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“Study of positive and negative plasma catalytic oxidation of ethylene”. Van Wesenbeeck K, Hauchecorne B, Lenaerts S, Environmental technology 38, 1554 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1080/09593330.2016.1237553
Abstract: The effect of introducing a photocatalytically active coating inside a plasma unit is investigated. This technique combines the advantages of high product selectivity from catalysis and the fast start-up from plasma technology. In this study, a preselected TiO2 coating is applied on the collector electrode of a DC corona discharge unit as non-thermal plasma reactor, in order to study the oxidation of ethylene. For both positive and negative polarities an enhanced mineralization is observed while the formation of by-products drastically decreases. The plasma catalytic unit gave the best results when using negative polarity at a voltage of 15kV. This shows the potential of plasma catalysis as indoor air purification technology.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 1.751
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2016.1237553
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“Ultrafast screening of commercial sorbent materials for VOC adsorption using real-time FTIR spectroscopy”. Blommaerts N, Dingenen F, Middelkoop V, Savelkouls J, Goemans M, Tytgat T, Verbruggen SW, Lenaerts S, Separation and purification technology 207, 284 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SEPPUR.2018.06.062
Abstract: Recovery of valuable volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from waste streams is of great industrial importance. Adsorption on zeolites offers an economically and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional activated carbon. When evaluating the suitability of a given zeolite for a particular adsorption application, its adsorption capacity has to be determined. This is traditionally achieved using gas chromatography as an analysis tool, yielding only a few discrete sampling points that constitute the adsorption profile. Meanwhile, only low flow rates and low concentrations of volatile organics can be used, rendering the procedure troublesome and time consuming. Herein, we propose a tool for the fast screening of a large amount of zeolites using on-line and quasi real-time Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The technique was used to determine the adsorption capacity of three different commercial zeolites and two silica gels, for five industrially relevant VOCs: acetone; methanol; isohexane; isopentane; and toluene. A series of rapid measurements of the individual adsorption capacities were carried out to obtain a detailed overview of the versatility of the proposed method for the characterization of multi-component and multi-sorption bed systems.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 3.359
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1016/J.SEPPUR.2018.06.062
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“Validation of a newly developed FTIR in situ reactor: real time study of photocatalytic degradation of nitric oxide”. Hauchecorne B, Tytgat T, Terrens D, Vanpachtenbeke F, Lenaerts S, Infrared physics and technology 53, 469 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.INFRARED.2010.09.008
Abstract: For many years, photocatalysis has been proposed as one of the promising techniques to abate environmental pollutants. To improve these reactions it is vital to know the reaction mechanisms of the photocatalytic degradation. This new reactor will make it possible to study the catalytic surface at the moment the reactions occur. By the means of UV LED illumination there is no need of an external UV lamp and thus lowers the cost. The validation of this newly developed reactor is done by investigating the photocatalytic reaction mechanism of nitric oxide (NO) and comparing these findings with those already discussed in literature. From these results, it became clear that the newly developed FTIR in situ reactor allows real time study of photocatalytic degradations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 1.713
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/J.INFRARED.2010.09.008
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“Valorization of flue gas by combining photocatalytic gas pretreatment with microalgae production”. Van Eynde E, Lenaerts B, Tytgat T, Blust R, Lenaerts S, Environmental science and technology 50, 2538 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.EST.5B04824
Abstract: Utilization of flue gas for algae cultivation seems to be a promising route because flue gas from fossil-fuel combustion processes contains the high amounts of carbon (CO2) and nitrogen (NO) that are required for algae growth. NO is a poor nitrogen source for algae cultivation because of its low reactivity and solubility in water and its toxicity for algae at high concentrations. Here, we present a novel strategy to valorize NO from flue gas as feedstock for algae production by combining a photocatalytic gas pretreatment unit with a microalgal photobioreactor. The photocatalytic air pretreatment transforms NO gas into NO2 gas and thereby enhances the absorption of NO in the cultivation broth. The absorbed NOx will form NO2- and NO3- that can be used as a nitrogen source by algae. The effect of photocatalytic air pretreatment on the growth and biomass productivity of the algae Thalassiosira weissflogii in a semicontinuous system aerated with a model flue gas (1% CO2 and 50 ppm of NO) is investigated during a long-term experiment. The integrated system makes it possible to produce algae with NO from flue gas as the sole nitrogen source and reduces the NOx content in the exhaust gas by 84%.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 6.198
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.EST.5B04824
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“The potential of microalgae biorefineries in Belgium and India : an environmental techno-economic assessment”. Thomassen G, Van Dael M, Van Passel S, Bioresource Technology 267, 271 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2018.07.037
