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Author Xu, W.; Van Alphen, S.; Galvita, V.V.; Meynen, V.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Effect of Gas Composition on Temperature and CO2Conversion in a Gliding Arc Plasmatron reactor: Insights for Post‐Plasma Catalysis from Experiments and Computation Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication ChemSusChem Abbreviated Journal ChemSusChem
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal Article; CO2 conversion · Plasma · Gliding arc plasmatron · Temperature profiles · Computational modelling; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract Plasma‐based CO<sub>2</sub>conversion has attracted increasing interest. However, to understand the impact of plasma operation on post‐plasma processes, we studied the effect of adding N<sub>2</sub>, N<sub>2</sub>/CH<sub>4</sub>and N<sub>2</sub>/CH<sub>4</sub>/H<sub>2</sub>O to a CO<sub>2</sub>gliding arc plasmatron (GAP) to obtain valuable insights into their impact on exhaust stream composition and temperature, which will serve as feed gas and heat for post‐plasma catalysis (PPC). Adding N<sub>2</sub>improves the CO<sub>2</sub>conversion from 4 % to 13 %, and CH<sub>4</sub>addition further promotes it to 44 %, and even to 61 % at lower gas flow rate (6 L/min), allowing a higher yield of CO and hydrogen for PPC. The addition of H<sub>2</sub>O, however, reduces the CO<sub>2</sub>conversion from 55 % to 22 %, but it also lowers the energy cost, from 5.8 to 3 kJ/L. Regarding the temperature at 4.9 cm post‐plasma, N<sub>2</sub>addition increases the temperature, while the CO<sub>2</sub>/CH<sub>4</sub>ratio has no significant effect on temperature. We also calculated the temperature distribution with computational fluid dynamics simulations. The obtained temperature profiles (both experimental and calculated) show a decreasing trend with distance to the exhaust and provide insights in where to position a PPC bed.
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Language Wos 001200297300001 Publication Date 2024-04-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1864-5631 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.4 Times cited Open Access
Notes We acknowledge the VLAIO Catalisti Moonshot project D2M and the VLAIO Catalisti transition project CO2PERATE (HBC.2017.0692) for financial support. We acknowledge Gilles Van Loon for his help to make the quartz and steel devices for the reactor. Vladimir V. Galvita also acknowledges a personal grant from the Research Fund of Ghent University (BOF; 01N16319). Approved Most recent IF: 8.4; 2024 IF: 7.226
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:205101 Serial 9128
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Author Van Gordon, K.; Ni, B.; Girod, R.; Mychinko, M.; Bevilacqua, F.; Bals, S.; Liz‐Marzán, L.M.
Title Single Crystal and Pentatwinned Gold Nanorods Result in Chiral Nanocrystals with Reverse Handedness Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Angewandte Chemie International Edition Abbreviated Journal Angew Chem Int Ed
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;
Abstract Handedness is an essential attribute of chiral nanocrystals, having a major influence on their properties. During chemical growth, the handedness of nanocrystals is usually tuned by selecting the corresponding enantiomer of chiral molecules involved in asymmetric growth, often known as chiral inducers. We report that, even using the same chiral inducer enantiomer, the handedness of chiral gold nanocrystals can be reversed by using Au nanorod seeds with either single crystalline or pentatwinned structure. This effect holds for chiral growth induced both by amino acids and by chiral micelles. Although it was challenging to discern the morphological handedness for<italic>L</italic>‐cystine‐directed particles, even using electron tomography, both cases showed circular dichroism bands of opposite sign, with nearly mirrored chiroptical signatures for chiral micelle‐directed growth, along with quasi‐helical wrinkles of inverted handedness. These results expand the chiral growth toolbox with an effect that might be exploited to yield a host of interesting morphologies with tunable optical properties.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1433-7851 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 16.6 Times cited Open Access
Notes Ana Sánchez-Iglesias is acknowledged for support in the synthesis of pentatwinned gold nanorods. The authors acknowledge financial support by the European Research Council (ERC CoG No. 815128 REALNANO to S.B.), from MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 (Grant PID2020- 117779RB-I00 to L.M.L.-M and FPI Fellowship PRE2021- 097588 to K.V.G.), and by KU Leuven (C14/22/085). This work has been funded by the European Union under Project 101131111—DELIGHT. Funding for open access charge: Universidade de Vigo/ CRUE-CISUG. Approved Most recent IF: 16.6; 2024 IF: 11.994
Call Number EMAT @ emat @ Serial 9129
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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.
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.
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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
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 FWOVlaanderen for postdoctoral grant (12T7521N). KM, DVT and PG acknowledges FWOVlaanderen 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 9130
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Author Xu, W.; Buelens, L.C.; Galvita, V.V.; Bogaerts, A.; Meynen, V.
Title Improving the performance of gliding arc plasma-catalytic dry reforming via a new post-plasma tubular catalyst bed Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of CO2 Utilization Abbreviated Journal Journal of CO2 Utilization
Volume 83 Issue Pages 102820
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Dry reforming Gliding arc plasma Plasma catalytic DRM Ni-based mixed oxide Post-plasma catalysis; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract A combination of a gliding arc plasmatron (GAP) reactor and a newly designed tubular catalyst bed (N-bed) was applied to investigate the post-plasma catalytic (PPC) effect for dry reforming of methane (DRM). As comparison, a traditional plasma catalyst bed (T-bed) was also utilized. The post-plasma catalytic effect of a Ni-based mixed oxide (Ni/MO) catalyst with a thermal catalytic performance of 77% CO2 and 86% CH4 conversion at 700 ℃ was studied. Although applying the T-bed had little effect on plasma based CO2 and CH4 conversion, an increase in selectivity to H2 was obtained with a maximum value of 89% at a distance of 2 cm. However, even when only α-Al2O3 packing material was used in the N-bed configuration, compared to the plasma alone and the T-bed, an increase of the CO2 and CH4 conversion from 53% and 53% to 69% and 69% to 83% was achieved. Addition of the Ni/MO catalyst further enhanced the DRM reaction, resulting in conversions of 79% for CO2 and 91% for

CH4. Hence, although no insulation nor external heating was applied to the N-bed post plasma, it provides a slightly better conversion than the thermal catalytic performance with the same catalyst, while being fully electrically driven. In addition, an enhanced CO selectivity to 96% was obtained and the energy cost was reduced from ~ 6 kJ/L (plasma alone) to 4.3 kJ/L. To our knowledge, it is the first time that a post-plasma catalytic system achieves this excellent catalytic performance for DRM without extra external heating or insulation.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2212-9820 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 7.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes Wencong Xu, Vladimir V. Galvita, Annemie Bogaerts, and Vera Meynen would like to acknowledge the VLAIO Catalisti Moonshot project D2M and the VLAIO Catalisti transition project CO2PERATE (HBC.2017.0692). Lukas C. Buelens acknowledges financial support from the Fund for Scientific Research Flanders (FWO Flanders) through a postdoctoral fellowship grant 12E5623N. Vladimir V. Galvita also acknowledges a personal grant from the Research Fund of Ghent University (BOF; 01N16319). Approved Most recent IF: 7.7; 2024 IF: 4.292
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9131
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Author Maerivoet, S.; Tsonev, I.; Slaets, J.; Reniers, F.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Coupled multi-dimensional modelling of warm plasmas: Application and validation for an atmospheric pressure glow discharge in CO2/CH4/O2 Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal
