“The process of cutting GMLmn bodies with dm-knives”. Tavkhelidze I, Gielis J, Sn –, 1512-0066 32, 67 (2018)
Keywords: A3 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
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“Of enzyme use in cost-effective high solid simultaneous saccharification and fermentation processes”. Sóti V, Lenaerts S, Cornet I, Journal of biotechnology 270, 70 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JBIOTEC.2018.01.020
Abstract: Enzyme cost is considered to be one of the most significant factors defining the final product price in lignocellulose hydrolysis and fermentation. Enzyme immobilization and recycling can be a tool to decrease costs. However, high solid loading is a key factor towards high product titers, and recovery of immobilized enzymes from this thick liquid is often overlooked. This paper aims to evaluate the economic feasibility of immobilized enzymes in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) of lignocellulose biomass in general, as well as the recuperation of magnetic immobilized enzymes (m-CLEAs) during high solid loading in simultaneous saccharification, detoxification and fermentation processes (SSDF) of lignocellulose biomass. Enzyme prices were obtained from general cost estimations by Klein-Marcuschamer et al. [Klein-Marcuschamer et al. (2012) Biotechnol. Bioeng. 109, 10831087]. During enzyme cost analysis, the influence of inoculum recirculation as well as a shortened fermentation time was explored. Both resulted in 15% decrease of final enzyme product price. Enzyme recuperation was investigated experimentally and 99.5 m/m% of m-CLEAs was recovered from liquid medium in one step, while 88 m/m% could still be recycled from a thick liquid with high solid concentrations (SSF fermentation broth). A mathematical model was constructed to calculate the cost of immobilized and free enzyme utilization and showed that, with current process efficiencies and commercial enzyme prices, the cost reduction obtained by enzyme immobilization can reach around 60% compared to free enzyme utilization, while lower enzyme prices will result in a lower percentage of immobilization related savings, but overall enzyme costs will decrease significantly. These results are applied in a case study, estimating the viability of shifting from sugar to lignocellulose substrate for a 100 t lactic acid fermentation batch. It was concluded that it will only be economically feasible if the enzymes are produced at the most optimistic variable cost and either the activity of the immobilized catalyst or the recovery efficiency is further increased.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
Impact Factor: 2.599
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/J.JBIOTEC.2018.01.020
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“Study of the intrinsic limitations of the contact resistance of metal/semiconductor interfaces through atomistic simulations”. Dabral A, Pourtois G, Sankaran K, Magnus W, Yu H, de de Meux AJ, Lu AKA, Clima S, Stokbro K, Schaekers M, Collaert N, Horiguchi N, Houssa M, ECS journal of solid state science and technology 7, N73 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1149/2.0041806JSS
Abstract: In this contribution, we report a fundamental study of the factors that set the contact resistivity between metals and highly doped n-type 2D and 3D semiconductors. We investigate the case of n-type doped Si contacted with amorphous TiSi combining first principles calculations with Non-Equilibrium Green functions transport simulations. The evolution of the intrinsic contact resistivity with the doping concentration is found to saturate at similar to 2 x 10(-10) Omega.cm(2) for the case of TiSi and imposes an intrinsic limit to the ultimate contact resistance achievable for n-doped Silamorphous-TiSi (aTiSi). The limit arises from the intrinsic properties of the semiconductors and of the metals such as their electron effective masses and Fermi energies. We illustrate that, in this regime, contacting heavy electron effective mass metals with semiconductor helps reducing the interface intrinsic contact resistivity. This observation seems to hold true regardless of the 3D character of the semiconductor, as illustrated for the case of three 2D semiconducting materials, namely MoS2, ZrS2 and HfS2. (C) The Author(s) 2018. Published by ECS.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.787
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1149/2.0041806JSS
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“Influence of stress aging process on variants of nano-N4Ti3precipitates and martensitic transformation temperatures in NiTi shape memory alloy”. Radi A, Khalil-Allafi J, Etminanfar MR, Pourbabak S, Schryvers D, Amin-Ahmadi B, Materials &, design 262, 74 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2018.01.024
