“Atomic oxygen functionalization of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes”. Bittencourt C, Navio C, Nicolay A, Ruelle B, Godfroid T, Snyders R, Colomer J-F, Lagos MJ, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Suarez-Martinez I, Ewels CP, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 115, 20412 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/jp2057699
Abstract: Vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes (v-MWCNTs) are functionalized using atomic oxygen generated in a microwave plasma. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profile analysis shows that the plasma treatment effectively grafts oxygen exclusively at the v-MWCNT tips. Electron microscopy shows that neither the vertical alignment nor the structure of v-MWCNTs were affected by the plasma treatment. Density functional calculations suggest assignment of XPS C 1s peaks at 286.6 and 287.5 eV, to epoxy and carbonyl functional groups, respectively.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 31
DOI: 10.1021/jp2057699
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“Au@MOF-5 and Au/Mox@MOF-5 (M = Zn, Ti, x = 1, 2) : preparation and microstructural characterisation”. Müller M, Turner S, Lebedev OI, Wang Y, Van Tendeloo G, Fischer RA, European journal of inorganic chemistry , 1876 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/ejic.201001297
Abstract: The Zn-carboxylate-based porous coordination polymer MOF-5 [Zn4O(bdc)3] and the metal oxide loaded materials ZnO@MOF-5 and TiO2@MOF-5 were loaded in a second step with the precursor [ClAuCO] to yield intermediate materials denoted as [ClAuCO]@MOF-5, [ClAuCO]/ZnO@MOF-5 and [ClAuCO]/TiO2@MOF-5. These composites were decomposed to Au@MOF-5, Au/ZnO@MOF-5 and Au/TiO2@MOF-5 under hydrogen at 100 °C. The nanoparticle-loaded hybrid materials were characterised by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), IR spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and N2 sorption measurements, which reveal an intact MOF-5 structure that maintains a high specific surface area. For Au@MOF-5, crystalline Au nanoparticles were distributed over the MOF matrix in a homogeneous fashion with a size of ca. 13 nm, evidenced by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. In the case of Au/ZnO@MOF-5, the Au and metal oxide particles of a few nm in size were coexistent in a given volume of the MOF-5 matrix and were not separated in different crystalline MOF particles. For the TiO2 loaded materials the oxide is preferentially located near the outer surface of the MOF particles, leading to an increase of larger exterior Au particles in comparison to very small interior Au particles as observed for the other materials. Au@MOF-5, Au/ZnO@MOF-5 and Au/TiO2@MOF-5 were tested in liquid-phase oxidation of alcohols. Preliminary results show a high activity for the Au loaded materials in this reaction. This observation is attributed to the microstructure of the composites with very small Au particles distributed homogeneously over the MOF matrix.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.444
Times cited: 75
DOI: 10.1002/ejic.201001297
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“Barrier efficiency of sponge-like La2Zr2O7 buffer layers for YBCO-coated conductors”. Molina L, Tan H, Biermans E, Batenburg KJ, Verbeeck J, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Superconductor science and technology 24, 065019 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0953-2048/24/6/065019
Abstract: Solution derived La2Zr2O7 films have drawn much attention for potential applications as thermal barriers or low-cost buffer layers for coated conductor technology. Annealing and coating parameters strongly affect the microstructure of La2Zr2O7, but different film processing methods can yield similar microstructural features such as nanovoids and nanometer-sized La2Zr2O7 grains. Nanoporosity is a typical feature found in such films and the implications for the functionality of the films are investigated by a combination of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and quantitative electron tomography. Chemical solution based La2Zr2O7 films deposited on flexible Ni5 at.%W substrates with a {100}lang001rang biaxial texture were prepared for an in-depth characterization. A sponge-like structure composed of nanometer-sized voids is revealed by high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy in combination with electron tomography. A three-dimensional quantification of nanovoids in the La2Zr2O7 film is obtained on a local scale. Mostly non-interconnected highly faceted nanovoids compromise more than one-fifth of the investigated sample volume. The diffusion barrier efficiency of a 170 nm thick La2Zr2O7 film is investigated by STEM-EELS, yielding a 1.8 ± 0.2 nm oxide layer beyond which no significant nickel diffusion can be detected and intermixing is observed. This is of particular significance for the functionality of YBa2Cu3O7 − δ coated conductor architectures based on solution derived La2Zr2O7 films as diffusion barriers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 2.878
Times cited: 31
DOI: 10.1088/0953-2048/24/6/065019
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“Behavior of electrons in a dual-magnetron sputter deposition system : a Monte Carlo model”. Yusupov M, Bultinck E, Depla D, Bogaerts A, New journal of physics 13, 033018 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/13/3/033018