Abstract: This study performs an environmental techno-economic assessment (ETEA) for multiple microalgae biorefinery concepts at different locations, those being Belgium and India. The ETEA methodology, which integrates aspects of the TEA and LCA methodologies and provides a clear framework for an integrated assessment model, has been proposed and discussed. The scenario in India has a higher profitability with a NPV of (sic)40 million over a period of 10 years, while the environmental impact in Belgium is lower. The inclusion of a medium recycling step provides the best scenario from both perspectives. The crucial parameters for feasibility are the beta-caroteneprice and content, the upstream environmental impact of electricity and the maximum biomass concentration during cultivation. The identification of these parameters by the ETEA guides future technology developments and shortens the time-to-market for microalgal-based biorefineries.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.651
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2018.07.037
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“Canola adoption enhancement in Western Iran”. Zarafshani K, Ghasemi S, Houshyar E, Ghanbari R, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Journal Of Agricultural Science And Technology 19, 47 (2017)
Abstract: Canola production is an important alternative for agricultural policy-makers in Iran to reduce dependency on the imported vegetable oils. Nevertheless, the canola planted area is only increasing at a slow pace, indicating a low willingness-to-accept of farmers. The general aim of this study was to determine the factors influencing the canola adoption in the Kermanshah Province in Western Iran. Employing stratified random sampling method, 106 farmers from each adopter and non-adopter group were selected. Helping to reach a suitable extensional program, two main categories of variables were defined; i.e. farmers personal characteristics and extension parameters. The analysis of farmers personal characteristics variables revealed that the adopters had larger farms and were younger. The results also show that 80% of the adopters were highly to very highly willing to cultivate canola. Furthermore, a logistic regression model estimated the influence of extensional parameters variables on the canola adoption. According to the regression model, the most effective factors are contact with extension agents and participating in extension classes. As a conclusion, it is suggested that the focus of extension services should be to reduce the distance to agricultural service centers in combination with more contact with extension agents and classes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 0.813
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“Strain, electric-field and functionalization induced widely tunable electronic properties in MoS2/BC3, /C3N and / C3N4 van der Waals heterostructures”. Bafekry A, Stampfl C, Ghergherehchi M, Nanotechnology (Bristol. Print) , 295202 pp (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6528/AB884E
Abstract: In this paper, the effect of BC3, C3N and C3N4BC(3) and MoS2/C(3)N4 heterostructures are direct semiconductors with band gaps of 0.4 and 1.74 eV, respectively, while MoS2/C3N is a metal. Furthermore, the influence of strain and electric field on the electronic structure of these van der Waals heterostructures is investigated. The MoS2/BC3 heterostructure, for strains larger than -4%, transforms it into a metal where the metallic character is maintained for strains larger than -6%. The band gap decreases with increasing strain to 0.35 eV (at +2%), while for strain (>+6%) a direct-indirect band gap transition is predicted to occur. For the MoS2/C3N heterostructure, the metallic character persists for all strains considered. On applying an electric field, the electronic properties of MoS2/C3N4 are modified and its band gap decreases as the electric field increases. Interestingly, the band gap reaches 30 meV at +0.8 V/angstrom, and with increase above +0.8 V/angstrom, a semiconductor-to-metal transition occurs. Furthermore, we investigated effects of semi- and full-hydrogenation of MoS2/C3N and we found that it leads to a metallic and semiconducting character, respectively.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 19
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/AB884E
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“Crack initiation in tapered high Si stainless steel specimens : stress threshold analyses”. Penders A, Konstantinovic MJ, Bosch RW, Schryvers D, Corrosion Engineering Science And Technology , 1 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1080/1478422X.2020.1785651
Abstract: Tapered specimens were used for an accelerated test technique to study the crack initiation of high Si stainless steel by means of constant elongation rate tensile testing in a simulated pressurised water reactor environment. Detailed crack density distributions were obtained by applying an advanced crack detection algorithm on iteratively displaced scanning electron microscopy pictures featuring stress corrosion cracks along the specimen's gauge length. By means of finite-element analysis, prominent peaks in the crack density graphs are demonstrated to be related to stress relief and stress build-up during the crack initiation phase. Intrinsic scatter related to the crack detection suggests that stress corrosion cracking is independent of the strain-rate for strain-rates lower than 10(-6 )s(-1). Based on the extrapolation to constant load conditions, the critical threshold value for the duplex high Si stainless steel is estimated to be around 580 MPa.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.8
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1080/1478422X.2020.1785651
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“Dried aerobic heterotrophic bacteria from treatment of food and beverage effluents: Screening of correlations between operation parameters and microbial protein quality”. Muys M, Papini G, Spiller M, Sakarika M, Schwaiger B, Lesueur C, Vermeir P, Vlaeminck SE, Bioresource Technology 307, 123242 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123242
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.4
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123242