Volume 492 Issue Pages 152006
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract To support experimental research into gas conversion by warm plasmas, models should be developed to explain the experimental observations. These models need to describe all physical and chemical plasma properties in a coupled way. In this paper, we present a modelling approach to solve the complete set of assumed relevant equations, including gas flow, heat balance and species transport, coupled with a rather extensive chemistry set, consisting of 21 species, obtained by reduction of a more detailed chemistry set, consisting of 41 species. We apply this model to study the combined CO2 and CH4 conversion in the presence of O2, in a direct current atmospheric pressure glow discharge. Our model can predict the experimental trends, and can explain why higher O2 fractions result in higher CH4 conversion, namely due to the higher gas temperature, rather than just by additional chemical reactions. Indeed, our model predicts that when more O2 is added, the energy required to reach any set temperature (i.e., the enthalpy) drops, allowing the system to reach higher temperatures with similar amounts of energy. This is in turn related to the higher H2O fraction and lower H2 fraction formed in the plasma, as demonstrated by our model. Altogether, our new self-consistent model can capture the main physics and chemistry occurring in this warm plasma, which is an important step towards predictive modelling for plasma-based gas conversion.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes This research was supported by the Excellence of Science FWO-FNRS project (FWO grant ID G0I1822N; EOS ID 40007511) and the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No. 810182–SCOPE ERC Synergy project, and grant agreement No. 101081162–PREPARE ERC Proof of Concept project). computational resources and services used in this work were provided by the HPC core facility CalcUA of the Universiteit Antwerpen, and VSC (Flemish Supercomputer Center), funded by the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) and the Flemish Government. Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9132
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Author Cioni, M.; Delle Piane, M.; Polino, D.; Rapetti, D.; Crippa, M.; Arslan Irmak, E.; Van Aert, S.; Bals, S.; Pavan, G.M.
Title Sampling real-time atomic dynamics in metal nanoparticles by combining experiments, simulations, and machine learning Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Advanced Science Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Even at low temperatures, metal nanoparticles (NPs) possess atomic dynamics that are key for their properties but challenging to elucidate. Recent experimental advances allow obtaining atomic-resolution snapshots of the NPs in realistic regimes, but data acquisition limitations hinder the experimental reconstruction of the atomic dynamics present within them. Molecular simulations have the advantage that these allow directly tracking the motion of atoms over time. However, these typically start from ideal/perfect NP structures and, suffering from sampling limits, provide results that are often dependent on the initial/putative structure and remain purely indicative. Here, by combining state-of-the-art experimental and computational approaches, how it is possible to tackle the limitations of both approaches and resolve the atomistic dynamics present in metal NPs in realistic conditions is demonstrated. Annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy enables the acquisition of ten high-resolution images of an Au NP at intervals of 0.6 s. These are used to reconstruct atomistic 3D models of the real NP used to run ten independent molecular dynamics simulations. Machine learning analyses of the simulation trajectories allow resolving the real-time atomic dynamics present within the NP. This provides a robust combined experimental/computational approach to characterize the structural dynamics of metal NPs in realistic conditions. Experimental and computational techniques are bridged to unveil atomic dynamics in gold nanoparticles (NPs), using annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations informed by machine learning. The approach provides unprecedented insights into the real-time structural behaviors of NPs, merging state-of-the-art techniques to accurately characterize their dynamics under realistic conditions. image
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001206888000001 Publication Date 2024-04-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2198-3844 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes This work was supported by the funding received by the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (grant agreement no. 818776- DYNAPOL, no. 770887 PICOMETRICS and no. 815128 REALNANO). The authors also acknowledge the computational resources provided by the Swiss National Supercomputing Center (CSCS), by CINECA, and the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO, Belgium) G.0346.21N. Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 9.034
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205442 Serial 9171
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Author Arisnabarreta, N.; Hao, Y.; Jin, E.; Salame, A.; Muellen, K.; Robert, M.; Lazzaroni, R.; Van Aert, S.; Mali, K.S.; De Feyter, S.
Title Single-layered imine-linked porphyrin-based two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks targeting CO₂ reduction Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Advanced energy materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) using porphyrin-containing 2D covalent organic frameworks (2D-COFs) catalysts is widely explored nowadays. While these framework materials are normally fabricated as powders followed by their uncontrolled surface heterogenization or directly grown as thin films (thickness >200 nm), very little is known about the performance of substrate-supported single-layered (approximate to 0.5 nm thickness) 2D-COFs films (s2D-COFs) due to its highly challenging synthesis and characterization protocols. In this work, a fast and straightforward fabrication method of porphyrin-containing s2D-COFs is demonstrated, which allows their extensive high-resolution visualization via scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) in liquid conditions with the support of STM simulations. The as-prepared single-layered film is then employed as a cathode for the electrochemical reduction of CO2. Fe porphyrin-containing s2D-COF@graphite used as a single-layered heterogeneous catalyst provided moderate-to-high carbon monoxide selectivity (82%) and partial CO current density (5.1 mA cm(-2)). This work establishes the value of using single-layered films as heterogene ous catalysts and demonstrates the possibility of achieving high performance in CO2 reduction even with extremely low catalyst loadings.
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Language Wos 001177577200001 Publication Date 2024-02-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1614-6832; 1614-6840 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 27.8 Times cited Open Access
Notes N.A. acknowledges a postdoctoral fellowship from the Research Foundation- Flanders (FWO) via grant 12ZS623N. S.D.F. acknowledges support from FWO (G0A4120N, G0H2122N, G0A5U24N), KU Leuven Internal Funds (grants C14/18/06, C14/19/079, C14/23/090), European Union under the Horizon Europe grant 101046231 (FantastiCOF), and M-ERA.NET via FWO (G0K9822N). S.D.F., K.M., Y.H., R.L., and S.V.A. were thankful to the FWO and FNRS for the financial support through the EOS program (grant 30489208, 40007495). Research in Mons was also supported by the Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research (FRS-FNRS) within the Consortium des Équipements de Calcul Intensif- CÉCI, and by the Walloon Region (ZENOBE and LUCIA Tier-1 supercomputers). E.J. appreciated the support from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the Max Planck Society, the FLAG-ERA Grant OPERA by DFG 437130745, the National Natural Science Foundation of China (22288101), and the 111 Project (B17020). Partial financial support to M.R. from the Institut Universitaire de France (IUF) was warmly thanked. Approved Most recent IF: 27.8; 2024 IF: 16.721
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204856 Serial 9172
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Author Ni, S.; Houwman, E.; Gauquelin, N.; Chezganov, D.; Van Aert, S.; Verbeeck, J.; Rijnders, G.; Koster, G.
