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Author De Keyzer, M.; Soens, T.; Verbruggen, C. file  isbn
openurl 
  Title Mens en natuur : een geschiedenis Type MA2 Book as author
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 313 p.  
  Keywords MA2 Book as author; History; Centre for Urban History  
  Abstract Onze relatie met de natuur om ons heen is, op zijn zachtst gezegd, ingewikkeld. Mensen gingen niet plots een bedreiging vormen voor het leven op aarde nadat ze er eeuwenlang mee in harmonie hadden geleefd. Verschillende ideeën over de omgang met de natuurlijke omgeving – sommige duurzaam, andere ronduit desastreus – hebben altijd naast elkaar bestaan. We waren er ons al verrassend vroeg van bewust dat ons handelen een nefaste impact kon hebben op de natuur. Maar die bezwaren werden geregeld aan de kant geschoven. Deze inleiding tot de milieugeschiedenis helpt de lezer te begrijpen hoe onze hedendaagse problematische omgang met de natuur en ons milieu tot stand is gekomen. Het is een introductie tot het recente onderzoek naar de relatie tussen mens en natuur doorheen de eeuwen, in de Lage Landen en ver daarbuiten.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN 978-94-014-0395-5 Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205213 Serial 9212  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Smets, B.; Boschker, H.T.S.; Wetherington, M.T.; Lelong, G.; Hidalgo-Martinez, S.; Polerecky, L.; Nuyts, G.; De Wael, K.; Meysman, F.J.R. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Multi-wavelength Raman microscopy of nickel-based electron transport in cable bacteria Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Frontiers in microbiology Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 15 Issue Pages 1208033-16  
  Keywords A1 Journal article  
  Abstract Cable bacteria embed a network of conductive protein fibers in their cell envelope that efficiently guides electron transport over distances spanning up to several centimeters. This form of long-distance electron transport is unique in biology and is mediated by a metalloprotein with a sulfur-coordinated nickel (Ni) cofactor. However, the molecular structure of this cofactor remains presently unknown. Here, we applied multi-wavelength Raman microscopy to identify cell compounds linked to the unique cable bacterium physiology, combined with stable isotope labeling, and orientation-dependent and ultralow-frequency Raman microscopy to gain insight into the structure and organization of this novel Ni-cofactor. Raman spectra of native cable bacterium filaments reveal vibrational modes originating from cytochromes, polyphosphate granules, proteins, as well as the Ni-cofactor. After selective extraction of the conductive fiber network from the cell envelope, the Raman spectrum becomes simpler, and primarily retains vibrational modes associated with the Ni-cofactor. These Ni-cofactor modes exhibit intense Raman scattering as well as a strong orientation-dependent response. The signal intensity is particularly elevated when the polarization of incident laser light is parallel to the direction of the conductive fibers. This orientation dependence allows to selectively identify the modes that are associated with the Ni-cofactor. We identified 13 such modes, some of which display strong Raman signals across the entire range of applied wavelengths (405–1,064 nm). Assignment of vibrational modes, supported by stable isotope labeling, suggest that the structure of the Ni-cofactor shares a resemblance with that of nickel bis(1,2-dithiolene) complexes. Overall, our results indicate that cable bacteria have evolved a unique cofactor structure that does not resemble any of the known Ni-cofactors in biology.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001189511900001 Publication Date 2024-03-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1664-302x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205115 Serial 9214  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Pankratov, D.; Hidalgo Martinez, S.; Karman, C.; Gerzhik, A.; Gomila, G.; Trashin, S.; Boschker, H.T.S.; Geelhoed, J.S.; Mayer, D.; De Wael, K.; Meysman, F.J.R. url  doi
openurl 
  Title The organo-metal-like nature of long-range conduction in cable bacteria Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 157 Issue Pages 108675-10  
  Keywords A1 Journal article  
  Abstract Cable bacteria are filamentous, multicellular microorganisms that display an exceptional form of biological electron transport across centimeter-scale distances. Currents are guided through a network of nickel-containing protein fibers within the cell envelope. Still, the mechanism of long-range conduction remains unresolved. Here, we characterize the conductance of the fiber network under dry and wet, physiologically relevant, conditions. Our data reveal that the fiber conductivity is high (median value: 27 S cm−1; range: 2 to 564 S cm−1), does not show any redox signature, has a low thermal activation energy (Ea = 69 ± 23 meV), and is not affected by humidity or the presence of ions. These features set the nickel-based conduction mechanism in cable bacteria apart from other known forms of biological electron transport. As such, conduction resembles that of an organic semi-metal with a high charge carrier density. Our observation that biochemistry can synthesize an organo-metal-like structure opens the way for novel bio-based electronic technologies.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-02-25  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1567-5394 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5; 2024 IF: 3.346  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205117 Serial 9215  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vasilakou, K.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Nimmegeers, P. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title A Pareto aggregation approach for environmental-economic multi-objective optimization applied on a second-generation bioethanol production model Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Energy conversion and management Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 303 Issue Pages 118184-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)  
  Abstract Multi-objective optimization is an important decision-making tool for energy processes, as multiple targets need to be achieved. These objectives are usually conflicting since a single solution cannot be optimal for all objectives, resulting in a set of Pareto-optimal solutions. Multiple indicators might be available to describe a sustainability objective, such as the environmental impact which is commonly evaluated by performing a life cycle assessment. In this study, Pareto aggregation is proposed as a method which employs a novel multi-objective optimization-based approach as an alternative to the classically used aggregation in life cycle assessment. This method identifies conflicting environmental indicators and performs an aggregation among those that require a trade-off. An environmental-economic optimization of a second-generation bioethanol plant is used to illustrate and evaluate the proposed method. Process parameters from a biochemical conversion pathway flowsheet simulation model are chosen as optimization variables. To reduce the computational time, surrogate models, based on artificial neural networks, are used. Out of the eighteen ReCiPe Midpoint environmental indicators, five were identified as conflicting, resulting in an aggregated environmental objective, which was then traded off with the economic objective function, chosen as the levelized cost of ethanol. Comparison with the widely used single-score EcoIndicator99 showed that the Pareto aggregation method can reduce most of the environmental indicators by up to 6.5%. This research provides an insight on non-redundant objective functions, aiming at reducing the dimensionality of multi-objective optimization problems, while taking into consideration decision-makers’ preferences.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001185718400001 Publication Date 2024-02-10  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0196-8904; 1879-2227 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 10.4 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 10.4; 2024 IF: 5.589  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203046 Serial 9216  
