|
“Aptamers in biomedicine : selection strategies and recent advances”. Stefan G, Hosu O, De Wael K, Jesus Lobo-Castanon M, Cristea C, Electrochimica Acta 376, 137994 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2021.137994
Abstract: Aptamers have come in the spotlight as bio-mimetic molecular recognition elements in the field of biomedicine due to various applications in diagnostics, drug delivery, therapeutics, and pharmaceutical analysis. Aptamers are composed of nucleic acid strands (DNA or RNA) that can specifically interact in a three-dimensional tailored design with the target molecule. The basic method to generate aptamers is Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). Recent technological advances in aptamer selection allow for faster and cheaper production of a new generation of high-affinity aptamers compared to the traditional SELEX, which can last up to several months. Rigorous characterization performed by multiple research groups endorsed several well-defined aptamer sequences. Binding affinity, nature of the biomolecular interactions and structural characterization are of paramount importance for aptamer screening and development of applications. However, remarkable challenges still need to be dealt with before the aptamers can make great contributions to the biomedical field. Poor specificity and sensitivity, questionable clinical use, low drug loading, in vivo stability and toxicity are only some of the identified challenges. This review accounts for the 30th celebration of the SELEX technology underlining the most important aptamers' achievements in the biomedical field within mostly the past five years. Aptamers' advantages over antibodies are discussed. Because of potential clinical translational utility, insights of remarkable developments in aptamer-based methods for diagnosis and monitoring of disease biomarkers and pharmaceuticals are discussed focusing on the recent studies (2015-2020). The current challenges and promising opportunities for aptamers for therapeutic and theragnostic purposes are also presented. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 4.798
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2021.137994
|
|
|
“Unleashing lignin potential through the dithionite-assisted organosolv fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass”. Brienza F, Van Aelst K, Devred F, Magnin D, Tschulkow M, Nimmegeers P, Van Passel S, Sels BF, Gerin P, Debecker DP, Cybulska I, Chemical Engineering Journal 450, 138179 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2022.138179
Abstract: The development of biomass pretreatment approaches that, next to (hemi)cellulose valorization, aim at the conversion of lignin to chemicals is essential for the long-term success of a biorefinery. Herein, we discuss a dithionite-assisted organosolv fractionation (DAOF) of lignocellulose in n-butanol and water to produce cellulosic pulp and mono-/oligo-aromatics. The study frames the technicalities of this biorefinery process and relates them to the features of the obtained product streams. We comprehensively identify and quantify all products of interest: solid pulp (acid hydrolysis-HPLC, ATR-FTIR, XRD, SEM, enzymatic hydrolysis-HPLC), lignin derivatives (GPC, GC-MS/FID, 1H-13C HSQC NMR, ICP-AES), and carbohydrate derivatives (HPLC). These results were used for inspecting the economic feasibility of DAOF. In the best process configuration, a high yield of monophenolics was reached (~20%, based on acid insoluble lignin in birch sawdust). Various other lignocellulosic feedstocks were also explored, showing that DAOF is particularly effective on hardwood and herbaceous biomass. Overall, this study demonstrates that DAOF is a viable fractionation method for the sustainable upgrading of lignocellulosic biomass.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2022.138179
|
|
|
“Surface plasmon resonance-induced visible light photocatalytic TiO₂, modified with AuNPs for the quantification of hydroquinone”. Mendonça CD, Khan SU, Rahemi V, Verbruggen SW, Machado SAS, De Wael K, Electrochimica Acta 389, 138734 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2021.138734
Abstract: The impregnation of size-controlled gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on an anatase TiO2 structure (AuNPs@TiO2) was studied for the photoelectrochemical detection of hydroquinone (HQ) under visible light illumination integrated into a flow injection analysis (FIA) setup. The crystalline form of TiO2 was preserved during synthesis and the homogeneous distribution of AuNPs over the TiO2 structure was confirmed. Its photoelectrocatalytic activity was improved due to the presence of AuNPs, preventing charge recombination in TiO2 and improving its light absorption ability by the surface plasmon resonance effect (SPR). The FIA system was used in order to significantly reduce the electrode fouling during electroanalysis through periodic washing steps of the electrode surface. During the amperometric detection process, reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated by visible light illumination of AuNPs@TiO2, participate in the oxidation process of HQ. The reduction of the oxidized form of HQ, i.e. benzoquinone (BQ) occurs by applying a negative potential and the measurable amperometric response will be proportional to the initial HQ concentration. The influencing parameters on the response of the amperometric photocurrent such as applied potential, flow rate and pH were investigated. The linear correlation between the amperometric response and the concentration of HQ was recorded (range 0.0125 – 1.0 µM) with a limit of detection (LOD) of 33.8 nM and sensitivity of 0.22 A M−1 cm−2. In this study, we illustrated for the first time that the impregnation of AuNPs in TiO2 allows the sensitive detection of phenolic substances under green laser illumination by using a photoelectrochemical flow system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 4.798
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2021.138734
|
|
|
“Angular momentum based-analysis of gas-solid fluidized beds in vortex chambers”. Orozco-Jimenez AJ, Pinilla-Fernandez DA, Pugliese V, Bula A, Perreault P, Gonzalez-Quiroga A, Chemical engineering journal 457, 141222 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2022.141222
