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Author Seyedmohammadzadeh, M.; Sevik, C.; Guelseren, O.
Title Two-dimensional heterostructures formed by graphenelike ZnO and MgO monolayers for optoelectronic applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Physical review materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 6 Issue 10 Pages (up) 104004-104013
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Two-dimensional heterostructures are an emerging class of materials for novel applications because of extensive engineering potential by tailoring intriguing properties of different layers as well as the ones arising from their interface. A systematic investigation of mechanical, electronic, and optical properties of possible heterostructures formed by bilayer structures graphenelike ZnO and MgO monolayers is presented. Different functionality of each layer makes these heterostructures very appealing for device applications. ZnO layer is convenient for electron transport in these structures, while MgO layer improves electron collection. At the outset, all of the four possible stacking configurations across the heterostructure are mechanically stable. In addition, stability analysis using phonon dispersion reveals that the AB stacking formed by placing the Mg atom on top of the O atom of the ZnO layer is also dynamically stable at zero temperature. Henceforth, we have investigated the optical properties of these stable heterostructures by applying many-body perturbation theory within the framework of GW approximation and solving the Bethe-Salpeter equation. It is demonstrated that strong excitonic effects reduce the optical band gap to the visible light spectrum range. These results show that this new two-dimensional form of ZnO/MgO heterostructures open an avenue for novel optoelectronic device applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000877514900005 Publication Date 2022-10-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2475-9953 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:192167 Serial 7346
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Author Ozdemir, I.; Arkin, H.; Milošević, M.V.; V. Barth, J.; Aktuerk, E.
Title Exploring the adsorption mechanisms of neurotransmitter and amino acid on Ti3C2-MXene monolayer : insights from DFT calculations Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Surfaces and interfaces Abbreviated Journal
Volume 46 Issue Pages (up) 104169-9
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract In this study, we conducted a systematic density functional theory (DFT) investigation of the interaction between Ti3C2-MXene monolayer and biological molecules dopamine (DA) and serine (Ser) as neurotransmitter and amino acid, respectively. Our calculations show good agreement with previous literature findings for the optimized Ti3C2 monolayer. We found that DA and Ser molecules bind to the Ti3C2 surface with adsorption energies of -2.244 eV and -3.960 eV, respectively. The adsorption of Ser resulted in the dissociation of one H atom. Electronic density of states analyses revealed little changes in the electronic properties of the Ti3C2-MXene monolayer upon adsorption of the biomolecules. We further investigated the interaction of DA and Ser with Ti3C2 monolayers featuring surface -termination with OH functional group, and Ti -vacancy. Our calculations indicate that the adsorption energies significantly decrease in the presence of surface termination, with adsorption energies of -0.097 eV and -0.330 eV for DA and Ser, respectively. Adsorption energies on the Ti -vacancy surface, on the other hand, are calculated to be -3.584 eV and -3.856 eV for DA and Ser, respectively. Our results provide insights into the adsorption behavior of biological molecules on Ti3C2-MXene, demonstrating the potential of this material for biosensing and other biomedical applications. These findings highlight the importance of surface modifications in the development of functional materials and devices based on Ti3C2-MXene, and pave the way for future investigations into the use of 2D materials for biomedical applications.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001206950300001 Publication Date 2024-03-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2468-0230 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 6.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.2; 2024 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205977 Serial 9150
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Author Xie, Y.; Van Tendeloo, M.; Zhu, W.; Peng, L.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Autotrophic nitrogen polishing of secondary effluents : Alkaline pH and residual nitrate control S0-driven denitratation for downstream anammox treatment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of Water Process Engineering Abbreviated Journal
Volume 56 Issue Pages (up) 104402-104409
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Energy-lean nitrogen removal technologies, such as partial nitritation/anammox, often encounter effluent issues due to elevated nitrate and ammonium levels. This study proposed a novel autotrophic polishing strategy coupling sulfur-driven denitratation with anammox. To explore the denitratation potential in obtaining stable and sufficient nitrite accumulation, the effects of pH, residual nitrate level, and biomass-specific nitrate loading rate (BSNLR) were investigated in an S0-packed bed reactor at low hydraulic retention time (i.e., 0.2 h). Implementing pH and residual nitrate control strategies would be easier in practice than BSNLR control to polish secondary effluent. Alkaline pH values could realize successful nitrite accumulation without residual nitrate, and further intensify the accumulation under increased residual nitrate levels. The nitrate level was positively correlated with the nitrite accumulation efficiency. At pH 8.5 and nitrate concentration of 1.0 ± 0.8 mg N L−1, sulfur-driven denitratation could successfully maintain nitrite accumulation of 6.4 ± 1.0 mg NO2−-N L−1, ideally for the downstream anammox in case of residual ammonium levels of around 5 mg N L−1. Since Thiobacillus members play a key role in managing nitrite accumulation, their abundance should be guaranteed in the practical application.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001103341400001 Publication Date 2023-10-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2214-7144 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 7 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access: Available from 18.04.2024
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7; 2023 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:200036 Serial 8835
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Author Misseeuw, L.; Krajewska, A.; Pasternak, I.; Ciuk, T.; Strupinski, W.; Reekmans, G.; Adriaensens, P.; Geldof, D.; Geldof, D.; Van Vlierberghe, S.; Thienpont, H.; Dubruelf, P.; Vermeulen, N.
Title Optical-quality controllable wet-chemical doping of graphene through a uniform, transparent and low-roughness F4-TCNQ/MEK layer Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication RSC advances Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue 106 Pages (up) 104491-104501
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Controllable chemical doping of graphene has already proven very useful for electronic applications, but when turning to optical and photonic applications, the additional requirement of having both a high transparency and a low surface roughness has, to our knowledge, not yet been fulfilled by any chemical dopant system reported so far. In this work, a new method that meets for the first time this opticalquality requirement while also providing efficient, controllable doping is presented. The method relies on F4-TCNQ dissolved in methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) yielding a uniform deposition after spin coating because of an extraordinary charge transfer interaction between the F4-TCNQ and MEK molecules. The formed F4-TCNQ/MEK layer exhibits a very high surface quality and optical transparency over the visible-infrared wavelength range between 550 and 1900 nm. By varying the dopant concentration of F4-TCNQ from 2.5 to 40 mg ml1 MEK, the doping effect can be controlled between Dn ¼ +5.73 1012 cm2 and +1.09 1013 cm2 for initially strongly p-type hydrogen-intercalated graphene grown on 6Hsilicon- carbide substrates, and between Dn ¼ +5.56 1012 cm2 and +1.04 1013 cm2 for initially weakly p-type graphene transferred on silicon samples. This is the first time that truly optical-quality chemical doping of graphene is demonstrated, and the obtained doping values exceed those reported before for F4-TCNQ-based graphene doping by as much as 50%.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000388111900075 Publication Date 2016-10-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2046-2069 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136405 Serial 8335
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Author Voordeckers, D.; Lauriks, T.; Baetens, D.; Ysebaert, T.; Denys, S.; Billen, P.; Tytgat, T.; Van Acker, M.