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Author Clavel, J. url  openurl
  Title Plant-mycorrhizal interactions and their role in plant invasions in mountains Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 182 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Non-native species invasions are one of the most impactful drivers of biodiversity and ecosystem services loss worldwide. One aspect of plant species invasion, which is only recently starting to be recognized as a determinant of invasion success, is the symbiosis between plant and mycorrhizal fungi. Here, I focus on anthropogenic disturbance in mountain ecosystems and its impact on plant communities and mycorrhizal fungi to answer how these communities are impacted by disturbance and whether non-native plants can benefit to establish and spread. To this end I used a combination of different approaches: 1) repeated surveys of plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi along disturbed roadsides in the mountains of Norway, 2) combining a global dataset of native and non-native plants along mountain roads with a database associating plants with their mycorrhizal types, and 3) an in-situ experiment measuring non-native plant success and changes in fungal community following different types of disturbances. Through these methods, I could assess the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on mycorrhizal symbiosis and non-native plant species at multiple scales and resolutions. We found that road disturbance has a globally consistent effect on mycorrhizal types in mountain systems, as plants associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi were more abundant following disturbance. Conversely, vegetation associated with either ectomycorrhizal (EcM) or ericoid mycorrhizal (ErM) fungi was less abundant in disturbed sites. In the regional study, AM fungi were most abundant and diverse in the roots of plant communities affected by road disturbance. Non-native plants were also restricted to these disturbed sites. The experimental results showed that physical disturbance and nutrient addition have negative effects on EcM fungi and positive effects on fungal pathogens, and facilitate non-native plant success. Our results show that anthropogenic disturbance does have an effect on mycorrhizal fungi that in turn impacts the distribution of plant species in disturbed mountain systems. The resulting shift in mycorrhizal fungi benefiting AM fungi and AM plant species could have implications for non-native plant invasions. Indeed, we know that non-native plants predominantly form associations with AM fungi. Therefore, anthropogenic disturbance can facilitate non-native plant success through disruption of the native fungal communities, and especially so in high elevation and cold climate regions which are naturally less dominated by AM plants. I believe this highlights the importance of mycorrhizal symbiosis in understanding plant invasions and emphasizes the importance of monitoring sources of anthropogenic disturbance in mountains to prevent future establishment of non-native plants.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204154 Serial 9219  
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Author Raes, A.; Minja, A.C.; Ag, K.R.; Verbruggen, S.W. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Recent advances in metal-doped defective TiO₂ for photocatalytic CO₂ conversion Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Current Opinion in Chemical Engineering Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 44 Issue Pages 101013-11  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology  
  Abstract Introducing defects in TiO2-based photocatalytic materials is a promising strategy for improving light-driven CO2 reduction. However, defects such as oxygen vacancies are generally unstable. As a solution and to further enhance the photocatalytic activity, metal doping has been applied. This mini review aims to summarize recent progress in this particular field. Herein, we have classified metal-doped architectures into three different categories: single metal doping, alloy- and co-doping, and doping of morphologically nanoengineered TiO2−x substrates. The direct relationship between specific metals and product selectivity remains complex, as selectivity can vary significantly among seemingly similar materials. However, numerous methods do show promise in fine-tuning selectivity towards either CO or CH4. In terms of photocatalytic turnover, remarkable yields have been reported in isolated reports, but insufficient experimental data and divergent reaction conditions hamper a true comparison. This puts an emphasis on the need for standardized activity testing.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-03-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2211-3398 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 6.6 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.6; 2024 IF: 3.403  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204462 Serial 9221  
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Author Clavel, J.; Lembrechts, J.; Lenoir, J.; Haider, S.; McDougall, K.; Nunez, M.A.; Alexander, J.; Barros, A.; Milbau, A.; Seipel, T.; Pauchard, A.; Fuentes-Lillo, E.; Backes, A.R.; Dar, P.; Reshi, Z.A.; Aleksanyan, A.; Zong, S.; Sierra, J.R.A.; Aschero, V.; Verbruggen, E.; Nijs, I. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Roadside disturbance promotes plant communities with arbuscular mycorrhizal associations in mountain regions worldwide Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Ecography Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages e07051-14  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract We assessed the impact of road disturbances on the dominant mycorrhizal types in ecosystems at the global level and how this mechanism can potentially lead to lasting plant community changes. We used a database of coordinated plant community surveys following mountain roads from 894 plots in 11 mountain regions across the globe in combination with an existing database of mycorrhizal-plant associations in order to approximate the relative abundance of mycorrhizal types in natural and disturbed environments. Our findings show that roadside disturbance promotes the cover of plants associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. This effect is especially strong in colder mountain environments and in mountain regions where plant communities are dominated by ectomycorrhizal (EcM) or ericoid-mycorrhizal (ErM) associations. Furthermore, non-native plant species, which we confirmed to be mostly AM plants, are more successful in environments dominated by AM associations. These biogeographical patterns suggest that changes in mycorrhizal types could be a crucial factor in the worldwide impact of anthropogenic disturbances on mountain ecosystems. Indeed, roadsides foster AM-dominated systems, where AM-fungi might aid AM-associated plant species while potentially reducing the biotic resistance against invasive non-native species, often also associated with AM networks. Restoration efforts in mountain ecosystems will have to contend with changes in the fundamental make-up of EcM- and ErM plant communities induced by roadside disturbance.  