Abstract: Gas-solid vortex chambers are a promising alternative for reactive and non-reactive processes requiring enhanced heat and mass transfer rates and order-of-milliseconds contact time. The conservation of angular momentum is instrumental in understanding how the interactions between gas, particulate solids, and chamber walls influence the formation of a rotating solids bed. Therefore, this work applies the conservation of angular momentum to derive a model that gives the average angular velocity of solids in terms of gas injection velocity, wall-solids bed drag coefficient, gas and particle properties, and chamber geometry. Three datasets from published studies, comprising 1 g-Geldart B- and d-type particles in different vortex chambers, validate the model results. Using a sensitivity analysis, we assessed the effect of input variables on the average angular velocity of solids, average void fraction, and average bed height. Results indicate that the top and bottom end-wall boundaries exert the most significant braking effect on the rotating solids bed compared with the cylindrical outer wall and gas injection boundaries. The wall-solids bed drag coefficient appears independent of the gas injection velocity for a wide range of operating conditions. The proposed model is a valuable tool for analyzing and comparing gas–solid vortex typologies, unraveling improvement opportunities, and scale-up.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2022.141222
|
|
|
“Electrochemical detection of illicit drugs in oral fluid : potential for forensic drug testing”. Joosten F, Parrilla M, van Nuijs ALN, Ozoemena KId, De Wael K, Electrochimica acta 2022, 141309 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2022.141309
Abstract: Illicit drugs continue to pose a serious threat to society and public health. Drug (ab)use is linked to organised crime and violence. Therefore, to fight the so-called war on drugs, police and law enforcement agencies need to be equipped with accurate and efficient sensors for the detection of illicit drugs and drug use. Even though colour tests (for powders) and lateral flow immunoassays (for biological samples) lack accuracy, they are relied upon for fast and easy on-site detection. Alternatively, in recent years, there has been an increasing interest in electrochemical sensors as a promising technique for the rapid and accurate on-site detection of illicit drugs. While a myriad of literature exists on the use of electrochemical sensors for drug powder analysis, literature on their use for the detection of drug use in biological samples is scarce. To this end, this review presents an overview of strategies for the electrochemical detection of illicit drugs in oral fluid. First, pharmacokinetics of drugs in oral fluid and the legal limit dilemma regarding the analytical cut-offs for roadside drug detection tests are elaborated to present the reader with the background knowledge required to develop such a test. Subsequently, an overview of electrochemical strategies developed for the detection of illicit drugs in oral fluid is given. Importantly, key challenges to address in the development of roadside tests are highlighted to improve the design of the next electrochemical devices and to bring them to the field. Overall, electrochemical sensors for illicit drugs detection in oral fluid show promise to disrupt current strategies for roadside testing.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; Engineering sciences. Technology; Toxicological Centre; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2022.141309
|
|
|
“Electrochemical sensing of amphetamine-type stimulants (pre)-precursors to fight against the illicit production of synthetic drugs”. Montiel FN, Parrilla M, Sleegers N, Van Durme F, van Nuijs ALN, De Wael K, Electrochimica acta 436, 141446 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2022.141446
Abstract: The illicit drug precursor market for the manufacture of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), mainly amphetamine, methamphetamine and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), has emerged quickly in the last years. The evidence of a more complex and sophisticated drug market underlines the pressing need for new on-site methods to quickly detect precursors of synthetic drugs, with electrochemical analysis as a promising technique. Herein, the electrochemical fingerprints of ten common ATS precursors-3-oxo-2-phenylbutanenitrile (APAAN), 3-oxo-2-phenylbutanamide (APAA), methyl 3-oxo-2-phenylbutanoate (MAPA), benzyl methyl ketone (BMK), 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)propan-2-one (PMK), ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, safrole, sassafras oil and piperonal- are reported for the first time. The electrochemical screening disclosed the redox inactivity of BMK, which is an essential starting material for the production of ATS. Therefore, the local derivatization of BMK at an electrode surface by reductive amination is presented as a feasible solution to enrich its electrochemical fingerprint. To prove that, the resulting mixture was analyzed using a set of chromatographic techniques to understand the reaction mechanism and to identify possible electrochemical active products. Two reaction products (i.e. methamphetamine and 1-phenylpropan-2-ol) were found and characterized using mass spectrometry and electrochemical methods. Subsequently, the optimization of the reaction parameters was carefully addressed to set the portable electrochemical sensing strategy. Ultimately, the analysis concept was validated for the qualitative identification of ATS precursors in seizures from a forensic institute. Overall, the electrochemical approach demonstrates to be a useful and affordable analytical tool for the early identification of ATS precursors to prevent trafficking and drug manufacture in clandestine laboratories.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Toxicological Centre; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2022.141446
|
|
|
“Integration of smart nanomaterials for highly selective disposable sensors and their forensic applications in amphetamine determination”. Almabadi MH, Truta FM, Adamu G, Cowen T, Tertis M, Alanazi KDM, Stefan M-G, Piletska E, Kiss B, Cristea C, De Wael K, Piletsky SA, Cruz AG, Electrochimica acta 446, 142009 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2023.142009
Abstract: Screening drugs on the street and biological samples pose a challenge to law enforcement agencies due to existing detection methods and instrument limitations. Herein we present a graphene-assisted molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticle-based sensor for amphetamine. These nanoparticles are electroactive by incorporating ferrocene in their structure. These particles act as specific actuators in electrochemical sensors, and the presence of a ferrocene redox probe embedded in the structure allows the detection of non-electroactive amphetamine. In a control approach, nanoparticles were covalently immobilised onto electrochemical sensors by drop-casting using silanes. Alternatively, nanoparticles were immobilised employing 3D printing and a graphene ink composite. The electrochemical performance of both approaches was evaluated. As a result, 3D printed nanoMIPs/graphene sensors displayed the highest selectivity in spiked human plasma, with sensitivity at 73 nA nM-1, LOD of 68 nM (RSD 2.4%) when compared to the silane drop cast electrodes. The main advantage of the optimised 3D printing technology is that it allows quantitative determination of amphetamine, a nonelectroactive drug, challenging to detect with conventional electrochemical sensors. In addition, the costefficient 3D printing method makes these sensors easy to manufacture, leading to robust, highly selective and sensitive sensors. As proof of concept, sensors were evaluated on the street specimens and clinically relevant samples and successfully validated using UPLC-MS.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Impact Factor: 6.6