Abstract: A Monte Carlo model has been developed for investigating the electron behavior in a dual-magnetron sputter deposition system. To describe the three-dimensional (3D) geometry, different reference frames, i.e. a local and a global coordinate system, were used. In this study, the influence of both closed and mirror magnetic field configurations on the plasma properties is investigated. In the case of a closed magnetic field configuration, the calculated electron trajectories show that if an electron is emitted in (or near) the center of the cathode, where the influence of the magnetic field is low, it is able to travel from one magnetron to the other. On the other hand, when an electron is created at the race track area, it is more or less trapped in the strong magnetic field and cannot easily escape to the second magnetron region. In the case of a mirror magnetic field configuration, irrespective of where the electron is emitted from the cathode, it cannot travel from one magnetron to the other because the magnetic field lines guide the electron to the substrate. Moreover, the electron density and electron impact ionization rate have been calculated and studied in detail for both configurations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.786
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/13/3/033018
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“Binary dusty plasma Coulomb balls”. Apolinario SWS, Peeters FM, Physical review : E : statistical physics, plasmas, fluids, and related interdisciplinary topics 83, 041136 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.83.041136
Abstract: We investigated the mixing and segregation of a system consisting of two different species of particles, having different charges, interacting through a pure Coulomb potential, and confined in a three-dimensional parabolic trap. The structure of the cluster and its normal mode spectrum are analyzed as a function of the relative charge and the relative number of different types of particles. We found that (a) the system can be in a mixed or segregated state depending on the relative charge ratio parameter and (b) the segregation process is mediated by a first or second order structural phase transition which strongly influences the magic cluster properties of the system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.366
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevE.83.041136
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“Buckled circular monolayer graphene : a graphene nano-bowl”. Neek-Amal M, Peeters FM, Journal of physics : condensed matter 23, 045002 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0953-8984/23/4/045002
Abstract: We investigate the stability of circular monolayer graphene subjected to a radial load using non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations. When monolayer graphene is radially stressed, after some small circular strain (~0.4%) it buckles and bends into a new bowl-like shape. Young's modulus is calculated from the linear relation between stress and strain before the buckling threshold, which is in agreement with experimental results. The prediction of elasticity theory for the buckling threshold of a radially stressed plate is presented and its results are compared to the one of our atomistic simulation. The Jarzynski equality is used to estimate the difference between the free energy of the non-compressed states and the buckled states. From a calculation of the free energy we obtain the optimum radius for which the system feels the minimum boundary stress.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/23/4/045002
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“Can we control the thickness of ultrathin silica layers by hyperthermal silicon oxidation at room temperature?”.Khalilov U, Neyts EC, Pourtois G, van Duin ACT, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 115, 24839 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/jp2082566
Abstract: Using reactive molecular dynamics simulations by means of the ReaxFF potential, we studied the growth mechanism of ultrathin silica (SiO2) layers during hyperthermal oxidation at room temperature. Oxidation of Si(100){2 × 1} surfaces by both atomic and molecular oxygen was investigated in the energy range 15 eV. The oxidation mechanism, which differs from thermal oxidation, is discussed. In the case of oxidation by molecular O2, silica is quickly formed and the thickness of the formed layers remains limited compared to oxidation by atomic oxygen. The Si/SiO2 interfaces are analyzed in terms of partial charges and angle distributions. The obtained structures of the ultrathin SiO2 films are amorphous, including some intrinsic defects. This study is important for the fabrication of silica-based devices in the micro- and nanoelectronics industry, and more specifically for the fabrication of metal oxide semiconductor devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1021/jp2082566
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“Catalytic and molecular separation properties of Zeogrids and Zeotiles”. Martens JA, Thybaut JW, Denayer JFM, Sree SP, Aerts A, Reyniers M-F, van Speybroeck V, Waroquier M, Buekenhoudt A, Vankelecom I, Buijs W, Persoons J, Baron GV, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Marin GB, Jacobs PA, Kirschhock CEA, Catalysis today 168, 17 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cattod.2011.01.036