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“Dunaliella microalgae for nutritional protein : an undervalued asset”. Sui Y, Vlaeminck SE, Trends in biotechnology : regular edition 38, 10 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.TIBTECH.2019.07.011
Abstract: β-carotene production using Dunaliella microalgae is established, yet their potential as a source of protein for food and feed applications appears to be overlooked. The rich protein content and nutritional tunability of Dunaliella make these algae intriguing sources of sustainable protein. Thus, it is of societal interest to exploit these promising proteinaceous Dunaliella traits.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 17.3
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1016/J.TIBTECH.2019.07.011
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“Electronically tunable quantum phase slips in voltage-biased superconducting rings as a base for phase-slip flux qubits”. Kenawy A, Magnus W, Milošević, MV, Sorée B, Superconductor Science &, Technology 33, 125002 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6668/ABB8EB
Abstract: Quantum phase slips represent a coherent mechanism to couple flux states of a superconducting loop. Since their first direct observation, there have been substantial developments in building charge-insensitive quantum phase-slip circuits. At the heart of these devices is a weak link, often a nanowire, interrupting a superconducting loop. Owing to the very small cross-sectional area of such a nanowire, quantum phase slip rates in the gigahertz range can be achieved. Instead, here we present the use of a bias voltage across a superconducting loop to electrostatically induce a weak link, thereby amplifying the rate of quantum phase slips without physically interrupting the loop. Our simulations reveal that the bias voltage modulates the free energy barrier between subsequent flux states in a very controllable fashion, providing a route towards a phase-slip flux qubit with a broadly tunable transition frequency.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.6
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6668/ABB8EB
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“Enhancement of pollutants removal from saline wastewater through simultaneous anammox and denitrification (SAD) process with glycine betaine addition”. Zhu W, Li J, Wang B, Chen G, Bioresource Technology 315, 123784 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123784
Abstract: Enhanced pollutants removal from saline wastewater was investigated in simultaneous anammox and denitrification (SAD) process with glycine betaine (GB) addition. Long-term operation indicated the optimal GB dose was around 0.4 mM, which enhanced both anammox and denitrifying activity by 30% and 45%, respectively. The total nitrogen and organic removal rates were 0.38 +/- 0.2 kgN/m(3)/d and 0.34 +/- 0.3 kgCOD/m(3)/d, respectively, which increased by 34.5% and 20.5%. Independent of GB dose, denitrifying activity was promoted, but anammox activity was drastically deteriorated after excessive GB addition. The optimal GB dose predicated by both Gaussian and Modified-Boltzmann models were 0.42-0.45 mM. Besides, the bacterial activity recovery after excessive GB addition could be analyzed by the Modified-Boltzmann model. With 1.5 mM GB, granular floatation occurred since numerous gas bubbles were inside the granules. In general, exogenous GB addition can mitigate salinity inhibition and promote pollutants removal from saline wastewater.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.4
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123784
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“Mainstream partial nitritation/anammox with integrated fixed-film activated sludge : combined aeration and floc retention time control strategies limit nitrate production”. Seuntjens D, Carvajal Arroyo JM, Van Tendeloo M, Chatzigiannidou I, Molina J, Nop S, Boon N, Vlaeminck SE, Bioresource Technology 314, 123711 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123711
Abstract: Implementation of mainstream partial nitritation/anammox (PN/A) can lead to more sustainable and cost-effective sewage treatment. For mainstream PN/A reactor, an integrated fixed-film activated sludge (IFAS) was operated (26 °C). The effects of floccular aerobic sludge retention time (AerSRT_floc), a novel aeration strategy, and N-loading rate were tested to optimize the operational strategy. The best performance was observed with a low, but sufficient AerSRTfloc (~7d) and continuous aeration with two alternating dissolved oxygen setpoints: 10 min at 0.07–0.13 mg O2 L−1 and 5 min at 0.27–0.43 mg O2 L−1. Nitrogen removal rates were 122 ± 23 mg N L−1 d−1, and removal efficiencies 73 ± 13%. These conditions enabled flocs to act as nitrite sources while the carriers were nitrite sinks, with low abundance of nitrite oxidizing bacteria. The operational strategies in the source-sink framework can serve as a guideline for successful operation of mainstream PN/A reactors.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.4
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123711
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“Microstructure characterization of oceanic polyethylene debris”. Rowenczyk L, Dazzi A, Deniset-Besseau A, Beltran V, Goudounèche D, Wong-Wah-Chung P, Boyron O, George M, Fabre P, Roux C, Mingotaud AF, ter Halle A, Environmental Science &, Technology 54, 4102 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.EST.9B07061
Abstract: Plastic pollution has become a worldwide concern. It was demonstrated that plastic breaks down to nanoscale particles in the environment, forming so-called nanoplastics. It is important to understand their ecological impact, but their structure is not elucidated. In this original work, we characterize the microstructure of oceanic polyethylene debris and compare it to the nonweathered objects. Cross sections are analyzed by several emergent mapping techniques. We highlight deep modifications of the debris within a layer a few hundred micrometers thick. The most intense modifications are macromolecule oxidation and a considerable decrease in the molecular weight. The adsorption of organic pollutants and trace metals is also confined to this outer layer. Fragmentation of the oxidized layer of the plastic debris is the most likely source of nanoplastics. Consequently the nanoplastic chemical nature differs greatly from plastics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 11.4