Title Stabilizing perovskite Pb(Mg0.33Nb0.67)O3-PbTiO3 thin films by fast deposition and tensile mismatched growth template Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication ACS applied materials and interfaces Abbreviated Journal
Volume 16 Issue 10 Pages 12744-12753
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Because of its low hysteresis, high dielectric constant, and strong piezoelectric response, Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O-3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) thin films have attracted considerable attention for the application in PiezoMEMS, field-effect transistors, and energy harvesting and storage devices. However, it remains a great challenge to fabricate phase-pure, pyrochlore-free PMN-PT thin films. In this study, we demonstrate that a high deposition rate, combined with a tensile mismatched template layer can stabilize the perovskite phase of PMN-PT films and prevent the nucleation of passive pyrochlore phases. We observed that an accelerated deposition rate promoted mixing of the B-site cation and facilitated relaxation of the compressively strained PMN-PT on the SrTiO3 (STO) substrate in the initial growth layer, which apparently suppressed the initial formation of pyrochlore phases. By employing La-doped-BaSnO3 (LBSO) as the tensile mismatched buffer layer, 750 nm thick phase-pure perovskite PMN-PT films were synthesized. The resulting PMN-PT films exhibited excellent crystalline quality close to that of the STO substrate.
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Language Wos 001176343700001 Publication Date 2024-02-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1944-8244 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 9.5 Times cited Open Access
Notes We would like to acknowledge the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) for the financial support of this work. 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: 9.5; 2024 IF: 7.504
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204754 Serial 9174
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Author Tong, J.; Fu, Y.; Domaretskiy, D.; Della Pia, F.; Dagar, P.; Powell, L.; Bahamon, D.; Huang, S.; Xin, B.; Costa Filho, R.N.; Vega, L.F.; Grigorieva, I.V.; Peeters, F.M.; Michaelides, A.; Lozada-Hidalgo, M.
Title Control of proton transport and hydrogenation in double-gated graphene Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Nature Abbreviated Journal Nature
Volume 630 Issue 8017 Pages 619-624
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) ;
Abstract The basal plane of graphene can function as a selective barrier that is permeable to protons but impermeable to all ions and gases, stimulating its use in applications such as membranes, catalysis and isotope separation. Protons can chemically adsorb on graphene and hydrogenate it, inducing a conductor–insulator transition that has been explored intensively in graphene electronic devices. However, both processes face energy barriersand various strategies have been proposed to accelerate proton transport, for example by introducing vacancies, incorporating catalytic metalsor chemically functionalizing the lattice. But these techniques can compromise other properties, such as ion selectivity or mechanical stability. Here we show that independent control of the electric field,<italic>E</italic>, at around 1 V nm<sup>−1</sup>, and charge-carrier density,<italic>n</italic>, at around 1 × 10<sup>14</sup> cm<sup>−2</sup>, in double-gated graphene allows the decoupling of proton transport from lattice hydrogenation and can thereby accelerate proton transport such that it approaches the limiting electrolyte current for our devices. Proton transport and hydrogenation can be driven selectively with precision and robustness, enabling proton-based logic and memory graphene devices that have on–off ratios spanning orders of magnitude. Our results show that field effects can accelerate and decouple electrochemical processes in double-gated 2D crystals and demonstrate the possibility of mapping such processes as a function of<italic>E</italic>and<italic>n</italic>, which is a new technique for the study of 2D electrode–electrolyte interfaces.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-06-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0028-0836 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 64.8 Times cited Open Access
Notes This work was supported by UKRI (EP/X017745: M.L.-H; EP/X035891: A.M.), the Directed Research Projects Program of the Research and Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials at Khalifa University (RIC2D-D001: M.L.-H., L.F.V. and D.B.), The Royal Society (URF\R1\201515: M.L.-H.) and the European Research Council (101071937: A.M.). Part of this work was supported by the Flemish Science Foundation (FWO-Vl, G099219N). A.M. acknowledges access to the UK national high-performance computing service (ARCHER2). Approved Most recent IF: 64.8; 2024 IF: 40.137
Call Number CMT @ cmt @ Serial 9247
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Author Cai, Y.; Michiels, R.; De Luca, F.; Neyts, E.; Tu, X.; Bogaerts, A.; Gerrits, N.
Title Improving Molecule–Metal Surface Reaction Networks Using the Meta-Generalized Gradient Approximation: CO2Hydrogenation Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication The Journal of Physical Chemistry C Abbreviated Journal J. Phys. Chem. C
Volume 128 Issue 21 Pages 8611-8620
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract Density functional theory is widely used to gain insights into molecule−metal surface reaction networks, which is important for a better understanding of catalysis. However, it is well-known that generalized gradient approximation (GGA)

density functionals (DFs), most often used for the study of reaction networks, struggle to correctly describe both gas-phase molecules and metal surfaces. Also, GGA DFs typically underestimate reaction barriers due to an underestimation of the selfinteraction energy. Screened hybrid GGA DFs have been shown to reduce this problem but are currently intractable for wide usage. In this work, we use a more affordable meta-GGA (mGGA) DF in combination with a nonlocal correlation DF for the first time to study and gain new insights into a catalytically important surface

reaction network, namely, CO2 hydrogenation on Cu. We show that the mGGA DF used, namely, rMS-RPBEl-rVV10, outperforms typical GGA DFs by providing similar or better predictions for metals and molecules, as well as molecule−metal surface adsorption

and activation energies. Hence, it is a better choice for constructing molecule−metal surface reaction networks.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1932-7447 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 3.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes H2020 Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, 813393 ; Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, 1114921N ; H2020 European Research Council, 810182 ; Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, 019.202EN.012 ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.7; 2024 IF: 4.536
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9248
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Author Parrilla, M.; Sena-Torralba, A.; Steijlen, A.; Morais, S.; Maquieira, Á.; De Wael, K.