Abstract: Zeogrids and Zeotiles are hierarchical materials built from assembled MFI zeolite precursor units. Permanent secondary porosity in these materials is obtained through self assembly of nanoparticles encountered in MFI zeolite synthesis in the presence of supramolecular templates. Hereon, the aggregated species are termed nanoslabs. Zeogrids are layered materials with lateral spacings between nanoslabs creating galleries qualifying as supermicropores. Zeotiles present a diversity of tridimensional nanoslab assemblies with mesopores. Zeotile-1, -4 and -6 are hexagonal mesostructures. Zeotile-1 has triangular and hexagonal channels; Zeotile-4 has hexagonal channels interconnected via slits. Zeotile-2 has a cubic structure with gyroid type mesoporosity. The behavior of Zeogrids and Zeotiles in adsorption, membrane and chromatographic separation and catalysis has been characterized and compared with zeolites and mesoporous materials derived from unstructured silica sources. Shape selectivity was detected via adsorption of n- and iso-alkanes. The mesoporosity of Zeotiles can be exploited in chromatographic separation of biomolecules. Zeotiles present attractive separation properties relevant to CO2 sequestration. Because of its facile synthesis procedure without hydrothermal steps Zeogrid is convenient for membrane synthesis. The performance of Zeogrid membrane in gas separation, nanofiltration and pervaporation is reported. In the Beckmann rearrangement of cyclohexanone oxime Zeogrids and Zeotiles display a catalytic activity characteristic of silicalite-1 zeolites. Introduction of acidity and redox catalytic activity can be achieved via incorporation of Al and Ti atoms in the nanoslabs during synthesis. Zeogrids are active in hydrocracking, catalytic cracking, alkylation and epoxidation reactions. Zeogrids and Zeotiles often behave differently from ordered mesoporous materials as well as from zeolites and present a valuable extension of the family of hierarchical silicate based materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.636
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1016/j.cattod.2011.01.036
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“Cation ordering within the perovskite block of a six-layer Ruddlesden-Popper oxide from layer-by-layer growth artificial interfaces in complex unit cells”. Yan L, Niu HJ, Duong GV, Suchomel MR, Bacsa J, Chalker PR, Hadermann J, Van Tendeloo G, Rosseinsky MJ, Chemical science 2, 261 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1039/c0sc00482k
Abstract: The (AO)(ABO3)n Ruddlesden-Popper structure is an archetypal complex oxide consisting of two distinct structural units, an (AO) rock salt layer separating an n-octahedra thick perovskite block. Conventional high-temperature oxide synthesis methods cannot access members with n > 3, but low-temperature layer-by-layer thin film methods allow the preparation of materials with thicker perovskite blocks, exploiting high surface mobility and lattice matching with the substrate. This paper describes the growth of an n = 6 member CaO[(CSMO)2(LCMO)2 (CSMO)2] in which the six unit cell perovskite block is sub-divided into two central La0.67Ca0.33MnO3 (LCMO) and two terminal Ca0.85Sm0.15MnO3 (CSMO) layers to allow stabilization of the rock salt layer and variation of the transition metal charge.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.668
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1039/c0sc00482k
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“Changing chirality during single-walled carbon nanotube growth : a reactive molecular dynamics/Monte Carlo study”. Neyts EC, van Duin ACT, Bogaerts A, Journal of the American Chemical Society 133, 17225 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/ja204023c
Abstract: The growth mechanism and chirality formation of a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) on a surface-bound nickel nanocluster are investigated by hybrid reactive molecular dynamics/force-biased Monte Carlo simulations. The validity of the interatomic potential used, the so-called ReaxFF potential, for simulating catalytic SWNT growth is demonstrated. The SWNT growth process was found to be in agreement with previous studies and observed to proceed through a number of distinct steps, viz., the dissolution of carbon in the metallic particle, the surface segregation of carbon with the formation of aggregated carbon clusters on the surface, the formation of graphitic islands that grow into SWNT caps, and finally continued growth of the SWNT. Moreover, it is clearly illustrated in the present study that during the growth process, the carbon network is continuously restructured by a metal-mediated process, thereby healing many topological defects. It is also found that a cap can nucleate and disappear again, which was not observed in previous simulations. Encapsulation of the nanoparticle is observed to be prevented by the carbon network migrating as a whole over the cluster surface. Finally, for the first time, the chirality of the growing SWNT cap is observed to change from (11,0) over (9,3) to (7,7). It is demonstrated that this change in chirality is due to the metal-mediated restructuring process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 13.858