Title Numerical study on the impact of traffic lane adjustments and low boundary walls on pedestrian exposure to NO2 in street canyons Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Landscape and urban planning Abbreviated Journal
Volume 243 Issue Pages (up) 104974-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Law; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Research Group for Urban Development; Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS); Research Group for Urban Development; Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution, especially on human health, is one of the greater contemporary challenges for cities. Street canyons have herein been identified as bottleneck areas in urbanized environments. Focusing on the necessity of fast-response interventions, strategies to control source-receptor pathways (e.g. implementing low boundary walls (LBWs)) are gaining interest. A potential strategy which is greatly overlooked is the adjustment (reduction or displacement) of traffic lanes in order to increase the distance between source (traffic) and recipient (pedestrians). Within our study, computation fluid dynamics (CFD) is used to simulate the impact of alternations to traffic lanes (whether or not combined with LBWs) on the pedestrian exposure to NO2 for a specific case-study (Belgie center dot lei, Antwerp) under two prevailing wind directions. The average differences in NO2 concentrations for the entire pedestrian area ranged between +1.0 % to-3.6 %. On specific locations, reduction up to-8.0 % were reached. In case of perpendicular winds, a lateral displacement of all traffic lanes towards the windward facade including LBWs was found most beneficial to reduce pedestrian exposure. LBWs also showed to be efficient in reducing potential adverse effects of lane displacement under less frequent wind directions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001134403700001 Publication Date 2023-12-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0169-2046 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 9.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.1; 2023 IF: 4.563
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:201400 Serial 9065
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Author Kadu, A.; van Leeuwen, T.; Batenburg, K.J.
Title CoShaRP : a convex program for single-shot tomographic shape sensing Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Inverse Problems Abbreviated Journal Inverse Probl
Volume 37 Issue 10 Pages (up) 105005
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract We introduce single-shot x-ray tomography that aims to estimate the target image from a single cone-beam projection measurement. This linear inverse problem is extremely under-determined since the measurements are far fewer than the number of unknowns. Moreover, it is more challenging than conventional tomography, where a sufficiently large number of projection angles forms the measurements, allowing for a simple inversion process. However, single-shot tomography becomes less severe if the target image is only composed of known shapes. This paper restricts analysis to target image function that can be decomposed into known compactly supported non-negative-valued functions termed shapes. Hence, the shape prior transforms a linear ill-posed image estimation problem to a non-linear problem of estimating the roto-translations of the shapes. We circumvent the non-linearity by using a dictionary of possible roto-translations of the shapes. We propose a convex program CoShaRP, to recover the dictionary coefficients successfully. CoShaRP relies on simplex-type constraints and can be solved quickly using a primal-dual algorithm. The numerical experiments show that CoShaRP recovers shape stably from moderately noisy measurements.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000691743700001 Publication Date 2021-07-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0266-5611 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 1.62 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.62
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181617 Serial 6859
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Author Nunez Manzano, M.; Gonzalez Quiroga, A.; Perreault, P.; Madanikashani, S.; Vandewalle, L.A.; Marin, G.B.; Heynderickx, G.J.; Van Geem, K.M.
Title Biomass fast pyrolysis in an innovative gas-solid vortex reactor : experimental proof of concept Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Journal Of Analytical And Applied Pyrolysis Abbreviated Journal J Anal Appl Pyrol
Volume 156 Issue Pages (up) 105165-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Biomass fast pyrolysis has been considered one of the best alternatives for the thermal conversion of biomass into bio-oil. This work introduces a new reactor technology for biomass fast pyrolysis, the Gas-Solid Vortex Reactor (GSVR), to obtain high bio-oil yields. The GSVR was designed to decrease the residence time of the pyrolysis vapors; thus, the secondary cracking reactions are reduced, to enhance the segregation of the char and the unreacted biomass and to improve the heat transfer rate. Biomass fast pyrolysis experiments have been carried out for the first time in a Gas-Solid Vortex Reactor (GSVR) at 773 K, using softwood (pine) and hardwood (poplar) as feedstock. Char yields as low as 10 wt. % in the GSVR were comparable to those reported for the same feedstocks processed in conventional fluidized bed reactors. The yields of non-condensable gases in the range of 15–17 wt. % were significantly lower than those reported for other commonly used biomass fast pyrolysis reactors. Two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC) revealed noticeable differences at the molecular level between the bio-oils from the GSVR and bio-oils from other reactors. The aromatics in the pine bio-oil consist almost entirely (85 wt. %) of guaiacols. For poplar bio-oils no predominant group of aromatics was found, but phenolics, syringols, and catechols were the most pronounced. The experimental results highlight the advantages of the GSVR for biomass pyrolysis, reaching stable operation in around 60 s, removing the formed char selectively during operation, and enabling fast entrainment of pyrolysis vapors. Results indicate a great potential for increasing yield and selectivity towards guaiacols in softwood (e.g., pine) bio-oil. Likewise, decreasing pyrolysis temperature could increase the yield of guaiacols and syringols in hardwood (e.g., poplar) bio-oil.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000663091200002 Publication Date 2021-04-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0165-2370 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.471 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.471
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178743 Serial 7562
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Author Álvarez-Martín, A.; De Winter, S.; Nuyts, G.; Hermans, J.; Janssens, K.; van der Snickt, G.