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2023.142009
|
|
|
“3D porous catalysts for plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane : how does the pore size affect the plasma-catalytic performance?”.Wang J, Zhang K, Bogaerts A, Meynen V, Chemical engineering journal 464, 142574 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.142574
Abstract: The effect of pore size on plasma catalysis is crucial but still unclear. Studies have shown plasma cannot enter micropores and mesopores, so catalysts for traditional thermocatalysis may not fit plasma catalysis. Here, 3D porous Cu and CuO with different pore sizes were prepared using uniform silica particles (10–2000 nm) as templates, and compared in plasma-catalytic dry reforming. In most cases, the smaller the pore size, the higher the conversion of CH4 and CO2. Large pores reachable by more electrons did not improve the reaction efficiency. We attribute this to the small surface area and large crystallite size, as indicated by N2-sorption, mercury intrusion and XRD. While the smaller pores might not be reachable by electrons, due to the sheath formed in front of them, as predicted by modeling, they can still be reached by radicals formed in the plasma, and ions can even be attracted into these pores. An exception are the samples synthesized from 1 μm silica, which show better performance. We believe this is due to the electric field enhancement for pore sizes close to the Debye length. The performances of CuO and Cu with different pore sizes can provide references for future research on oxide supports and metal components of plasma catalysts.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.142574
|
|
|
“Farmers' decision to use drought early warning system in developing countries”. Sharafi L, Zarafshani K, Keshavarz M, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Science Of The Total Environment 758, 142761 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.142761
Abstract: Drought is a persistent, sluggish natural disaster in developing countries that has generated a financial burden and an unstable climate. Farmers should adopt early warning systems (EWS) in their strategies for monitoring drought to reduce its serious consequences. However, farmers in developing countries are reluctant to use EWS as their management strategies. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the decision of farmers to use climate knowledge through the model of farming activity in Kermanshah Township, Iran. A surveyor questionnaire was used to gather data from 370 wheat farmers using random sampling methods inmulti-stage clusters. Results revealed that the decision to use climate information is affected by personal factors, attitude towards climate information, objectives of using climate information, and external/physical farming factors. The result of this study has implications for drought management practitioners. To be specific, the results can aid policymakers to design early alert programs to minimize the risk of drought and thus move from conventional to climate smart agriculture. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.142761
|
|
|
“Dry reforming in a dielectric barrier discharge reactor with non-uniform discharge gap : effects of metal rings on the discharge behavior and performance”. Wang J, Zhang K, Meynen V, Bogaerts A, Chemical engineering journal , 142953 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.142953
Abstract: The application of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma reactors is promising in various environmental and energy processes, but is limited by their low energy yield. In this study, we put a number of stainless steel rings over the inner electrode rod of the DBD reactor to change the local discharge gap and electric field, and we studied the dry reforming performance. At 50 W supplied power, the metal rings mostly have a negative impact on the performance, which we attribute to the non-uniform spatial distribution of the discharges caused by the rings. However, at 30 W supplied power, the energy yield is higher than at 50 W and the placement of the rings improves the performance of the reactor. More rings and with a larger cross-sectional diameter can further improve the performance. The reactor with 20 rings with a 3.2 mm cross-sectional diameter exhibits the best performance in this study. Compared to the reactor without rings, it increases the CO2 conversion from 7% to 16 %, the CH4 conversion from 12% to 23%, and the energy yield from 0.05 mmol/kJ supplied power to 0.1 mmol/kJ (0.19 mmol/kJ if calculated from the plasma power), respectively. The presence of the rings increases the local electric field, the displaced charge and the discharge fraction, and also makes the discharge more stable and with more uniform intensity. It also slightly improves the selectivity to syngas. The performance improvement observed by placing stainless steel rings in this study may also be applicable to other plasma-based processes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.142953
|
|
|
“Electronic and magnetic properties of two-dimensional of FeX (X = S, Se, Te) monolayers crystallize in the orthorhombic structures”. Bafekry A, Sarsari IA, Faraji M, Fadlallah MM, Jappor HR, Karbasizadeh S, Nguyen V, Ghergherehchi M, Applied Physics Letters 118, 143102 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0046721
Abstract: In this Letter, we explore the lattice, dynamical stability, and electronic and magnetic properties of FeTe bulk and FeX (X=S, Se, Te) monolayers using the density functional calculations. The phonon dispersion relation, elastic stability criteria, and cohesive energy results show the stability of studied FeX monolayers. The mechanical properties reveal that all FeX monolayers have a brittle nature. Furthermore, these structures are stable as we move down the 6A group in the periodic table, i.e., from S, Se, and Te. The stability and work function decrease as the electronegativity decreases. The spin-polarized electronic structures demonstrate that the FeTe monolayer has a total magnetization of 3.8 mu (B), which is smaller than the magnetization of FeTe bulk (4.7 mu (B)). However, FeSe and FeS are nonmagnetic monolayers. The FeTe monolayer can be a good candidate material for spin filter applications due to its electronic and magnetic properties. This study highlights the bright prospect for the application of FeX monolayers in electronic structures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
