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“Synthesis and characterization of photoreactive TiO2carbon nanosheet composites”. Kurttepeli M, Deng S, Verbruggen SW, Guzzinati G, Cott DJ, Lenaerts S, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Detavernier C, Bals S, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 118, 21031 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/jp5067499
Abstract: We report the atomic layer deposition of titanium dioxide on carbon nanosheet templates and investigate the effects of postdeposition annealing in a helium environment using different characterization techniques. The crystallization of the titanium dioxide coating upon annealing is observed using in situ X-ray diffraction. The (micro)structural characterization of the films is carried out by scanning electron microscopy and advanced transmission electron microscopy techniques. Our study shows that the annealing of the atomic layer deposition processed and carbon nanosheets templated titanium dioxide layers in helium environment resulting in the formation of a porous, nanocrystalline and photocatalytically active titanium dioxide-carbon nanosheet composite film. Such composites are suitable for photocatalysis and dye-sensitized solar cells applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1021/jp5067499
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“Direct Observation of Luminescent Silver Clusters Confined in Faujasite Zeolites”. Altantzis T, Coutino-Gonzalez E, Baekelant W, Martinez GT, Abakumov AM, Van Tendeloo G, Roeffaers MBJ, Bals S, Hofkens J, ACS nano 10, 7604 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.6b02834
Abstract: One of the ultimate goals in the study of metal clusters is the correlation between the atomic-scale organization and their physicochemical properties. However, direct observation of the atomic organization of such minuscule metal clusters is heavily hindered by radiation damage imposed by the different characterization techniques. We present direct evidence of the structural arrangement, at an atomic level, of luminescent silver species stabilized in faujasite (FAU) zeolites using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. Two different silver clusters were identified in Ag-FAU zeolites, a trinuclear silver species associated with green emission and a tetranuclear silver species related to yellow emission. By combining direct imaging with complementary information obtained from X-ray powder diffraction and Rietveld analysis, we were able to elucidate the main differences at an atomic scale between luminescent (heat-treated) and nonluminescent (cation-exchanged) Ag-FAU zeolites. It is expected that such insights will trigger the directed synthesis of functional metal nanocluster-zeolite composites with tailored luminescent properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 57
DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.6b02834
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“Selective laser-assisted synthesis of tubular van der Waals heterostructures of single-layered PbI2 within carbon nanotubes exhibiting carrier photogeneration”. Sandoval S, Kepic D, Perez del Pino A, Gyorgy E, Gomez A, Pfannmöller M, Van Tendeloo G, Ballesteros B, Tobias G, ACS nano 12, 6648 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSNANO.8B01638
Abstract: The electronic and optical properties of two-dimensional layered materials allow the miniaturization of nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices in a competitive manner. Even larger opportunities arise when two or more layers of different materials are combined. Here, we report on an ultrafast energy efficient strategy, using laser irradiation, which allows bulk synthesis of crystalline single-layered lead iodide in the cavities of carbon nanotubes by forming cylindrical van der Waals heterostructures. In contrast to the filling of van der Waals solids into carbon nanotubes by conventional thermal annealing, which favors the formation of inorganic nanowires, the present strategy is highly selective toward the growth of monolayers forming lead iodide nanotubes. The irradiated bulk material bearing the nanotubes reveals a decrease of the resistivity as well as a significant increase in the current flow upon illumination. Both effects are attributed to the presence of single-walled lead iodide nanotubes in the cavities of carbon nanotubes, which dominate the properties of the whole matrix. The present study brings in a simple, ultrafast and energy efficient strategy for the tailored synthesis of rolled-up single-layers of lead iodide (i.e., single-walled PbI2 nanotubes), which we believe could be expanded to other two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals solids. In fact, initial tests with ZnI2 already reveal the formation of single-walled ZnI2 nanotubes, thus proving the versatility of the approach.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1021/ACSNANO.8B01638