Title Multi-modal approach for the characterization of resin carriers in Daylight Fluorescent Pigments Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Microchemical Journal Abbreviated Journal Microchem J
Volume 159 Issue Pages (up) 105340
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract Almost seventy years after artists such as Frank Stella (1936), Andy Warhol (1928-1987), James Rosenquist (1933-2017), Herb Aach (1923-1985) and Richard Bowman (1918-2001) started to incorporate Daylight Fluorescent Pigments (DFPs) in their artworks, the extent of the conservation problems that are associated with these pigments has increased progressively. Since their first appearance on the market, their composition has constantly been improved in terms of permanency. However, conservation practices on the artworks that are used in, are complicated by the fact that the composition of DFPs is proprietary and the information provided by the manufactures is limited. To be able to propose adequate conservation strategies for artworks containing DFPs, a thorough understanding of the DFPs composition must be acquired. In contrast with previous research that concentrated on identification of the coloring dye, this paper focuses on the characterization of the resin, used as the carrier for the dye. The proposed approach, involving ATR-FTIR, SPME-GC-MS and XRF analysis, provided additional insights on the organic and inorganic components of the resin. Using this approach, we investigated historical DFPs and new formulations, as well as different series from the main manufacturing companies (DayGlo, Swada, Radiant Color and Kremer) in order to obtain a full characterization of DFPs used by the artists along the years. First, the initial PCA-assisted ATR-FTIR spectroscopy allowed for an efficient classification of the main monomers in the resin polymer. Next, a further distinction was made by mass spectrometry and XRF which were optimized to allow a more specific classification of the resin and for detection of additives. In this paper we show the potential of SPME-GC-MS, never applied for the characterization of artistic materials, at present undervalued for heritage science purposes. We anticipate that this information will be highly relevant in the future stability studies and for defining (preventive) conservation strategies of fluorescent artworks.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000598761400009 Publication Date 2020-07-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.8 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.8; 2020 IF: 3.034
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:175083 Serial 8286
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Author Parchomenko, A.; Nelen, D.; Gillabel, J.; Vrancken, K.C.M.; Rechberger, H.
Title Resource effectiveness of the European automotive sector : a statistical entropy analysis over time Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 169 Issue Pages (up) 105558
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The European automotive sector is faced with potentially disruptive challenges. In particular, the projected increase in the share of electric vehicles (EVs) and calls to prepare for the implementation of more circular economy (CE) strategies are increasingly demanding systemic adaptations. Given the goals of the CE, the adaptations should enable a maximal preservation of the function and value of products (e.g. extension of lifetime), components (e.g. reuse of parts) and materials (e.g., material recycling), thus saving on the energy, materials and effort that would be required to restore the lost functionalities. In this context, statistical entropy analysis (SEA) is proposed as a methodology to assess the effort needed for preserving and restoring functionality at different product, component and material life cycle stages. Effort is measured as changes in statistical entropy that are caused by concentration and dilution activities in the production – consumption – End-of-Life (EoL) system. SEA was applied to a generic model of the European automotive system, in combination with a stock-driven model and a material flow analysis (MFA), allowing statistical entropy changes to be projected over time. The paper demonstrates how SEA can facilitate decision making on the transition towards a more circular economy by quantifying the effects of particular CE strategies and their combinations. The results show that without any additional system adaptations, an increasing share of EVs towards the year 2050 will lead to substantially increased effort in production as well as end-of-life vehicle treatment.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000657320800074 Publication Date 2021-03-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179770 Serial 8475
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Author Navare, K.; Muys, B.; Vrancken, K.C.; Van Acker, K.
Title Circular economy monitoring – How to make it apt for biological cycles? Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 170 Issue Pages (up) 105563
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Circular economy (CE) principles distinguish between technical and biological cycles. Technical cycles involve the management of stocks of non-renewable abiotic resources that cannot be appropriately returned to the biosphere, whereas, biological cycles involve the flows of renewable biotic resources that can safely cycle in and out of the biosphere. Despite this distinction, existing CE monitors are typically developed for technical cycles, and focus mainly on the extent to which resources are looped back in the technosphere. These monitors seem less apt to assess the circularity of biological cycles. This study aims to identify this gap by critically reviewing the CE monitoring criteria and CE assessment tools, and evaluate if they include the four key characteristics of biological cycles. Firstly, biotic resources, although renewable, require to be harvested sustainably. Secondly, while abiotic resources can be restored and recycled to their original quality, biotic resources degrade in quality with every subsequent use and are, hence, cascaded in use. Thirdly, biotic resources should safely return as nutrients to the biosphere to support the regeneration of ecosystems. Fourthly, biological cycles have environmental impacts due to resource extraction, resulting from land-use and resource-depletion and biogenic carbon flows. The CE monitoring criteria lack in thoroughly assessing these characteristics. With the growing demand for biotic resources, the gap in the assessment could exacerbate the overexploitation of natural resources and cause the degradation of ecosystems. The study discusses measures to bridge this gap and suggests ways to design a CE assessment framework that is also apt for biological cycles.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000667309200009 Publication Date 2021-03-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191685 Serial 7666
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Author Larraín, M.; Van Passel, S.; Thomassen, G.; Van Gorp, B.; Nhu, T.T.; Huysveld, S.; Van Geem, K.M.; De Meester, S.; Billen, P.
Title Techno-economic assessment of mechanical recycling of challenging post-consumer plastic packaging waste Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 170 Issue Pages (up) 105607
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Increasing plastic recycling rates is crucial to tackle plastic pollution and reduce consumption of fossil resources. Recycling routes for post-consumer plastic fractions that are technologically and economically feasible remain a challenge. Profitable value chains for recycling mixed film and tray-like plastics have hardly been implemented today, in sharp contrast to recycling of relatively pure fractions such as polyethylene terephthalate and high-density polyethylene bottles. This study examines the economic feasibility of implementing mechanical recycling for plastic waste such as polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene films and mixed polyolefins. In most European countries these plastic fractions are usually incinerated or landfilled whilst in fact technologies exist to mechanically recycle them into regranulates or regrinds. Results show that the economic incentives for the recycling of plastic packaging depend predominantly on the product price and product yield. At current price levels, the most profitable plastic fraction to be recycled is PS rigids, with an internal rate of return of 14%, whereas the least profitable feed is a mixed polyolefin fraction with a negative internal rate of return in a scenario with steadily rising oil prices. Moreover, these values would be substantially reduced if oil prices, and therefore plastic product prices decrease. Considering a discount rate of 15% for a 15-year period, mechanical recycling is not profitable if no policy changes would be imposed by governments. Clearly low oil prices may jeopardize the mechanical recycling industry, inducing the need for policies that would increase the demand of recycled products such as imposing minimal recycled content targets.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000667309200042 Publication Date 2021-04-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177325 Serial 6946
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Author Hoat, D.M.; Nguyen, D.K.; Bafekry, A.; Van On, V.; Ul Haq, B.; Rivas-Silva, J.F.; Cocoletzi, G.H.