DOI: 10.1063/5.0046721
|
|
|
“Fabrication of larger surface area of ZIF8@ZIF67 reverse core-shell nanostructures for energy storage applications”. Rabani I, Tahir MS, Nisar S, Parrilla M, Truong HB, Kim M, Seo Y-S, Electrochimica acta 475, 143532 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2023.143532
Abstract: The construction of uniform nanostructure with larger surface area electrodes is a huge challenge for the highvalue added energy storage application. Herein, we demonstrates ZIF67@ZIF8 (core-shell) and ZIF8@ZIF67 (reverse core-shell) nanostructures using a low-cost wet chemical route and used them as supercapacitors. Pristine ZIF-67 and ZIF-8 was used as reference electrodes. Benefiting from the synergistic effect between the ZIF8 and ZIF67, the ZIF8@ZIF67 exhibited the outstanding electrochemical consequences owing to its larger surface area with uniform hexagonal morphology. As optimized ZIF8@ZIF67 nanostructure displayed the highcapacity of 1521 F/g at 1 A/g of current density in a three-electrode assembly in 1 M KOH electrolyte compared with other as-fabricated electrodes. In addition, the ZIF8@ZIF67 nanostructure employed into the symmetric supercapacitors (SSCs) with 1 M KOH electrolyte in two-electrode setup and it exhibited still superior output including capacity (249.8 F/g at 1 A/g), remarkable repeatability (87 % over 10,000 GCD cycles) along with high energy and power density (61.2 Wh/kg & 1260 W/kg). The present study uncovers the relationship between the larger surface area and electrocatalyst performance, supporting an effective approach to prepare favorable materials for enhanced capacity, extended lifespan, and energy density.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Impact Factor: 6.6
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2023.143532
|
|
|
“A systematic comparison of commercially produced struvite : quantities, qualities and soil-maize phosphorus availability”. Muys M, Phukan R, Brader G, Samad A, Moretti M, Haiden B, Pluchon S, Roest K, Vlaeminck SE, Spiller M, Science Of The Total Environment 756, 143726 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.143726
Abstract: Production of struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) from waste streams is increasingly implemented to recover phosphorus (P), which is listed as a critical raw material in the European Union (EU). To facilitate EU-wide trade of P-containing secondary raw materials such as struvite, the EU issued a revised fertilizer regulation in 2019. A comprehensive overview of the supply of struvite and its quality is presently missing. This study aimed: i) to determine the current EU struvite production volumes, ii) to evaluate all legislated physicochemical characteristics and pathogen content of European struvite against newly set regulatory limits, and iii) to compare not-regulated struvite characteristics. It is estimated that in 2020, between 990 and 1250 ton P are recovered as struvite in the EU. Struvite from 24 European production plants, accounting for 30% of the 80 struvite installations worldwide was sampled. Three samples failed the physicochemical legal limits; one had a P content of <7% and three exceeded the organic carbon content of 3% dry weight (DW). Mineralogical analysis revealed that six samples had a struvite content of 80–90% DW, and 13 samples a content of >90% DW. All samples showed a heavy metal content below the legal limits. Microbiological analyses indicated that struvite may exceed certain legal limits. Differences in morphology and particle size distribution were observed for struvite sourced from digestate (rod shaped; transparent; 82 mass% < 1 mm), dewatering liquor (spherical; opaque; 65 mass% 1–2 mm) and effluent from upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor processing potato wastewater (spherical; opaque; 51 mass% < 1 mm and 34 mass% > 2 mm). A uniform soil-plant P-availability pattern of 3.5–6.5 mg P/L soil/d over a 28 days sampling period was observed. No differences for plant biomass yield were observed. In conclusion, the results highlight the suitability of most struvite to enter the EU fertilizer market.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.143726
|
|
|
“Nucleation rates from small scale atomistic simulations and transition state theory”. Bal KM, Journal Of Chemical Physics 155, 144111 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0063398
Abstract: The evaluation of nucleation rates from molecular dynamics trajectories is hampered by the slow nucleation time scale and impact of finite size effects. Here, we show that accurate nucleation rates can be obtained in a very general fashion relying only on the free energy barrier, transition state theory, and a simple dynamical correction for diffusive recrossing. In this setup, the time scale problem is overcome by using enhanced sampling methods, in casu metadynamics, whereas the impact of finite size effects can be naturally circumvented by reconstructing the free energy surface from an appropriate ensemble. Approximations from classical nucleation theory are avoided. We demonstrate the accuracy of the approach by calculating macroscopic rates of droplet nucleation from argon vapor, spanning 16 orders of magnitude and in excellent agreement with literature results, all from simulations of very small (512 atom) systems.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.965
DOI: 10.1063/5.0063398
|
|
|
“The role of carbon monoxide in the catalytic synthesis of endohedral carbyne”. Mehmonov K, Ergasheva A, Yusupov M, Khalilov U, Journal of applied physics 134, 144303 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0160892
Abstract: The unique physical properties of carbyne, a novel carbon nanostructure, have attracted considerable interest in modern nanotechnology. While carbyne synthesis has been accomplished successfully using diverse techniques, the underlying mechanisms governing the carbon monoxide-dependent catalytic synthesis of endohedral carbyne remain poorly understood. In this simulation-based study, we investigate the synthesis of endohedral carbyne from carbon and carbon monoxide radicals in the presence of a nickel catalyst inside double-walled carbon nanotubes with a (5,5)@(10,10) structure. The outcome of our investigation demonstrates that the incorporation of the carbon atom within the Ni-n@(5,5)@(10,10) model system initiates the formation of an elongated carbon chain. In contrast, upon the introduction of carbon monoxide radicals, the growth of the carbyne chain is inhibited as a result of the oxidation of endohedral nickel clusters by oxygen atoms after the initial steps of nucleation. Our findings align with prior theoretical, simulation, and experimental investigations, reinforcing their consistency and providing valuable insights into the synthesis of carbyne-based nanodevices that hold promising potential for future advancements in nanotechnology.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.2