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“High-voltage cycling induced thermal vulnerability in LiCoO₂, cathode : cation loss and oxygen release driven by oxygen vacancy migration”. Sun C, Liao X, Xia F, Zhao Y, Zhang L, Mu S, Shi S, Li Y, Peng H, Van Tendeloo G, Zhao K, Wu J, Acs Nano 14, 6181 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSNANO.0C02237
Abstract: The release of the lattice oxygen due to the thermal degradation of layered lithium transition metal oxides is one of the major safety concerns in Li-ion batteries. The oxygen release is generally attributed to the phase transitions from the layered structure to spinel and rocksalt structures that contain less lattice oxygen. Here, a different degradation pathway in LiCoO2 is found, through oxygen vacancy facilitated cation migration and reduction. This process leaves undercoordinated oxygen that gives rise to oxygen release while the structure integrity of the defect-free region is mostly preserved. This oxygen release mechanism can be called surface degradation due to the kinetic control of the cation migration but has a slow surface to bulk propagation with continuous loss of the surface cation ions. It is also strongly correlated with the high-voltage cycling defects that end up with a significant local oxygen release at low temperatures. This work unveils the thermal vulnerability of high-voltage Li-ion batteries and the critical role of the surface fraction as a general mitigating approach.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 17.1
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1021/ACSNANO.0C02237
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“Air- and water-resistant noble metal coated ferromagnetic cobalt nanorods”. Lentijo-Mozo S, Tan RP, Garcia-Marcelot C, Altantzis T, Fazzini PF, Hungria T, Cormary B, Gallagher JR, Miller JT, Martinez H, Schrittwieser S, Schotter J, Respaud M, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Gatel C, Soulantica K, ACS nano 9, 2792 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn506709k
Abstract: Cobalt nanorods possess ideal magnetic properties for applications requiring magnetically hard nanoparticles. However, their exploitation is undermined by their sensitivity toward oxygen and water, which deteriorates their magnetic properties. The development of a continuous metal shell inert to oxidation could render them stable, opening perspectives not only for already identified applications but also for uses in which contact with air and/or aqueous media is inevitable. However, the direct growth of a conformal noble metal shell on magnetic metals is a challenge. Here, we show that prior treatment of Co nanorods with a tin coordination compound is the crucial step that enables the subsequent growth of a continuous noble metal shell on their surface, rendering them air- and water-resistant, while conserving the monocrystallity, metallicity and the magnetic properties of the Co core. Thus, the as-synthesized coreshell ferromagnetic nanorods combine high magnetization and strong uniaxial magnetic anisotropy, even after exposure to air and water, and hold promise for successful implementation in in vitro biodiagnostics requiring probes of high magnetization and anisotropic shape.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1021/nn506709k
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“Atomic structure of quantum gold nanowires : quantification of the lattice strain”. Kundu P, Turner S, Van Aert S, Ravishankar N, Van Tendeloo G, ACS nano 8, 599 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn4052315
Abstract: Theoretical studies exist to compute the atomic arrangement in gold nanowires and the influence on their electronic behavior with decreasing diameter. Experimental studies, e.g., by transmission electron microscopy, on chemically synthesized ultrafine wires are however lacking owing to the unavailability of suitable protocols for sample preparation and the stability of the wires under electron beam irradiation. In this work, we present an atomic scale structural investigation on quantum single crystalline gold nanowires of 2 nm diameter, chemically prepared on a carbon film grid. Using low dose aberration-corrected high resolution (S)TEM, we observe an inhomogeneous strain distribution in the crystal, largely concentrated at the twin boundaries and the surface along with the presence of facets and surface steps leading to a noncircular cross section of the wires. These structural aspects are critical inputs needed to determine their unique electronic character and their potential as a suitable catalyst material. Furthermore, electron-beam-induced structural changes at the atomic scale, having implications on their mechanical behavior and their suitability as interconnects, are discussed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1021/nn4052315