Title Strain-driven modulation of the electronic, optical and thermoelectric properties of beta-antimonene monolayer : a hybrid functional study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Materials Science In Semiconductor Processing Abbreviated Journal Mat Sci Semicon Proc
Volume 131 Issue Pages (up) 105878
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of the beta-antimonene (beta-Sb) monolayer under the external biaxial strain effects are fully investigated through the first-principles calculations. The studied two-dimensional (2D) system is dynamically and structurally stable as examined via phonon spectrum and cohesive energy. At equilibrium, the beta-Sb single layer exhibits an indirect band gap of 1.310 and 1.786 eV as predicted by the PBE and HSE06 functionals, respectively. Applying external strain may induce the indirect-direct gap transition and significant variation of the energy gap. The calculated optical spectra indicate the enhancement of the optical absorption in a wide energy range from infrared to ultraviolet as induced by the applied strain. In the visible and ultraviolet regime, the absorption coefficient can reach values as large as 82.700 (10(4)/cm) and 91.458 (10(4)/cm). Results suggest that the thermoelectric performance may be improved considerably by applying proper external strain with the figure of merit reaching a value of 0.665. Our work demonstrates that the external biaxial strains may be an effective method to make the beta-Sb monolayer prospective 2D material for optoelectronic and thermoelectric applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000663422800002 Publication Date 2021-04-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1369-8001 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.359 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.359
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179565 Serial 7021
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Author Thomassen, G.; Dewulf, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Prospective material and substance flow analysis of the end-of-life phase of crystalline silicon-based PV modules Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 176 Issue Pages (up) 105917
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The approaching end-of life phase of early installed PV modules gave rise to a variety of potential end-of-life strategies, ranging from basic generic waste management strategies to advanced case-specific recycling options. However, no comprehensive assessment on the full range of technological possibilities is available and only limited attention was given to the material recovery rates of these different technologies in light of circular economy. In addition, current material recovery rates are indifferent towards the material value and the value of their secondary applications. Based on an extensive literature review, ten end-of-life scenarios with potential learning effects are identified and their material flows are quantified using a combined material and substance flow analysis. Subsequently, material recovery rates from a mass, economic value and embodied energy perspective are calculated, incorporating the differences in secondary applications. The differences in the mass-based recovery rates of the seven end-of-life scenarios that did not have landfill or municipal waste incineration as the main destination were minimal, as 73-79% of the mass was recovered for the best-case learning scenario. For the economic value recovery rate (9-66%) and the embodied energy recovery rate (18-45%), more profound differences were found. The collection rate was identified as most crucial parameter for all end-of-life scenarios, learning scenarios and recycling indicators. The mass-based recovery rate might favor end-of-life scenarios that lead to dissipation of valuable materials in non-functional secondary applications. Additional targets are required to avoid cascading of valuable materials and to avoid the economic cost and environmental burden of virgin materials.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000708339400003 Publication Date 2021-10-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:182462 Serial 6939
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Author Cagno, S.; Lind, O.C.; Popic, J.M.; Skipperud, L.; De Nolf, W.; Nuyts, G.; Vanmeert, F.; Jaroszewicz, J.; Janssens, K.; Salbu, B.
Title Micro-analytical characterization of thorium-rich aggregates from Norwegian NORM sites (Fen Complex, Telemark) Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Journal Of Environmental Radioactivity Abbreviated Journal J Environ Radioactiv
Volume 219 Issue Pages (up) 106273
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract In this study we performed microscopic characterization of mineral particles that were collected in the thorium-rich Fen Complex in Norway and identified and isolated based on autoradiography in function of their radioactivity. For this we combined information obtained with X-ray absorption mu-CT, mu-XRF and mu-XRD, both in bi- and in three-dimensional (tomographic) mode. We demonstrate that radionuclides and metals are heterogeneously distributed both within soil samples and within individual Th-enriched aggregates, which are characterised as low-density mineral bulk particles with high density material inclusions, where Th as well as several metals are highly concentrated. For these sites, it is important to take into account how these inhomogeneous distributions could affect the overall environmental behaviour of Th and progeny upon weathering due to human or environmental factors. Moreover, the estimated size of the Th-containing inclusions as determined in this work represents information of importance for the characterization of radionuclides and toxic metals exposure, as well as for assessing the viability of mining for Th and rare-earth metals in the Fen Complex and the associated environmental impact.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000535130500005 Publication Date 2020-04-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0265-931x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.3 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.3; 2020 IF: 2.31
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181195 Serial 8229
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Author Alvarez-Martin, A.; Kavich, G.