Abstract: In this study, the effect of a stress aging process on the microstructure and martensitic phase transformation of NiTi shape memory alloy has been investigated. NiTi samples were aged at 450 degrees C for 1 h and 5 h under different levels of external tensile stress of 15, 60 and 150 MPa. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to characterize different variants and morphology of precipitates. The results show that application of all stress levels restricts the formation of precipitates variants in the microstructure after I h stress aging process. However, all variants can be detected by prolonging aging time to 5 h at 15 MPa stress level and the variants formation is again restricted by increasing the stress level. Moreover, the stress aging process resulted in changing the shape of precipitates in comparison with that of the stress-free aged samples. Coffee-bean shaped morphologies were detected for precipitates in all stress levels. According to the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) results, the martensite start temperature (M-s) on cooling shifts to higher temperatures with increasing the tensile stress during the aging process. This can be related to the change ofaustenite to martensite interface energy due to the different volume fractions and variants of precipitates. (c) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.364
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2018.01.024
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“Exploring possibilities of band gap measurement with off-axis EELS in TEM”. Korneychuk S, Partoens B, Guzzinati G, Ramaneti R, Derluyn J, Haenen K, Verbeeck J, Ultramicroscopy 189, 76 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2018.03.021
Abstract: A technique to measure the band gap of dielectric materials with high refractive index by means of energy electron loss spectroscopy (EELS) is presented. The technique relies on the use of a circular (Bessel) aperture and suppresses Cherenkov losses and surface-guided light modes by enforcing a momentum transfer selection. The technique also strongly suppresses the elastic zero loss peak, making the acquisition, interpretation and signal to noise ratio of low loss spectra considerably better, especially for excitations in the first few eV of the EELS spectrum. Simulations of the low loss inelastic electron scattering probabilities demonstrate the beneficial influence of the Bessel aperture in this setup even for high accelerating voltages. The importance of selecting the optimal experimental convergence and collection angles is highlighted. The effect of the created off-axis acquisition conditions on the selection of the transitions from valence to conduction bands is discussed in detail on a simplified isotropic two band model. This opens the opportunity for deliberately selecting certain transitions by carefully tuning the microscope parameters. The suggested approach is experimentally demonstrated and provides good signal to noise ratio and interpretable band gap signals on reference samples of diamond, GaN and AlN while offering spatial resolution in the nm range. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2018.03.021
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“Refinery and concentration of nutrients from urine with electrodialysis enabled by upstream precipitation and nitrification”. De Paepe J, Lindeboom REF, Vanoppen M, De Paepe K, Demey D, Coessens W, Lamaze B, Verliefde ARD, Clauwaert P, Vlaeminck SE, Water research 144, 76 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.WATRES.2018.07.016
Abstract: Human urine is a valuable resource for nutrient recovery, given its high levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, but the compositional complexity of urine presents a challenge for an energy-efficient concentration and refinery of nutrients. In this study, a pilot installation combining precipitation, nitrification and electrodialysis (ED), designed for one person equivalent (1.2 L-urine d(-l)), was continuously operated for similar to 7 months. First, NaOH addition yielded calcium and magnesium precipitation, preventing scaling in ED. Second, a moving bed biofilm reactor oxidized organics, preventing downstream biofouling, and yielded complete nitrification on diluted urine (20-40%, i.e. dilution factors 5 and 2.5) at an average loading rate of 215 mg N L-1 d(-1). Batch tests demonstrated the halotolerance of the nitrifying community, with nitrification rates not affected up to an electrical conductivity of 40 mS cm(-1) and gradually decreasing, yet ongoing, activity up to 96 mS cm(-1) at 18% of the maximum rate. Next-generation 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing revealed that switching from a synthetic influent to real urine induced a profound shift in microbial community and that the AOB community was dominated by halophilic species closely related to Nitrosomonas aestuarii and Nitrosomonas marina. Third, nitrate, phosphate and potassium in the filtered (0.1 mu m) bioreactor effluent were concentrated by factors 43, 2.6 and 4.6, respectively, with ED. Doubling the urine concentration from 20% to 40% further increased the ED recovery efficiency by similar to 10%. Batch experiments at pH 6, 7 and 8 indicated a more efficient phosphate transport to the concentrate at pH 7. The newly proposed three-stage strategy opens up opportunities for energy- and chemical-efficient nutrient recovery from urine. Precipitation and nitrification enabled the long-term continuous operation of ED on fresh urine requiring minimal maintenance, which has, to the best of our knowledge, never been achieved before. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.WATRES.2018.07.016