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“Competing forces in the self-assembly of coupled ZnO nanopyramids”. Javon E, Gaceur M, Dachraoui W, Margeat O, Ackermann J, Ilenia Saba M, Delugas P, Mattoni A, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, ACS nano 9, 3685 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.5b00809
Abstract: Self-assembly (SA) of nanostructures has recently gained increasing interest. A clear understanding of the process is not straightforward since SA of nanoparticles is a complex multiscale phenomenon including different driving forces. Here, we study the SA between aluminum doped ZnO nanopyramids into couples by combining inorganic chemistry and advanced electron microscopy techniques with atomistic simulations. Our results show that the SA of the coupled nanopyramids is controlled first by morphology, as coupling only occurs in the case of pyramids with well-developed facets of the basal planes. The combination of electron microscopy and atomistic modeling reveals that the coupling is further driven by strong ligandligand interaction between the bases of the pyramids as dominant force, while screening effects due to Al doping or solvent as well as corecore interaction are only minor contributions. Our combined approach provides a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between the interactions at work in the coupled SA of ZnO nanopyramids.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 21
DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b00809
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“Hydrophobic interactions modulate self-assembly of nanoparticles”. Sánchez-Iglesias A, Grzelczak M, Altantzis T, Goris B, Pérez-Juste J, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Donaldson SH, Chmelka BF, Israelachvili JN, Liz-Marzán LM;, ACS nano 6, 11059 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn3047605
Abstract: Hydrophobic interactions constitute one of the most important types of nonspecific interactions in biological systems, which emerge when water molecules rearrange as two hydrophobic species come close to each other. The prediction of hydrophobic interactions at the level of nanoparticles (Brownian objects) remains challenging because of uncontrolled diffusive motion of the particles. We describe here a general methodology for solvent-induced, reversible self-assembly of gold nanoparticles into 3D clusters with well-controlled sizes. A theoretical description of the process confirmed that hydrophobic interactions are the main driving force behind nanoparticle aggregation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 311
DOI: 10.1021/nn3047605
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“Knitting the catalytic pattern of artificial photosynthesis to a hybrid graphene nanotexture”. Quintana M, López AM, Rapino S, Toma FM, Iurlo M, Carraro M, Sartorel A, Maccato C, Ke X, Bittencourt C, Da Ros T, Van Tendeloo G, Marcaccio M, Paolucci F, Prato M, Bonchio M;, ACS nano 7, 811 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn305313q
Abstract: The artificial leaf project calls for new materials enabling multielectron catalysis with minimal overpotential, high turnover frequency, and long-term stability. Is graphene a better material than carbon nanotubes to enhance water oxidation catalysis for energy applications? Here we show that functionalized graphene with a tailored distribution of polycationic, quaternized, ammonium pendants provides an sp(2) carbon nanoplatform to anchor a totally inorganic tetraruthenate catalyst, mimicking the oxygen evolving center of natural PSII. The resulting hybrid material displays oxygen evolution at overpotential as low as 300 mV at neutral pH with negligible loss of performance after 4 h testing. This multilayer electroactive asset enhances the turnover frequency by 1 order of magnitude with respect to the isolated catalyst, and provides a definite up-grade of the carbon nanotube material, with a similar surface functionalization. Our innovation is based on a noninvasive, synthetic protocol for graphene functionalization that goes beyond the ill-defined oxidation-reduction methods, allowing a definite control of the surface properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 69
DOI: 10.1021/nn305313q
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“Light-induced selective deposition of Au nanoparticles on single-wall carbon nanotubes”. Quintana M, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Meneghetti M, Bittencourt C, Prato M, ACS nano 4, 6105 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn101183y