Times cited: 116
DOI: 10.1021/ja204023c
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“Characterization and modeling of single-particle energy levels and resonant currents in a coherent quantum dot mixer”. Austing DG, Payette C, Yu G, Gupta JA, Aers GC, Nair SV, Partoens B, Amaha S, Tarucha S, AIP conference proceedings
T2 –, 30th International Conference on the Physics of Semiconductors (ICPS-30), JUL 25-30, 2010, Seoul, SOUTH KOREA , 1 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3666692
Abstract: We characterize and model the single-particle energy level position and resonant current strength at a three-level crossing in a coherent mixer composed of two weakly coupled vertical quantum dots. In addition to clear anticrossing behavior, an otherwise strong resonance is completely extinguished at the center of the crossing. Despite the strong variation in energy level position and resonant current strength throughout the crossing region, the resonance widths and the sum of the branch currents are found to be approximately constant.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.1063/1.3666692
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“Characterization of an Ar/O2 magnetron plasma by a multi-species Monte Carlo model”. Bultinck E, Bogaerts A, Plasma sources science and technology 20, 045013 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0963-0252/20/4/045013
Abstract: A combined Monte Carlo (MC)/analytical surface model is developed to study the plasma processes occurring during the reactive sputter deposition of TiOx thin films. This model describes the important plasma species with a MC approach (i.e. electrons, Ar+ ions, {\rm O}_2
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.302
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1088/0963-0252/20/4/045013
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d' Hondt H (2011) Characterization of anion deficient perovskites. Antwerpen
Keywords: Doctoral thesis; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
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“Characterization of NbC and (Nb, Ti)N nanoprecipitates in TRIP assisted multiphase steels”. Tirumalasetty GK, van Huis MA, Fang CM, Xu Q, Tichelaar FD, Hanlon DN, Sietsma J, Zandbergen HW, Acta materialia 59, 7406 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.actamat.2011.08.012
Abstract: Multiphase steels utilising composite strengthening may be further strengthened via grain refinement or precipitation by the addition of microalloying elements. In this study a Nb microalloyed steel comprising martensite, bainite and retained austenite has been studied. By means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) we have investigated the size distribution and the structural properties of (Nb, Ti)N and NbC precipitates, their occurrence in the various steel phases, and their relationship with the Fe matrix. (Nb, Ti)N precipitates were found in ferrite, martensite, and bainite, while NbC precipitates were found only in ferrite. All NbC precipitates were found to be small (520 nm in size) and to have a face centred cubic (fcc) crystal structure with lattice parameter a = 4.36 ± 0.05 Å. In contrast, the (Nb, Ti)N precipitates were found to have a broader size range (5150 nm) and to have a fcc crystal structure with lattice parameter a = 8.09 ± 0.05 Å. While the NbC precipitates were found to be randomly oriented, the (Nb, Ti)N precipitates have a well-defined NishiyamaWasserman orientation relationship with the ferrite matrix. An analysis of the lattice mismatch suggests that the latter precipitates have a high potential for effective strengthening. Density functional theory calculations were performed for various stoichiometries of NbCx and NbxTiyNz phases and the comparison with experimental data indicates that both the carbides and nitrides are deficient in C and N content.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.301
Times cited: 58
DOI: 10.1016/j.actamat.2011.08.012
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“The chemical vapor infiltration of exfoliated graphite to produce carbon/carbon composites”. Tikhomirov AS, Sorokina NE, Shornikova ON, Morozov VA, Van Tendeloo G, Avdeev VV, Carbon 49, 147 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbon.2010.08.054
Abstract: Chemical vapor infiltration was used for the production of carbon/carbon composites based on exfoliated graphite and pyrolytic carbon Two different exfoliated graphites compacted to densities of 0 05-0 4 g/cm(3) were used as a preform The influence of the synthesis conditions (temperature, pressure, time etc) on the degree of infiltration, the pyrolytic carbon morphology and the C/C composite characteristics was examined using Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.337
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2010.08.054
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“Chiral states in bilayer graphene : magnetic field dependence and gap opening”. Zarenia M, Pereira JM, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 84, 125451 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.84.125451