DOI: 10.1063/5.0160892
|
|
|
“Carbon segregation and cementite precipitation at grain boundaries in quenched and tempered lath martensite”. Morsdorf L, Kashiwar A, Kübel C, Tasan CC, Materials science and engineering: part A: structural materials: properties, microstructure and processing 862, 144369 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MSEA.2022.144369
Abstract: Tempering is widely applied to make carbon atoms beneficially rearrange in high strength steel microstructures after quenching; though the nano-scale interaction of carbon atoms with crystallographic defects is hard to experimentally observe. To improve, we investigate the redistribution of carbon atoms along martensite grain boundaries in a quenched and tempered low carbon steel. We observe the tempering-induced microstructural evolution by in-situ heating in a transmission electron microscope (TEM) and by compositional analysis through atom probe tomography (APT). Probe volumes for APT originate from a single martensite packet but in different tempering conditions, which is achieved via a sequential lift-out with in-between tempering treatments. The complementary use of TEM and APT provides crystallographic as well as chemical information on carbon segregation and subsequent carbide precipitation at martensite grain boundaries. The results show that the amount of carbon segregation to martensite grain boundaries is influenced by the boundary type, e.g. low-angle lath or high-angle block boundaries. Also, the growth behavior of cementite precipitates from grain boundary nucleation sites into neighboring martensite grains differs at low- and high-angle grain boundaries. This is due to the crystallographic constraints arising from the semi-coherent orientation relationship between cementite and adjacent martensite. We also show that slower quenching stabilizes thin retained austenite films between martensite grains because of enhanced carbon segregation during cooling. Finally, we demonstrate the effect of carbon redistribution along martensite grain boundaries on the mechanical properties. Here, we compare micro-scale Vickers hardness results from boundary-containing probe volumes to nanoindentation results from pure bulk martensite (boundary-free) probe volumes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.4
DOI: 10.1016/J.MSEA.2022.144369
|
|
|
“Impact of soot deposits on waste gas-to-electricity conversion in a TiO₂/WO₃-based photofuel cell”. Ag KR, Minja AC, Ninakanti R, Van Hal M, Dingenen F, Borah R, Verbruggen SW, Chemical engineering journal 470, 144390 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.144390
Abstract: An unbiased photo-fuel cell (PFC) is a device that integrates the functions of a photoanode and a cathode to achieve simultaneous light-driven oxidation and dark reduction reactions. As such, it generates electricity while degrading pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The photoanode is excited by light to generate electron-hole pairs, which give rise to a photocurrent, and are utilized to oxidise organic pollutants simultaneously. Here we have systematically studied various TiO2/WO3 photoanodes towards their photocatalytic soot degradation performance, PFC performance in the presence of VOCs, and the combination of both. The latter thus mimics an urban environment where VOCs and soot are present simultaneously. The formation of a type-II heterojunction after the addition of a thin TiO2 top layer over a dense WO3 bottom layer, improved both soot oxidation efficiency as well as photocurrent generation, thus paving the way towards low-cost PFC technology for energy recovery from real polluted air.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.144390
|
|
|
“The potential of electrochemical sensors to unveil counterfeits : Xanax as a case study”. Mazurkow JM, Montiel FN, Van Echelpoel R, Kusior A, De Wael K, Electrochimica acta 494, 144458 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2024.144458
Abstract: The illicit drug market has been constantly evolving in the last decades, with a significant rise in counterfeit medicines posing serious public health risks. Benzodiazepines (BZDs) such as alprazolam (generally sold under the brand name Xanax), have particularly become the target of counterfeiting efforts due to their addictive nature and upsurge of unregulated designer BZDs. These counterfeit versions frequently resemble legitimate products but contain harmful adulterants or other potent illicit substances. Few methods have been developed to tackle counterfeit pills, usually limited to accurate and sophisticated laboratory equipment. This study explores the feasibility of combining electrochemical fingerprinting with data analysis to overcome the limitations of traditional methods. First, the electrochemical behavior of selected BZDs is studied, and analytical parameters such as pH are optimized. Then, the electroanalysis of common adulterants and illicit drugs is addressed and integrated into a user-friendly app, including a flowchart system. The proposed electrochemical strategy enables the detection of counterfeit Xanax by identifying the presence or absence of alprazolam. It also allows determination of the alprazolam content within a pill while meeting the fundamental requirements of the end users. This study represents an on-site methodology to address the growing challenges posed by BZDs, easily transferable to counterfeit medicines from other drug groups.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab); Antwerp engineering, PhotoElectroChemistry & Sensing (A-PECS)
Impact Factor: 6.6
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2024.144458
|
|
|
“Nickel hydroxide nanosphere decorated reduced-TiO₂, nanotubes as supercapacitor electrodes”. Tunca S, Parrilla M, Raj K, Nuyts G, Verbruggen SW, De Wael K, Electrochimica acta 505, 144990 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2024.144990