Title A 3D-printed hollow microneedle-based electrochemical sensing device for in situ plant health monitoring Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Biosensors and bioelectronics Abbreviated Journal
Volume 251 Issue Pages 116131-116139
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Plant health monitoring is devised as a new concept to elucidate in situ physiological processes. The need for increased food production to nourish the growing global population is inconsistent with the dramatic impact of climate change, which hinders crop health and exacerbates plant stress. In this context, wearable sensors play a crucial role in assessing plant stress. Herein, we present a low-cost 3D-printed hollow microneedle array (HMA) patch as a sampling device coupled with biosensors based on screen-printing technology, leading to affordable analysis of biomarkers in the plant fluid of a leaf. First, a refinement of the 3D-printing method showed a tip diameter of 25.9 ± 3.7 μm with a side hole diameter on the microneedle of 228.2 ± 18.6 μm using an affordable 3D printer (<500 EUR). Notably, the HMA patch withstanded the forces exerted by thumb pressing (i.e. 20-40 N). Subsequently, the holes of the HMA enabled the fluid extraction tested in vitro and in vivo in plant leaves (i.e. 13.5 ± 1.1 μL). A paper-based sampling strategy adapted to the HMA allowed the collection of plant fluid. Finally, integrating the sampling device onto biosensors facilitated the in situ electrochemical analysis of plant health biomarkers (i.e. H2O2, glucose, and pH) and the electrochemical profiling of plants in five plant species. Overall, this electrochemical platform advances precise and versatile sensors for plant health monitoring. The wearable device can potentially improve precision farming practices, addressing the critical need for sustainable and resilient agriculture in changing environmental conditions.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001198047000001 Publication Date 2024-02-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0956-5663 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 12.6 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 12.6; 2024 IF: 7.78
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203204 Serial 8998
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Author Mychinko, M.
Title Advanced Electron Tomography to Investigate the Growth and Stability of Complex Metal Nanoparticles = Geavanceerde Elektronentomografie om de Groei en Stabiliteit van Complexe Metallische Nanodeeltjes te Onderzoeken Type Doctoral thesis
Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 227 p.
Keywords Doctoral thesis; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract During the past decades, metallic nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted great attention in materials science due to their specific optical properties based on surface plasmon resonances. Because of these phenomena, plasmonic NPs (or nanoplasmonics) are very promising for application in biosensing, photocatalysts, medicine, data storage, solar energy conversion, etc. Currently, colloidal synthesis techniques enable scientists to routinely produce mono and bimetallic NPs of various shapes, sizes, composition, and elemental distribution, with superior properties for plasmonic applications. Two primary directions for further advancing nanoplasmonic-based technologies include synthesizing novel morphologies, such as highly asymmetric chiral NPs, and gaining deeper insights into the factors affecting the stability of produced nanoplasmonics. With the increasing complexity of nanoplasmonics morphologies and higher stability requirements, there is a pressing need for thorough investigations into their 3D structures and their evolution under different conditions, with high resolution. Electron tomography (ET) emerges as an ideal tool to retrieve shape and element-sensitive information about individual nanoparticles in 3D, achieving resolutions down to the atomic level. Moreover, ET techniques can be combined with in situ holders, enabling detailed studies of processes mimicking real applications of nanoplasmonic-based devices. The first part of this thesis will focus on detailed studies of chiral Au NPs, promising for spectroscopy techniques based on the differential absorption of left- and right-handed circularly polarized light. Specifically, I will discuss the primary strategies for wet-colloidal growth of the various types of intrinsically chiral Au NPs. Advanced ET methods will be demonstrated as powerful tools for characterizing the final helical morphologies of the produced Au NPs and for studying the chiral growth mechanisms by examining intermediate structures obtained during chiral growth. The second part will focus on the heat-induced stability of various Au@Ag core-shell NPs. Operating in real conditions, such as elevated temperatures, may cause particle reshaping and redistribution of metals between the core and shell, gradually altering nanoplasmonics properties. Hence, a thorough understanding of the influence of size, shape, and defects on these processes is crucial for further developments. Recently developed techniques, combining fast ET with in-situ heating holders, have allowed me to evaluate the influence of various parameters (size, shape, defect structure) on heat-induced elemental redistribution in Au@Ag core-shell nanoparticles qualitatively and quantitatively. Additionally, I will discuss the prospects of high-resolution ET for visualizing the diffusion of individual atoms within complex nanostructures.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
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
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202976 Serial 9001
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Khalilov, U.; Uljayev, U.; Mehmonov, K.; Nematollahi, P.; Yusupov, M.; Neyts, E.C.; Neyts, E.C.
Title Can endohedral transition metals enhance hydrogen storage in carbon nanotubes? Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication International journal of hydrogen energy Abbreviated Journal
Volume 55 Issue Pages 640-610
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Modelling and Simulation in Chemistry (MOSAIC); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract The safe and efficient use of hydrogen energy, which is in high demand worldwide today, requires efficient hydrogen storage. Despite significant advances in hydrogen storage using carbon-based nanomaterials, including carbon nanotubes (CNTs), efforts to substantially increase the storage capacity remain less effective. In this work, we demonstrate the effect of endohedral transition metal atoms on the hydrogen storage capacity of CNTs using reactive molecular dynamics simulations. We find that an increase in the volume fraction of endohedral nickel atoms leads to an increase in the concentration of physisorbed hydrogen molecules around single-walled CNTs (SWNTs) by approximately 1.6 times compared to pure SWNTs. The obtained results provide insight into the underlying mechanisms of how endohedral transition metal atoms enhance the hydrogen storage ability of SWNTs under nearly ambient conditions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001142427400001 Publication Date 2023-11-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0360-3199 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.2 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.2; 2024 IF: 3.582
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202315 Serial 9006
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Author Hassani, N.; Yagmurcukardes, M.; Peeters, F.M.; Neek-Amal, M.
Title Chlorinated phosphorene for energy application Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Computational materials science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 231 Issue Pages 112625-112628
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract The influence of decoration with impurities and the composition dependent band gap in 2D materials has been the subject of debate for a long time. Here, by using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, we systematically disclose physical properties of chlorinated phosphorene having the stoichiometry of PmCln. By analyzing the adsorption energy, charge density, migration energy barrier, structural, vibrational, and electronic properties of chlorinated phosphorene, we found that (I) the Cl-P bonds are strong with binding energy Eb =-1.61 eV, decreases with increasing n. (II) Cl atoms on phosphorene have anionic feature, (III) the migration path of Cl on phosphorene is anisotropic with an energy barrier of 0.38 eV, (IV) the phonon band dispersion reveal that chlorinated phosphorenes are stable when r <= 0.25 where r = m/n, (V) chlorinated phosphorenes is found to be a photonic crystal in the frequency range of 280 cm-1 to 325 cm-1, (VI) electronic band structure of chlorinated phosphorenes exhibits quasi-flat bands emerging around the Fermi level with widths in the range of 22 meV to 580 meV, and (VII) Cl adsorption causes a semiconducting to metallic/semi-metallic transition which makes it suitable for application as an electroactive material. To elucidate this application, we investigated the change in binding energy (Eb), specific capacity, and open-circuit voltage as a function of the density of adsorbed Cl. The theoretical storage capacity of the chlorinated phosphorene is found to be 168.19 mA h g-1with a large average voltage (similar to 2.08 V) which is ideal number as a cathode in chloride-ion batteries.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001110003400001 Publication Date 2023-11-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-0256 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.3 Times cited 2 Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.3; 2024 IF: 2.292
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202125 Serial 9008
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Author Jorissen, B.; Covaci, L.; Partoens, B.
