and thus the plasma geometry and power deposition mechanisms, the amount of gas treated by the plasma can be enhanced, leading to successful upscaling. To obtain more insights in our experiments, we performed thermodynamic equilibrium calculations. First of all, they show that our measured lowest EC closely aligns with the calculated minimum thermodynamic equilibrium at atmospheric pressure. In addition, they reveal that the limited NOx production in the large reactor results from the contracted nature of the plasma. To solve this limitation, we let the large reactor operate in so-called torch configuration. Indeed, the latter enhances the NOx concentrations compared to the pin-to-pin configuration, yielding a PR of 80 g h-1 at an EC of 2.9 MJ mol-1 and NOx concentration of 0.31%. This illustrates the importance of reactor design in upscaling. With the focus on feasibility evaluation of scaling-up plasma-based nitrogen fixation by combined experiments and thermodynamic modelling, we aim to tackle the challenge of design and development of an energy-efficient and scaled-up plasma reactor.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
DOI: 10.1039/D3SE01615C
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“Coulomb coupling between spatially separated electron and hole layers: generalized random-phase approximation”. Tso HC, Vasilopoulos P, Peeters FM, Physical review letters 70, 2146 (1993)
Abstract: http://dx.doi.org/doi:10.1103/PhysRevLett.70.2146
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 7.512
Times cited: 58
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“Coupled electron-hole transport: generalized random-phase approximation and density functional theory”. Tso HC, Vasilopoulos P, Peeters FM, Surface science : a journal devoted to the physics and chemistry of interfaces 305, 400 (1994). http://doi.org/10.1016/0039-6028(94)90925-3
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.925
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1016/0039-6028(94)90925-3
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“Direct Coulomb and phonon-mediated coupling between spatially separated electron gases”. Tso HC, Vasilopoulos P, Peeters FM, Physical review letters 68, 2516 (1992). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.68.2516
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 7.512
Times cited: 106
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.68.2516
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“Spin-reorientation transitions in the Cairo pentagonal magnet Bi4Fe5O13F”. Tsirlin AA, Rousochatzakis I, Filimonov D, Batuk D, Frontzek M, Abakumov AM, Physical review B 96, 094420 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.96.094420
Abstract: We show that interlayer spins play a dual role in the Cairo pentagonal magnet Bi4Fe5O13F, on one hand mediating the three-dimensional magnetic order, and on the other driving spin-reorientation transitions both within and between the planes. The corresponding sequence of magnetic orders unraveled by neutron diffraction and Mossbauer spectroscopy features two orthogonal magnetic structures described by opposite local vector chiralities, and an intermediate, partly disordered phase with nearly collinear spins. A similar collinear phase has been predicted theoretically to be stabilized by quantum fluctuations, but Bi4Fe5O13F is very far from the relevant parameter regime. While the observed in-plane reorientation cannot be explained by any standard frustration mechanism, our ab initio band-structure calculations reveal strong single-ion anisotropy of the interlayer Fe3+ spins that turns out to be instrumental in controlling the local vector chirality and the associated interlayer order.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.96.094420
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“Frustrated square lattice with spatial anisotropy: crystal structure and magnetic properties of PbZnVO(PO4)2”. Tsirlin AA, Nath R, Abakumov AM, Shpanchenko RV, Geibel C, Rosner H, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 174424 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.174424
Abstract: Crystal structure and magnetic properties of the layered vanadium phosphate PbZnVO(PO4)2 are studied using x-ray powder diffraction, magnetization and specific-heat measurements, as well as band-structure calculations. The compound resembles AA′VO(PO4)2 vanadium phosphates and fits to the extended frustrated square-lattice model with the couplings J1, J1′ between nearest neighbors and J2, J2′ between next-nearest neighbors. The temperature dependence of the magnetization yields estimates of averaged nearest-neighbor and next-nearest-neighbor couplings, J̅ 1≃−5.2 K and J̅ 2≃10.0 K, respectively. The effective frustration ratio α=J̅ 2/J̅ 1 amounts to −1.9 and suggests columnar antiferromagnetic ordering in PbZnVO(PO4)2. Specific-heat data support the estimates of J̅ 1 and