Abstract: At the interface of electrostatic potential kink profiles, one-dimensional chiral states are found in bilayer graphene (BLG). Such structures can be created by applying an asymmetric potential to the upper and the lower layers of BLG. We found the following: (i) due to the strong confinement by the single kink profile, the unidirectional states are only weakly affected by a magnetic field; (ii) increasing the smoothness of the kink potential results in additional bound states, which are topologically different from those chiral states; and (iii) in the presence of a kink-antikink potential, the overlap between the oppositely moving chiral states results in the appearance of crossing and anticrossing points in the energy spectrum. This leads to the opening of tunable minigaps in the spectrum of the unidirectional topological states.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 50
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.84.125451
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“Coherent relativistic wake wave of a charged object moving steadily in a plasma”. Wang Y, Yu MY, Chen ZY, Physica scripta 84, 025501 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0031-8949/84/02/025501
Abstract: Nonlinear electron plasma waves driven by a finite-charged particle pulse or rigid object moving at relativistic speeds are investigated. Quasi-stationary smooth and spiky wake waves comoving with the object are found. Localized soliton-like solutions are also shown to exist. Relativistic effects tend to prevent their formation because of the electron mass increase. The application of the very-large-amplitude wake density waves as a source of ultrahigh-energy cosmic-ray events is discussed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.28
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1088/0031-8949/84/02/025501
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“Community structure and feeding preference of nematodes associated with methane seepage at the Darwin mud volcano (Gulf of Cádiz)”. Pape E, Bezerra TN, Vanneste H, Heeschen K, Moodley L, Leroux F, van Breugel P, Vanreusel A, Marine ecology progress series 438, 71 (2011). http://doi.org/10.3354/meps09278
Abstract: We sampled the Darwin mud volcano (MV) for meiofaunal community and trophic structure in relation to pore-water geochemistry along a 10 m transect from a seep site on the rim of the crater towards the MV slope. Pore-water profiles indicated considerable variation in upward methane (CH4) flow among sediment cores taken along the transect, with highest flux in the seep sediment core, gradually decreasing along the transect, to no CH4 flux in the core taken at a 5 m distance. Low sulphate concentrations and high levels of total alkalinity and sulphide (H2S) suggested that anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) occurred close to the sediment surface in the seep sediment core. High H2S levels had a genus- and species-specific impact on meiofaunal densities. Nematode genus composition varied gradually between sediment cores, with the genus Sabatieria dominating almost all sediment cores. However, genus diversity increased with increasing distance from the seep site. These limited data suggest that the community structure of seep meiofauna is highly dependent on local (a)biotic habitat characteristics, and a typical seep meiofaunal community cannot be delineated. Stable isotope values suggested the nematode diet up to 10 m from the seep site included thiotrophic carbon. The thicker hemipelagic sediment layer (photosynthetic carbon), the increased trophic diversity, and the heavier nematode δ13C farther from the seep site suggest a decrease in thiotrophy and an increase in photosynthetic carbon in the nematode diet.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.292
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.3354/meps09278
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“Comparison of strained SiGe heterostructure-on-insulator (0 0 1) and (1 1 0) PMOSFETs : CV characteristics, mobility, and ON current”. Pham A-T, Zhao Q-T, Jungemann C, Meinerzhagen B, Mantl S, Sorée B, Pourtois G, Solid state electronics 65-66, 64 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.sse.2011.06.021
Abstract: Strained SiGe heterostructure-on-insulator (0 0 1) and (1 1 0) PMOSFETs are investigated including important aspects like CV characteristics, mobility, and ON current. The simulations are based on the self-consistent solution of 6 × 6 k · p Schrödinger Equation, multi subband Boltzmann Transport Equation and Poisson Equation, and capture size quantization, strain, crystallographic orientation, and SiGe alloy effects on a solid physical basis. The simulation results are validated by comparison with different experimental data sources. The simulation results show that the strained SiGe HOI PMOSFET with (1 1 0) surface orientation has a higher gate capacitance and a much higher mobility and ON current compared to a similar device with the traditional (0 0 1) surface orientation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.58
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1016/j.sse.2011.06.021
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“Compositional characterization of nickel silicides by HAADF-STEM imaging”. Verleysen E, Bender H, Richard O, Schryvers D, Vandervorst W, Journal of materials science 46, 2001 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-010-5191-z