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“Titanium (germano-)silicides featuring 10-9 Ω.cm2 contact resistivity and improved compatibility to advanced CMOS technology”. Yu H, Schaekers M, Chew SA, Eyeraert J-L, Dabral A, Pourtois G, Horiguchi N, Mocuta D, Collaert N, De Meyer K, 2018 18th International Workshop On Junction Technology (iwjt) , 80 (2018)
Abstract: uIn this work, we discuss three novel Ti (germano-)silicidation techniques featuring respectively the pre-contact amorphization implantation (PCAI), the TiSi co-deposition, and Ti atomic layer deposition (ALD). All three techniques form TiSix(Ge-y) contacts with ultralow contact resistivity (rho(c)) of (1-3)x10(-9) Omega.cm(2) on both highly doped n-Si and p-SiGe substrates: these techniques meet rho(c) requirement of 5-14 nm CMOS technology and feature unified CMOS contact solutions. We further discuss the compatibility of these techniques to the realistic CMOS transistor fabrication.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
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“The multiple orientation relationships and morphology of beta phase in Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloy”. Weng Y, Jia Z, Ding L, Muraishi S, Wu X, Liu Q, Journal of alloys and compounds 767, 81 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JALLCOM.2018.07.077
Abstract: The orientation relationships (ORs), segregation behavior and morphologies of beta precipitate in an over aged Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloy are systematically characterized by atomic resolution high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). Six different ORs and two morphologies, i.e. rod-and lath-like are revealed for beta precipitates, and Cu segregation at the (beta/alpha-Al interface is observed in all these precipitates. The rod-like beta precipitate has multiple beta-angles ranging from 6.1 to 14.1 degrees and non-uniform Cu segregation at the (beta/alpha-Al interface, while the lath-like beta precipitate has a constant beta-angle of 0 degrees and a periodic Cu segregation. These different ORs are explained to be attributable to the rotation of QP lattice, a near-hexagonal network of Si columns formed within beta precipitates, which causes different lattice matching of beta with alpha-Al lattice. These findings provide new insights in controlling the precipitation hardening and mechanical properties of this type of alloys. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.133
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.JALLCOM.2018.07.077
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“Assessing the stability of arsenic sulfide pigments and influence of the binding media on their degradation by means of spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques”. Vermeulen M, Janssens K, Sanyova J, Rahemi V, McGlinchey C, De Wael K, Microchemical journal 138, 82 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2018.01.004
Abstract: In this paper, we used the semiconducting and lightfastness properties of synthetic and mineral arsenic sulfide pigments to study their stability by means of electrochemical and microfadometric techniques. A combination of these techniques shows that in the early stage of the degradation process, amorphous arsenic sulfides are more stable than both crystalline forms, while upon longer exposure time, amorphous pigments will fade more than both mineral pigments, making it less suitable. While the stability study was carried out on unbound pigments, the influence of the organic binder on the relative degradation of the arsenic sulfide pigments was investigated through a multi-analytical approach on pigment/binder mock-up paint samples. For this purpose, the formation of arsenic trioxide was assessed by micro Fourier transform infrared (μ-FTIR) spectroscopy while the influence of the binder on the formation of sulfates was studied by means of synchrotron radiation X-ray near edge structure (μ-XANES). Both techniques elucidate a higher stability of all pigments in gum arabic while the use of egg yolk as binder leads to the most degradation, most likely due to its sulfur-rich composition. In the context of the degradation of arsenic sulfide pigments, other binders such as animal glue, egg white or linseed oil show an intermediate impact.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.034