Title Comparative analysis of tight-binding models for transition metal dichalcogenides Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication SciPost physics core Abbreviated Journal
Volume 7 Issue 1 Pages 004-30
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract We provide a comprehensive analysis of the prominent tight-binding (TB) models for transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) available in the literature. We inspect the construction of these TB models, discuss their parameterization used and conduct a thorough comparison of their effectiveness in capturing important electronic properties. Based on these insights, we propose a novel TB model for TMDs designed for enhanced computational efficiency. Utilizing MoS2 as a representative case, we explain why specific models offer a more accurate description. Our primary aim is to assist researchers in choosing the most appropriate TB model for their calculations on TMDs.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001170769300001 Publication Date 2024-02-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202983 Serial 9012
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Author Liang, Z.; Batuk, M.; Orlandi, F.; Manuel, P.; Hadermann, J.; Hayward, M.A.
Title Disproportionation of Co2+ in the topochemically reduced oxide LaSrCoRuO₅ Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Angewandte Chemie: international edition in English Abbreviated Journal
Volume 63 Issue 6 Pages e202313067-5
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Complex transition-metal oxides exhibit a wide variety of chemical and physical properties which are a strong function the local electronic states of the transition-metal centres, as determined by a combination of metal oxidation state and local coordination environment. Topochemical reduction of the double perovskite oxide, LaSrCoRuO6, using Zr, yields LaSrCoRuO5. This reduced phase contains an ordered array of apex-linked square-based pyramidal Ru3+O5, square-planar Co1+O4 and octahedral Co3+O6 units, consistent with the coordination-geometry driven disproportionation of Co2+. Coordination-geometry driven disproportionation of d(7) transition-metal cations (e.g. Rh2+, Pd3+, Pt3+) is common in complex oxides containing 4d and 5d metals. However, the weak ligand field experienced by a 3d transition-metal such as cobalt leads to the expectation that d(7+) Co2+ should be stable to disproportionation in oxide environments, so the presence of Co1+O4 and Co3+O6 units in LaSrCoRuO5 is surprising. Low-temperature measurements indicate LaSrCoRuO5 adopts a ferromagnetically ordered state below 120 K due to couplings between S=(1)/(2) Ru3+ and S=1 Co1+.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001136579700001 Publication Date 2023-12-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1433-7851; 0570-0833 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 16.6 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 16.6; 2024 IF: 11.994
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202801 Serial 9023
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Author Steijlen, A.S.M.; Parrilla, M.; Van Echelpoel, R.; De Wael, K.
Title Dual microfluidic sensor system for enriched electrochemical profiling and identification of illicit drugs on-site Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 96 Issue 1 Pages 590-598
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Electrochemical sensors have emerged as a new analytical tool for illicit drug detection to facilitate ultrafast and accurate identification of suspicious compounds on-site. Drugs of abuse can be identified using their unique voltammetric fingerprint at a given pH. Today, the right buffer solution is manually selected based on drug appearance, and in some cases, a consecutive analysis in two different pH solutions is required. In this work, we present a disposable microfluidic multichannel sensor system that automatically records fingerprints in two pH solutions (e.g., pH 5 and pH 12). This system has two advantages. It will overcome the manual selection of a buffer solution at the right pH, decrease analysis time, and minimize the risk of human errors. Second, the combination of two fingerprints, the superfingerprint, contains more detailed information about the samples, which enhances the selectivity of the analytical technique. First, real-time pH measurements proved that the sample can be brought to the desired pH within a minute. Subsequently, an electrochemical study on the microfluidic platform with 1 mM illicit drug standards of MDMA, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine showed that the characteristic voltammetric fingerprints and peak potentials are reproducible, also in the presence of common cutting agents. Finally, the microfluidic concept was validated with real confiscated samples, showing promising results for the user-friendly identification of drugs of abuse. In short, this paper presents a successful proof-of-concept study of a multichannel microfluidic sensor system to enrich the fingerprints of illicit drugs at pH 5 and pH 12, thus providing a low-cost, portable, and rapid identification system of illicit drugs with minimal user intervention.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001139443500001 Publication Date 2023-12-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4; 2024 IF: 6.32
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:201877 Serial 9024
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Author Schram, J.
Title Electrochemical sensing strategies for multiple illicit drugs Type Doctoral thesis
Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 290 p.
Keywords Doctoral thesis; Pharmacology. Therapy; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Today, illicit drugs are omnipresent in society. Clandestine markets are growing faster than ever before, record amounts of cocaine are seized in seaports and airports, while the associated violence is spiralling out of control. In addition, drug monitoring centres worldwide are warning for the increasing complexity of the drug markets, as the traditionally popular drugs are joined by countless new synthetic variants, while medical drugs are also increasingly being abused. In order to provide services confronted with illicit drug samples (police, customs, forensic scientists, first responders, …) with important information on the identity of an unknown sample, suitable analytical tests are required. While these exist for laboratory environments, on-site applicable tests are important to accelerate the decision-making process. Electrochemical sensors have all the advantages required for such on-site tests: they are fast, portable, easy-to-use and reliable. Furthermore, they are not influenced by colours, which are frequently added to drug samples to deceive the existing tests. Previous work has mainly focussed on the detection of a single drug per analysis. However, many drugs could be encountered due to the diversity of the drug markets. Therefore, this project developed electrochemical strategies for the detection of multiple drugs simultaneously. First, the electrochemical behaviour of the individual drugs was studied in different measuring conditions (assessing the influence of pH, concentration and temperature). Then, all findings and strategies were combined to detect multiple targets simultaneously. An electrochemical sensor was developed for the four most popular drugs at music festivals: cocaine, MDMA, amphetamine and ketamine. This sensor generates a so-called ‘superfingerprint’ of the sample, which is then automatically interpreted by a developed algorithm in order to produce a straightforward output. Finally, a pill analysis sensor was developed in the context of drug checking services, where a consumer can anonymously have a sample chemically analysed to obtain information on the composition, dose and potentially harmful additives. The sensor achieved an outstanding accuracy in identifying the main component and provided the option to quantify, as well as an indication on the presence of other substances in the sample. The project’s findings demonstrate the potential for electrochemistry in illicit drug detection and provide a basis for the development of new sensors, targeting other drug combinations.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
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
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203199 Serial 9029
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Alvarado-Alvarado, A.A.; Smets, W.; Irga, P.; Denys, S.