Abstract: A methodology for the quantitative compositional characterization of nickel silicides by high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) imaging is presented. HAADF-STEM images of a set of nickel silicide reference samples Ni3Si, Ni31Si12, Ni2Si, NiSi and NiSi2 are taken at identical experimental conditions. The correlation between sample thickness and HAADF-STEM intensity is discussed. In order to quantify the relationship between the experimental Z-contrast intensities and the composition of the analysed layers, the ratio of the HAADF-STEM intensity to the sample thickness or to the intensity of the silicon substrate is determined for each nickel silicide reference sample. Diffraction contrast is still detected on the HAADF-STEM images, even though the detector is set at the largest possible detection angle. The influence on the quantification results of intensity fluctuations caused by diffraction contrast and channelling is examined. The methodology is applied to FUSI gate devices and to horizontal TFET devices with different nickel silicides formed on source, gate and drain. It is shown that, if the elements which are present are known, this methodology allows a fast quantitative 2-dimensional compositional analysis.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.599
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1007/s10853-010-5191-z
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“A comprehensive modelling approach for the neutral atmospheric boundary layer : consistent inflow conditions, wall function and turbulence model”. Parente A, Gorlé, C, van Beeck J, Benocci C, Boundary-layer meteorology 140, 411 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1007/s10546-011-9621-5
Abstract: We report on a novel approach for the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) modelling of the neutral atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), using the standard k− turbulence model. A new inlet condition for turbulent kinetic energy is analytically derived from the solution of the k− model transport equations, resulting in a consistent set of fully developed inlet conditions for the neutral ABL. A modification of the standard k− model is also employed to ensure consistency between the inlet conditions and the turbulence model. In particular, the turbulence model constant C μ is generalized as a location-dependent parameter, and a source term is introduced in the transport equation for the turbulent dissipation rate. The application of the proposed methodology to cases involving obstacles in the flow is made possible through the implementation of an algorithm, which automatically switches the turbulence model formulation when going from the region where the ABL is undisturbed to the region directly affected by the building. Finally, the model is completed with a slightly modified version of the Richards and Hoxey rough-wall boundary condition. The methodology is implemented and tested in the commercial code Ansys Fluent 12.1. Results are presented for a neutral boundary layer over flat terrain and for the flow around a single building immersed in an ABL.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.573
Times cited: 54
DOI: 10.1007/s10546-011-9621-5
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“Computer modelling of the plasma chemistry and plasma-based growth mechanisms for nanostructured materials”. Bogaerts A, Eckert M, Mao M, Neyts E, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 44, 174030 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/44/17/174030
Abstract: In this review paper, an overview is given of different modelling efforts for plasmas used for the formation and growth of nanostructured materials. This includes both the plasma chemistry, providing information on the precursors for nanostructure formation, as well as the growth processes itself. We limit ourselves to carbon (and silicon) nanostructures. Examples of the plasma modelling comprise nanoparticle formation in silane and hydrocarbon plasmas, as well as the plasma chemistry giving rise to carbon nanostructure formation, such as (ultra)nanocrystalline diamond ((U)NCD) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The second part of the paper deals with the simulation of the (plasma-based) growth mechanisms of the same carbon nanostructures, i.e. (U)NCD and CNTs, both by mechanistic modelling and detailed atomistic simulations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/44/17/174030
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“Computer simulations of an oxygen inductively coupled plasma used for plasma-assisted atomic layer deposition”. Tinck S, Bogaerts A, Plasma sources science and technology 20, 015008 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0963-0252/20/1/015008