Title SPME-GC–MS for the off-gassing analysis of a complex museum object Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Microchemical Journal Abbreviated Journal Microchem J
Volume 167 Issue Pages (up) 106276
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract The identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by a complex museum object, composed of materials of different nature, has been optimized by solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC–MS). The performance of two fiber coatings and four sampling times were tested and compared in order to define the best sampling conditions. The method allowed a fair extraction of volatile and semivolatile compounds emitted naturally by the object, without any type of accelerating aging. In addition, on-fiber derivatization was applied to improve the extraction efficiency and reduce the sampling time of harmful carboxylic acids emitted by the object. The results obtained are of prime importance to show the off-gassing activity of a valuable museum object in order to take further decisions related with its storage and display conditions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000662640500001 Publication Date 2021-04-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.034 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.034
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181924 Serial 8577
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Spiller, M.; Moretti, M.; De Paepe, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Environmental and economic sustainability of the nitrogen recovery paradigm : evidence from a structured literature review Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 184 Issue Pages (up) 106406-106413
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Our economy drives on reactive nitrogen (Nr); while Nr emissions to the environment surpass the planetary boundary. Increasingly, it is advocated to recover Nr contained in waste streams and to reuse it ‘directly’ in the agri-food chain. Alternatively, Nr in waste streams may be removed as N2 and refixed via the Haber-Bosch process in an ‘indirect’ reuse loop. As a systematic sustainability analysis of ‘direct’ Nr reuse and its comparison to the ‘indirect’ reuse loop is lacking, this structured review aimed to analyze literature determining the environmental and economic sustainability of Nr recovery technologies. Bibliometric records were queried from 2000 to 2020 using Boolean search strings, and manual text coding. In total, 63 studies were selected for the review. Results suggest that ‘direct’ Nr reuse using Nr recovery technologies is the preferred paradigm as the majority of studies concluded that it is sustainable or that it can be sustainable depending on technological assumptions and other scenario variables. Only 17 studies compared the ‘direct’ with the ‘indirect’ Nr reuse route, therefore a system perspective in Nr recovery sustainability assessments should be more widely adopted. Furthermore, Nr reuse should also be analyzed in the context of a ‘new Nr economy’ that relies on decentralized Nr production from renewable energy. It is also recommended that on-par technology readiness level comparisons should be carried out, making use of technology development and technology learning methodologies. Finally, by-products of Nr recovery are important to be accounted for as they are reducing the environmental burdens through avoided impacts.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000804938100001 Publication Date 2022-05-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188873 Serial 7156
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Author Chernozem, R., V; Romanyuk, K.N.; Grubova, I.; Chernozem, P., V.; Surmeneva, M.A.; Mukhortova, Y.R.; Wilhelm, M.; Ludwig, T.; Mathur, S.; Kholkin, A.L.; Neyts, E.; Parakhonskiy, B.; Skirtach, A.G.; Surmenev, R.A.
Title Enhanced piezoresponse and surface electric potential of hybrid biodegradable polyhydroxybutyrate scaffolds functionalized with reduced graphene oxide for tissue engineering Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Nano Energy Abbreviated Journal Nano Energy
Volume 89 Issue B Pages (up) 106473
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Piezoelectricity is considered to be one of the key functionalities in biomaterials to boost bone tissue regeneration, however, integrating biocompatibility, biodegradability and 3D structure with pronounced piezoresponse remains a material challenge. Herein, novel hybrid biocompatible 3D scaffolds based on biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) flakes have been developed. Nanoscale insights revealed a more homogenous distribution and superior surface potential values of PHB fibers (33 +/- 29 mV) with increasing rGO content up to 1.0 wt% (314 +/- 31 mV). The maximum effective piezoresponse was detected at 0.7 wt% rGO content, demonstrating 2.5 and 1.7 times higher out-of-plane and in-plane values, respectively, than that for pure PHB fibers. The rGO addition led to enhanced zigzag chain formation between paired lamellae in PHB fibers. In contrast, a further increase in rGO content reduced the alpha-crystal size and prevented zigzag chain conformation. A corresponding model explaining structural and molecular changes caused by rGO addition in electrospun PHB fibers is proposed. In addition, finite element analysis revealed a negligible vertical piezoresponse compared to lateral piezoresponse in uniaxially oriented PHB fibers based on alpha-phase (P2(1)2(1)2(1) space group). Thus, the present study demonstrates promising results for the development of biodegradable hybrid 3D scaffolds with an enhanced piezoresponse for various tissue engineering applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000703592700002 Publication Date 2021-08-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2211-2855 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 12.343 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 12.343
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:182579 Serial 7914
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Author Martinez-Villarreal, S.; Breitenstein, A.; Nimmegeers, P.; Perez Saura, P.; Hai, B.; Asomaning, J.; Eslami, A.A.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Bressler, D.C.; Debecker, D.P.; Remacle, C.; Richel, A.
Title Drop-in biofuels production from microalgae to hydrocarbons : microalgal cultivation and harvesting, conversion pathways, economics and prospects for aviation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 165 Issue Pages (up) 106555-22
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract In the last few years, governments all around the world have agreed upon migrating towards carbon-neutral economies as a strategy for restraining the effects of climate change. A major obstacle limiting this achievement is greenhouse gases emissions, for which the aviation sector is a key contributor because of its dependence on fossil fuels. As an alternative, biofuels with similar characteristics to current fossil-fuels and fully compatible with the existing petroleum infrastructure (i.e., drop-in biofuels) are being developed. In this regard, microalgae are a promising feedstock thanks to, among other aspects, their potential for lipid accumulation. This review outlines the development status, opportunities, and challenges of different technologies that are capable of or applicable to transform microalgae into aviation fuels. To this effect, a baseline of the existing jet fuels and the requirements for potential aviation biofuels is initially presented. Then, microalgae production and valorization techniques are discussed with an emphasis on the thermochemical pathways. Finally, an assessment of the present techno-economic feasibility of microalgae-derived aviation fuels is discussed, along with the authors’ point of view on the suitability of these techniques. Further developments are needed to reduce the costs of cultivation and harvesting of microalgae, and a biorefinery approach might improve the economics of the overall process. In addition, while each of the conversion routes described has its advantages and drawbacks, they converge upon the need of optimizing the deoxygenation techniques and the proportion of the suitable type of hydrocarbons that match fuel requirements.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000861095400001 Publication Date 2022-08-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189953 Serial 7354
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Baly, L.; Quesada, I.; Murray, A.S.; Martin, G.; van Espen, P.; Arteche, R.; Jain, M.