J̅ 2 and indicate a likely magnetic ordering transition at 3.9 K. However, the averaged couplings underestimate the saturation field, thus pointing to the spatial anisotropy of the nearest-neighbor interactions. Band-structure calculations confirm the identification of ferromagnetic J1, J1′ and antiferromagnetic J2, J2′ in PbZnVO(PO4)2 and yield (J1′−J1)≃1.1 K in excellent agreement with the experimental value of 1.1 K, deduced from the difference between the expected and experimentally measured saturation fields. Based on the comparison of layered vanadium phosphates with different metal cations, we show that a moderate spatial anisotropy of the frustrated square lattice has minor influence on the thermodynamic properties of the model. We discuss relevant geometrical parameters, controlling the exchange interactions in these compounds and propose a strategy for further design of strongly frustrated square-lattice materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.174424
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“Phase separation and frustrated square lattice magnetism of Na1.5VOPO4F0.5”. Tsirlin AA, Nath R, Abakumov AM, Furukawa Y, Johnston DC, Hemmida M, Krug von Nidda H-A, Loidl A, Geibel C, Rosner H, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 84, 014429 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.84.014429
Abstract: Crystal structure, electronic structure, and magnetic behavior of the spin-1/2 quantum magnet Na1.5VOPO4F0.5 are reported. The disorder of Na atoms leads to a sequence of structural phase transitions revealed by synchrotron x-ray powder diffraction and electron diffraction. The high-temperature second-order α↔β transition at 500 K is of the order-disorder type, whereas the low-temperature β↔γ+γ′ transition around 250 K is of the first order and leads to a phase separation toward the polymorphs with long-range (γ) and short-range (γ′) order of Na. Despite the complex structural changes, the magnetic behavior of Na1.5VOPO4F0.5 probed by magnetic susceptibility, heat capacity, and electron spin resonance measurements is well described by the regular frustrated square lattice model of the high-temperature α-polymorph. The averaged nearest-neighbor and next-nearest-neighbor couplings are J̅ 1≃−3.7 K and J̅ 2≃6.6 K, respectively. Nuclear magnetic resonance further reveals the long-range ordering at TN=2.6 K in low magnetic fields. Although the experimental data are consistent with the simplified square-lattice description, band structure calculations suggest that the ordering of Na atoms introduces a large number of inequivalent exchange couplings that split the square lattice into plaquettes. Additionally, the direct connection between the vanadium polyhedra induces an unusually strong interlayer coupling having effect on the transition entropy and the transition anomaly in the specific heat. Peculiar features of the low-temperature crystal structure and the relation to isostructural materials suggest Na1.5VOPO4F0.5 as a parent compound for the experimental study of tetramerized square lattices as well as frustrated square lattices with different values of spin.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 47
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.84.014429
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“Interplay of atomic displacement in the quantum magnet (CuCI)LaNb2O7”. Tsirlin AA, Abakumov AM, Van Tendeloo G, Rosner H, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 82, 054107 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.82.054107
Abstract: We report on the crystal structure of the quantum magnet CuClLaNb2O7 that was controversially described with respect to its structural organization and magnetic behavior. Using high-resolution synchrotron powder x-ray diffraction, electron diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and band-structure calculations, we solve the room-temperature structure of this compound -CuClLaNb2O7 and find two high-temperature polymorphs. The -CuClLaNb2O7 phase, stable above 640 K, is tetragonal with asub=3.889 Å, csub =11.738 Å, and the space group P4/mmm. In the -CuClLaNb2O7 structure, the Cu and Cl atoms are randomly displaced from the special positions along the 100 directions. The phase asub2asubcsub, space group Pbmm and the phase 2asub2asubcsub, space group Pbam are stable between 640 K and 500 K and below 500 K, respectively. The structural changes at 500 and 640 K are identified as order-disorder phase transitions. The displacement of the Cl atoms is frozen upon the → transformation while a cooperative tilting of the NbO6 octahedra in the phase further eliminates the disorder of the Cu atoms. The low-temperature -CuClLaNb2O7 structure thus combines the two types of the atomic displacements that interfere due to the bonding between the Cu atoms and the apical oxygens of the NbO6 octahedra. The precise structural information resolves the controversy between the previous computation-based models and provides the long-sought input for understanding CuClLaNb2O7 and related compounds with unusual magnetic properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.82.054107
