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Author Broos, W.; Wittner, N.; Dries, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Gunde-Cimerman, N.; Cornet, I.
Title Rhodotorula kratochvilovae outperforms Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum in the valorisation of lignocellulosic wastewater to microbial oil Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Process biochemistry (1991) Abbreviated Journal
Volume 137 Issue Pages 229-238
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
Abstract Rhodotorula kratochvilovae has shown to be a promising species for microbial oil production from lignin-derived compounds. Yet, information on R. kratochvilovae’s detoxification and microbial oil production is scarce. This study investigated the growth and microbial oil production on the phenolic-containing effluent from poplar steam explosion and its detoxification with five R. kratochvilovae strains (EXF11626, EXF9590, EXF7516, EXF3697, EXF3471) and compared them with Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum. The R. kratochvilovae strains reached a maximum growth rate up to four times higher than C. oleaginosum. Furthermore, all R. kratochvilovae strains generally degraded phenolics more rapidly and to a larger extent than C. oleaginosum. However, the diluted substrate limited the lipid production by all strains as the maximum lipid content and titre were 10.5% CDW and 0.40 g/L, respectively. Therefore, future work should focus on increasing lipid production by using advanced fermentation strategies and stimulating the enzyme excretion by the yeasts for complex substrate breakdown.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-01-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1359-5113 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record
Impact Factor 4.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.4; 2024 IF: 2.497
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202365 Serial 9087
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Author Hofer, C.; Gao, C.; Chennit, T.; Yuan, B.; Pennycook, T.J.
Title Phase offset method of ptychographic contrast reversal correction Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Ultramicroscopy Abbreviated Journal Ultramicroscopy
Volume Issue Pages 113922
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001164447000001 Publication Date 2024-01-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0304-3991 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.2 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes FWO, G013122N ; Horizon 2020 Framework Programme; European Research Council, 802123-HDEM ; European Research Council; Approved Most recent IF: 2.2; 2024 IF: 2.843
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:202379 Serial 8988
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Author Kelly, S.; Mercer, E.; Gorbanev, Y.; Fedirchyk, I.; Verheyen, C.; Werner, K.; Pullumbi, P.; Cowley, A.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Plasma-based conversion of martian atmosphere into life-sustaining chemicals: The benefits of utilizing martian ambient pressure Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of CO2 utilization Abbreviated Journal Journal of CO2 Utilization
Volume 80 Issue Pages 102668
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract We explored the potential of plasma-based In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) for Mars through the conversion of Martian atmosphere (~96% CO2, 2% N2, and 2% Ar) into life-sustaining chemicals. As the Martian surface pressure is about 1% of the Earth’s surface pressure, it is an ideal environment for plasma-based gas conversion using microwave reactors. At 1000 W and 10 Ln/min (normal liters per minute), we produced ~76 g/h of O2 and ~3 g/h of NOx using a 2.45 GHz waveguided reactor at 25 mbar, which is ~3.5 times Mars ambient pressure. The energy cost required to produce O2 was ~0.013 kWh/g, which is very promising compared to recently concluded MOXIE experiments on the Mars surface. This marks a crucial step towards realizing the extension of human exploration.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001156084300001 Publication Date 2024-01-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2212-9820 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 7.7 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes We acknowledge financial support by a European Space Agency (ESA) Open Science Innovation Platform study (contract no. 4000137001/21/NL/GLC/ov), the European Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship ‘‘PENFIX’’ within Horizon 2020 (grant no. 838181), the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program (grant no. 810182; SCOPE ERC Synergy project), the Excellence of Science FWOFNRS PLASyntH2 project (FWO grant no. G0I1822N and EOS no. 4000751) and the Methusalem project of the University of Antwerp. Approved Most recent IF: 7.7; 2024 IF: 4.292
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:202389 Serial 8986
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Author Bagherpour, A.; Baral, P.; Colla, M.-S.; Orekhov, A.; Idrissi, H.; Haye, E.; Pardoen, T.; Lucas, S.