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2018.01.004
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“Thickness dependence of scattering cross-sections in quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy”. Martinez GT, van den Bos KHW, Alania M, Nellist PD, Van Aert S, Ultramicroscopy 187, 84 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2018.01.005
Abstract: In quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), scattering cross-sections have been shown to be very sensitive to the number of atoms in a column and its composition. They correspond to the integrated intensity over the atomic column and they outperform other measures. As compared to atomic column peak intensities, which saturate at a given thickness, scattering cross-sections increase monotonically. A study of the electron wave propagation is presented to explain the sensitivity of the scattering cross-sections. Based on the multislice algorithm, we analyse the wave propagation inside the crystal and its link to the scattered signal for the different probe positions contained in the scattering cross-section for detector collection in the low-, middle- and high-angle regimes. The influence to the signal from scattering of neighbouring columns is also discussed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2018.01.005
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“Measurement of local crystal lattice strain variations in dealloyed nanoporous gold”. Mahr C, Müller-Caspary K, Graf M, Lackmann A, Grieb T, Schowalter M, Krause FF, Mehrtens T, Wittstock A, Weissmueller J, Rosenauer A, Materials research letters 6, 84 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1080/21663831.2017.1396263
Abstract: Reversible macroscopic length changes in nanoporous structures can be achieved by applying electric potentials or by exposing them to different gases or liquids. Thus, these materials are interesting candidates for applications as sensors or actuators. Macroscopic length changes originate from microscopic changes of crystal lattice parameters. In this report, we show spatially resolved measurements of crystal lattice strain in dealloyed nanoporous gold. The results confirm theory by indicating a compression of the lattice along the axis of cylindrically shaped ligaments and an expansion in radial direction. Furthermore, we show that curved npAu surfaces show inward relaxation of the surface layer. [GRAPHICS] .
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.773
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1080/21663831.2017.1396263
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“Carrier transport in a two-dimensional topological insulator nanoribbon in the presence of vacancy defects”. Tiwari S, Van de Put ML, Sorée B, Vandenberghe WG, International Conference on Simulation of Semiconductor Processes and Devices : [proceedings]
T2 –, International Conference on Simulation of Semiconductor Processes and, Devices (SISPAD), SEP 24-26, 2018, Austin, TX , 92 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1109/SISPAD.2018.8551720
Abstract: We model transport through two-dimensional topological insulator (TI) nanoribbons. To model the quantum transport, we employ the non-equilibrium Green's function approach. With the presented approach, we study the effect of lattice imperfections on the carrier transport. We observe that the topologically protected edge states of TIs are robust against a high percentage (2%) of vacancy defects. We also investigate tunneling of the edge states in two decoupled TI nanoribbons.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.1109/SISPAD.2018.8551720
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“Validation of inter-atomic potential for WS2 and WSe2 crystals through assessment of thermal transport properties”. Mobaraki A, Kandemir A, Yapicioglu H, Gulseren O, Sevik C, Computational materials science 144, 92 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.COMMATSCI.2017.12.005
Abstract: In recent years, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) displaying astonishing properties are emerged as a new class of two-dimensional layered materials. The understanding and characterization of thermal transport in these materials are crucial for efficient engineering of 2D TMD materials for applications such as thermoelectric devices or overcoming general overheating issues. In this work, we obtain accurate Stillinger-Weber type empirical potential parameter sets for single-layer WS2 and WSe2 crystals by utilizing particle swarm optimization, a stochastic search algorithm. For both systems, our results are quite consistent with first-principles calculations in terms of bond distances, lattice parameters, elastic constants and vibrational properties. Using the generated potentials, we investigate the effect of temperature on phonon energies and phonon linewidth by employing spectral energy density analysis. We compare the calculated frequency shift with respect to temperature with corresponding experimental data, clearly demonstrating the accuracy of the generated inter-atomic potentials in this study. Also, we evaluate the lattice thermal conductivities of these materials by means of classical molecular dynamics simulations. The predicted thermal properties are in very good agreement with the ones calculated from first-principles. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.1016/J.COMMATSCI.2017.12.005