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“(CuCl)LaTa2O\text{7} and quantum phase transition in the (CuX)LaM2O7 family (X=Cl, Br, M=Nb, Ta)”. Tsirlin AA, Abakumov AM, Ritter C, Rosner H, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 86, 064440 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.86.064440
Abstract: We apply neutron diffraction, high-resolution synchrotron x-ray diffraction, magnetization measurements, electronic structure calculations, and quantum Monte-Carlo simulations to unravel the structure and magnetism of (CuCl)LaTa2O7. Despite the pseudo-tetragonal crystallographic unit cell, this compound features an orthorhombic superstructure, similar to the Nb-containing (CuX)LaNb2O7 with X = Cl and Br. The spin lattice entails dimers formed by the antiferromagnetic fourth-neighbor coupling J(4), as well as a large number of nonequivalent interdimer couplings quantified by an effective exchange parameter J(eff). In (CuCl)LaTa2O7, the interdimer couplings are sufficiently strong to induce the long-range magnetic order with the Neel temperature T-N similar or equal to 7 K and the ordered magnetic moment of 0.53 mu(B), as measured with neutron diffraction. This magnetic behavior can be accounted for by J(eff)/J(4) similar or equal to 1.6 and J(4) similar or equal to 16 K. We further propose a general magnetic phase diagram for the (CuCl)LaNb2O7-type compounds, and explain the transition from the gapped spin-singlet (dimer) ground state in (CuCl)LaNb2O7 to the long-range antiferromagnetic order in (CuCl)LaTa2O7 and (CuBr)LaNb2O7 by an increase in the magnitude of the interdimer couplings J(eff)/J(4), with the (CuCl)LaM2O7 (M = Nb, Ta) compounds lying on different sides of the quantum critical point that separates the singlet and long-range-ordered magnetic ground states.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.86.064440
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“Short-range order of Br and three-dimensional magnetism in (CuBr)LaNb2O7”. Tsirlin AA, Abakumov AM, Ritter C, Henry PF, Janson O, Rosner H, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 85, 214427 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.85.214427
Abstract: We present a comprehensive study of the crystal structure, magnetic structure, and microscopic magnetic model of (CuBr)LaNb2O7, the Br analog of the spin-gap quantum magnet (CuCl) LaNb2O7. Despite similar crystal structures and spin lattices, the magnetic behavior and even peculiarities of the atomic arrangement in the Cl and Br compounds are very different. The high- resolution x-ray and neutron data reveal a split position of Br atoms in (CuBr) LaNb2O7. This splitting originates from two possible configurations developed by [CuBr] zigzag ribbons. While the Br atoms are locally ordered in the ab plane, their arrangement along the c direction remains partially disordered. The predominant and energetically more favorable configuration features an additional doubling of the c lattice parameter that was not observed in (CuCl) LaNb2O7. (CuBr) LaNb2O7 undergoes long-range antiferromagnetic ordering at T-N = 32 K, which is nearly 70% of the leading exchange coupling J4 similar or equal to 48 K. The Br compound does not show any experimental signatures of low-dimensional magnetism because the underlying spin lattice is three-dimensional. The coupling along the c direction is comparable to the couplings in the ab plane, even though the shortest Cu-Cu distance along c (11.69 angstrom) is three times larger than nearest-neighbor distances in the ab plane (3.55 angstrom). The stripe antiferromagnetic long-range order featuring columns of parallel spins in the ab plane and antiparallel spins along c is verified experimentally and confirmed by the microscopic analysis.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.85.214427
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“The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach”. Tschulkow M, Pizzol M, Compernolle T, Van den Bosch S, Sels B, Van Passel S, Resources, conservation and recycling 204, 107466 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2024.107466