Title Tailoring Mechanical Properties of a-C:H:Cr Coatings Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2023 Publication Coatings Abbreviated Journal Coatings
Volume 13 Issue 12 Pages 2084
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;
Abstract The development of coatings with tunable performances is critical to meet a wide range of technological applications each one with different requirements. Using the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) process, scientists can create hydrogenated amorphous carbon coatings doped with metal (a-C:H:Me) with a broad range of mechanical properties, varying from those resembling polymers to ones resembling diamond. These diverse properties, without clear relations between the different families, make the material selection and optimization difficult but also very rich. An innovative approach is proposed here based on projected performance indices related to fracture energy, strength, and stiffness in order to classify and optimize a-C:H:Me coatings. Four different a-C:H:Cr coatings deposited by PECVD with Ar/C2H2 discharge under different bias voltage and pressures are investigated. A path is found to produce coatings with a selective critical energy release rate between 5–125 J/m2 without compromising yield strength (1.6–2.7 GPa) and elastic limit (≈0.05). Finally, fine-tuned coatings are categorized to meet desired applications under different testing conditions.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001136013600001 Publication Date 2023-12-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2079-6412 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Walloon region under the PDR FNRS, C 62/5—PDR/OL 33677636 ; Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research, CDR—J.0113.20 ; National Fund for Scientific Reaserch; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:202390 Serial 8982
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Author Ding, L.; Zhao, M.; Ehlers, F.J.H.; Jia, Z.; Zhang, Z.; Weng, Y.; Schryvers, D.; Liu, Q.; Idrissi, H.
Title “Branched” structural transformation of the L12-Al3Zr phase manipulated by Cu substitution/segregation in the Al-Cu-Zr alloy system Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of materials science & technology Abbreviated Journal Journal of Materials Science & Technology
Volume 185 Issue Pages 186-206
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The effect of Cu on the evolution of the Al3Zr phase in an Al-Cu-Zr cast alloy during solution treatment at 500 °C has been thoroughly studied by combining atomic resolution high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and first-principles cal- culations. The heat treatment initially produces a pure L12-Al3Zr microstructure, allowing for about 13 % Cu to be incorporated in the dispersoid. Cu incorporation increases the energy barrier for anti-phase boundary (APB) activation, thus stabilizing the L12 structure. Additional heating leads to a Cu-induced “branched”path for the L12 structural transformation, with the latter process accelerated once the first APB has been created. Cu atoms may either (i) be repelled by the APBs, promoting the transformation to a Cu-poor D023 phase, or (ii) they may segregate at one Al-Zr layer adjacent to the APB, promoting a transformation to a new thermodynamically favored phase, Al4CuZr, formed when these segregation layers are periodically arranged. Theoretical studies suggest that the branching of the L12 transformation path is linked to the speed at which an APB is created, with Cu attraction triggered by a comparatively slow process. This unexpected transformation behavior of the L12-Al3Zr phase opens a new path to understanding, and potentially regulating the Al3Zr dispersoid evolution for high temperature applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001154261100001 Publication Date 2023-12-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1005-0302 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 10.9 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program (No. 2020YFA0405900), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 52371111 and U2141215 ), the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province (No. BE2022159 ). We are grateful to the High Performance Computing Center of Nanjing Tech University for supporting the computational resources. H. Idrissi is mandated by the Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research (FSR- FNRS). Approved Most recent IF: 10.9; 2024 IF: 2.764
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:202392 Serial 8981
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Author Minja, A.C.; Ag, K.R.; Raes, A.; Borah, R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Recent progress in developing non-noble metal-based photocathodes for solar green hydrogen production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Current Opinion in Chemical Engineering Abbreviated Journal
Volume 43 Issue Pages 101000
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract Photocathodes play a vital role in photoelectrocatalytic water splitting by acting as catalysts for reducing protons to hydrogen gas when exposed to light. Recent advancements in photocathodes have focused on addressing the limitations of noble metal-based materials. These noble metal-based photocathodes rely on expensive and scarce metals such as platinum and gold as cocatalysts or ohmic back contacts, respectively, rendering the final system less sustainable and costly when applied at scale. This mini-review summarizes the important recent progress in the development of non-noble metal-based photocathodes and their performance in the hydrogen evolution reaction during photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. These advancements bring non-noble metal-based photocathodes closer to their noble metal-based counterparts in terms of performance, thereby paving the way forward toward industrial-scale photoelectrolyzers or PEC cells for green hydrogen production.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001166826200001 Publication Date 2024-01-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2211-3398 ISBN Additional Links (up) 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: 3.403
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202625 Serial 9080
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Author Van Echelpoel, R.; De Wael, K.
Title Voltammetric drug testing makes sense at the border Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Nature Reviews Chemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-2
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract The European BorderSens project leverages voltammetric sensors, developed with end-users' input, to rapidly and accurately detect illicit drugs. By embracing practicalities and validation, this technology has the potential to combat the illicit drug problem.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001142000900001 Publication Date 2024-01-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2397-3358 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202646 Serial 9112
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Author Jorissen, B.; Fernandes, L.