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“A Hotelling model for the circular economy including recycling, substitution and waste accumulation”. Hoogmartens R, Eyckmans J, Van Passel S, Resources Conservation And Recycling 128, 98 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2017.09.015
Abstract: Non-renewable resources include a large variety of deposits that have been formed by geological processes over millions of years. Although extraction of such resources provides benefits as employment and economic revenues, it also contributes to negative environmental externalities and it increases resource scarcity. An important policy question is how to optimally extract non-renewable resource stocks over time while taking possible substitutes and recycling into account. The present paper adds to the literature by developing a generic numerical optimisation model that can be used to simulate non-renewable resource management regimes and the effects of different policy instruments deployed at different stages of the resource's life cycle. By including recycling and substitution, the model extends the seminal cake-eating Hotelling model that dominates the non-renewable resource economics literature. In addition to being generically designed, the model can accommodate for non-competitive market settings, interacting policy instruments and environmental externalities at different stages of the material's life cycle. The model's possibilities are illustrated by means of a numerical simulation example for the extraction of sand.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.313
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2017.09.015
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“Temperature impact on sludge yield, settleability and kinetics of three heterotrophic conversions corroborates the prospect of thermophilic biological nitrogen removal”. Vandekerckhove TGL, De Mulder C, Boon N, Vlaeminck SE, Bioresource technology 269, 104 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2018.08.012
Abstract: In specific municipal and industrial cases, thermophilic wastewater treatment (>45 °C) might bring cost advantages over commonly applied mesophilic processes (1035 °C). To develop such a novel process, one needs sound parameters on kinetics, sludge yield and sludge settleability of three heterotrophic conversions: aerobic carbon removal, denitritation and denitrification. These features were evaluated in acetate-fed sequencing batch reactors (30, 40, 50 and 60 °C). Higher temperatures were accompanied by lower sludge production and maximum specific removal rates, resulting mainly from lower maximum growth rates. Thermophilic denitritation was demonstrated for the first time, with lower sludge production (1826%), higher nitrogen removal rates (2492%) and lower carbon requirement (40%) compared to denitrification. Acceptable settling of thermophilic aerobic (60 °C) and anoxic biomass (50 and 60 °C) was obtained. Overall, this parameter set may catalyze the establishment of thermophilic nitrogen removal, once nitritation and nitratation are characterized. Furthermore, waters with low COD/N ratio might benefit from thermophilic nitritation/denitritation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2018.08.012
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“The patron of Hieronymus Bosch's 'Last Judgment' triptych in Vienna”. Koldeweij J, Hoogstede L, Ilsink M, Janssens K, De Keyser N, Gotink RK, Legrand S, Nauhaus JM, van der Snickt G, Spronk R, The Burlington magazine 160, 106 (2018)
Abstract: A technical examination of the Last Judgment triptych by Hieronymus Bosch in the Paintings Gallery of the Academy of Fine Arts, Vienna, has revealed a painted escutcheon with the coat of arms of the Burgundian court official Hippolyte de Berthoz underneath the current surface of the right outer wing. This allows him to be firmly identified as the painting's patron.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“How participation in vegetables market affects livelihoods : empirical evidence from Northern Ethiopia”. Gebrehiwot NT, Azadi H, Taheri F, Van Passel S, Journal of international food and agribusiness marketing 30, 107 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1080/08974438.2017.1402725