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.EST.9B07061
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“Purple non-sulphur bacteria and plant production: benefits for fertilization, stress resistance and the environment”. Sakarika M, Spanoghe J, Sui Y, Wambacq E, Grunert O, Haesaert G, Spiller M, Vlaeminck SE, Microbial biotechnology 13, 1336 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1111/1751-7915.13474
Abstract: Purple non-sulphur bacteria (PNSB) are phototrophic microorganisms, which increasingly gain attention in plant production due to their ability to produce and accumulate high-value compounds that are beneficial for plant growth. Remarkable features of PNSB include the accumulation of polyphosphate, the production of pigments and vitamins and the production of plant growth-promoting substances (PGPSs). Scattered case studies on the application of PNSB for plant cultivation have been reported for decades, yet a comprehensive overview is lacking. This review highlights the potential of using PNSB in plant production, with emphasis on three key performance indicators (KPIs): fertilization, resistance to stress (biotic and abiotic) and environmental benefits. PNSB have the potential to enhance plant growth performance, increase the yield and quality of edible plant biomass, boost the resistance to environmental stresses, bioremediate heavy metals and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Here, the mechanisms responsible for these attributes are discussed. A distinction is made between the use of living and dead PNSB cells, where critical interpretation of existing literature revealed the better performance of living cells. Finally, this review presents research gaps that remain yet to be elucidated and proposes a roadmap for future research and implementation paving the way for a more sustainable crop production.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 5.7
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13474
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“Purple phototrophic bacteria for resource recovery : challenges and opportunities”. Capson-Tojo G, Batstone DJ, Grassino M, Vlaeminck SE, Puyol D, Verstraete W, Kleerebezem R, Oehmen A, Ghimire A, Pikaar I, Lema JM, Hülsen T, Grassino M, Hulsen T, Biotechnology Advances 43, 107567 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIOTECHADV.2020.107567
Abstract: Sustainable development is driving a rapid focus shift in the wastewater and organic waste treatment sectors, from a “removal and disposal” approach towards the recovery and reuse of water, energy and materials (e.g. carbon or nutrients). Purple phototrophic bacteria (PPB) are receiving increasing attention due to their capability of growing photoheterotrophically under anaerobic conditions. Using light as energy source, PPB can simultaneously assimilate carbon and nutrients at high efficiencies (with biomass yields close to unity (1 g CODbiomass·g CODremoved−1)), facilitating the maximum recovery of these resources as different value-added products. The effective use of infrared light enables selective PPB enrichment in non-sterile conditions, without competition with other phototrophs such as microalgae if ultraviolet-visible wavelengths are filtered. This review reunites results systematically gathered from over 177 scientific articles, aiming at producing generalized conclusions. The most critical aspects of PPB-based production and valorisation processes are addressed, including: (i) the identification of the main challenges and potentials of different growth strategies, (ii) a critical analysis of the production of value-added compounds, (iii) a comparison of the different value-added products, (iv) insights into the general challenges and opportunities and (v) recommendations for future research and development towards practical implementation. To date, most of the work has not been executed under real-life conditions, relevant for full-scale application. With the savings in wastewater discharge due to removal of organics, nitrogen and phosphorus as an important economic driver, priorities must go to using PPB-enriched cultures and real waste matrices. The costs associated with artificial illumination, followed by centrifugal harvesting/dewatering and drying, are estimated to be 1.9, 0.3–2.2 and 0.1–0.3 $·kgdry biomass−1. At present, these costs are likely to exceed revenues. Future research efforts must be carried out outdoors, using sunlight as energy source. The growth of bulk biomass on relatively clean wastewater streams (e.g. from food processing) and its utilization as a protein-rich feed (e.g. to replace fishmeal, 1.5–2.0 $·kg−1) appears as a promising valorisation route.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 16
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOTECHADV.2020.107567
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“Return-sludge treatment with endogenous free nitrous acid limits nitrate production and N₂O emission for mainstream partial nitritation/anammox”. Peng L, Xie Y, Van Beeck W, Zhu W, Van Tendeloo M, Tytgat T, Lebeer S, Vlaeminck SE, Environmental Science &, Technology 54, 5822 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.EST.9B06404
Abstract: Nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) and nitrous oxide (N2O) hinder the development of mainstream partial nitritation/anammox. To overcome these, endogenous free ammonia (FA) and free nitrous acid (FNA), which can be produced in the sidestream, were used for return-sludge treatment for two integrated-film activated sludge reactors containing biomass in flocs and on carriers. The repeated exposure of biomass from one reactor to FA shocks had a limited impact on NOB suppression but inhibited anammox bacteria (AnAOB). In the other reactor, repeated FNA shocks to the separated flocs failed to limit the system’s nitrate production since NOB activity was still high on the biofilms attached to the unexposed carriers. In contrast, the repeated FNA treatment of flocs and carriers favored aerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AerAOB) over NOB activity with AnAOB negligibly affected. It was further revealed that return-sludge treatment with higher FNA levels led to lower N2O emissions under similar effluent nitrite concentrations. On this basis, weekly 4 h FNA shocks of 2.0 mg of HNO2-N/L were identified as an optimal and realistic treatment, which not only enabled nitrogen removal efficiencies of ∼65% at nitrogen removal rates of ∼130 mg of N/L/d (20 °C) but also yielded the lowest cost and carbon footprint.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.4