Title Simple systems, complicated physics : an interview with Nir Navon Type Editorial
Year 2023 Publication Belgian journal of physics Abbreviated Journal
Volume 1 Issue 6 Pages 4-5
Keywords Editorial; Theory of quantum systems and complex systems; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract The EPS Antwerp Young Minds (AYM) invited Prof. Nir Navon (Yale University) to hold a colloquium for the physics department. For an audience of students and researchers, Prof. Navon presented recent advances in ultracold quantum matter and research from his own lab. His experimental work paves the way to make toy models used by theorists a reality. We sat down afterwards to discuss ultracold physics, box traps and setting up a lab from scratch.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202673 Serial 9090
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Author Kovács, A.; Janssens, N.; Mielants, M.; Cornet, I.; Neyts, E.C.; Billen, P.
Title Biocatalyzed vinyl laurate transesterification in natural deep eutectic solvents Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Waste and biomass valorization Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Purpose Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) represent a green alternative to conventional organic solvents as reaction medium, offering more benign properties. To efficiently design NADES for biocatalysis, a better understanding of their effect on these reactions is needed. We hypothesize that this effect can be described by separately considering (1) the solvent interactions with the substrates, (2) the solvent viscosities and (3) the enzyme stability in NADES. Methods We investigated the effect of substrate solvation and viscosity on the reaction rate; and the stability of the enzyme in NADES. To this end, we monitored the conversion over time of the transesterification of vinyl laurate with 1- butanol by the lipase enzyme Candida antarctica B in NADES of different compounds and molar ratios. Results The initial reaction rate is higher in most NADES ( varying between 1.14 and 15.07 mu mol min(-1) mg(-1)) than in the reference n-hexane (4.0 mu mol min(-1) mg(-1))), but no clear relationship between viscosity and initial reaction rate was found. The increased reaction rate is most likely related to the solvation of the substrate due to a change in the activation energy of the reaction or a change in the conformation of the substrate. The enzyme retained part of its activity after the first 2 h of reaction (on average 20 % of the substrate reacted in the 2-24 h period). Enzyme incubation in ethylene glycol-based NADES resulted in a reduced reaction rate ( 15.07 vs. 3.34 mu mol min(-1) mg(-1)), but this may also be due to slow dissolution of the substrate. Conclusions The effect of viscosity seems to be marginal next to the effect of solvation and possible enzyme-NADES interaction. The enzyme retains some of its activity during the 24-hour measurements, but the enzyme incubation experiments did not yield accurate, comparable values. [GRAPHICS] .
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001117290800003 Publication Date 2023-12-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1877-2641; 1877-265x ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.2; 2023 IF: 1.337
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202709 Serial 9005
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Author Lobato, I.; Friedrich, T.; Van Aert, S.
Title Deep convolutional neural networks to restore single-shot electron microscopy images Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication N P J Computational Materials Abbreviated Journal npj Comput Mater
Volume 10 Issue 1 Pages 10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Advanced electron microscopy techniques, including scanning electron microscopes (SEM), scanning transmission electron microscopes (STEM), and transmission electron microscopes (TEM), have revolutionized imaging capabilities. However, achieving high-quality experimental images remains a challenge due to various distortions stemming from the instrumentation and external factors. These distortions, introduced at different stages of imaging, hinder the extraction of reliable quantitative insights. In this paper, we will discuss the main sources of distortion in TEM and S(T)EM images, develop models to describe them, and propose a method to correct these distortions using a convolutional neural network. We validate the effectiveness of our method on a range of simulated and experimental images, demonstrating its ability to significantly enhance the signal-to-noise ratio. This improvement leads to a more reliable extraction of quantitative structural information from the images. In summary, our findings offer a robust framework to enhance the quality of electron microscopy images, which in turn supports progress in structural analysis and quantification in materials science and biology.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001138183000001 Publication Date 2024-01-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2057-3960 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes This work was supported by the European Research Council (Grant 770887 PICOMETRICS to S.V.A.). The authors acknowledge financial support from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO, Belgium) through project fundings (G034621N, G0A7723N and EOS 40007495). S.V.A. acknowledges funding from the University of Antwerp Research Fund (BOF). The authors thank Lukas Grünewald for data acquisition and support for Fig. 7. Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:202714 Serial 8994
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Author Zaripov, A.A.; Khalilov, U.B.; Ashurov, K.B.