Title Modeling the charge deposition in quartz grains during natural irradiation and its influence on the optically stimulated luminescence signal Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Radiation Measurements Abbreviated Journal Radiat Meas
Volume 142 Issue Pages (up) 106564
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract The rate of charge deposition in quartz grains irradiated in natural conditions is computed by radiation transport modeling. Quartz luminescence models are modified with the addition of the resulting charge deposition term, and the influence of this process on the optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) signal is analyzed. The results indicate that the charge deposition occurring in the quartz grain during the time of residence within rock could lead to the depletion of trapped holes in the recombination centres. For the two different quartz models investigated here, complete depletion is expected to occur for rock ages between 500 Ma and 1100 Ma. It is predicted that for sedimentary quartz derived from such rocks, the OSL signal is dominated by the slow component. It was also found that the shape and saturation level of the natural sensitivity-corrected dose response curve (DRC) of quartz is affected by the charge deposition; specifically, a linear reduction of the saturation level with the age of the rock is observed.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000639160300003 Publication Date 2021-03-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1350-4487 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.442 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.442
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178307 Serial 8265
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Van Putte, N.; Meire, P.; Seuntjens, P.; Joris, I.; Verreydt, G.; Hambsch, L.; Temmerman, S.
Title Solving hindered groundwater dynamics in restored tidal marshes by creek excavation and soil amendments : a model study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Ecological engineering: the journal of ecotechnology Abbreviated Journal Ecol Eng
Volume 178 Issue Pages (up) 106583-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Ecosphere
Abstract Groundwater fluxes in tidal marshes largely control key ecosystem functions and services, such as vegetation growth, soil carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling. In tidal marshes restored on formerly embanked agricultural land, groundwater fluxes are often limited as compared to nearby natural marshes, as a result of historical agricultural soil compaction. To improve the functioning of restored tidal marshes, knowledge is needed on how much certain design options can optimize soil-groundwater interactions in future restoration projects. Based on measured data on soil properties and tidally induced groundwater dynamics, we calibrated and evaluated a 2D vertical model of a creek-marsh cross-section, accounting for both saturated and unsaturated groundwater flow and solute transport in a variably saturated groundwater flow model. We found that model simulations of common restoration practices such as soil amendments (increasing the depth of porous soil on top of the compact layer) and creek excavation (increasing the creek density) increase the soil aeration depth and time, the drainage depth and the solute flux, and decrease the residence time of solutes in the porewater. Our simulations indicate that increasing the depth to the compact layer from 20 cm to 40 cm, or increasing the creek density from 1 creek to 2 creeks along a 50 m marsh transect (while maintaining the total creek cross-sectional area), in both cases more than doubles the volume of water processed by the marsh soil. We discuss that this may stimulate nutrient cycling. As such, our study demonstrates that groundwater modelling can support the design of marsh restoration measures aiming to optimize groundwater fluxes and related ecosystem services.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000795478200005 Publication Date 2022-03-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0925-8574 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.8
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:186605 Serial 7210
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Author Raes, A.; Ninakanti, R.; Van den Bergh, L.; Borah, R.; Van Doorslaer, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Black titania by sonochemistry : a critical evaluation of existing methods Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Ultrasonics sonochemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 100 Issue Pages (up) 106601-106609
Keywords A1 Journal article; Theory and Spectroscopy of Molecules and Materials (TSM²); Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA)
Abstract In the field of photocatalysis, the fabrication of black titania is a booming topic, as it offers a system with improved solar light harvesting properties and increased overall efficiency. The darkening of white TiO2 powders can be ascribed to surface hydroxylation, oxygen vacancies, Ti3+ centres, or a combination thereof. A handful of studies suggests these defects can be conveniently introduced by acoustic cavitation, generated during sonochemical treatment of pristine TiO2 powders. In reproducing these studies, P25 TiO2 samples were ultrasonicated for various hours with a power density of 8000 W/L, resulting in powders that indeed became gradually darker with increasing sonication time. However, HAADF–STEM revealed that extensive erosion of the sonotrode tip took place and contaminated the samples, which appeared to be the primary reason for the observed colour change. This was confirmed by UV–Vis DRS and DRIFTS, that showed no significant alteration of the catalyst surface after sonication. EPR measurements showed that only an insignificant fraction of Ti3+ centres were produced, far less than in a TiO2 sample that was chemically reduced with NaBH4. No evidence of the presence oxygen vacancies could be found. The enhanced photocatalytic activities of ultrasonicated materials reported in literature can therefore not be ascribed to the synthesis of actual black (defected) TiO2, but rather to specific changes in morphology as a result of acoustic cavitation. Also, this study underlines the importance of considering probe erosion in sonochemical catalyst synthesis, which is an unavoidable side effect that can have an important impact on the catalyst appearance, properties and performance.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001084391500001 Publication Date 2023-09-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1350-4177 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 8.4; 2023 IF: 4.218
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198848 Serial 8838
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Borms, L.; Brusselaers, J.; Vrancken, K.C.M.; Deckmyn, S.; Marynissen, P.
Title Toward resilient organizations after COVID-19 : an analysis of circular and less circular companies Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal
Volume 188 Issue Pages (up) 106681-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic had large repercussions for our economy and organizations. Improved resilience can give organizations the ability to withstand crises and build back better and faster. This article assesses resilience of organizations and sole proprietorships in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic with eight circular strategies as explanatory variables. Furthermore, these eight circular strategies are also used to assess the organizations' and sole proprietorships' resilience outside of the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis is conducted to explain how circular strategies can help companies and sole proprietorships maintain stability. The analysis was performed by means of a survey conducted between May and June 2020 in Flanders (Belgium), using a sample of 542 respondents. After performing a regression analysis combined with expert opinions collected through interviews, we find that companies and sole proprietorships with a higher circularity score have a significantly higher resilience score during crises and during normal times, compared to less circular companies. Furthermore, we find that the size of the company does not matter during a crisis to adapt and react flexibly, while it is important when there is no crisis. Finally, we argue that it is the combination of different circular strategies which yields to the highest results for the organizations' resilience and we provide policy recommendations based on the most asked support measures.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000867675200008 Publication Date 2022-09-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2023 IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191513 Serial 7344
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Van Schoubroeck, S.; Chacon, L.; Reynolds, A.M.; Lavoine, N.; Hakovirta, M.; Gonzalez, R.; Van Passel, S.; Venditti, R.A.