Abstract: In this paper, an O2 inductively coupled plasma used for plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition of Al2O3 thin films is investigated by means of modeling. This work intends to provide more information about basic plasma properties such as species densities and species fluxes to the substrate as a function of power and pressure, which might be hard to measure experimentally. For this purpose, a hybrid model developed by Kushner et al is applied to calculate the plasma characteristics in the reactor volume for different chamber pressures ranging from 1 to 10 mTorr and different coil powers ranging from 50 to 500 W. Density profiles of the various oxygen containing plasma species are reported as well as fluxes to the substrate under various operating conditions. Furthermore, different orientations of the substrate, which can be placed vertically or horizontally in the reactor, are taken into account. In addition, special attention is paid to the recombination process of atomic oxygen on the different reactor walls under the stated operating conditions. From this work it can be concluded that the plasma properties change significantly in different locations of the reactor. The plasma density near the cylindrical coil is high, while it is almost negligible in the neighborhood of the substrate. Ion and excited species fluxes to the substrate are found to be very low and negligible. Finally, the orientation of the substrate has a minor effect on the flux of O2, while it has a significant effect on the flux of O. In the horizontal configuration, the flux of atomic oxygen can be up to one order of magnitude lower than in the vertical configuration.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.302
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1088/0963-0252/20/1/015008
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“Conditions for nonmonotonic vortex interaction in two-band superconductors”. Chaves A, Komendová, L, Milošević, MV, Andrade JS, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 214523 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214523
Abstract: We describe a semianalytic approach to the two-band Ginzburg-Landau theory, which predicts the behavior of vortices in two-band superconductors. We show that the character of the short-range vortex-vortex interaction is determined by the sign of the normal domain-superconductor interface energy, in analogy with the conventional differentiation between type I and type II superconductors. However, we also show that the long-range interaction is determined by a modified Ginzburg-Landau parameter κ*, different from the standard κ of a bulk superconductor. This opens the possibility for nonmonotonic vortex-vortex interaction, which is temperature dependent, and can be further tuned by alterations of the material on the microscopic scale.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 46
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214523
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“Convergence of quasiparticle band structures of Si and Ge nanowires in the GW approximation and the validity of scissor shifts”. Peelaers H, Partoens B, Giantomassi M, Rangel T, Goossens E, Rignanese G-M, Gonze X, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 045306 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.045306
Abstract: Starting from fully converged density-functional theory calculations, the quasiparticle corrections are calculated for different sized Si and Ge nanowires using the GW approximation. The effectiveness of recently developed techniques in speeding up the convergence of the quasiparticle calculations is demonstrated. The complete quasiparticle band structures are also obtained using an interpolation technique based on maximallylocalized Wannier functions. From the quasiparticle results, we assess the correctness of the commonly applied scissor-shift correction. Dispersion changes are observed, which are also reflected in changes in the effective band masses calculated taking into account quasiparticle corrections.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.045306
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“Crystal fields, disorder, and antiferromagnetic short-range order in Yb0.24Sn0.76Ru”. Klimczuk T, Wang CH, Lawrence JM, Xu Q, Durakiewicz T, Ronning F, Llobet A, Trouw F, Kurita N, Tokiwa Y, Lee Ho, Booth CH, Gardner JS, Bauer ED, Joyce JJ, Zandbergen HW, Movshovich R, Cava RJ, Thompson JD;, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 84, 075152 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.84.075152
Abstract: We report extensive measurements on a new compound (Yb0.24Sn0.76)Ru that crystallizes in the cubic CsCl structure. Valence-band photoemission (PES) and L3 x-ray absorption show no divalent component in the 4f configuration of Yb. Inelastic neutron scattering (INS) indicates that the eight-fold degenerate J-multiplet of Yb3+ is split by the crystalline electric field (CEF) into a Γ7-doublet ground state and a Γ8 quartet at an excitation energy 20 meV. The magnetic susceptibility can be fit very well by this CEF scheme under the assumption that a Γ6-excited state resides at 32 meV; however, the Γ8/Γ6 transition expected at 12 meV was not observed in the INS. The resistivity follows a Bloch-Grüneisen law shunted by a parallel resistor, as is typical of systems subject to phonon scattering with no apparent magnetic scattering. All of these properties can be understood as representing simple local moment behavior of the trivalent Yb ion. At 1 K there is a peak in specific heat that is too broad to represent a magnetic-phase transition, consistent with absence of magnetic reflections in neutron diffraction. On the other hand this peak also is too narrow to represent the Kondo effect in the Γ7-doublet ground state. On the basis of the field dependence of the specific heat, we argue that antiferromagnetic (AF) short-range order (SRO) (possibly coexisting with Kondo physics) occurs at low temperatures. The long-range magnetic order is suppressed because the Yb site occupancy is below the percolation threshold for this disordered compound.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.84.075152