Abstract: Vegetable farmers face a number of challenges in marketing. Having first-hand information about vegetable marketing is essential to devise appropriate strategies aimed at enhancing the value of the vegetable chain. It was in line with this view that the study was conducted to characterize vegetable markets in Northern Ethiopia. In an effort to identify the factors influencing vegetable marketing among farmers, data were collected from 283 farm households who were selected using stratified random sampling. Furthermore, the data were triangulated through focus group discussion (FGD) and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics and the binary logistic regression model were used to identify the variables and test the probability of their influence in regard to farmers decisions in vegetable marketing. From the 13 explanatory variables included in the binary logistic regression model, six predictors were found to be statistically significant in determining the effects of participation decision on vegetable market. These variables are as follows: household family size, total land holding of the household, amount of vegetable produced and marketed, use of irrigation technologies, contact with extension agents, and access to market information. Relying on a survey result and observations, the findings of the study indicated that vegetable marketing is significantly improving the livelihood of smallholder producers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
DOI: 10.1080/08974438.2017.1402725
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“Assessing the success of electricity demand response programs : a meta-analysis”. Srivastava A, Van Passel S, Laes E, Energy Research and Social Science 40, 110 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ERSS.2017.12.005
Abstract: This paper conducts a meta-analysis of 32 electricity demand response programs in the residential sector to understand whether their success is dependent on specific characteristics. The paper analyses several regression models using various combinations of variables that capture the designs of the programs and the socio-economic conditions in which the programs are implemented. The analysis reveals that demand response programs are more likely to succeed in highly urbanized areas, in areas where economic growth rates are high, and in areas where the renewable energy policy is favorable. These findings provide useful guidance in determining where and how to implement future demand response programs.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1016/J.ERSS.2017.12.005
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“Economic sustainability assessment in semi-steppe rangelands”. Chelan MM, Alijanpour A, Barani H, Motamedi J, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Science Of The Total Environment 637-638, 112 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.04.428
Abstract: This study was conducted to determine indices and components of economic sustainability assessment in the pastoral units of Sahand summer rangelands. The method was based on descriptive-analytical survey (experts and researchers) with questionnaires. Analysis of variance showed that the mean values of economic components are significantly different from each other and the efficiency component has the highest mean value (0.57). The analysis of rangeland pastoral unitswith the technique for order-preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) indicated that from an economic sustainability standpoint, Garehgol (Ci = 0.519) and Badir Khan (Ci = 0.129), pastoral units ranked first and last, respectively. This study provides a clear understanding of existing resources and opportunities for policy makers that is crucial to approach economic sustainable development. Accordingly, this study can help better define sustainable development goals and monitor the progress of achieving them. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.04.428
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“Deactivation of Sn-Beta during carbohydrate conversion”. van der Graaf WNP, Tempelman CHL, Hendriks FC, Ruiz-Martinez J, Bals S, Weckhuysen BM, Pidko EA, Hensen EJM, Applied catalysis : A : general 564, 113 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APCATA.2018.07.023
Abstract: The deactivation of Sn-Beta zeolite catalyst during retro-aldolization and isomerization of glucose is investigated. Confocal fluorescence microscopy reveals that retro-aldolization of glucose in CH3OH at 160 degrees C is accompanied with the build-up of insoluble oligomeric deposits in the micropores, resulting in a rapid catalyst deactivation. These deposits accumulate predominantly in the outer regions of the zeolite crystals, which points to mass transport limitations. Glucose isomerization in water is not only accompanied by the formation of insoluble deposits in the micropores, but also by the structural degradation of the zeolite due to desilication and destannation. Enhanced and sustained catalytic performance can be achieved by using ethanol/water mixtures as the reaction solvent instead of water.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.339