Abstract: A straightforward electrochemical method was developed to modify titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO2 NTs), creating oxygen vacancies via electrochemical reduction (ER) and depositing nickel hydroxide nanospheres (Ni (OH)2 NSs). This was done to discover the electrochemical properties of a TiO2 NTs based binder-free supercapacitor electrode. The improved conductivity of the reduced TiO2 NTs (R-TiO2 NTs) electrode provided a 90fold increase in the specific capacitance compared to that of pristine TiO2 NTs. R-TiO2 NTs were further decorated with Ni(OH)2 NSs by an electrodeposition method to further improve the supercapacitive performance. Fabricated R-TiO2 NTs/Ni(OH)2 electrodes exhibited a high areal specific capacitance value of 305.91 mF/cm2 at a current density of 0.75 mA/cm2. The modified electrode shows an improved charge-storage capacity compared to the TiO2 NTs/Ni(OH)2 electrodes, and to previously reported 1D-TiO2/Ni(OH)2 nanocomposite structures. Furthermore, the proposed electrode showed good cyclic stability by retaining 71% of its initial capacitance after 1500 cycles and a promising rate capability with a capacitive retention of 86% while increasing the current density from 0.75 to 5 mA/cm2. Overall, the ER step proved to improve the conductivity of the R-TiO2 NTs, which favors the deposition of the Ni(OH)2 NSs and promotes the Faradaic reactions at the electrode-electrolyte interface demonstrating a promising supercapacitor electrode material.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab); Antwerp engineering, PhotoElectroChemistry & Sensing (A-PECS)
Impact Factor: 6.6
DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2024.144990
|
|
|
“Solvothermal synthesis of mesoporous TiO2 with tunable surface area, crystal size and surface hydroxylation for efficient photocatalytic acetaldehyde degradation”. Zhang K, Wang J, Ninakanti R, Verbruggen SW, Chemical engineering journal 474, 145188 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.145188
Abstract: Photocatalytic acetaldehyde degradation exhibits satisfactory performance only at relatively low acetaldehyde flow rates, predominately below 10 × 10-3 mL/min, leaving ample room for improvement. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare more efficient photocatalysts for acetaldehyde degradation. Moreover, the impact of the interaction strength between the titania surface and surface water on the photocatalytic acetaldehyde efficiency is poorly understood. To address these issues, in this work a series of (0 0 1)-faceted anatase titania samples with various surface properties and structures were synthesized via a solvothermal method and tested at high acetaldehyde flow rates under UV light irradiation. With increasing solvothermal time, the pore volume, surface area, and the abundance of surface OH groups all increased, while the crystallite size decreased. These were all identified to be beneficial to promote the degradation performance. When the solvothermal temperature was 180 ℃ and the reaction time was 5 h, the prepared sample displayed the most efficient performance at 19.25× 10-3 mL/min of acetaldehyde (conversion of (74 ± 1)% versus (29 ± 1)% for P25), and achieved a 100 % conversion at 16 × 10-3 mL/min. A weaker interaction strength between surface water and the titania surface was found to improve the acetaldehyde adsorption capacity, thereby promoting the acetaldehyde degradation efficiency. The stability of the best performing sample was tested over 48 h, demonstrating a highly stable performance with no signs of deactivation. Even at a relative humidity of 30 %, the acetaldehyde conversion retains 82% of its efficiency in a dry atmosphere, highlighting its potential in practical applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.145188
|
|
|
“Ammonia stripping and scrubbing followed by nitrification and denitrification saves costs for manure treatment based on a calibrated model approach”. Vingerhoets R, Brienza C, Sigurnjak I, Buysse J, Vlaeminck SE, Spiller M, Meers E, Chemical engineering journal 477, 146984 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.146984
Abstract: Resource-efficient nitrogen management is of high environmental and economic interest, and manure represents the major nutrient flow in livestock-intensive regions. Ammonia stripping/scrubbing (SS) is an appealing nitrogen recovery route from manure, yet its real-life implementation has been limited thus far. In nutrient surplus regions like Flanders, treatment of the liquid fraction (LF) of (co–)digested manure typically consists of nitrification/denitrification (NDN) removing most N as nitrogen gas. Integrating SS before NDN in existing plants would expand treatment capacity and recover N while maintaining low N effluent values, yet cost estimations of this novel approach after process optimisation are not yet available. A programming model was developed and calibrated to minimise the treatment costs of this approach and find the balance between N recovery versus N removal. Four crucial operational parameters (CO2 stripping time, NH3 stripping time, temperature and NaOH addition) were optimised for 18 scenarios which were different in terms of technical set-up, influent characteristics and scrubber acid. The model shows that SS before NDN can decrease the costs by 1 to 56% under optimal conditions compared to treatment with NDN only, with 1 to 8% reduction for the LF of manure (22–29% recovered of N treated), and 11 to 56% reduction for the LF of co-digested manure (42–67% recovered of N treated), primarily dependent on resource pricing. This study shows the power of modelling for minimum-cost design and operation of manure treatment yielding savings while producing useful N recovery products with SS followed by NDN.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2023.146984
|
|
|
“Impact of ordering on the reactivity of mixed crystals of topological insulators with anion substitution: Bi₂SeTe₂, and Sb₂SeTe₂”. Volykhov AA, Frolov AS, Neudachina VS, Vladimirova NV, Gerber E, Callaert C, Hadermann J, Khmelevsky NO, Knop-Gericke A, Sanchez-Barriga J, Yashina LV, Applied Surface Science 541, 148490 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APSUSC.2020.148490
Abstract: Three-dimensional topological insulators are exotic materials with unique properties. Tetradymite type binary chalcogenides of bismuth and antimony, as well as their mixed crystals, belong to prototypical TIs. Potential device applications of these materials require in-depth knowledge of their stability in the ambient atmosphere and other media maintained during their processing. Here we investigated the reactivity of mixed crystals with anion substitution, Bi-2(Se1-xTex)(3) and Sb2(Se1-xTex)(3), towards molecular oxygen using both in situ and ex situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results indicate that, in contrast to cation substitution, partial substitution of tellurium by selenium atoms leads to anomalously high surface reactivity, which even exceeds that of the most reactive binary constituent. We attribute this effect to anion ordering that essentially modifies the bond geometry, especially the respective bond angles as modeled by DFT.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.387
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2020.148490
|
|
|
“Tunable electronic and magnetic properties of MoSi₂N₄, monolayer via vacancy defects, atomic adsorption and atomic doping”. Bafekry A, Faraji M, Fadlallah MM, Khatibani AB, Ziabari A abdolahzadeh, Ghergherehchi M, Nedaei S, Shayesteh SF, Gogova D, Applied Surface Science 559, 149862 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APSUSC.2021.149862