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.EST.9B06404
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“Source/drain materials for Ge nMOS devices: phosphorus activation in epitaxial Si, Ge, Ge1-xSnx and SiyGe1-x-ySnx”. Vohra A, Makkonen I, Pourtois G, Slotte J, Porret C, Rosseel E, Khanam A, Tirrito M, Douhard B, Loo R, Vandervorst W, Ecs Journal Of Solid State Science And Technology 9, 044010 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1149/2162-8777/AB8D91
Abstract: This paper benchmarks various epitaxial growth schemes based on n-type group-IV materials as viable source/drain candidates for Ge nMOS devices. Si:P grown at low temperature on Ge, gives an active carrier concentration as high as 3.5 x 10(20) cm(-3) and a contact resistivity down to 7.5 x 10(-9) Omega.cm(2). However, Si:P growth is highly defective due to large lattice mismatch between Si and Ge. Within the material stacks assessed, one option for Ge nMOS source/drain stressors would be to stack Si:P, deposited at contact level, on top of a selectively grown n-SiyGe1-x-ySnx at source/drain level, in line with the concept of Si passivation of n-Ge surfaces to achieve low contact resistivities as reported in literature (Martens et al. 2011 Appl. Phys. Lett., 98, 013 504). The saturation in active carrier concentration with increasing P (or As)-doping is the major bottleneck in achieving low contact resistivities for as-grown Ge or SiyGe1-x-ySnx. We focus on understanding various dopant deactivation mechanisms in P-doped Ge and Ge1-xSnx alloys. First principles simulation results suggest that P deactivation in Ge and Ge1-xSnx can be explained both by P-clustering and donor-vacancy complexes. Positron annihilation spectroscopy analysis, suggests that dopant deactivation in P-doped Ge and Ge1-xSnx is primarily due to the formation of P-n-V and SnmPn-V clusters. (C) 2020 The Author(s). Published on behalf of The Electrochemical Society by IOP Publishing Limited.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.2
DOI: 10.1149/2162-8777/AB8D91
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“Unravelling stacking order in epitaxial bilayer MX₂, using 4D-STEM with unsupervised learning”. Mehta AN, Gauquelin N, Nord M, Orekhov A, Bender H, Cerbu D, Verbeeck J, Vandervorst W, Nanotechnology 31, 445702 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6528/ABA5B6
Abstract: Following an extensive investigation of various monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (MX2), research interest has expanded to include multilayer systems. In bilayer MX2, the stacking order strongly impacts the local band structure as it dictates the local confinement and symmetry. Determination of stacking order in multilayer MX(2)domains usually relies on prior knowledge of in-plane orientations of constituent layers. This is only feasible in case of growth resulting in well-defined triangular domains and not useful in-case of closed layers with hexagonal or irregularly shaped islands. Stacking order can be discerned in the reciprocal space by measuring changes in diffraction peak intensities. Advances in detector technology allow fast acquisition of high-quality four-dimensional datasets which can later be processed to extract useful information such as thickness, orientation, twist and strain. Here, we use 4D scanning transmission electron microscopy combined with multislice diffraction simulations to unravel stacking order in epitaxially grown bilayer MoS2. Machine learning based data segmentation is employed to obtain useful statistics on grain orientation of monolayer and stacking in bilayer MoS2.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.5
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ABA5B6
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“Facile dry coating method of high-nickel cathode material by nanostructured fumed alumina (Al2O3) improving the performance of lithium-ion batteries”. Herzog MJ, Gauquelin N, Esken D, Verbeeck J, Janek J, Energy technology 9, 2100028 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1002/ENTE.202100028
Abstract: Surface coating is a crucial method to mitigate the aging problem of high-Ni cathode active materials (CAMs). By avoiding the direct contact of the CAM and the electrolyte, side reactions are hindered. Commonly used techniques like wet or ALD coating are time consuming and costly. Therefore, a more cost-effective coating technique is desirable. Herein, a facile and fast dry powder coating process for CAMs with nanostructured fumed metal oxides are reported. As the model case, the coating of high-Ni NMC (LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2) by nanostructured fumed Al2O3 is investigated. A high coverage of the CAM surface with an almost continuous coating layer is achieved, still showing some porosity. Electrochemical evaluation shows a significant increase in capacity retention, cycle life and rate performance of the coated NMC material. The coating layer protects the surface of the CAM successfully and prevents side reactions, resulting in reduced solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation and charge transfer impedance during cycling. A mechanism on how the coating layer enhances the cycling performance is hypothesized. The stable coating layer effectively prevents crack formation and particle disintegration of the NMC. In depth analysis indicates partial formation of LixAl2O3/LiAlO2 in the coating layer during cycling, enhancing lithium ion diffusivity and thus, also the rate performance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1002/ENTE.202100028
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“Two-dimensional carbon nitride C₆N nanosheet with egg-comb-like structure and electronic properties of a semimetal”. Bafekry A, Shahrokhi M, Shafique A, Jappor HR, Shojaei F, Feghhi SAH, Ghergherehchi M, Gogova D, Nanotechnology 32, 215702 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6528/ABD50C