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1016/J.APCATA.2018.07.023
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Domingos JLC (2018) Study of colloidal systems of anisotropic magnetic particles. 114 p
Keywords: Doctoral thesis; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
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“A review of sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals”. Van Schoubroeck S, Van Dael M, Van Passel S, Malina R, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 94, 115 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2018.06.007
Abstract: Companies dealing with chemical products have to cope with large amounts of waste and environmental risk due to the use and production of toxic substances. Against this background, increasing attention is being paid to green chemistry and the translation of this concept into biobased chemicals. Given the multitude of economic, environmental and societal impacts that the production and use of biobased chemicals have on sustainability, assessment approaches need to be developed that allow for measurement and comparison of these impacts. To evaluate sustainability in the context of policy and decision-making, indicators are generally accepted means. However, sustainability indicators currently predominantly exist for low-value applications in the bioeconomy, like bioenergy and biofuels. In this paper, a review of the state-of-the-art sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals is conducted and a gap analysis is performed to identify indicator development needs. Based on the analysis, a clear hierarchy within the concept of sustainability is found where the environmental aspect dominates over economic and social indicators. All one-dimensional indicator-sets account for environmental impacts (50%), whereas two-dimensional sets complement the environmental issues with economic indicators (34%). Moreover, even the sets encompassing all three sustainability dimensions (16%) do not account for the dynamics and interlinkages between the environment, economy and society. Using results from the literature review, an indicator list is presented that captures all indicators currently used within sustainability assessment of biobased chemicals. Finally, a framework is proposed for future indicator selection using a stakeholder survey to obtain a prioritized list of sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2018.06.007
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“Local probing of the enhanced field electron emission of vertically aligned nitrogen-doped diamond nanorods and their plasma illumination properties”. Deshmukh S, Sankaran KJ, Srinivasu K, Korneychuk S, Banerjee D, Barman A, Bhattacharya G, Phase DM, Gupta M, Verbeeck J, Leou KC, Lin IN, Haenen K, Roy SS, Diamond and related materials 83, 118 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.DIAMOND.2018.02.005
Abstract: A detailed conductive atomic force microscopic investigation is carried out to directly image the electron emission behavior for nitrogen-doped diamond nanorods (N-DNRs). Localized emission measurements illustrate uniform distribution of high-density electron emission sites from N-DNRs. Emission sites coupled to nano graphitic phases at the grain boundaries facilitate electron transport and thereby enhance field electron emission from N-DNRs, resulting in a device operation at low turn-on fields of 6.23 V/mu m, a high current density of 1.94 mA/cm(2) (at an applied field of 11.8 V/mu m) and a large field enhancement factor of 3320 with a long lifetime stability of 980 min. Moreover, using N-DNRs as cathodes, a microplasma device that can ignite a plasma at a low threshold field of 390 V/mm achieving a high plasma illumination current density of 3.95 mA/cm2 at an applied voltage of 550 V and a plasma life-time stability for a duration of 433 min was demonstrated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.561
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1016/J.DIAMOND.2018.02.005
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“The common descent of biological shape description and special functions”. Gielis J, Caratelli D, de Jong van Coevorden M, Ricci PE page 119 (2018).
Abstract: Gielis transformations, with their origin in botany, are used to define square waves and trigonometric functions of higher order. They are rewritten in terms of Chebyshev polynomials. The origin of both, a uniform descriptor and the origin of orthogonal polynomials, can be traced back to a letter of Guido Grandi to Leibniz in 1713 on the mathematical description of the shape of flowers. In this way geometrical description and analytical tools are seamlessly combined.