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  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001198654900001 Publication Date 2024-04-09  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0906-7590 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 5.9 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.9; 2024 IF: 4.902  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205605 Serial 9224  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vetters, J.; Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Sailing through end-of-life challenges : a comprehensive review for offshore wind Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Renewable and sustainable energy reviews Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 199 Issue Pages 114486-16  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Over the past thirty years, European offshore wind farm development surged, yet end-of-life and decommissioning considerations were overshadowed by initial climate and energy security objectives during design and construction. As the first major projects near their final decade, numerous unanswered questions persist. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies, maps, and evaluates challenges across technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions spanning five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and site recovery. Examining 42 publications reveals 46 distinct challenges affecting stakeholders such as the end-of-life supply chain, policy makers, and society. While 33% of the challenges manifested in the technical dimension, 48% of the challenges covered the planning phase. Notably, the economic challenge of vessel cost and availability was raised most often. Less-explored challenges underscore the importance of consideration before the end-of-life phase intensifies. The study illustrates the complex interconnection of numerous end-of-life challenges across phases, dimensions, and disciplines, emphasizing the imperative of addressing bottlenecks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The results of this study help steering future research, while also improving awareness of challenges for stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders to address imminent challenges through transparent guidelines, data exchange, and circular design principles. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic, multidisciplinary approach, systematic framework for identifying challenges, and critical perspective unveiling interconnectedness.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-02  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 15.9 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15.9; 2024 IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205652 Serial 9226  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Le Noir de Carlan, C.; Kaarlejarvi, E.; De Tender, C.; Heinecke, T.; Eskelinen, A.; Verbruggen, E. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Shifts in mycorrhizal types of fungi and plants in response to fertilisation, warming and herbivory in a tundra grassland Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication New phytologist Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Climate warming is severely affecting high-latitude regions. In the Arctic tundra, it may lead to enhanced soil nutrient availability and interact with simultaneous changes in grazing pressure. It is presently unknown how these concurrently occurring global change drivers affect the root-associated fungal communities, particularly mycorrhizal fungi, and whether changes coincide with shifts in plant mycorrhizal types. We investigated changes in root-associated fungal communities and mycorrhizal types of the plant community in a 10-yr factorial experiment with warming, fertilisation and grazing exclusion in a Finnish tundra grassland. The strongest determinant of the root-associated fungal community was fertilisation, which consistently increased potential plant pathogen abundance and had contrasting effects on the different mycorrhizal fungal types, contingent on other treatments. Plant mycorrhizal types went through pronounced shifts, with warming favouring ecto- and ericoid mycorrhiza but not under fertilisation and grazing exclusion. Combination of all treatments resulted in dominance by arbuscular mycorrhizal plants. However, shifts in plant mycorrhizal types vs fungi were mostly but not always aligned in their magnitude and direction. Our results show that our ability to predict shifts in symbiotic and antagonistic fungal communities depend on simultaneous consideration of multiple global change factors that jointly alter plant and fungal communities.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001220955000001 Publication Date 2024-05-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0028-646x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 9.4 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.4; 2024 IF: 7.33  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206016 Serial 9228  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Campos, R.; Trashin, S.; Daems, E.; Carneiro, D.; Fraga, A.; Ribeiro, R.; De Wael, K. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Singlet oxygen-based photoelectrochemical detection of miRNAs in prostate cancer patients’ plasma : a novel diagnostic tool for liquid biopsy Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 158 Issue Pages 108698-108699  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract Dysregulation of miRNA expression occurs in many cancers, making miRNAs useful in cancer diagnosis and therapeutic guidance. In a clinical context using methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the limited amount of miRNAs in circulation often limits their quantification. Here, we present a PCR-free and sensitive singlet oxygen (1O2)-based strategy for the detection and quantification of miRNAs in untreated human plasma from patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. A target miRNA is specifically captured by functionalised magnetic beads and a detection oligonucleotide probe in a sandwich-like format. The formed complex is concentrated at the sensor surface via magnetic beads, providing an interface for the photoinduced redox signal amplification. The detection oligonucleotide probe bears a molecular photosensitiser, which produces 1O2 upon illumination, oxidising a redox reporter and creating a redox cycling loop, allowing quantification of pM level miRNA in diluted human plasma within minutes after hybridisation and without target amplification.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-04-04  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1567-5394 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 5 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5; 2024 IF: 3.346  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205281 Serial 9229  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Metze, D.; Schnecker, J.; Le Noir de Carlan, C.; Bhattarai, B.; Verbruggen, E.; Ostonen, I.; Janssens, I.A.; Sigurdsson, B.D.; Hausmann, B.; Kaiser, C.; Richter, A. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Soil warming increases the number of growing bacterial taxa but not their growth rates Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Science Advances Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 10 Issue 8 Pages eadk6295-14  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Soil microorganisms control the fate of soil organic carbon. Warming may accelerate their activities putting large carbon stocks at risk of decomposition. Existing knowledge about microbial responses to warming is based on community-level measurements, leaving the underlying mechanisms unexplored and hindering predictions. In a long-term soil warming experiment in a Subarctic grassland, we investigated how active populations of bacteria and archaea responded to elevated soil temperatures (+6°C) and the influence of plant roots, by measuring taxon-specific growth rates using quantitative stable isotope probing and 18 O water vapor equilibration. Contrary to prior assumptions, increased community growth was associated with a greater number of active bacterial taxa rather than generally faster-growing populations. We also found that root presence enhanced bacterial growth at ambient temperatures but not at elevated temperatures, indicating a shift in plant-microbe interactions. Our results, thus, reveal a mechanism of how soil bacteria respond to warming that cannot be inferred from community-level measurements.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-02-23  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2375-2548 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 13.6 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.6; 2024 IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204459 Serial 9230  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Kummamuru, N.B.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Houlleberghs, M.; Martens, J.; Breynaert, E.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Cool, P.; Perreault, P. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Surface modification of mesostructured cellular foam to enhance hydrogen storage in binary THF/H₂ clathrate hydrate Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Sustainable energy & fuels Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 1-15  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA)  