Abstract: The emerging reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery which is currently under development aims to convert woody biomass efficiently into high-value products. Despite its potential, the environmental consequences of its implementation are not well known. Therefore, a forward-looking consequential life cycle assessment examines greenhouse gas emissions associated with its products (pulp, phenolic monomers, and oligomers) compared to alternative market options. Findings indicate that current greenhouse gas emissions exceed those of the existing alternatives, with by-products and the gaseous waste stream as major contributors. Process adaption to (i) produce higher-valued products (bleached pulps, phenols, and propylene) and (ii) incinerate gaseous waste stream for energy are proposed, potentially reducing emissions by up to 50 %, outperforming alternative options. Compared to land-based transportation, waterways can increase feedstock availability by up to 1000 km without an increase in emissions. In conclusion, the consequential approach provides valuable insights for enhancing and optimizing the environmental performance of the process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 13.2
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2024.107466
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“Optimal timing of multiple investment decisions in a wood value chain : a real options approach”. Tschulkow M, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Journal Of Environmental Management 290, 112590 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2021.112590
Abstract: A new reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery process (RCF) is currently being developed transforming wood into high-value end-products. RCF is considered to be in the pilot stage with a technology readiness level of 5–6. Apart from the RCF-process characteristics, the economic feasibility also depends on the investment decisions that are made upstream and downstream within the wood value chain, increasing the level of uncertainty. Two investment options within the value chain are considered: an option to invest in harvesting equipment and an option to invest in the RCF. To understand the impact of multiple sources of uncertainty on the decision to invest in an innovative RCF-driven wood value chain, an analytical two-factor real options model is presented, accounting for correlated cost and price uncertainties. Two different scenarios, separated and united investments in harvesting equipment and RCF, are analyzed. In both scenarios, market uncertainty postpones investment in comparison to the traditional NPV approach. When both investments are considered separately, the investment in RCF is expected to be earlier than the investment in harvesting equipment. When both investment decisions are united, the probability of investment increases. The study reveals that RCF has the potential to stimulate investments from different investors, –upstream and midstream–, within the wood value chain. Besides, the introduced real options model proofs its ability to assess the economic feasibility of innovative technologies (e.g RCF) individually or within the value chain, taking into account multiple sources of uncertainty.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.01
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2021.112590
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“Integrated techno-economic assessment of a biorefinery process: The high-end valorization of the lignocellulosic fraction in wood streams”. Tschulkow M, Compernolle T, Van den Bosch S, Van Aelst J, Storms I, Van Dael M, Van den Bossche G, Sels B, Van Passel S, Journal Of Cleaner Production 266, 122022 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.122022
Abstract: A new lignin-first biorefinery with a reductive catalytic fractionation process, which targets the valorization of the lignin and the carbohydrate fraction into higher value end-products, is currently being designed. To identify the various R&D drivers for projects with a low technology readiness level (TRL), we developed an integrated techno-economic assessment (TEA) that directly integrates the results of lab studies with economic costs and benefits. Furthermore, different linkages are made to upstream wood availability and downstream demand to understand its fit into existing wood value chains. By making the relations across the wood value chain explicit within the integrated TEA, we find that the scale of the plant, the feedstock-specific output quantities, and output prices highly determine the economic feasibility. Furthermore, this detailed analysis reveals the importance of assessing different types of feedstock. If only virgin wood is available as feedstock, minimum capacity levels between 190 and 234 kilotons per year are needed for the investment to be profitable. Waste wood proves to be the most profitable feedstock with an NPV of M€ 59 and an IRR of 26%. Using only waste wood as feedstock makes the investment profitable at a lower capacity level of 80 kilotons per year and economic shocks can be absorbed. Based on these results we show that an integrated and detailed TEA is indispensable to define future development paths for early-stage, innovative technologies.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 11.1
DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.122022
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