Title Engineering green wall botanical biofiltration to abate indoor volatile organic compounds : a review on mechanisms, phyllosphere bioaugmentation, and modeling Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of hazardous materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 465 Issue Pages 133491-16
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Indoor air pollution affects the global population, especially in developed countries where people spend around 90% of their time indoors. The recent pandemic exacerbated the exposure by relying on indoor spaces and a teleworking lifestyle. VOCs are a group of indoor air pollutants with harmful effects on human health at low concentrations. It is widespread that plants can remove indoor VOCs. To this day, research has combined principles of phytoremediation, biofiltration, and bioremediation into a holistic and sustainable technology called botanical biofiltration. Overall, it is sustained that its main advantage is the capacity to break down and biodegrade pollutants using low energy input. This differs from traditional systems that transfer VOCs to another phase. Furthermore, it offers additional benefits like decreased indoor air health costs, enhanced work productivity, and well-being. However, many disparities exist within the field regarding the role of plants, substrate, and phyllosphere bacteria. Yet their role has been theorized; its stability is poorly known for an engineering approach. Previous research has not addressed the bioaugmentation of the phyllosphere to increase the performance, which could boost the system. Moreover, most experiments have studied passive potted plant systems at a lab scale using small chambers, making it difficult to extrapolate findings into tangible parameters to engineer the technology. Active systems are believed to be more efficient yet require more maintenance and knowledge expertise; besides, the impact of the active flow on the long term is not fully understood. Besides, modeling the system has been oversimplified, limiting the understanding and optimization. This review sheds light on the field’s gains and gaps, like concepts, experiments, and modeling. We believe that embracing a multidisciplinary approach encompassing experiments, multiphysics modeling, microbial community analysis, and coworking with the indoor air sector will enable the optimization of the technology and facilitate its adoption.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-01-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0304-3894 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor 13.6 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.6; 2024 IF: 6.065
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202311 Serial 9030
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Rabani, I.; Tahir, M.S.; Nisar, S.; Parrilla, M.; Truong, H.B.; Kim, M.; Seo, Y.-S.
Title Fabrication of larger surface area of ZIF8@ZIF67 reverse core-shell nanostructures for energy storage applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Electrochimica acta Abbreviated Journal
Volume 475 Issue Pages 143532-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract The construction of uniform nanostructure with larger surface area electrodes is a huge challenge for the highvalue added energy storage application. Herein, we demonstrates ZIF67@ZIF8 (core-shell) and ZIF8@ZIF67 (reverse core-shell) nanostructures using a low-cost wet chemical route and used them as supercapacitors. Pristine ZIF-67 and ZIF-8 was used as reference electrodes. Benefiting from the synergistic effect between the ZIF8 and ZIF67, the ZIF8@ZIF67 exhibited the outstanding electrochemical consequences owing to its larger surface area with uniform hexagonal morphology. As optimized ZIF8@ZIF67 nanostructure displayed the highcapacity of 1521 F/g at 1 A/g of current density in a three-electrode assembly in 1 M KOH electrolyte compared with other as-fabricated electrodes. In addition, the ZIF8@ZIF67 nanostructure employed into the symmetric supercapacitors (SSCs) with 1 M KOH electrolyte in two-electrode setup and it exhibited still superior output including capacity (249.8 F/g at 1 A/g), remarkable repeatability (87 % over 10,000 GCD cycles) along with high energy and power density (61.2 Wh/kg & 1260 W/kg). The present study uncovers the relationship between the larger surface area and electrocatalyst performance, supporting an effective approach to prepare favorable materials for enhanced capacity, extended lifespan, and energy density.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001134022100001 Publication Date 2023-12-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-4686 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 6.6 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.6; 2024 IF: 4.798
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202082 Serial 9036
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Author Van Daele, S.; Hintjens, L.; Hoekx, S.; Bohlen, B.; Neukermans, S.; Daems, N.; Hereijgers, J.; Breugelmans, T.
Title How flue gas impurities affect the electrochemical reduction of CO₂ to CO and formate Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Applied catalysis : B : environmental Abbreviated Journal
Volume 341 Issue Pages 123345-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The electrochemical CO2 reduction offers a promising solution to convert waste CO2 into valuable products like CO and formate. However, CO2 capture and purification remains an energy intensive process and therefore the direct usage of industrially available waste CO2 streams containing SO2, NO and O2 impurities becomes more interesting. This work demonstrates an efficient (Faradaic efficiency > 90 %) and stable performance over 20 h with 200 ppm SO2 or NO in the feed gas stream. However, the addition of 1 % O2 to the CO2 feed causes a significant drop in Faradaic efficiency to C-products due to the competitive oxygen reduction reaction. A potential mitigation strategy is to operate at higher total current density to firstly reduce most O2 and achieve sufficient product output from CO2 reduction. These results aid in understanding the impact of flue gas impurities during CO2 electrolysis which is crucial for potentially bypassing the CO2 purification step.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001102999000001 Publication Date 2023-10-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0926-3373 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 22.1 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 22.1; 2024 IF: 9.446
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199490 Serial 9044
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Van den Hoek, J.; Daems, N.; Arnouts, S.; Hoekx, S.; Bals, S.; Breugelmans, T.
Title Improving stability of CO₂ electroreduction by incorporating Ag NPs in N-doped ordered mesoporous carbon structures Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication ACS applied materials and interfaces Abbreviated Journal
Volume 16 Issue 6 Pages 6931-6947
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Abstract The electroreduction of carbon dioxide (eCO2RR) to CO using Ag nanoparticles as an electrocatalyst is promising as an industrial carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technique to mitigate CO2 emissions. Nevertheless, the long-term stability of these Ag nanoparticles has been insufficient despite initial high Faradaic efficiencies and/or partial current densities. To improve the stability, we evaluated an up-scalable and easily tunable synthesis route to deposit low-weight percentages of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) on and into the framework of a nitrogen-doped ordered mesoporous carbon (NOMC) structure. By exploiting this so-called nanoparticle confinement strategy, the nanoparticle mobility under operation is strongly reduced. As a result, particle detachment and agglomeration, two of the most pronounced electrocatalytic degradation mechanisms, are (partially) blocked and catalyst durability is improved. Several synthesis parameters, such as the anchoring agent, the weight percentage of Ag NPs, and the type of carbonaceous support material, were modified in a controlled manner to evaluate their respective impact on the overall electrochemical performance, with a strong emphasis on operational stability. The resulting powders were evaluated through electrochemical and physicochemical characterization methods, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2-physisorption, Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), SEM-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), STEM-EDS, electron tomography, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The optimized Ag/soft-NOMC catalysts showed both a promising selectivity (∼80%) and stability compared with commercial Ag NPs while decreasing the loading of the transition metal by more than 50%. The stability of both the 5 and 10 wt % Ag/soft-NOMC catalysts showed considerable improvements by anchoring the Ag NPs on and into a NOMC framework, resulting in a 267% improvement in CO selectivity after 72 h (despite initial losses) compared to commercial Ag NPs. These results demonstrate the promising strategy of anchoring Ag NPs to improve the CO selectivity during prolonged experiments due to the reduced mobility of the Ag NPs and thus enhanced stability.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001158812100001 Publication Date 2023-12-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1944-8244 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 9.5 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access: Available from 21.06.2024
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.5; 2024 IF: 7.504
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202309 Serial 9045
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Rezaei, M.; Ghasemitarei, M.; Razzokov, J.; Yusupov, M.; Ghorbanalilu, M.; Ejtehadi, M.R.