  Abstract This study introduces solid-state tuning of a mesostructured cellular foam (MCF) to enhance hydrogen (H-2) storage in clathrate hydrates. Grafting of promoter-like molecules (e.g., tetrahydrofuran) at the internal surface of the MCF resulted in a substantial improvement in the kinetics of formation of binary H-2-THF clathrate hydrate. Identification of the confined hydrate as sII clathrate hydrate and enclathration of H-2 in its small cages was performed using XRD and high-pressure H-1 NMR spectroscopy respectively. Experimental findings show that modified MCF materials exhibit a similar to 1.3 times higher H-2 storage capacity as compared to non-modified MCF under the same conditions (7 MPa, 265 K, 100% pore volume saturation with a 5.56 mol% THF solution). The enhancement in H-2 storage is attributed to the hydrophobicity originating from grafting organic molecules onto pristine MCF, thereby influencing water interactions and fostering an environment conducive to H-2 enclathration. Gas uptake curves indicate an optimal tuning point for higher H-2 storage, favoring a lower density of carbon per nm(2). Furthermore, a direct correlation emerges between higher driving forces and increased H-2 storage capacity, culminating at 0.52 wt% (46.77 mmoles of H-2 per mole of H2O and 39.78% water-to-hydrate conversions) at 262 K for the modified MCF material with fewer carbons per nm(2). Notably, the substantial H-2 storage capacity achieved without energy-intensive processes underscores solid-state tuning's potential for H-2 storage in the synthesized hydrates. This study evaluated two distinct kinetic models to describe hydrate growth in MCF. The multistage kinetic model showed better predictive capabilities for experimental data and maintained a low average absolute deviation. This research provides valuable insights into augmenting H-2 storage capabilities and holds promising implications for future advancements.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001208396000001 Publication Date 2024-04-15  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205764 Serial 9232  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Finizola e Silva, M.; Cools, J.; Cools, J.; Van Passel, S. url  doi
openurl 
  Title A systematic review identifying the drivers and barriers to the adoption of climate-smart agriculture by smallholder farmers in Africa Type Administrative Services
  Year 2024 Publication Frontiers in environmental economics Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 3 Issue Pages 1356335-14  
  Keywords Administrative Services; A3 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Climate change impact, food security concerns, and greenhouse gas emissions are pressuring agricultural production systems in developing countries. There is a need for a shift toward sustainable food systems. One of the concepts introduced to drive this shift is climate-smart agriculture (CSA), endorsed by international organizations to address multifaceted challenges. Despite widespread attention and support, the adoption of CSA among African farmers remains low. This systematic literature review aims to shed light on the factors influencing CSA adoption amongst African farmers. Within the articles identified as relevant, over 50 CSA practices and more than 40 factors influencing CSA adoption were distinguished. These influencing factors can be categorized as personal, farm- related, financial, environmental, and informational. The focus of this review is to identify and explain the overall impact (positive, negative, or mixed) of these factors on CSA adoption. Overall, many factors result in mixed effects, only some factors have an unambiguous positive or negative effect on CSA adoption. For instance, educational level emerges as a key personal factor, positively impacting CSA adoption, along with positive influences from farmers’ experience and farm size among farm-related factors. Financial factors reveal distinct patterns, with income from farming and access to credit positively influencing adoption, while off-farm income exhibits a negative effect. Environmental factors, though less researched, indicate positive impacts related to changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, and droughts. Lastly, informational factors consistently exhibit a positive effect on CSA adoption, with training, access to extension, group memberships, climate information, and CSA awareness playing crucial roles. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance CSA adoption in Africa, offering a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted dynamics at play.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-04-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205017 Serial 9233  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Tschulkow, M.; Pizzol, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van den Bosch, S.; Sels, B.; Van Passel, S. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 204 Issue Pages 107466-107469  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  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.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001186282000001 Publication Date 2024-02-14  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205493 Serial 9234  
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Author Ramirez-Rojas, I. openurl 
  Title Underground connections : the interplay between tropical rainforest trees and soil microbial communities Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 205 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Tropical rainforests host an exceptional biodiversity and play a fundamental role in the regulation of global climatic cycles. Soil fungi and bacteria are key players in the transformation and processing of nutrients in terrestrial ecosystems while having an essential role as tree mutualists or antagonists. Still, there are gaps in our understanding of the main variables driving soil microbes on these forests and it is unclear how future climate change scenarios may impact soil microbes and further affect the ecosystem. In this thesis, we first explored the drivers of the microbial community composition in two pristine forests in French Guiana by using amplicon DNA sequencing. The neighboring tree species were found to be a crucial factor influencing the fungal and bacterial community composition at our sites regardless of the season. Additionally, within the environmental factors explored, soil moisture, phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) availability were consistently the main soil properties controlling the composition of soil microbial communities. Secondly, as increased nutrient deposition due to anthropogenic activities are expected to affect tropical forests ecosystems N and P availability, a factorial N and P nutrient addition experiment in the same sites was used to assess the effects of changes in the soil nutrient stoichiometry on the soil microbial communities. These results showed that after 3 years of nutrient additions, the bacterial and fungal community composition was affected by both the N and P additions. Besides, the fungal community composition had a stronger response to the nutrient addition, especially when P was added. Moreover, when the nutrient addition effect was assessed in bacteria and fungi with different life strategies, we found different nutrient optima between them. Furthermore, to study the effect of the connection to an existing mycorrhizal mycelium on tree seedlings, I established a mycelium exclusion experiment. Interestingly, we could not detect an effect of the mycorrhizal mycelium exclusion on the seedling N uptake, performance, or fungal community composition in roots after one year. All together this work provides a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the soil microbial communities on these lowland tropical forests, demonstrating that the tree community composition exerts a higher influence on the soil microbial community composition than previously expected. Moreover, our results show that the fungal and bacterial community composition and its relationship with trees in the vicinity is highly dependent on the ecosystem nutrient availability.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204907 Serial 9237  