Keywords: H1 Book chapter; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75647-9_10
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“Nontarget biomolecules alter macromolecular changes induced by bactericidal low-temperature plasma”. Privat-Maldonado A, Gorbanev Y, O'Connell D, Vann R, Chechik V, van der Woude MW, IEEE transactions on radiation and plasma medical sciences 2, 121 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1109/TRPMS.2017.2761405
Abstract: Low-temperature plasmas (LTPs) have a proven bactericidal activity governed by the generated reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) that target microbial cell components. However, RONS also interact with biomolecules in the environment. Here we assess the impact of these interactions upon exposure of liquid suspensions with variable organic content to an atmospheric-pressure dielectric barrier discharge plasma jet. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium viability in the suspension was reduced in the absence [e. g., phosphate buffered saline (PBS)], but not in the presence of (high) organic content [Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM), DMEM supplemented with foetal calf serum, and Lysogeny Broth]. The reduced viability of LTP-treated bacteria in PBS correlated to a loss of membrane integrity, whereas double-strand DNA breaks could not be detected in treated single cells. The lack of bactericidal activity in solutions with high organic content correlated with a relative decrease of center dot OH and O-3/O-2(a(1)Delta g)/O, and an increase of H2O2 and NO2- in the plasma-treated solutions. These results indicate that the redox reactions of LTP-generated RONS with nontarget biomolecules resulted in a RONS composition with reduced bactericidal activity. Therefore, the chemical composition of the bacterial environment should be considered in the development of LTP for antimicrobial treatment, and may affect other biomedical applications as well.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
DOI: 10.1109/TRPMS.2017.2761405
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“Steering the adoption of battery storage through electricity tariff design”. Milis K, Peremans H, Van Passel S, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 98, 125 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2018.09.005
Abstract: The economic viability of electricity storage using batteries, under different tariff structures and system configurations, is investigated. The economic outcomes of the different combinations of tariff design and system configuration are evaluated. Based on a discussion of the relevant literature, the following tariff designs are used in the study: (i) fixed energy prices, (ii) real-time energy pricing, (iii) fixed rate capacity tariffs, and (iv) capacity dependent capacity tariffs. Next, the different simulated system configurations are outlined: (i) no battery storage, (ii) battery storage only, and (iii) battery storage and decentralized renewable energy production with PV. Our study provides insights for policy makers, showing that capacity block pricing only incentivises storage as part of an (existing) PV installation, while the combination of real time energy pricing and capacity block pricing promotes a wider adoption of battery storage.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2018.09.005
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“A stochastic techno-economic assessment of seabed mining of polymetallic nodules in the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone”. Van Nijen K, Van Passel S, Squires D, Marine Policy 95, 133 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MARPOL.2018.02.027
Abstract: Polymetallic nodules found in the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone in the NE Pacific contain more nickel, manganese and cobalt than all terrestrial reserves combined. Following the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention and its 1994 Implementing Agreement, the resources of the international seabed beyond the limits of national jurisdiction will be developed for the benefit of mankind by attracting investment and technology, whilst demanding that necessary measures be taken to ensure effective protection of the marine environment. To date, no single commercial seabed mining activity has taken place in international waters, and the development of balanced and stimulating exploitation regulation is needed, based on accurate economic analysis. This paper presents the first detailed, vertically integrated, stochastic techno-economic assessment from a contractor's perspective, and contributes to the development of the world's first exploitation regulations. The economic performance measured by the internal rate of return was compared using deterministic and probabilistic commodity price forecasting models. Different levels of a financial payment regime, comprising of a royalty payment and a payment to internalize environmental costs, were considered. When real growth was included, the internal rate of return remains above the hurdle rate when a transitional, total-cost, financial payment regime is below 2 per cent during the initial period and below 4 per cent for the remaining tenure period. Following a 10-year moving average of commodity prices, including real growth, a 77.51 per cent probability was calculated of achieving a hurdle rate of 18 per cent.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.235
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1016/J.MARPOL.2018.02.027
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Rahemi V (2018) Electrosensing applications by using titania as a support for bio(inspired) molecules. 133 p
Keywords: Doctoral thesis; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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Asapu R (2018) A study of plasmonic systems using Layer-by-Layer synthesized core-shell nanoparticles. 142 p
Keywords: Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
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“Bio(inspired) strategies for the electro-sensing of β-lactam antibiotics”. Bottari F, Blust R, De Wael K, Current opinion in electrochemistry 10, 143 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.COELEC.2018.05.016
Abstract: The dire previsions of the WHO on the so-called “post-antibiotic era” and the continuous and global rise of anti-microbial resistance, spurs our research community to find better ways to fight these threats. In light of this severe threat to human health many attempts have been made to develop efficient methods to detect antibiotic residues in different streams. The use of electrochemistry seems an inviting approach for on-site and fast monitoring. In this critical review, recent developments in the field of (bio) electro-sensing of 19-lactam antibiotics will be presented, with a focus on aptamers and molecularly imprinted polymers, the two main promises of a new generation of biosensors, yet to be fulfilled.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1016/J.COELEC.2018.05.016
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