Title Synergism of the initial stage of removal of dielectric materials during electrical erosion processing in electrolytes Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Surface engineering and applied electrochemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 59 Issue 6 Pages 712-718
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Ceramics and composites, many of whose physicochemical properties significantly exceed similar properties of metals and their alloys, are processed qualitatively mainly by the electroerosion method. Despite the existing works, the mechanism of the initial stage of the removal of materials has not yet been identified. For a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of the removal of dielectrics, a new model is proposed based on the experimental results obtained on an improved electroerosion installation. It was revealed that the initial stage of the removal of a dielectric material consists of three successive stages that are associated with the synergistic effect on the process of the anionic group of electrolytes, plasma flare, and the cavitation shock. This makes it possible to better understand the mechanism of the removal of composite and ceramic materials, which should contribute to ensuring the machinability of those materials and their wide use in promising technologies.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001126070700009 Publication Date 2023-12-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1068-3755; 1934-8002 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202754 Serial 9102
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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
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 (up) 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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Author Hugenschmidt, M.; Jannis, D.; Kadu, A.A.; Grünewald, L.; De Marchi, S.; Perez-Juste, J.; Verbeeck, J.; Van Aert, S.; Bals, S.
Title Low-dose 4D-STEM tomography for beam-sensitive nanocomposites Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication ACS materials letters Abbreviated Journal
Volume 6 Issue 1 Pages 165-173
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Electron tomography is essential for investigating the three-dimensional (3D) structure of nanomaterials. However, many of these materials, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), are extremely sensitive to electron radiation, making it difficult to acquire a series of projection images for electron tomography without inducing electron-beam damage. Another significant challenge is the high contrast in high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy that can be expected for nanocomposites composed of a metal nanoparticle and an MOF. This strong contrast leads to so-called metal artifacts in the 3D reconstruction. To overcome these limitations, we here present low-dose electron tomography based on four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM) data sets, collected using an ultrafast and highly sensitive direct electron detector. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate the applicability of the method for an Au nanostar embedded in a ZIF-8 MOF, which is of great interest for applications in various fields, including drug delivery.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001141178500001 Publication Date 2023-12-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2639-4979 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes This work was supported by the European Research Council (Grant 815128 REALNANO to S.B., Grant 770887 PICOMETRICS to S.V.A.). J.P.-J. and S.M. acknowledge financial support from the MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 (Grants No. PID2019-108954RB-I00) and EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement no. 883390 (SERSing). J.V., S.B., S.V.A., and L.G. acknowledge funding from the Flemish government (iBOF-21-085 PERsist). Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202771 Serial 9053
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Author Liu, J.; Xu, W.; Xiao, Y.M.; Ding, L.; Li, H.W.; Peeters, F.M.
Title Optical spectrum of n-type and p-type monolayer MoS₂ in the presence of proximity-induced interactions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of applied physics Abbreviated Journal
Volume 134 Issue 22 Pages 224301-224307
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract In this paper, we examined the effects of proximity-induced interactions such as Rashba spin-orbit coupling and effective Zeeman fields (EZFs) on the optical spectrum of n-type and p-type monolayer (ML)-MoS2. The optical conductivity is evaluated using the standard Kubo formula under random-phase approximation by including the effective electron-electron interaction. It has been found that there exist two absorption peaks in n-type ML-MoS2 and two knife shaped absorptions in p-type ML-MoS2, which are contributed by the inter-subband spin-flip electronic transitions within conduction and valence bands at valleys K and K ' with a lifted valley degeneracy. The optical absorptions in n-type and p-type ML-MoS 2 occur in THz and infrared radiation regimes and the position, height, and shape of them can be effectively tuned by Rashba parameter, EZF parameters, and carrier density. The interesting theoretical predictions in this study would be helpful for the experimental observation of the optical absorption in infrared to THz bandwidths contributed by inter-subband spin-flip electronic transitions in a lifted valley degeneracy monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides system. The obtained results indicate that ML-MoS2 with the platform of proximity interactions make it a promising infrared and THz material for optics and optoelectronics.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001135684400003 Publication Date 2023-12-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0021-8979; 1089-7550 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.2; 2023 IF: 2.068
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202777 Serial 9069
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Author Luo, Y.; He, Y.; Ding, Y.; Zuo, L.; Zhong, C.; Ma, Y.; Sun, M.