Title Environmental sustainability perception toward obvious recovered waste content in paper-based packaging : an online and in-person survey best-worst scaling experiment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal
Volume 188 Issue Pages (up) 106682-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This study explores consumers' visual sustainability impressions of paper-based packaging that has incorporated obvious waste content. Two research questions were addressed concerning (i) the environmental sustainability perception of noticeable waste content in packaging and (ii) the impact of the presentation format (i.e., online versus in-person surveys) when studying these perceptions. Best-worst scaling experiments were conducted, which made respondents choose the 'most' and 'least' environmentally friendly package. Packages were designed using paperboard substrates blending either brown linerboard or white hardwood pulp with different recovered waste materials. The results showed that consumers perceive obvious waste-containing packaging as more environmentally friendly than classical packaging (with no visual waste). Samples with a brown base and agricultural waste were perceived as more sustainable compared to white packaging and the use of paper waste. In addition, the presentation format changed respondents' perception, and should therefore be carefully considered when designing surveys.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000867675200002 Publication Date 2022-09-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2023 IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191509 Serial 7357
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Wittner, N.; Gergely, S.; Slezsák, J.; Broos, W.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Cornet, I.
Title Follow-up of solid-state fungal wood pretreatment by a novel near-infrared spectroscopy-based lignin calibration model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of microbiological methods Abbreviated Journal
Volume 208 Issue Pages (up) 106725-106727
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
Abstract Lignin removal plays a crucial role in the efficient bioconversion of lignocellulose to fermentable sugars. As a delignification process, fungal pretreatment has gained great interest due to its environmental friendliness and low energy consumption. In our previous study, a positive linear correlation between acid-insoluble lignin degradation and the achievable enzymatic saccharification yield has been found, hereby highlighting the importance of the close follow-up of lignin degradation during the solid-state fungal pretreatment process. However, the standard quantification of lignin, which relies on the two-step acid hydrolysis of the biomass, is highly laborious and time-consuming. Vibrational spectroscopy has been proven as a fast and easy alternative; however, it has not been extensively researched on lignocellulose subjected to solid-state fungal pretreatment. Therefore, the present study examined the suitability of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) for the rapid and easy assessment of lignin content in poplar wood pretreated with Phanerochaete chrysosporium. Furthermore, the predictive power of the obtained calibration model and the recently published ATR-FTIR spectroscopy-based model were compared for the first time using the same fungus-treated wood data set. PLSR was used to correlate the NIR spectra to the acid-insoluble lignin contents (19.9%-27.1%) of pretreated wood. After normalization and second derivation, a PLSR model with a good coefficient of determination (RCV2 = 0.89) and a low root mean square error (RMSECV = 0.55%) were obtained despite the heterogeneous nature of the fungal solid-state fermentation. The performance of this PLSR model was comparably good to the one obtained by ATR-FTIR (RCV2 = 0.87) while it required more extensive spectral pre-processing. In conclusion, both methods will be highly useful for the high-throughput and user-friendly monitoring of lignin degradation in a solid-state fungal pretreatment-based biorefinery concept.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000983287400001 Publication Date 2023-04-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0167-7012 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.2; 2023 IF: 1.79
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195814 Serial 9038
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Moretti, M.; Vanschoenwinkel, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Accounting for externalities in cross-sectional economic models of climate change impacts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 185 Issue Pages (up) 107058
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Environmental effects and natural resources depletion associated with agriculture production affect the agriculture response to climate change. Traditional cross-sectional climate response models ignore this requirement. This research estimates the impact of climate on European agriculture using a continental scale Ricardian analysis. We correct farm income by accounting for resources (energy, fertilisers, pesticides, and water) use intensity and calculate the sustainable value for a sample of 9497 specialized field crop farms. Compared with the traditional Ricardian method, the marginal effects of temperature remain positive (but less positive) in Northern countries, while it leads to less damages in Southern countries when net revenue and farms? sustainable values are used as dependent variables. Accounting for the environmental effects and depletion of natural capital improves the ability of the Ricardian method to estimate agriculture climate response functions in the long run.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000647544700012 Publication Date 2021-04-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.965 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.965
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178955 Serial 6911
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Gestels, A.; Van der Snickt, G.; Caen, J.; Nuyts, G.; Legrand, S.; Vanmeert, F.; Detry, F.; Janssens, K.; Steenackers, G.
Title Combined MA-XRF, MA-XRPD and SEM-EDX analysis of a medieval stained-glass panel formerly from Notre Dame, Paris reveals its material history Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal Microchem J
Volume 177 Issue Pages (up) 107304
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract As part of its conservation-restoration, the 13th century stained-glass panel ‘the Annunciation’, was examined at the micro- and macro level. This window, since 1898 in the collection of the Museum Mayer Van den Bergh (Antwerp, B), was formerly a part of the southern Rose window of the Notre Dame Cathedral (Paris, F). The insigths emerging from a first phase of the analysis, comprising non-invasive analysis techniques such as optical microscopy combined with macroscopic X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) and X-ray diffraction (MA-XRPD) mapping, were used to select sampling positions for the second phase of investigation that involved micro-invasive analysis, namely scanning-electron microscopy coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX). The aim of the investigation was fourfold: (1) to assess the applicability of MA-XRF scanning for the characterisation of stained glass windows prior to any conservation or restoration procedure, (2) to assess the applicability of MA-XRPD scanning to identify the degradation products formed on the surface of stained glass windows, (3) to establish a method to limit the set of sampled glass fragments taken from a glass panel for quantititive analysis while maintaining sufficient representativeness and (4) to distinguish the original glass panes and grisaille paint from non-original glass panes that were inserted during various past interventions. Most of the panes in this window proved to consist of medieval potash glass, consistent with the 13th c. origin of the window while a limited number of panes were identified as non-original infills, with divergent glass compositional types and/or colorants. Most panes derive their color from the pot metal glass (i.e. homogenously colored) they were made of. Some of the panes that originally had a red flashed layer on their surface, completely or partially lost this layer due to weathering. Three main compositional glass families with similar color could be defined. With the exception of the yellow and orange panes, the chromophoric elements responsible for the dark(er) and light(er) blue (Co), green (Cu), purple (Mn) and red colors (Cu) were identified. Two different grisaille paints were encountered, part of which were restored during the 19th century. On the basis of this information, all missing pieces were replaced by glass panes with appropriate colors and the panel could be successfully conserved to its former glory. On the surface of several panes, typical glass degradation products such as calcite, syngenite and gypsum were identified, together with lead based degradation products such as anglesite and palmierite. In addition, the presence of hematite and melanotekite in the grisailles was observed; also the presence of Zn, uncorrelated to Cu, in the grissailes on the right side of the window became apparent.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000850000900001 Publication Date 2022-02-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.8
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187493 Serial 7138
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Bjørnåvold, A.; David, M.; Bohan, D.A.; Gibert, C.; Rousselle, J.-M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Why does France not meet its pesticide reduction targets? Farmers' socio-economic trade-offs when adopting agro-ecological practices Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 198 Issue Pages (up) 107440-28
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Despite substantial policy efforts made by the French government to reduce dependence on pesticides, farming practices are only changing slowly. This paper analyses the socio-economic trade-offs that 110 farmers are currently facing in the transition to agro-ecological practices. A mixed-method approach – a quantitative discrete choice experiment (DCE) and qualitative interviews – was set up to understand these farmers' motivations and perspectives, and how policy can improve to accompany them on the road to low chemical input farming. Results of the DCE indicate that the majority of the farmers in our sample are keen to change practices but are at a loss as to how this can be done, as a number of preferences for this transition came out as inconclusive. Qualitative interviews with a representative sample of the farmers that took part in the DCE complemented this result by illustrating a deep uncertainty for the future and a disconnect felt between authorities and themselves as a group. We argue that this uncertainty contributed to a lack of clear-cut solutions established through the DCE. The indepth discussions with farmers illustrated the wish for concrete and local policy measures based on farmers' networks and peer support.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000802083900003 Publication Date 2022-05-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188764 Serial 7375
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Tschulkow, M.; Pizzol, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van den Bosch, S.; Sels, B.; Van Passel, S.