Title In silico study of the impact of oxidation on pyruvate transmission across the hVDAC1 protein channel Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Archives of biochemistry and biophysics Abbreviated Journal
Volume 751 Issue Pages 109835-109837
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract The overexpression of voltage dependent anion channels (VDACs), particularly VDAC1, in cancer cells compared to normal cells, plays a crucial role in cancer cell metabolism, apoptosis regulation, and energy homeostasis. In this study, we used molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the effect of a low level of VDAC1 oxidation (induced e.g., by cold atmospheric plasma (CAP)) on the pyruvate (Pyr) uptake by VDAC1. Inhibiting Pyr uptake through VDAC1 can suppress cancer cell proliferation. Our primary target was to study the translocation of Pyr across the native and oxidized forms of hVDAC1, the human VDAC1. Specifically, we employed MD simulations to analyze the hVDAC1 structure by modifying certain cysteine residues to cysteic acids and methionine residues to methionine sulfoxides, which allowed us to investigate the effect of oxidation. Our results showed that the free energy barrier for Pyr translocation through the native and oxidized channel was approximately 4.3 +/- 0.7 kJ mol-1 and 10.8 +/- 1.8 kJ mol-1, respectively. An increase in barrier results in a decrease in rate of Pyr permeation through the oxidized channel. Thus, our results indicate that low levels of CAP oxidation reduce Pyr translocation, resulting in decreased cancer cell proliferation. Therefore, low levels of oxidation are likely sufficient to treat cancer cells given the inhibition of Pyr uptake.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001127850500001 Publication Date 2023-11-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-9861; 1096-0384 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.9 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.9; 2024 IF: 3.165
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202185 Serial 9046
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Faust, V.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Ganigué, R.; Udert, K.M.
Title Influence of pH on urine nitrification : community shifts of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and inhibition of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication ACS ES&T engineering Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue 2 Pages 342-353
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Urine nitrification is pH-sensitive due to limited alkalinity and high residual ammonium concentrations. This study aimed to investigate how the pH affects nitrogen conversion and the microbial community of urine nitrification with a pH-based feeding strategy. First, kinetic parameters for NH3, HNO2, and NO2– limitation and inhibition were determined for nitrifiers from a urine nitrification reactor. The turning point for ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB), i.e., the substrate concentration at which a further increase would lead to a decrease in activity due to inhibitory effects, was at an NH3 concentration of 12 mg-N L–1, which was reached only at pH values above 7. The total nitrite turning point for nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) was pH-dependent, e.g., 18 mg-N L–1 at pH 6.3. Second, four years of data from two 120 L reactors were analyzed, showing that stable nitrification with low nitrite was most likely between pH 5.8 and 6.7. And third, six 12 L urine nitrification reactors were operated at total nitrogen concentrations of 1300 and 3600 mg-N L–1 and pH values between 2.5 and 8.5. At pH 6, the AOB Nitrosomonas europaea was found, and the NOB belonged to the genus Nitrobacter. At pH 7, nitrite accumulated, and Nitrosomonas halophila was the dominant AOB. NOB were inhibited by HNO2 accumulation. At pH 8.5, the AOB Nitrosomonas stercoris became dominant, and NH3 inhibited NOB. Without influent, the pH dropped to 2.5 due to the growth of the acid-tolerant AOB “Candidatus Nitrosacidococcus urinae”. In conclusion, pH is a decisive process control parameter for urine nitrification by influencing the selection and kinetics of nitrifiers.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos Publication Date 2023-11-02
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 Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203306 Serial 9048
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Dong, H.M.; Liang, H.P.; Tao, Z.H.; Duan, Y.F.; Milošević, M.V.; Chang, K.
Title Interface thermal conductivities induced by van der Waals interactions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Physical chemistry, chemical physics Abbreviated Journal
Volume 26 Issue 5 Pages 4047-4051
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract The interface heat transfer of two layers induced by van der Waals (vdW) contacts is theoretically investigated, based on first-principles calculations at low temperatures. The results suggest that out-of-plane acoustic phonons with low frequencies dominate the interface thermal transport due to the vdW interaction. The interface thermal conductivity is proportional to the cubic of temperature at very low temperatures, but becomes linearly proportional to temperature as temperature increases. We show that manipulating the strain alters vdW coupling, leading to increased interfacial thermal conductivity at the interface. Our findings provide valuable insights into the interface heat transport in vdW heterostructures and support further design and optimization of electronic and optoelectronic nanodevices based on vdW contacts. The heat transfer induced by van der Waals contacts is dominated by ZA phonons. The interface thermal conductivity is proportional to the cubic of temperature, but becomes linearly proportional to temperature as temperature increases.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001142323400001 Publication Date 2024-01-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1463-9076; 1463-9084 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.3 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.3; 2024 IF: 4.123
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202795 Serial 9050
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Smith, G.J.; Diomede, P.; Gibson, A.R.; Doyle, S.J.; Guerra, V.; Kushner, M.J.; Gans, T.; Dedrick, J.P.
Title Low-pressure inductively coupled plasmas in hydrogen : impact of gas heating on the spatial distribution of atomic hydrogen and vibrationally excited states Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Plasma sources science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 33 Issue 2 Pages 025002-25020
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Non-equilibrium inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs) operating in hydrogen are of significant interest for applications including large-area materials processing. Increasing control of spatial gas heating, which drives the formation of neutral species density gradients and the rate of gas-temperature-dependent reactions, is critical. In this study, we use 2D fluid-kinetic simulations with the Hybrid Plasma Equipment Model to investigate the spatially resolved production of atomic hydrogen in a low-pressure planar ICP operating in pure hydrogen (10-20 Pa or 0.075-0.15 Torr, 300 W). The reaction set incorporates self-consistent calculation of the spatially resolved gas temperature and 14 vibrationally excited states. We find that the formation of neutral-gas density gradients, which result from spatially non-uniform electrical power deposition at constant pressure, can drive significant variations in the vibrational distribution function and density of atomic hydrogen when gas heating is spatially resolved. This highlights the significance of spatial gas heating on the production of reactive species in relatively high-power-density plasma processing sources.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001154851700001 Publication Date 2024-01-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0963-0252 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.8 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.8; 2024 IF: 3.302
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203866 Serial 9054
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Author Koirala, B.; Rasti, B.; Bnoulkacem, Z.; de Lima Ribeiro, A.; Madriz, Y.; Herrmann, E.; Gestels, A.; De Kerf, T.; Lorenz, S.; Fuchs, M.; Janssens, K.; Steenackers, G.; Gloaguen, R.; Scheunders, P.