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“Crystal growth of CsCl-type Yb0.24Sn0.76Ru”. Klimczuk T, Wang CH, Xu Q, Lawrence J, Durakiewicz T, Ronning F, Llobet A, Bauer ED, Griveau J-C, Sadowski W, Zandbergen HW, Thompson JD, Cava RJ, Journal of crystal growth 318, 1005 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcrysgro.2010.10.045
Abstract: The YbRuSn ternary system was investigated and a new material, Yb0.24Sn0.76Ru, with a simple cubic crystal structure, was discovered. Yb0.24Sn0.76Ru has a smaller lattice parameter a=3.217(4) Å, than its isostructural YbRu analogue (a=3.360 Å). Both X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy techniques were used to refine the crystal structure of Yb0.24Sn0.76Ru. It was found that a new compound forms in the CsCl structure, with Ru on the 1a site and a (Yb, Sn) mixture on site 1b. The XRD Rietveld analysis provides the occupation of Yb equal to 0.24, in agreement with the single crystal nano-electron diffraction refinement, which gives the occupation 0.21.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.751
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrysgro.2010.10.045
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“Crystallographic and magnetic characterisation of the brownmillerite Sr2Co2O5”. Sullivan E, Hadermann J, Greaves C, Journal of solid state chemistry 184, 649 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2011.01.026
Abstract: Sr2Co2O5 with the perovskite-related brownmillerite structure has been synthesised via quenching, with the orthorhombic unit cell parameters a=5.4639(3) Å, b=15.6486(8) Å and c=5.5667(3) Å based on refinement of neutron powder diffraction data collected at 4 K. Electron microscopy revealed LRLR-intralayer ordering of chain orientations, which require a doubling of the unit cell along the c-parameter, consistent with the assignment of the space group Pcmb. However, on the length scale pertinent to NPD, no long-range order is observed and the disordered space group Imma appears more appropriate. The magnetic structure corresponds to G-type order with a moment of 3.00(4) μB directed along [1 0 0].
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.299
Times cited: 19
DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2011.01.026
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“A cyclic catalyst pretreatment in CO2 for high yield production of Carbon nanofibers with narrow diameter distribution”. Corthals S, van Noyen J, Liang D, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Jacobs P, Sels B, Catalysis letters 141, 1621 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1007/s10562-011-0690-3
Abstract: This paper presents a cyclic catalyst pretreatment process to improve the CNF yield with narrow size distribution by sequentially feeding the CVD reactor with CH4/CO2 mixtures (carbon deposition) and CO2 (carbon removal) prior to the actual growth process. A mechanism based on a break-up of large Ni particles tentatively explains the beneficial effect of the cyclic carbon deposition/removal CVD procedure.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.799
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1007/s10562-011-0690-3
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“Degradation process of lead chromate in paintings by Vincent van Gogh studied by means of synchrotron X-ray spectromicroscopy and related methods : 1 : artificially aged model samples”. Monico L, van der Snickt G, Janssens K, de Nolf W, Miliani C, Verbeeck J, Tian H, Tan H, Dik J, Radepont M, Cotte M, Analytical chemistry 83, 1214 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/ac102424h
Abstract: On several paintings by artists of the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th Century a darkening of the original yellow areas, painted with the chrome yellow pigment (PbCrO4, PbCrO4·xPbSO4, or PbCrO4·xPbO) is observed. The most famous of these are the various Sunflowers paintings Vincent van Gogh made during his career. In the first part of this work, we attempt to elucidate the degradation process of chrome yellow by studying artificially aged model samples. In view of the very thin (1−3 μm) alteration layers that are formed, high lateral resolution spectroscopic methods such as microscopic X-ray absorption near edge (μ-XANES), X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (μ-XRF), and electron energy loss spectrometry (EELS) were employed. Some of these use synchrotron radiation (SR). Additionally, microscopic SR X-ray diffraction (SR μ-XRD), μ-Raman, and mid-FTIR spectroscopy were employed to completely characterize the samples. The formation of Cr(III) compounds at the surface of the chrome yellow paint layers is particularly observed in one aged model sample taken from a historic paint tube (ca. 1914). About two-thirds of the chromium that is present at the surface has reduced from the hexavalent to the trivalent state. The EELS and μ-XANES spectra are consistent with the presence of Cr2O3·2H2O (viridian). Moreover, as demonstrated by μ-XANES, the presence of another Cr(III) compound, such as either Cr2(SO4)3·H2O or (CH3CO2)7Cr3(OH)2 [chromium(III) acetate hydroxide], is likely.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 6.32
Times cited: 113
DOI: 10.1021/ac102424h
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