Title The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal
Volume 204 Issue Pages (up) 107466-107469
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The emerging reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery which is currently under development aims to convert woody biomass efficiently into high-value products. Despite its potential, the environmental consequences of its implementation are not well known. Therefore, a forward-looking consequential life cycle assessment examines greenhouse gas emissions associated with its products (pulp, phenolic monomers, and oligomers) compared to alternative market options. Findings indicate that current greenhouse gas emissions exceed those of the existing alternatives, with by-products and the gaseous waste stream as major contributors. Process adaption to (i) produce higher-valued products (bleached pulps, phenols, and propylene) and (ii) incinerate gaseous waste stream for energy are proposed, potentially reducing emissions by up to 50 %, outperforming alternative options. Compared to land-based transportation, waterways can increase feedstock availability by up to 1000 km without an increase in emissions. In conclusion, the consequential approach provides valuable insights for enhancing and optimizing the environmental performance of the process.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001186282000001 Publication Date 2024-02-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205493 Serial 9234
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Van Oijstaeijen, W.; Van Passel, S.; Back, P.; Cools, J.
Title The politics of green infrastructure : a discrete choice experiment with Flemish local decision-makers Type Administrative Services
Year 2022 Publication Ecological Economics Abbreviated Journal Ecol Econ
Volume 199 Issue Pages (up) 107493-18
Keywords Administrative Services; A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Being confronted with increasing and expanding urbanisation and the loss of natural green spaces, our living environment is threatened more and more by the effects of global climate change. Green infrastructure is often thought of as the solution to increase climate resilience and reinforce the quality of the lived environment simultaneously. While the benefits, or ecosystem services, that are generated through green infrastructure have been studied intensively, forces that influence green infrastructure decision-making have been far less subjected to thorough research. In this study a discrete choice experiment was conducted with local decision makers in Flemish municipalities to reveal crucial factors in the decision process applied to green infrastructure projects. Flanders is one of the most densely built regions in Europe, stressing the urgency to understand local spatial decision factors to guarantee green space. 568 decision makers active in the local administration of 235 Flemish municipalities participated in the experiment, set in a hypothetical neighbourhood park. Every choice alternative exists of five attributes: investment cost, maintenance cost, deferred investment, recreational value, and climate impact. We find that barriers hampering Flemish munipalities' GI implementation, differ over size of the municipality: smallers municipalities are more affected by knowledge gaps, while larger municipalities are experiencing prioritization issues. Results from hierarchical Bayes choice models indicate that municipal decisions on green infrastructure are highly – almost solely -cost-driven, rarely consider the full range of benefits, and centre around short-term and immediate arguments. Moreover, interaction models reveal that a municipalities' financial result is a key determinant of its willingness to invest in public greening and consider long term benefits, suggesting that GI is a luxury good. The results expose some of the heuristics in GI decision making and can be used to inform higher authorities on ways to overcome barriers towards informed decision-making and to facilitate GI investment.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000811715200008 Publication Date 2022-06-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-8009; 1873-6106 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189018 Serial 7371
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Author Schram, J.; Parrilla, M.; Slosse, A.; Van Durme, F.; Åberg, J.; Björk, K.; Bijvoets, S.M.; Sap, S.; Heerschop, M.W.J.; De Wael, K.
Title Paraformaldehyde-coated electrochemical sensor for improved on-site detection of amphetamine in street samples Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal
Volume 179 Issue Pages (up) 107518-107519
Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract The increasing illicit production, distribution and abuse of amphetamine (AMP) poses a challenge for law enforcement worldwide. To effectively combat this issue, fast and portable tools for the on-site screening of suspicious samples are required. Electrochemical profile (EP)-based sensing of illicit drugs has proven to be a viable option for this purpose as it allows rapid voltammetric measurements via the use of disposable and low-cost graphite screen-printed electrodes (SPEs). In this work, a highly practical paraformaldehyde (PFA)-coated sensor, which unlocks the detectability of primary amines through derivatization, is developed for the on-site detection of AMP in seized drug samples. A potential interval was defined at the sole AMP peak (which is used for identification of the target analyte) to account for potential shifts due to fluctuations in concentration and temperature, which are relevant factors for on-site use. Importantly, it was found that AMP detection was not hindered by the presence of common diluents and adulterants such as caffeine, even when present in high amounts. When inter-drug differentiation is desired, a simultaneous second test with the same solution on an unmodified electrode is introduced to provide the required additional electrochemical information. Finally, the concept was validated by analyzing 30 seized AMP samples (reaching a sensitivity of 96.7 %) and comparing its performance to that of commercially available Raman and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) devices.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000809675500010 Publication Date 2022-04-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188454 Serial 8910
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