Title Defective biphenylene as high-efficiency hydrogen evolution catalysts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Inorganic chemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 63 Issue 2 Pages 1136-1141
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Electrocatalysts play a pivotal role in advancing the application of water splitting for hydrogen production. This research unveils the potential of defective biphenylenes as high-efficiency catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction. Using first-principles simulations, we systematically investigated the structure, stability, and catalytic performance of defective biphenylenes. Our findings unveil that defect engineering significantly enhances the electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution. Specifically, biphenylene with a double-vacancy defect exhibits an outstanding Gibbs free energy of -0.08 eV, surpassing that of Pt, accompanied by a remarkable exchange current density of -3.08 A cm(-2), also surpassing that of Pt. Furthermore, we find the preference for the Volmer-Heyrovsky mechanism in the hydrogen evolution reaction, with a low energy barrier of 0.80 eV. This research provides a promising avenue for developing novel metal-free electrocatalysts for water splitting with earth-abundant carbon elements, making a significant step toward sustainable hydrogen production.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001143581300001 Publication Date 2023-12-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0020-1669 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 4.6 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.6; 2023 IF: 4.857
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202780 Serial 9018
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Author Bissonnette-Dulude, J.; Heirman, P.; Coulombe, S.; Bogaerts, A.; Gervais, T.; Reuter, S.
Title Coupling the COST reference plasma jet to a microfluidic device: a computational study Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Plasma sources science and technology Abbreviated Journal Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.
Volume 33 Issue 1 Pages 015001
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract The use of microfluidic devices in the field of plasma-liquid interaction can unlock unique possibilities to investigate the effects of plasma-generated reactive species for environmental and biomedical applications. So far, very little simulation work has been performed on microfluidic devices in contact with a plasma source. We report on the modelling and computational simulation of physical and chemical processes taking place in a novel plasma-microfluidic platform. The main production and transport pathways of reactive species both in plasma and liquid are modelled by a novel modelling approach that combines 0D chemical kinetics and 2D transport mechanisms. This combined approach, applicable to systems where the transport of chemical species occurs in unidirectional flows at high Péclet numbers, decreases calculation times considerably compared to regular 2D simulations. It takes advantage of the low computational time of the 0D reaction models while providing spatial information through multiple plug-flow simulations to yield a quasi-2D model. The gas and liquid flow profiles are simulated entirely in 2D, together with the chemical reactions and transport of key chemical species. The model correctly predicts increased transport of hydrogen peroxide into the liquid when the microfluidic opening is placed inside the plasma effluent region, as opposed to inside the plasma region itself. Furthermore, the modelled hydrogen peroxide production and transport in the microfluidic liquid differs by less than 50% compared with experimental results. To explain this discrepancy, the limits of the 0D–2D combined approach are discussed.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001136607100001 Publication Date 2024-01-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0963-0252 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.8 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, RGPIN-06820 ; FWO, 1100421N ; McGill University, the TransMedTech Institute; Approved Most recent IF: 3.8; 2024 IF: 3.302
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:202783 Serial 8990
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
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 (up) 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 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
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 (up) 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 Gebremariam, Y.A.; Dessein, J.; Wondimagegnhu, B.A.; Breusers, M.; Lenaerts, L.; Adgo, E.; Van Passel, S.; Minale, A.S.; Nyssen, J.
Title Undoing the development army : a paradigm shift from transfer of technology to agricultural innovation system in Ethiopian extension Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-27
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Appropriate use of agricultural technologies and diversifying the farming activities is critical to addressing food security problems in Africa, including Ethiopia. The country is experimenting with the new Agricultural Innovation System (AIS) approach alongside the well-established Transfer of Technology (ToT) approach. This paper analyzes the gaps between policy discourses (as reflected in policy documents and strategic orientation documents) and extension practices (as reflected in the daily exchanges between farmers and the frontline staff of the Ethiopian extension system). It provides insights into the challenges faced and emphasizes the need for better coordination between policy formulation and implementation to enhance extension services. Policymakers, practitioners, and researchers can benefit from the valuable perspectives the findings offer. The study contributes to understanding the relationship between policy discourses and extension practices, and its implications can inform policy design and implementation in similar contexts. A qualitative research approach was deployed to analyze policy discourse and practice. Data were collected in Fogera, a district in Northwest Ethiopia, between August 2018 and February 2019. The data for the paper were obtained from 23 Focus Group Discussions conducted with men and women. 13 Informant Interviews (KIIs) were also carried out with personnel at different levels of government agricultural services and departments. Transcripts of recordings of the Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were analyzed using a deductive approach. The study focuses on rice crops in the Fogera district, which are crucial for food security and reducing poverty. Although the geographic area is limited, the results can be used to improve the extension system in other areas facing similar challenges. Specifically, the study suggests switching from the traditional transfer of technology approach to the agricultural innovation system approach. Furthermore, the study's techniques, such as qualitative interviews, may have limitations and not fully capture the intricacies of policy and extension practices. The findings demonstrate that, although the policy documents strongly adhere to agricultural innovation system principles, top-down transfer of technology approaches continues to dominate in practice. Moreover, we have found potential discrepancies between the training content delivered and the specific needs of smallholder farmers. Practically, prescriptive systems are still used because agricultural innovation system approaches are not well understood by the Extension Agents. To realize a genuine agricultural innovation system, Ethiopia's extension apparatus should move forward with building committed and robust relationships between farmers, extension agents, researchers, private sectors, and non-governmental organizations. To this end, more research, enhanced training, and improved institutions are needed on what genuine agricultural innovation system could look like at the grass-roots level. This also includes understanding the roles that different actors within Ethiopia's development army should assume how a multi-actor policy dialogue can be organized.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001126500500006 Publication Date 2023-12-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1387-585x; 1573-2975 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202804 Serial 9238
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Tran, T.T.; Lee, Y.; Roy, S.; Tran, T.U.; Kim, Y.; Taniguchi, T.; Watanabe, K.; Milošević, M.V.; Lim, S.C.; Chaves, A.; Jang, J.I.; Kim, J.