Abstract: In this study, the structural, electronic and optical properties of theoretically predicted C6N monolayer structure are investigated by means of Density Functional Theory-based First-Principles Calculations. Phonon band dispersion calculations and molecular dynamics simulations reveal the dynamical and thermal stability of the C6N single-layer structure. We found out that the C6N monolayer has large negative in-plane Poisson's ratios along both X and Y direction and the both values are almost four times that of the famous-pentagraphene. The electronic structure shows that C6N monolayer is a semi-metal and has a Dirac-point in the BZ. The optical analysis using the random phase approximation method constructed over HSE06 illustrates that the first peak of absorption coefficient of the C6N monolayer along all polarizations is located in the IR range of spectrum, while the second absorption peak occurs in the visible range, which suggests its potential applications in optical and electronic devices. Interestingly, optically anisotropic character of this system is highly desirable for the design of polarization-sensitive photodetectors. Thermoelectric properties such as Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, electronic thermal conductivity and power factor are investigated as a function of carrier doping at temperatures 300, 400, and 500 K. In general, we predict that the C6N monolayer could be a new platform for study of novel physical properties in two-dimensional semi-metal materials, which may provide new opportunities to realize high-speed low-dissipation devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.44
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ABD50C
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“TEM investigation of SCC crack tips in high Si stainless steel tapered specimens”. Penders A, Konstantinovic MJ, Van Renterghem W, Bosch RW, Schryvers D, Corrosion Engineering Science And Technology (2021). http://doi.org/10.1080/1478422X.2021.1961665
Abstract: The stress corrosion cracking (SCC) mechanism is investigated in high Si duplex stainless steel in a simulated PWR environment based on TEM analysis of FIB-extracted SCC crack tips. The microstructural investigation in the near vicinity of SCC crack tips illustrates a strain-rate dependence in SCC mechanisms. Detailed analysis of the crack tip morphology, that includes crack tip oxidation and surrounding deformation field, indicates the existence of an interplay between corrosion- and deformation-driven failure as a function of the strain rate. Slow strain-rate crack tips exhibit a narrow cleavage failure which can be linked to the film-induced failure mechanism, while rounded shaped crack tips for faster strain rates could be related to the strain-induced failure. As a result, two nominal strain-rate-dependent failure regimes dominated either by corrosion or deformation-driven cracking mechanisms can be distinguished.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 0.879
DOI: 10.1080/1478422X.2021.1961665
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“Fabry-Perot interferometry with gate-tunable 3D topological insulator nanowires”. Osca J, Moors K, Sorée B, Serra L, Nanotechnology 32, 435002 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6528/AC1633
Abstract: Three-dimensional topological insulator (3D TI) nanowires display remarkable magnetotransport properties that can be attributed to their spin-momentum-locked surface states such as quasiballistic transport and Aharonov-Bohm oscillations. Here, we focus on the transport properties of a 3D TI nanowire with a gated section that forms an electronic Fabry-Perot (FP) interferometer that can be tuned to act as a surface-state filter or energy barrier. By tuning the carrier density and length of the gated section of the wire, the interference pattern can be controlled and the nanowire can become fully transparent for certain topological surface-state input modes while completely filtering out others. We also consider the interplay of FP interference with an external magnetic field, with which Klein tunneling can be induced, and transverse asymmetry of the gated section, e.g. due to a top-gated structure, which displays an interesting analogy with Rashba nanowires. Due to its rich conductance phenomenology, we propose a 3D TI nanowire with gated section as an ideal setup for a detailed transport-based characterization of 3D TI nanowire surface states near the Dirac point, which could be useful towards realizing 3D TI nanowire-based topological superconductivity and Majorana bound states.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.44
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/AC1633
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“FLCS-PON : a 100 Gbit/s flexible passive optical network: concepts and field trial”. Borkowski R, Straub M, Ou Y, Lefevre Y, Jelić, ŽL, Lanneer W, Kaneda N, Mahadevan A, Hueckstaedt V, van Veen D, Houtsma V, Coomans W, Bonk R, Maes J, Journal Of Lightwave Technology 39, 5314 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1109/JLT.2021.3102383
Abstract: We demonstrate concepts and results of a field trial for a flexible-rate passive optical network (FLCS-PON), which delivers bitrates up to 100 Gbit/s and allows for adaptations in the transmission method to match the users' channel conditions and optimize throughput. FLCS-PON builds on top of the hardware ecosystem that will be developed for ITU-T 50 Gbit/s PON and employs three new ingredients: optical network unit (ONU) grouping, flexible modulation format, and flexible forward error correction (FEC) code rate. Together, these techniques take advantage of the optical distribution network (ODN) statistics to realize a system capable of more than twofold throughput increase compared to the upcoming 50 Gbit/s PON, but still able to support a full array of deployed fiber edge cases, which are problematic for legacy PONs. In this paper we explain the concepts behind enabling techniques of FLCS-PON. We then report on a field trial over a deployed fiber infrastructure, using a system consisting of one FLCS-PON OLT and two ONUs. We report both pre- and post-forward-error-correction (post-FEC) performance of our system, demonstrating achievable net bitrate over an operator's fiber infrastructure. We realize a downlink transmission at double the speed of ITU-T 50 Gbit/s PON for ONUs exhibiting lower optical path loss (OPL), while simultaneously continue to support ONUs at high OPLs. We additionally realize a record-high 31.5 dB loss budget for 100 Gbit/s transmission using a direct-detection ONU with an optical preamplifier.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Mass communications; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.671