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Author Gios, E.; Verbruggen, E.; Audet, J.; Burns, R.; Butterbach-Bahl, K.; Espenberg, M.; Fritz, C.; Glatzel, S.; Jurasinski, G.; Larmola, T.; Mander, U.; Nielsen, C.; Rodriguez, A.F.; Scheer, C.; Zak, D.; Silvennoinen, H.M. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Unraveling microbial processes involved in carbon and nitrogen cycling and greenhouse gas emissions in rewetted peatlands by molecular biology Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Biogeochemistry Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change  
  Abstract Restoration of drained peatlands through rewetting has recently emerged as a prevailing strategy to mitigate excessive greenhouse gas emissions and re-establish the vital carbon sequestration capacity of peatlands. Rewetting can help to restore vegetation communities and biodiversity, while still allowing for extensive agricultural management such as paludiculture. Belowground processes governing carbon fluxes and greenhouse gas dynamics are mediated by a complex network of microbial communities and processes. Our understanding of this complexity and its multi-factorial controls in rewetted peatlands is limited. Here, we summarize the research regarding the role of soil microbial communities and functions in driving carbon and nutrient cycling in rewetted peatlands including the use of molecular biology techniques in understanding biogeochemical processes linked to greenhouse gas fluxes. We emphasize that rapidly advancing molecular biology approaches, such as high-throughput sequencing, are powerful tools helping to elucidate the dynamics of key biogeochemical processes when combined with isotope tracing and greenhouse gas measuring techniques. Insights gained from the gathered studies can help inform efficient monitoring practices for rewetted peatlands and the development of climate-smart restoration and management strategies.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001185747700001 Publication Date 2024-03-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0168-2563; 1573-515x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4; 2024 IF: 3.428  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204875 Serial 9239  
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Author Borms, L.; Multani, M.; Bachus, K.; Dams, Y.; Brusselaers, J.; Van Passel, S. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Using natural language processing to monitor circular activities and employment Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Sustainable Production and Consumption Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 46 Issue Pages 42-53  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy  
  Abstract In Europe, NACE codes are used for the official classification of sectors, however, the circular economy is not sufficiently captured in this classification. Therefore, this paper improves previous attempts for defining circular activities and jobs by web scraping techniques applied to each company in Belgium. We analyze their first, second, and third official NACE codes and compare these to the NACE codes they should have been allocated to according to the web scraping data. Subsequently, we calculate circularity scores for every sector to construct an indicator for the number of circular companies and jobs. The results show that the number of circular companies is lower than the baseline from official statistics when we only consider the companies' first and main NACE code. The estimates are higher than the baseline when we also take the second and third NACE codes into account and the estimated number of circular jobs is far higher than the baseline. This research upgrades previous classifications of circular sectors and demonstrates how web scraping and novel data might improve our understanding and capacity to build data. Based on the results in this paper, we recommend a uniform data collection such as reporting standards, and an inclusion of all circular strategies in sectoral classifications.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001198897900001 Publication Date 2024-02-15  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2352-5509 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 12.1 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 12.1; 2024 IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204552 Serial 9241  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Montiel, F.N. openurl 
  Title Voltage against illicit drug trafficking : capabilities of electrochemical fingerprinting to detect illicit drugs Type Doctoral thesis
  Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 256 p.  
  Keywords Doctoral thesis; Pharmacology. Therapy; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)  
  Abstract  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204707 Serial 9243  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vanden Abeele, M.M.P.; Vandebosch, H.; Koster, E.H.W.; De Leyn, T.; Van Gaeveren, K.; de Segovia Vicente, D.; Van Bruyssel, S.; van Timmeren, T.; De Marez, L.; Poels, K.; DeSmet, A.; De Wever, B.; Verbruggen, M.; Baillien, E. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Why, how, when, and for whom does digital disconnection work? A process-based framework of digital disconnection Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2024 Publication Communication theory Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 34 Issue 1 Pages 3-17  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Mass communications; Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)  
  Abstract Digital disconnection has emerged as a concept describing the actions people take to limit their digital connectivity to enhance their well-being. To date, evidence on its effectiveness is mixed, leading to calls for greater consideration of why, how, when, and for whom digital disconnection works. This article responds to these calls, presenting a framework that differentiates four key harms that contribute to experiences of digital ill-being (time displacement, interference, role blurring, and exposure effects). Using these four harms as a starting point, the framework explains: (1) why people are motivated to digitally disconnect; (2) how specific disconnection strategies (i.e., placing limits on time, access, channels, and contents, interactions and features) may help them; and for whom (3) and under which conditions (when) these strategies can be effective.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001154547700001 Publication Date 2024-02-01  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1050-3293; 1468-2885 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203874 Serial 9245  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Gerrits, N.; Jackson, B.; Bogaerts, A. file  url
doi  openurl
  Title Accurate Reaction Probabilities for Translational Energies on Both Sides of the Barrier of Dissociative Chemisorption on Metal Surfaces Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters Abbreviated Journal J. Phys. Chem. Lett.  