Title Synergetic enhancement of quantum yield and exciton lifetime of monolayer WS₂ by proximal metal plate and negative electric bias Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication ACS nano Abbreviated Journal
Volume 18 Issue 1 Pages 220-228
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract The efficiency of light emission is a critical performance factor for monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (1L-TMDs) for photonic applications. While various methods have been studied to compensate for lattice defects to improve the quantum yield (QY) of 1L-TMDs, exciton-exciton annihilation (EEA) is still a major nonradiative decay channel for excitons at high exciton densities. Here, we demonstrate that the combined use of a proximal Au plate and a negative electric gate bias (NEGB) for 1L-WS2 provides a dramatic enhancement of the exciton lifetime at high exciton densities with the corresponding QY enhanced by 30 times and the EEA rate constant decreased by 80 times. The suppression of EEA by NEGB is attributed to the reduction of the defect-assisted EEA process, which we also explain with our theoretical model. Our results provide a synergetic solution to cope with EEA to realize high-intensity 2D light emitters using TMDs.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001139516800001 Publication Date 2023-12-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1936-0851 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 17.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 17.1; 2023 IF: 13.942
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202811 Serial 9101
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Lugli, L.F.; Fuchslueger, L.; Vallicrosa, H.; Van Langenhove, L.; Ranits, C.; Garberi, P.R.F.; Verryckt, L.; Grau, O.; Brechet, L.; Peguero, G.; Llusia, J.; Ogaya, R.; Marquez, L.; Portillo-Estrada, M.; Ramirez-Rojas, I.; Courtois, E.; Stahl, C.; Sardans, J.; Penuelas, J.; Verbruggen, E.; Janssens, I.
Title Contrasting responses of fine root biomass and traits to large-scale nitrogen and phosphorus addition in tropical forests in the Guiana shield Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Oikos: a journal of ecology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 2024 Issue 4 Pages e10412-14
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
Abstract Fine roots mediate plant nutrient acquisition and growth. Depending on soil nutrient availability, plants can regulate fine root biomass and morphological traits to optimise nutrient acquisition. Little is known, however, about the importance of these parameters influencing forest functioning. In this study, we measured root responses to nutrient additions to gain a mechanistic understanding of plant adaptations to nutrient limitation in two tropical forests in French Guiana, differing twofold in their soil nutrient statuses. We analysed the responses of root biomass, mean root diameter (RD), specific root length (SRL), specific root area (SRA), root tissue density (RTD) and carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations in roots down to 15 cm soil depth after three years of N and P additions. At the lower-fertility site Paracou, no changes in root biomass or morphological traits were detected with either N or P addition, although P concentrations in roots increased with P addition. In the higher fertility site, Nouragues, root biomass and P concentrations in roots increased with P addition, with no changes in morphological traits. In contrast, N addition shifted root traits from acquisitive to more conservative by increasing RTD. A significant interaction between N and P in Nouragues pointed to stronger responses to P addition in the absence of N. Our results suggest that the magnitude and direction of root biomass and trait expression were regulated by soil fertility, corroborated by the response to N or P additions. At low fertility sites, we found lower plasticity in root trait expression compared to more fertile conditions, where N and P additions caused stronger and antagonistic responses. Identifying the exact role of mechanisms affecting root nutrient uptake in Amazon forests growing in different soils will be crucial to foresee if and how rapid global changes can affect their carbon allocation.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001142552200001 Publication Date 2024-01-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0030-1299 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202834 Serial 9195
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Mayda, S.; Monico, L.; Krishnan, D.; De Meyer, S.; Cotte, M.; Garrevoet, J.; Falkenberg, G.; Sandu, I.C.A.; Partoens, B.; Lamoen, D.; Romani, A.; Miliani, C.; Verbeeck, J.; Janssens, K.