Title A multisensor hyperspectral benchmark dataset for unmixing of intimate mixtures Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication IEEE sensors journal Abbreviated Journal
Volume 24 Issue 4 Pages 4694-4710
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Vision lab; Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract Optical hyperspectral cameras capture the spectral reflectance of materials. Since many materials behave as heterogeneous intimate mixtures with which each photon interacts differently, the relationship between spectral reflectance and material composition is very complex. Quantitative validation of spectral unmixing algorithms requires high-quality ground truth fractional abundance data, which are very difficult to obtain. In this work, we generated a comprehensive laboratory ground truth dataset of intimately mixed mineral powders. For this, five clay powders (Kaolin, Roof clay, Red clay, mixed clay, and Calcium hydroxide) were mixed homogeneously to prepare 325 samples of 60 binary, 150 ternary, 100 quaternary, and 15 quinary mixtures. Thirteen different hyperspectral sensors have been used to acquire the reflectance spectra of these mixtures in the visible, near, short, mid, and long-wavelength infrared regions (350-15385) nm. Overlaps in wavelength regions due to the operational ranges of each sensor and variations in acquisition conditions resulted in a large amount of spectral variability. Ground truth composition is given by construction, but to verify that the generated samples are sufficiently homogeneous, XRD and XRF elemental analysis is performed. We believe these data will be beneficial for validating advanced methods for nonlinear unmixing and material composition estimation, including studying spectral variability and training supervised unmixing approaches. The datasets can be downloaded from the following link: https://github.com/VisionlabHyperspectral/Multisensor_datasets.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001173599400063 Publication Date 2023-12-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1530-437x; 1558-1748 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 4.3 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.3; 2024 IF: 2.512
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203094 Serial 9059
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Author Zhang, L.; Quinn, B.K.; Hui, C.; Lian, M.; Gielis, J.; Gao, J.; Shi, P.
Title New indices to balance α-diversity against tree size inequality Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of forestry research Abbreviated Journal
Volume 35 Issue 1 Pages 31-39
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The number and composition of species in a community can be quantified with alpha-diversity indices, including species richness (R), Simpson's index (D), and the Shannon-Wiener index (HGREEK TONOS). In forest communities, there are large variations in tree size among species and individuals of the same species, which result in differences in ecological processes and ecosystem functions. However, tree size inequality (TSI) has been largely neglected in studies using the available diversity indices. The TSI in the diameter at breast height (DBH) data for each of 999 20 m x 20 m forest census quadrats was quantified using the Gini index (GI), a measure of the inequality of size distribution. The generalized performance equation was used to describe the rotated and right-shifted Lorenz curve of the cumulative proportion of DBH and the cumulative proportion of number of trees per quadrat. We also examined the relationships of alpha-diversity indices with the GI using correlation tests. The generalized performance equation effectively described the rotated and right-shifted Lorenz curve of DBH distributions, with most root-mean-square errors (990 out of 999 quadrats) being < 0.0030. There were significant positive correlations between each of three alpha-diversity indices (i.e., R, D, and H') and the GI. Nevertheless, the total abundance of trees in each quadrat did not significantly influence the GI. This means that the TSI increased with increasing species diversity. Thus, two new indices are proposed that can balance alpha-diversity against the extent of TSI in the community: (1 – GI) x D, and (1 – GI) x H'. These new indices were significantly correlated with the original D and HGREEK TONOS, and did not increase the extent of variation within each group of indices. This study presents a useful tool for quantifying both species diversity and the variation in tree sizes in forest communities, especially in the face of cumulative species loss under global climate change.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001131698000001 Publication Date 2023-12-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1007-662x; 1993-0607 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3; 2024 IF: 0.774
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:201972 Serial 9061
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Author Gao, C.; Hofer, C.; Pennycook, T.J.
Title On central focusing for contrast optimization in direct electron ptychography of thick samples Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Ultramicroscopy Abbreviated Journal
Volume 256 Issue Pages 113879-7
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Ptychography provides high dose efficiency images that can reveal light elements next to heavy atoms. However, despite ptychography having an otherwise single signed contrast transfer function, contrast reversals can occur when the projected potential becomes strong for both direct and iterative inversion ptychography methods. It has recently been shown that these reversals can often be counteracted in direct ptychography methods by adapting the focus. Here we provide an explanation of why the best contrast is often found with the probe focused to the middle of the sample. The phase contribution due to defocus at each sample slice above and below the central plane in this configuration effectively cancels out, which can prevent contrast reversals when dynamical scattering effects are not overly strong. In addition we show that the convergence angle can be an important consideration for removal of contrast reversals in relatively thin samples.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001112166400001 Publication Date 2023-11-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0304-3991 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.2 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.2; 2024 IF: 2.843
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202029 Serial 9066
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Author Linek, J.; Wyszynski, M.; Müller, B.; Korinski, D.; Milošević, M.V.; Kleiner, R.; Koelle, D.
Title On the coupling of magnetic moments to superconducting quantum interference devices Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Superconductor science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 37 Issue 2 Pages 025010-25012
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract We investigate the coupling factor phi( mu) that quantifies the magnetic flux phi per magnetic moment mu of a point-like magnetic dipole that couples to a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). Representing the dipole by a tiny current-carrying (Amperian) loop, the reciprocity of mutual inductances of SQUID and Amperian loop provides an elegant way of calculating phi(mu)(r,e(mu)) vs. position r and orientation e(mu) of the dipole anywhere in space from the magnetic field B-J(r) produced by a supercurrent circulating in the SQUID loop. We use numerical simulations based on London and Ginzburg-Landau theory to calculate phi (mu) from the supercurrent density distributions in various superconducting loop geometries. We treat the far-field regime ( r greater than or similar to a= inner size of the SQUID loop) with the dipole placed on (oriented along) the symmetry axis of circular or square shaped loops. We compare expressions for phi (mu) from simple filamentary loop models with simulation results for loops with finite width w (outer size A > alpha), thickness d and London penetration depth lambda(L )and show that for thin ( d << alpha ) and narrow (w < alpha) loops the introduction of an effective loop size a(eff) in the filamentary loop-model expressions results in good agreement with simulations. For a dipole placed right in the center of the loop, simulations provide an expression phi(mu)(a,A,d,lambda(L)) that covers a wide parameter range. In the near-field regime (dipole centered at small distance z above one SQUID arm) only coupling to a single strip representing the SQUID arm has to be considered. For this case, we compare simulations with an analytical expression derived for a homogeneous current density distribution, which yields excellent agreement for lambda(L)>w,d . Moreover, we analyze the improvement of phi(mu) provided by the introduction of a narrow constriction in the SQUID arm below the magnetic dipole.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor (down)
Language Wos 001145725500001 Publication Date 2024-01-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0953-2048 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.6 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.6; 2024 IF: 2.878
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202759 Serial 9067
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