Abstract: The two dimensional MoSi2N4 (MSN) monolayer exhibiting rich physical and chemical properties was synthesized for the first time last year. We have used the spin-polarized density functional theory to study the effect of different types of point defects on the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of the MSN monolayer. Adsorbed, substitutionally doped (at different lattice sites), and some kind of vacancies have been considered as point defects. The computational results show all defects studied decrease the MSN monolayer band gap. We found out the H-, O-, and P-doped MSN are n-type conductors. The arsenic-doped MSN, and MSN with vacancy defects have a magnetic moment. The MSN with a Si vacancy defect is a half-metallic which is favorable for spintronic applications, while the MSN with a single N vacancy or double vacancy (N + S) defects are metallic, i. e., beneficial as spin filters and chemical sensors.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.387
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2021.149862
|
|
|
“Adsorption of habitat and industry-relevant molecules on the MoSi₂N₄, monolayer”. Bafekry A, Faraji M, Fadlallah MM, Ziabari AA, Khatibani AB, Feghhi SAH, Ghergherehchi M, Gogova D, Applied Surface Science 564, 150326 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APSUSC.2021.150326
Abstract: The adsorption of various environmental gas molecules, including H-2, N-2, CO, CO2, O-2, NO, NO2, SO2 H2O, H2S, NH3 and CH4, on the surface of the recently synthesized two dimensional MoSi2N4 (MSN) monolayer has been investigated by means of spin-polarized first-principles calculations. The most stable adsorption configuration, adsorption energy, and charge transfer have been computed. Due to the weak interaction between molecules studied with the MSN monolayer surface, the adsorption energy is small and does not yield any significant distortion of the MSN lattice, i.e., the interaction between the molecules and MSN monolayer surface is physisorption. We find that all molecules are physisorbed on the MSM surface with small charge transfer, acting as either charge acceptors or donors. The MSN monolayer is a semiconductor with an indirect band gap of 1.79 eV. Our theoretical estimations reveal that upon adsorption of H-2, N-2, CO, CO2, NO, H2O, H2S, NH3 and CH4 molecules, the semiconducting character of MSN monolayer is preserved and the band gap value is decreased to similar to 1.5 eV. However, the electronic properties of the MSN monolayer can be significantly altered by adsorption of O-2, NO and SO2, and a spin polarization with magnetic moments of 2, 1, 2 mu(B), respectively, can be introduced. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the band gap and the magnetic moment of adsorbed MSN monolayer can be significantly modulated by the concentration of NO and SO2 molecules. As the concentration of NO2 molecule increases, the magnetic moment increase from 1 mu(B) to 2 and 3 mu(B). In the case of the SO2 molecule with increasing of concentration, the band gap decreases from 1.2 eV to 1.1 and 0.9 eV. Obviously, our theoretical studies indicate that MSN monolayer-based sensor has a high application potential for O-2, NO, NO2 and SO2 detection.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.387
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2021.150326
|
|
|
“A bioreactor and nutrient balancing approach for the conversion of solid organic fertilizers to liquid nitrate-rich fertilizers : mineralization and nitrification performance complemented with economic aspects”. Xie Y, Spiller M, Vlaeminck SE, The science of the total environment 806, 150415 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.150415
Abstract: Due to the high water- and nutrient-use efficiency, hydroponic cultivation is increasingly vital in progressing to environment-friendly food production. To further alleviate the environmental impacts of synthetic fertilizer production, the use of recovered nutrients should be encouraged in horticulture and agriculture at large. Solid organic fertilizers can largely contribute to this, yet their physical and chemical nature impedes application in hydroponics. This study proposes a bioreactor for mineralization and nitrification followed by a supplementation step for limiting macronutrients to produce nitrate-based solutions from solid fertilizers, here based on a novel microbial fertilizer. Batch tests showed that aerobic conversions at 35 °C could realize a nitrate (NO₃−-N) production efficiency above 90% and a maximum rate of 59 mg N L−1 d−1. In the subsequent bioreactor test, nitrate production efficiencies were lower (44–51%), yet rates were higher (175–212 mg N L−1 d−1). Calcium and magnesium hydroxide were compared to control the bioreactor pH at 6.0 ± 0.2, while also providing macronutrients for plant production. A mass balance estimation to mimic the Hoagland nutrient solution showed that 92.7% of the NO₃−-N in the Ca(OH)₂ scenario could be organically sourced, while this was only 37.4% in the Mg(OH)₂ scenario. Besides, carbon dioxide (CO₂) generated in the bioreactor can be used for greenhouse carbon fertilization to save operational expenditure (OPEX). An estimation of the total OPEX showed that the production of a nutrient solution from solid organic fertilizers can be cost competitive compared to using commercially available liquid inorganic fertilizer solutions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.150415
|
|
|
“The peculiar potential of transition metal dichalcogenides for thermoelectric applications : a perspective on future computational research”. Sargin GO, Sarikurt S, Sevincli H, Sevik C, Journal of applied physics 133, 150902 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0130350
Abstract: The peculiar potential transition metal dichalcogenides in regard to sensor and device applications have been exhibited by both experimental and theoretical studies. The use of these materials, thermodynamically stable even at elevated temperatures, particularly in nano- and optoelectronic technology, is about to come true. On the other hand, the distinct electronic and thermal transport properties possessing unique coherency, which may result in higher thermoelectric efficiency, have also been reported. However, exploiting this potential in terms of power generation and cooling applications requires a deeper understanding of these materials in this regard. This perspective study, concentrated with this intention, summarizes thermoelectric research based on transition metal dichalcogenides from a broad perspective and also provides a general evaluation of future theoretical investigations inevitable to shed more light on the physics of electronic and thermal transport in these materials and to lead future experimental research.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.2
DOI: 10.1063/5.0130350
|
|
|