Title A combined experimental and computational approach to understanding CdS pigment oxidation in a renowned early 20th century painting Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Chemistry of materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 35 Issue 24 Pages 10403-10415
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract Cadmium sulfide (CdS)-based yellow pigments have been used in a number of early 20th century artworks, including The Scream series painted by Edvard Munch. Some of these unique paintings are threatened by the discoloration of these CdS-based yellow oil paints because of the oxidation of the original sulfides to sulfates. The experimental data obtained here prove that moisture and cadmium chloride compounds play a key role in promoting such oxidation. To clarify how these two factors effectively prompt the process, we studied the band alignment between CdS, CdCl2, and Cd-(OH)Cl as well as the radicals center dot OH and H3O center dot by density functional theory (DFT) methods. Our results show that a stack of several layers of Cd-(OH)Cl creates a pocket of positive holes at the Cl-terminated surface and a pocket of electrons at the OH-terminated surface by leading in a difference in ionization energy at both surfaces. The resulting band alignment indicates that Cd-(OH)Cl can indeed play the role of an oxidative catalyst for CdS in a moist environment, thus providing an explanation for the experimental evidence.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001133000900001 Publication Date 2023-12-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0897-4756; 1520-5002 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 8.6 Times cited Open Access
Notes The experimental research on the cadmium yellow powders/paint mock-ups and The Scream (ca. 1910) was financially supported by the European Union, research projects IPERION-CH (H2020-INFRAIA-2014-2015, GA no. 654028) and IPERION-HS (H2020-INFRAIA-2019-1, GA no. 871034) and the project AMIS within the program Dipartimenti di Eccellenza 2018-2022 (funded by MUR and the University of Perugia). For the beamtime grants received, the authors thank the ESRF-ID21 beamline (experiments HG64 and HG95), the DESY-P06 beamline, a member of the Helmholtz Association HGF (experiments I-20130221 EC and I-20160126 EC), and the project CALIPSOplus under the GA no. 730872 from the E.U. Framework Programme for Research and Innovation Horizon 2020. All of the staff of the MUNCH Museum (Conservation Department) is acknowledged for their collaboration. The computational resources and services used in this work were provided by the VSC (Flemish Supercomputer Center) and the HPC infrastructure of the University of Antwerp (CalcUA), both funded by the FWO – Vlaanderen and the Flemish Government, Department EWI. Approved Most recent IF: 8.6; 2023 IF: 9.466
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202836 Serial 8999
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Deylgat, E.; Chen, E.; Sorée, B.; Vandenberghe, W.G.
Title Quantum transport study of contact resistance of edge- and top-contacted two-dimensional materials Type P1 Proceeding
Year 2023 Publication International Conference on Simulation of Semiconductor Processes and Devices : [proceedings] T2 – International Conference on Simulation of Semiconductor Processes and, Devices (SISPAD), SEP 27-29, 2023, Kobe, Japan Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 45-48
Keywords P1 Proceeding; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract We calculate the contact resistance for an edge- and top-contacted 2D semiconductor. The contact region consists of a metal contacting a monolayer of MoS2 which is otherwise surrounded by SiO2. We use the quantum transmitting boundary method to compute the contact resistance as a function of the 2D semiconductor doping concentration. An effective mass Hamiltonian is used to describe the properties of the various materials. The electrostatic potentials are obtained by solving the Poisson equation numerically. We incorporate the effects of the image-force barrier lowering on the Schottky barrier and examine the impact on the contact resistance. At low doping concentrations, the contact resistance of the top contact is lower compared to edge contact, while at high doping concentrations, the edge contact exhibits lower resistance.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001117703800012 Publication Date 2023-11-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 978-4-86348-803-8 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202839 Serial 9079
Permanent link to this record
 

 
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
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links (up) 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 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
Language Wos 001170769300001 Publication Date 2024-02-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links (up) 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
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vasilakou, K.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Nimmegeers, P.