DOI: 10.1109/JLT.2021.3102383
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“Aggregation of purple bacteria in an upflow photobioreactor to facilitate solid/liquid separation : impact of organic loading rate, hydraulic retention time and water composition”. Blansaer N, Alloul A, Verstraete W, Vlaeminck SE, Smets BF, Bioresource technology 348, 126806 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2022.126806
Abstract: Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) form an interesting group of microbes for resource recovery from wastewater. Solid/liquid separation is key for biomass and value-added products recovery, yet insights into PNSB aggregation are thus far limited. This study explored the effects of organic loading rate (OLR), hydraulic retention time (HRT) and water composition on the aggregation of Rhodobacter capsulatus in an anaerobic upflow photobioreactor. Between 2.0 and 14.6 gCOD/(L.d), the optimal OLR for aggregation was 6.1 gCOD/(L.d), resulting in a sedimentation flux of 5.9 kgTSS/(m2.h). With HRT tested between 0.04 and 1.00 d, disaggregation occurred at the relatively long HRT (1 d), possibly due to accumulation of thus far unidentified heat-labile metabolites. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) to nitrogen ratios (6–35 gCOD/gN) and the nitrogen source (ammonium vs. glutamate) also impacted aggregation, highlighting the importance of the type of wastewater and its pre-treatment. These novel insights to improve purple biomass separation pave the way for cost-efficient PNSB applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.4
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2022.126806
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“Boosting aerobic microbial protein productivity and quality on brewery wastewater : impact of anaerobic acidification, high-rate process and biomass age”. Papini G, Muys M, Van Winckel T, Meerburg FA, Van Beeck W, Vermeir P, Vlaeminck SE, Bioresource technology 368, 128285 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2022.128285
Abstract: Consortia of aerobic heterotrophic bacteria (AHB) are appealing as sustainable alternative protein ingredient for aquaculture given their high nutritional qualities, and their production potential on feed-grade industrial wastewater. Today, the impacts of pre-treatment, bioprocess choice and key parameter settings on AHB productivity and nutritional properties are unknown. This study investigated for the first time AHB microbial protein production effects based on (i) raw vs anaerobically fermented brewery wastewater, (ii) high-rate activated sludge (HRAS) without vs with feast-famine conditions, and (iii) three short solid retention time (SRT): 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 d. High biomass (4.4–8.0 g TSS/L/d) and protein productivities (1.9–3.2 g protein/L/d) were obtained while achieving COD removal efficiencies up to 98 % at SRT 0.50 d. The AHB essential amino acid (EAA) profiles were above rainbow trout requirements, excluding the S-containing EAA, highlighting the AHB biomass replacement potential for unsustainable fishmeal in salmonid diets.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.4
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2022.128285
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“Observation of surface species in plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane in a novel atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge in situ IR cell”. Van Turnhout J, Aceto D, Travert A, Bazin P, Thibault-Starzyk F, Bogaerts A, Azzolina-Jury F, Catalysis Science &, Technology 12, 6676 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1039/D2CY00311B
Abstract: We developed a novel in situ (i.e. inside plasma and during operation) IR dielectric barrier discharge cell allowing investigation of plasma catalysis in transmission mode, atmospheric pressure, flow conditions (WHSV similar to 0-50 000 mL g(-1) h(-1)), at relevant discharge voltages (similar to 0-50 kV) and frequencies (similar to 0-5 kHz). We applied it to study the IR-active surface species formed on a SiO2 support and on a 3 wt% Ru/SiO2 catalyst, which can help to reveal the important surface reaction mechanisms during the plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane (DRM). Moreover, we present a technique for the challenging task of estimating the temperature of a catalyst sample in a plasma-catalytic system in situ and during plasma operation. We found that during the reaction, water is immediately formed at the SiO2 surface, and physisorbed formic acid is formed with a delay. As Ru/SiO2 is subject to greater plasma-induced heating than SiO2 (with a surface temperature increase in the range of 70-120 degrees C, with peaks up to 150 degrees C), we observe lower amounts of physisorbed water on Ru/SiO2, and less physisorbed formic acid formation. Importantly, the formation of surface species on the catalyst sample in our plasma-catalytic setup, as well as the observed conversions and selectivities in plasma conditions, can not be explained by plasma-induced heating of the catalyst surface, but must be attributed to other plasma effects, such as the adsorption of plasma-generated radicals and molecules, or the occurrence of Eley-Rideal reactions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 5
DOI: 10.1039/D2CY00311B
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“Purple bacteria screening for photoautohydrogenotrophic food production : are new H₂-fed isolates faster and nutritionally better than photoheterotrophically obtained reference species?”.Spanoghe J, Ost KJ, Van Beeck W, Vermeir P, Lebeer S, Vlaeminck SE, New biotechnology 72, 38 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.NBT.2022.08.005