“Storage without nitrite or nitrate enables the long-term preservation of full-scale partial nitritation/anammox sludge”. Zhu W, Van Tendeloo M, Xie Y, Timmer MJ, Peng L, Vlaeminck SE, The science of the total environment 806, 151330 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.151330
Abstract: Bioaugmentation with summer harvested sludge during winter could compensate for bacterial activity loss but requires that sludge activity can be restored after storage. This study assesses the effect of temperature and redox adjustment during the storage over 180 days of partial nitritation/anammox (PN/A) granular resp. floccular sludge from potato processing resp. sludge reject water treatment. Anoxic storage conditions (in the presence of nitrite or nitrate and the absence of oxygen) resulted in a loss of 80-100% of the anammox bacteria (AnAOB) activity capacity at 20 degrees C and 4 degrees C, while anaerobic conditions (without oxygen, nitrite, and nitrate) lost only 45-63%. Storage at 20 degrees C was more cost-effective compared to 4 degrees C, and this was confirmed in the sludge reactivation experiment (20 CC). Furthermore, AnAOB activity correlated negatively with the electrical conductivity level (R-2 > 0.85, p < 0.05), so strong salinity increases should be avoided. No significant differences were found in the activity capacity of aerobic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AerAOB) under different storage conditions (p > 0.1). The relative abundance of dominant AnAOB (Candidatus Brocadia) and AerAOB genera (Nitrosomonas) remained constant in both sludges. In conclusion, preserving PN/A biomass without cooling and nitrite or nitrate addition proved to be a cost-effective strategy. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.151330
|
|
|
“First-principles investigation of structural, Raman and electronic characteristics of single layer Ge3N4”. Yayak YO, Sozen Y, Tan F, Gungen D, Gao Q, Kang J, Yagmurcukardes M, Sahin H, Applied surface science 572, 151361 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APSUSC.2021.151361
Abstract: By means of density functional theory-based first-principle calculations, the structural, vibrational and electronic properties of single-layer Ge3N4 are investigated. Structural optimizations and phonon band dispersions reveal that single-layer ultrathin form of Ge3N4 possesses a dynamically stable buckled structure with large hexagonal holes. Predicted Raman spectrum of single-layer Ge3N4 indicates that the buckled holey structure of the material exhibits distinctive vibrational features. Electronic band dispersion calculations indicate the indirect band gap semiconducting nature of single-layer Ge3N4. It is also proposed that single-layer Ge3N4 forms type-II vertical heterostructures with various planar and puckered 2D materials except for single-layer GeSe which gives rise to a type-I band alignment. Moreover, the electronic properties of single-layer Ge3N4 are investigated under applied external in-plane strain. It is shown that while the indirect gap behavior of Ge3N4 is unchanged by the applied strain, the energy band gap increases (decreases) with tensile (compressive) strain.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 6.7
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2021.151361
|
|
|
“Regulating light, oxygen and volatile fatty acids to boost the productivity of purple bacteria biomass, protein and co-enzyme Q10”. Peng L, Lou W, Xu Y, Yu S, Liang C, Alloul A, Song K, Vlaeminck SE, The science of the total environment 822, 153489 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.153489
Abstract: Purple non‑sulfur bacteria (PNSB) possess significant potential for bioresource recovery from wastewater. Effective operational tools are needed to boost productivity and direct the PNSB biomass towards abundant value-added substances (e.g., protein and co-enzyme Q10, CoQ10). This study aimed to investigate the impact of light, oxygen and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) on PNSB growth (i.e., Rhodobacter sphaeroides) and productivity of protein and CoQ10. Overall, the biomass yields and specific growth rates of PNSB were in the ranges of 0.57–1.08 g biomass g−1 CODremoved and 0.48–0.71 d−1, respectively. VFAs did not influence the biomass yield, yet acetate and VFA mixtures enhanced the specific growth rate with a factor of 1.2–1.5 compared to propionate and butyrate. The most PNSB biomass (1.08 g biomass g−1 CODremoved and 0.71 d−1) and the highest biomass quality (protein content of 609 mg g−1 dry cell weight (DCW) and CoQ10 content of 13.21 mg g−1 DCW) were obtained in the presence of VFA mixtures under natural light and microaerobic (low light alternated with darkness; dissolved oxygen (DO) between 0.5 and 1 mg L−1) conditions (vs. light anaerobic and dark aerobic cultivations). Further investigation on VFAs dynamics revealed that acetate was most rapidly consumed by PNSB in the individual VFA feeding (specific uptake rate of 0.76 g COD g−1 DCW d−1), while acetate as a co-substrate in the mixed VFAs feeding might accelerate the consumption of propionate and butyrate through providing additional cell metabolism precursor. Enzymes activities of succinate dehydrogenase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase as well as the concentration of photo pigments confirmed that light, oxygen and VFAs regulated the key enzymes in the energy metabolism and biomass synthesis to boost PNSB growth. These results provide a promising prospect for utilization of fermented waste stream for the harvest of PNSB biomass, protein and CoQ10.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.153489
|
|
|
“Microstructural investigation of IASCC crack tips extracted from thimble tube O-ring specimens”. Penders AG, Konstantinovic MJ, Yang T, Bosch R-w, Schryvers D, Somville F, Journal of nuclear materials 565, 153727 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JNUCMAT.2022.153727
Abstract: The microstructural features of intergranular irradiation-assisted stress corrosion crack tips from a redeemed neutron-irradiated flux thimble tube (60 dpa) have been investigated using focused-ion beam analysis and (scanning) transmission electron microscopy. The current work presents a close examination of the deformation field and oxide assembly associated with intergranular cracking, in addition to the analysis of radiation-induced segregation at leading grain boundaries. Evidence of stress induced martensitic transformation extending from the crack tips is presented. Intergranular crack arrest is demonstrated on the account of the external tensile stress orientation, and as a consequence of MnS inclusion particles segregating close to the fractured grain boundary. Exclusive observations of grain boundary oxidation prior to the cracking are presented, which is in full-agreement with the internal oxidation model.(c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.JNUCMAT.2022.153727
|
|