Title A Pareto aggregation approach for environmental-economic multi-objective optimization applied on a second-generation bioethanol production model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Energy conversion and management Abbreviated Journal
Volume 303 Issue Pages 118184-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Multi-objective optimization is an important decision-making tool for energy processes, as multiple targets need to be achieved. These objectives are usually conflicting since a single solution cannot be optimal for all objectives, resulting in a set of Pareto-optimal solutions. Multiple indicators might be available to describe a sustainability objective, such as the environmental impact which is commonly evaluated by performing a life cycle assessment. In this study, Pareto aggregation is proposed as a method which employs a novel multi-objective optimization-based approach as an alternative to the classically used aggregation in life cycle assessment. This method identifies conflicting environmental indicators and performs an aggregation among those that require a trade-off. An environmental-economic optimization of a second-generation bioethanol plant is used to illustrate and evaluate the proposed method. Process parameters from a biochemical conversion pathway flowsheet simulation model are chosen as optimization variables. To reduce the computational time, surrogate models, based on artificial neural networks, are used. Out of the eighteen ReCiPe Midpoint environmental indicators, five were identified as conflicting, resulting in an aggregated environmental objective, which was then traded off with the economic objective function, chosen as the levelized cost of ethanol. Comparison with the widely used single-score EcoIndicator99 showed that the Pareto aggregation method can reduce most of the environmental indicators by up to 6.5%. This research provides an insight on non-redundant objective functions, aiming at reducing the dimensionality of multi-objective optimization problems, while taking into consideration decision-makers’ preferences.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001185718400001 Publication Date 2024-02-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0196-8904; 1879-2227 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203046 Serial 9216
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Derks, K.; Youchaeva, M.; Van der Snickt, G.; Van der Stighelen, K.; Janssens, K.
Title Reconstructing Sweerts : practical insights into the historical dark halo technique based on paint reconstructions Type P1 Proceeding
Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 259-271 T2 - Alla maniera : technical art history
Keywords P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 978-90-429-5216-4 ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203062 Serial 9082
Permanent link to this record
 

 
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.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
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 (up) 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
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Dingenen, F.
Title Solar-driven H2 production from seawater using stabilized plasmon-enhanced photocatalysts Type Doctoral thesis
Year 2023 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages XXXVIII, 210 p.
Keywords Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract As natural gas prices proved to be very volatile, sustainable alternatives are highly needed. Water-derived H2 was revealed as a promising substitute, allowing to produce a green energy carrier with a minimum of harmful emissions. Direct splitting of earth-abundant seawater provides an eco-friendly route for the production of clean H2, but is hampered by selectivity and stability issues due to the presence of salts.Photocatalytic seawater splitting is particularly promising for this purpose, as it seems less affected by adversary seawater effects and might rely on free and renewable solar power. Unfortunately, the benchmark photocatalyst, TiO2, still suffers from its low solar light activity. It is only actived upon illumination with energetic ultraviolet light (<5% of the sunlight). In order to broaden the activity window to the visible light, the concept of the 'plasmonic rainbow' was explored. Here, TiO2 is modified with various gold-silver composites that possess the unique optical phenomenon of Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR). This phenomenon enables the absorption of light at very specific wavelengths, depending on the metal type, size, shape and dielectric environment. The light energy might then be converted into hot carriers, strong local electromagnetic fields and/or heat. By combining multiple composites with various sizes and compositions, a broadband absorption could be obtained, resulting in significantly enhanced activity in photocatalytic model reactions under simulated sunlight. The major disadvantage of these plasmonic nanoparticles is their tendency to oxidize and deactivate. To overcome this, polymer shell stabilization strategies were found to be effective to protect the metal cores. Both conductive and non-conductive polymers were studied. For the former, a mix-and-wait strategy generating polyaniline shells of 2-5 nm was used, whille the latter was based on a Layer-by-Layer approach, allowing (sub) nanometer thickness control. For the actual H2 production experiments, the plasmonic loading was optimized in a pure water:methanol scavenger (7:1) mixture and initially the stabilization strategies proofed to be effective for simulated seawater (0.5M NaCl), even after 2 years. However, in real seawater, the activity decreased drastically due to aggregation of the photocatalyst in the presence of multivalent cations. Finally, facile immobilization strategies using 3D printing showed to be able to yield stable, solar active photocatalyst for real seawater splitting.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links (up) UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203196 Serial 9094
Permanent link to this record
 

 
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.
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Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203199 Serial 9029
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