Abstract: Photoautohydrogenotrophic enrichments of wastewater treatment microbiomes were performed to obtain hypothetically high-potential specialist species for biotechnological applications. From these enrichment cultures, ten photoautohydrogenotrophic species were isolated: six Rhodopseudomonas species, three Rubrivivax members and Rhodobacter blasticus. The performance of these isolates was compared to three commonly studied, and originally photoheterotrophically enriched species (Rhodopseudomonas palustris, Rhodobacter capsulatus and Rhodobacter sphaeroides), designated as reference species. Repeated subcultivations were applied to improve the initial poor performance of the isolates (acclimation effect), which resulted in increases in both maximum growth rate and protein productivity. However, the maximum growth rate of the reference species remained 3–7 times higher compared to the isolates (0.42–0.84 d−1 at 28 °C), while protein productivities remained 1.5–1.7 times higher. This indicated that H2-based enrichment did not result in photoautohydrogenotrophic specialists, suggesting that the reference species are more suitable for intensified biomass and protein production. On the other hand, the isolates were able to provide equally high protein quality profiles as the references species, providing full dietary essential amino acid matches for human food. Lastly, the effect of metabolic carbon/electron switching (back and forth between auto- to heterotrophic conditions) initially boosted µmax when returning to photoautohydrogenotrophic conditions. However, the switch negatively impacted lag phase, protein productivities and pigment contents. In the case of protein productivity, the acquired acclimation was partially lost with decreases of up to 44 % and 40 % respectively for isolates and reference species. Finally, the three reference species, and specifically Rh. capsulatus, remained the most suitable candidate(s) for further biotechnological development.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 5.4
DOI: 10.1016/J.NBT.2022.08.005
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“Solving hindered groundwater dynamics in restored tidal marshes by creek excavation and soil amendments : a model study”. Van Putte N, Meire P, Seuntjens P, Joris I, Verreydt G, Hambsch L, Temmerman S, Ecological engineering: the journal of ecotechnology 178, 106583 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLENG.2022.106583
Abstract: Groundwater fluxes in tidal marshes largely control key ecosystem functions and services, such as vegetation growth, soil carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling. In tidal marshes restored on formerly embanked agricultural land, groundwater fluxes are often limited as compared to nearby natural marshes, as a result of historical agricultural soil compaction. To improve the functioning of restored tidal marshes, knowledge is needed on how much certain design options can optimize soil-groundwater interactions in future restoration projects. Based on measured data on soil properties and tidally induced groundwater dynamics, we calibrated and evaluated a 2D vertical model of a creek-marsh cross-section, accounting for both saturated and unsaturated groundwater flow and solute transport in a variably saturated groundwater flow model. We found that model simulations of common restoration practices such as soil amendments (increasing the depth of porous soil on top of the compact layer) and creek excavation (increasing the creek density) increase the soil aeration depth and time, the drainage depth and the solute flux, and decrease the residence time of solutes in the porewater. Our simulations indicate that increasing the depth to the compact layer from 20 cm to 40 cm, or increasing the creek density from 1 creek to 2 creeks along a 50 m marsh transect (while maintaining the total creek cross-sectional area), in both cases more than doubles the volume of water processed by the marsh soil. We discuss that this may stimulate nutrient cycling. As such, our study demonstrates that groundwater modelling can support the design of marsh restoration measures aiming to optimize groundwater fluxes and related ecosystem services.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Ecosphere
Impact Factor: 3.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLENG.2022.106583
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“Synchrotron XRF analysis identifies cerium accumulation colocalized with pharyngeal deformities in CeO₂, NP-exposed caenorhabditis elegans”. Rossbach LM, Brede DA, Nuyts G, Cagno S, Olsson RMS, Oughton DH, Falkenberg G, Janssens K, Lind OC, Environmental science and technology 56, 5081 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.EST.1C08509
Abstract: A combination of synchrotron radiation-based elementalimaging, in vivo redox status analysis, histology, and toxic responses was usedto investigate the uptake, biodistribution, and adverse effects of Cenanoparticles (CeO2NP; 10 nm; 0.5-34.96 mg Ce L-1) or Ce(NO3)3(2.3-26 mg Ce L-1)inCaenorhabditis elegans. Elemental mapping of theexposed nematodes revealed Ce uptake in the alimentary canal prior todepuration. Retention of CeO2NPs was low compared to that of Ce(NO3)3in depurated individuals. X-rayfluorescence (XRF) mapping showed that Cetranslocation was confined to the pharyngeal valve and foregut. Ce(NO3)3exposure significantly decreased growth, fertility, and reproduction, causedslightly reduced fecundity. XRF mapping and histological analysis revealedsevere tissue deformities colocalized with retained Ce surrounding thepharyngeal valve. Both forms of Ce activated the sod-1 antioxidant defense,particularly in the pharynx, whereas no significant effects on the cellular redox balance were identified. The CeO2NP-induceddeformities did not appear to impair the pharyngeal function or feeding ability as growth effects were restricted to Ce(NO3)3exposure. The results demonstrate the utility of integrated submicron-resolution SR-based XRF elemental mapping of tissue-specificdistribution and adverse effect analysis to obtain robust toxicological evaluations of metal-containing contaminants.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Impact Factor: 11.4
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.EST.1C08509
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