  Volume 15 Issue 9 Pages 2566-2572  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;  
  Abstract Molecular dynamics simulations are essential for a better understanding of dissociative chemisorption on metal surfaces, which is often the rate-controlling step in heterogeneous and plasma catalysis. The workhorse quasi-classical trajectory approach ubiquitous in molecular dynamics is able to accurately predict reactivity only for high translational and low vibrational energies. In contrast, catalytically relevant conditions generally involve low translational and elevated vibrational energies. Existing quantum dynamics approaches are intractable or approximate as a result of the large number of degrees of freedom present in molecule−metal surface reactions. Here, we extend a ring polymer molecular dynamics approach to fully include, for the first time, the degrees of freedom of a moving metal surface. With this approach, experimental sticking probabilities for the dissociative chemisorption of methane on Pt(111) are reproduced for a large range of translational and vibrational energies by including nuclear quantum effects and employing full-dimensional simulations.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001177959900001 Publication Date 2024-03-07  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1948-7185 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 5.7 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Nick Gerrits has been financially supported through a Dutch Research Council (NWO) Rubicon grant (019.202EN.012). The computational resources and services used in this work were provided by the high performance computing (HPC) core facility CalcUA of the Universiteit Antwerpen and the Flemish Supercomputer Center (VSC) funded by the Research Foundation−Flanders (FWO) and the Flemish Government. The authors thank Mark Somers for useful discussions. Approved Most recent IF: 5.7; 2024 IF: 9.353  
  Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:204818 Serial 9114  
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Author De Meyer, R.; Gorbanev, Y.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Cool, P.; Bals, S.; Bogaerts, A. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Importance of plasma discharge characteristics in plasma catalysis: Dry reforming of methane vs. ammonia synthesis Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal  
  Volume 488 Issue Pages 150838  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Gas conversion Dry reforming of methane Ammonia Microdischarges Dielectric barrier discharge; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;  
  Abstract Plasma catalysis is a rapidly growing field, often employing a packed-bed dielectric barrier discharge plasma reactor. Such dielectric barrier discharges are complex, especially when a packing material (e.g., a catalyst) is introduced in the discharge volume. Catalysts are known to affect the plasma discharge, though the underlying mechanisms influencing the plasma physics are not fully understood. Moreover, the effect of the catalysts on the plasma discharge and its subsequent effect on the overall performance is often overlooked. In this work, we deliberately design and synthesize catalysts to affect the plasma discharge in different ways. These Ni or Co alumina-based catalysts are used in plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane and ammonia synthesis. Our work shows that introducing a metal to the dielectric packing can affect the plasma discharge, and that the distribution of the metal is crucial in this regard. Further, the altered discharge can greatly influence the overall performance. In an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge reactor, this apparently more uniform plasma yields a significantly better performance for ammonia synthesis compared to the more conventional filamentary discharge, while it underperforms in dry reforming of methane. This study stresses the importance of analyzing the plasma discharge in plasma catalysis experiments. We hope this work encourages a more critical view on the plasma discharge characteristics when studying various catalysts in a plasma reactor.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-03-30  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links UA library record  
  Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes This research was supported through long-term structural funding (Methusalem FFB15001C) and by the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme with grant agreement No 810182 (SCOPE ERC Synergy project) and with grant agreement No 815128 (REALNANO). We acknowledge the practical contribution of Senne Van Doorslaer. Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216  
  Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:205154 Serial 9115  
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Author Faraji, F.; Neyts, E.C.; Milošević, M.V.; Peeters, F.M. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Comment on “Misinterpretation of the Shuttleworth equation” Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Scripta Materialia Abbreviated Journal Scripta Materialia  
  Volume 250 Issue Pages 116186  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; CMT  
  Abstract  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1359-6462 ISBN Additional Links  
  Impact Factor 6 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Research Foundation Flanders; Approved Most recent IF: 6; 2024 IF: 3.747  
  Call Number UA @ lucian @ CMT Serial 9116  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Gorbanev, Y.; Fedirchyk, I.; Bogaerts, A. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Plasma catalysis in ammonia production and decomposition: Use it, or lose it? Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry  
  Volume 47 Issue Pages 100916  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma Nitrogen fixation Ammonia Plasma catalysis Production and decomposition; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;  
  Abstract The combination of plasma with catalysis for the synthesis and decomposition of NH3 is an attractive route to the production of carbon-neutral fertiliser and energy carriers and its conversion into H2. Recent years have seen fast developments in the field of plasma-catalytic NH3 life cycle. This work summarises the most recent advances in plasma-catalytic and related NH3-focussed processes, identifies some of the most important discoveries, and addresses plausible strategies for future developments in plasma-based NH3 technology.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-03-29  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2452-2236 ISBN Additional Links  
  Impact Factor 9.3 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes The work was supported by the Fund for Scientific Research (FWO) Flanders Bioeconomy project (grant G0G2322N) funded by the European Union-NextGe- nerationEU, the HyPACT project funded by the Belgian Energy Transition Fund, and the MSCA4Ukraine project 1233629 funded by the European Union. Approved Most recent IF: 9.3; 2024 IF: NA  
  Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9117  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Chakraborty, J.; Chatterjee, A.; Molkens, K.; Nath, I.; Arenas Esteban, D.; Bourda, L.; Watson, G.; Liu, C.; Van Thourhout, D.; Bals, S.; Geiregat, P.; Van der Voort, P. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Decoding Excimer Formation in Covalent–Organic Frameworks Induced by Morphology and Ring Torsion Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Advanced Materials Abbreviated Journal Advanced Materials  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;  
  Abstract A thorough and quantitative understanding of the fate of excitons in covalent–organic frameworks (COFs) after photoexcitation is essential for their augmented optoelectronic and photocatalytic applications via precise structure tuning. The synthesis of a library of COFs having identical chemical backbone with impeded conjugation, but varied morphology and surface topography to study the effect of these physical properties on the photophysics of the materials is herein reported. The variation of crystallite size and surface topography substantified different aggregation pattern in the COFs, which leads to disparities in their photoexcitation and relaxation properties. Depending on aggregation, an inverse correlation between bulk luminescence decay time and exciton binding energy of the materials is perceived. Further transient absorption spectroscopic analysis confirms the presence of highly localized, immobile, Frenkel excitons (of diameter 0.3–0.5 nm) via an absence of annihilation at high density, most likely induced by structural torsion of the COF skeletons, which in turn preferentially relaxes via long‐lived (nanosecond to microsecond) excimer formation (in femtosecond scale) over direct emission. These insights underpin the importance of structural and topological design of COFs for their targeted use in photocatalysis.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001206226700001 Publication Date 2024-04-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0935-9648 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 29.4 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes PVDV, JC, AC, and IN acknowledge the FWO-Vlaanderen for research grant G020521N and the research board of UGent (BOF) through a Concerted Research Action (GOA010-17). JC acknowledges UGent for BOF postdoctoral grant (2022.0032.01). AC acknowledges FWO- Vlaanderen for postdoctoral grant (12T7521N). KM, DVT and PG acknowledges FWO- Vlaanderen for research grant G0B2921N. SB and DAE acknowledge financial support from ERC Consolidator Grant Number 815128 REALNANO. CHL acknowledges China Scholarship Council doctoral grant (201908110280). PVDV acknowledges Hercules Project AUGE/17/07 for the UV VIS DRS spectrometer and UGent BASBOF BOF20/BAS/015 for the powder X-Ray Diffractometer. PG thanks UGent for support of the Core Facility NOLIMITS. Approved Most recent IF: 29.4; 2024 IF: 19.791  
  Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:205967 Serial 9118  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Esteban, D.A.; Chamocho, E.G.; Carretero González, J.; Urones Garrote, E.; Otero Díaz, L.C.; Brande, D.Á. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Enhancing Electrochemical Properties of Walnut Shell Activated Carbon with Embedded MnO Clusters for Supercapacitor Applications Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Batteries & Supercaps Abbreviated Journal Batteries & Supercaps  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;  
  Abstract Activated carbon (AC) materials from renewable sources are widely used in electrochemical applications due to their well‐known high surface area. However, their application as electrode material in double‐layer electrochemical devices may be limited due to their relatively low electrical conductivity and lightweight. To overcome these limitations, the incorporation of pseudocapacitance metal oxide nanoparticles is an optimum approach. These nanoparticles can provide a second energy storage mechanism to the composite, mitigating the loss of surface area associated with their incorporation. As a result, the composite material is endowed with increased conductivity and higher density, making it more suitable for practical implementation in real devices. In this study, we have incorporated a fine dispersion of 1 % of MnO clusters into a highly porous activated carbon synthesized from walnut shells (WAC). The high‐resolution electron microscopy studies, combined with their related analytical techniques, allow us to determine the presence of the cluster within the matrix carbon precisely. The resulting MnO@WAC composite demonstrated significantly improved capacitive behavior compared with the WAC material, with increased volumetric capacitance and higher charge retention at higher current densities. The composite‘s electrochemical performance suggests its potential as a promising electrode material for supercapacitors, addressing drawbacks associated with traditional AC materials.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001198179300001 Publication Date 2024-04-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2566-6223 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes Grants PID2020-112848RB-C21 funded by MCIN/AEI/ 10.13039/501100011033 and by the European Union PRTR funding through projects are acknowledged. Access to the ICTS- CNME for TEM is also acknowledged. Approved Most recent IF: NA  
  Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:205463 Serial 9119  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Ignatova, K.; Vlasov, E.; Seddon, S.D.; Gauquelin, N.; Verbeeck, J.; Wermeille, D.; Bals, S.; Hase, T.P.A.; Arnalds, U.B. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Phase coexistence induced surface roughness in V2O3/Ni magnetic heterostructures Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication APL Materials Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 12 Issue 4 Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;  
  Abstract We present an investigation of the microstructure changes in V2O3 as it goes through its inherent structural phase transition. Using V2O3 films with a well-defined crystal structure deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering on r-plane Al2O3 substrates, we study the phase coexistence region and its impact on the surface roughness of the films and the magnetic properties of overlying Ni magnetic layers in V2O3/Ni hybrid magnetic heterostructures. The simultaneous presence of two phases in V2O3 during its structural phase transition was identified with high resolution x-ray diffraction and led to an increase in surface roughness observed using x-ray reflectivity. The roughness reaches its maximum at the midpoint of the transition. In V2O3/Ni hybrid heterostructures, we find a concomitant increase in the coercivity of the magnetic layer correlated with the increased roughness of the V2O3 surface. The chemical homogeneity of the V2O3 is confirmed through transmission electron microscopy analysis. High-angle annular dark field imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy reveal an atomically flat interface between Al2O3 and V2O3, as well as a sharp interface between V2O3 and Ni.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 001202661800003 Publication Date 2024-04-01  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2166-532X ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 6.1 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes This work was supported by the funding from the University of Iceland Research Fund, the Icelandic Research Fund Grant No. 207111. Instrumentation funding from the Icelandic Infrastructure Fund is acknowledged. This work was based on experiments per- formed at the BM28 (XMaS) beamline at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France. XMaS is a National Research Facility funded by the UK EPSRC and managed by the Universi- ties of Liverpool and Warwick. This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under Grant Agreement No. 823717—ESTEEM3. Approved Most recent IF: 6.1; 2024 IF: 4.335  
  Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:205569 Serial 9120  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vlasov, E.; Heyvaert, W.; Ni, B.; Van Gordon, K.; Girod, R.; Verbeeck, J.; Liz-Marzán, L.M.; Bals, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title High-Throughput Morphological Chirality Quantification of Twisted and Wrinkled Gold Nanorods Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication ACS Nano Abbreviated Journal ACS Nano  
  Volume Issue Pages  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;  
  Abstract Chirality in gold nanostructures offers an exciting opportunity to tune their differential optical response to left- and right-handed circularly polarized light, as well as their interactions with biomolecules and living matter. However, tuning and understanding such interactions demands quantification of the structural features that are responsible for the chiral behavior. Electron tomography (ET) enables structural characterization at the single-particle level and has been used to quantify the helicity of complex chiral nanorods. However, the technique is time-consuming and consequently lacks statistical value. To address this issue, we introduce herein a high-throughput methodology that combines images acquired by secondary electron-based electron beam-induced current (SEEBIC) with quantitative image analysis. As a result, the geometric chirality of hundreds of nanoparticles can be quantified in less than 1 h. When combining the drastic gain in data collection efficiency of SEEBIC with a limited number of ET data sets, a better understanding of how the chiral structure of individual chiral nanoparticles translates into the ensemble chiroptical response can be reached.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-04-26  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1936-0851 ISBN Additional Links  
  Impact Factor 17.1 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes The authors acknowledge financial support by the European Research Council (ERC CoG No. 815128 REALNANO to S.B.) and from MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 (Grant PID2020-117779RB-I00 to L.M.L.-M and FPI Fellowship PRE2021-097588 to K.V.G.). Funded by the European Union under Project 101131111 − DELIGHT, JV acknowledges the eBEAM project supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program FETPROACT-EIC-07- 2020: emerging paradigms and communities. Approved Most recent IF: 17.1; 2024 IF: 13.942  
  Call Number EMAT @ emat @ Serial 9121  
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Author Zhou, R.; Neek-Amal, M.; Peeters, F.M.; Bai, B.; Sun, C. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Interlink between Abnormal Water Imbibition in Hydrophilic and Rapid Flow in Hydrophobic Nanochannels Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Physical Review Letters Abbreviated Journal Phys. Rev. Lett.  
  Volume 132 Issue 18 Pages 184001  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; CMT  
  Abstract Nanoscale extension and refinement of the Lucas-Washburn model is presented with a detailed analysis of recent experimental data and extensive molecular dynamics simulations to investigate rapid water flow and water imbibition within nanocapillaries. Through a comparative analysis of capillary rise in hydrophilic nanochannels, an unexpected reversal of the anticipated trend, with an abnormal peak, of imbibition length below the size of 3 nm was discovered in hydrophilic nanochannels, surprisingly sharing the same physical origin as the well-known peak observed in flow rate within hydrophobic nanochannels. The extended imbibition model is applicable across diverse spatiotemporal scales and validated against simulation results and existing experimental data for both hydrophilic and hydrophobic  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-04-30  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0031-9007 ISBN Additional Links  
  Impact Factor 8.6 Times cited 1 Open Access (up)  
  Notes We gratefully acknowledge the financial support pro- vided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Projects No. 52488201 and No. 52222606). Part of this project was supported by the Flemish Science Foundations (FWO-Vl) and the Iranian National Science Foundation (No. 4025061 and No. 4021261). Approved Most recent IF: 8.6; 2024 IF: 8.462  
  Call Number UA @ lucian @ Serial 9122  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Faraji, F.; Neyts, E.C.; Milošević, M.V.; Peeters, F.M. pdf  doi
openurl 
  Title Capillary Condensation of Water in Graphene Nanocapillaries Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Nano Letters Abbreviated Journal Nano Lett.  
  Volume 24 Issue 18 Pages 5625-5630  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; CMT  
  Abstract Recent experiments have revealed that the macroscopic Kelvin equation remains surprisingly accurate even for nanoscale capillaries. This phenomenon was so far explained by the oscillatory behavior of the solid−liquid interfacial free energy. We here demonstrate thermodynamic and capillarity inconsistencies with this explanation. After revising the Kelvin equation, we ascribe its validity at nanoscale confinement to the effect of disjoining pressure.

To substantiate our hypothesis, we employed molecular dynamics simulations to evaluate interfacial heat transfer and wetting properties. Our assessments unveil a breakdown in a previously established proportionality between the work of adhesion and the Kapitza conductance at capillary heights below 1.3 nm, where the dominance of the work of adhesion shifts primarily from energy to entropy. Alternatively, the peak density of the initial water layer can effectively probe the work of adhesion. Unlike under bulk conditions, high confinement renders the work of adhesion entropically unfavorable.
 
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1530-6984 ISBN Additional Links  
  Impact Factor 10.8 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes This work was supported by Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO, project No. G099219N). The computational resources used in this work were provided by the HPC core facility CalcUA of the University of Antwerp, and the Flemish Supercomputer Center (VSC), funded by FWO and the Flemish Government. Approved Most recent IF: 10.8; 2024 IF: 12.712  
  Call Number UA @ lucian @ Serial 9123  
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Author Cai, Y.; Mei, D.; Chen, Y.; Bogaerts, A.; Tu, X. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Machine learning-driven optimization of plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2024 Publication Journal of Energy Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Journal of Energy Chemistry  
  Volume 96 Issue Pages 153-163  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma catalysis Machine learning Process optimization Dry reforming of methane Syngas production; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;  
  Abstract This study investigates the dry reformation of methane (DRM) over Ni/Al2O3 catalysts in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) non-thermal plasma reactor. A novel hybrid machine learning (ML) model is developed to optimize the plasma-catalytic DRM reaction with limited experimental data. To address the non-linear and complex nature of the plasma-catalytic DRM process, the hybrid ML model integrates three well-established algorithms: regression trees, support vector regression, and artificial neural networks. A genetic algorithm (GA) is then used to optimize the hyperparameters of each algorithm within the hybrid ML model. The ML model achieved excellent agreement with the experimental data, demonstrating its efficacy in accurately predicting and optimizing the DRM process. The model was subsequently used to investigate the impact of various operating parameters on the plasma-catalytic DRM performance. We found that the optimal discharge power (20 W), CO2/CH4 molar ratio (1.5), and Ni loading (7.8 wt%) resulted in the maximum energy yield at a total flow rate of 51 mL/min. Furthermore, we investigated the relative significance of each operating parameter on the performance of the plasmacatalytic DRM process. The results show that the total flow rate had the greatest influence on the conversion, with a significance exceeding 35% for each output, while the Ni loading had the least impact on the overall reaction performance. This hybrid model demonstrates a remarkable ability to extract valuable insights from limited datasets, enabling the development and optimization of more efficient and selective plasma-catalytic chemical processes.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos Publication Date 2024-04-25  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 2095-4956 ISBN Additional Links  
  Impact Factor 13.1 Times cited Open Access (up)  
  Notes This project received funding from the European Union’s Hori- zon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement No. 813393. Approved Most recent IF: 13.1; 2024 IF: 2.594  
  Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9124  
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