Abstract: Novel applications of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) rely on the development of new strategies to make them easier to handle without affecting their structural properties. In this work, we have selectively deposited Au nanoparticles (Au NP) on SWNT assisted by UV light irradiation. XPS analysis and UV-vis spectroscopy indicate that the deposition occurs at the defects generated after oxidation of the SWNT. By addition of n-dodecylthiol, the separation of oxidized tubes with Au NP (Au-ox-SWNT) from tubes devoid of Au NP (bare tubes, b-SWNT) was achieved. Raman and UV-vis-NIR spectra indicate that UV irradiation induces a faster nucleation of Au NP on metallic SWNT. This new technique can be useful for the preparation of nanohybrid composites with enhanced properties, as increased thermal stability, and to obtain purified SWNT.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1021/nn101183y
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“Measuring point defect density in individual carbon nanotubes using polarization-dependent X-ray microscopy”. Felten A, Gillon X, Gulas M, Pireaux J-J, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Bittencourt C, Najafi E, Hitchcock AP, ACS nano 4, 4431 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn1002248
Abstract: The presence of defects in carbon nanotubes strongly modifies their electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties. It was long thought undesirable, but recent experiments have shown that introduction of structural defects using ion or electron irradiation can lead to novel nanodevices. We demonstrate a method for detecting and quantifying point defect density in individual carbon nanotubes (CNTs) based on measuring the polarization dependence (linear dichroism) of the C 1s → π* transition at specific locations along individual CNTs with a scanning transmission X-ray microscope (STXM). We show that STXM can be used to probe defect density in individual CNTs with high spatial resolution. The quantitative relationship between ion dose, nanotube diameter, and defect density was explored by purposely irradiating selected sections of nanotubes with kiloelectronvolt (keV) Ga+ ions. Our results establish polarization-dependent X-ray microscopy as a new and very powerful characterization technique for carbon nanotubes and other anisotropic nanostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1021/nn1002248
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“Surface-Facet-Dependent Phonon Deformation Potential in Individual Strained Topological Insulator Bi2Se3 Nanoribbons”. Yan Y, Zhou X, Jin H, Li C-Z, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Liu K, Yu D, Dressel M, Liao Z-M, ACS nano 9, 10244 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.5b04057
Abstract: Strain is an important method to tune the properties of topological insulators. For example, compressive strain can induce superconductivity in Bi2Se3 bulk material. Topological insulator nanostructures are the superior candidates to utilize the unique surface states due to the large surface to volume ratio. Therefore, it is highly desirable to monitor the local strain effects in individual topological insulator nanostructures. Here, we report the systematical micro-Raman spectra of single strained Bi2Se3 nanoribbons with different thicknesses and different surface facets, where four optical modes are resolved in both Stokes and anti-Stokes Raman spectral lines. A striking anisotropy of the strain dependence is observed in the phonon frequency of strained Bi2Se3 nanoribbons grown along the ⟨112̅0⟩ direction. The frequencies of the in-plane Eg2 and out-of-plane A1g1 modes exhibit a nearly linear blue-shift against bending strain when the nanoribbon is bent along the ⟨112̅0⟩ direction with the curved {0001} surface. In this case, the phonon deformation potential of the Eg2 phonon for 100 nm-thick Bi2Se3 nanoribbon is up to 0.94 cm–1/%, which is twice of that in Bi2Se3 bulk material (0.52 cm–1/%). Our results may be valuable for the strain modulation of individual topological insulator nanostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b04057
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“Photovoltaic effect and evidence of carrier multiplication in graphene vertical homojunctions with asymmetrical metal contacts”. Chen JJ, Wang Q, Meng J, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Bie YQ, Liu J, Liu K, Liao ZM, Sun D, Yu D;, ACS nano 9, 8851 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.5b02356
Abstract: Graphene exhibits exciting potentials for high-speed wideband photodetection and high quantum efficiency solar energy harvest because of its broad spectral absorption, fast photoelectric response, and potential carrier multiplication. Although photocurrent can be generated near a metalgraphene interface in lateral devices, the photoactive area is usually limited to a tiny one-dimensional line-like interface region. Here, we report photoelectric devices based on vertical graphene two-dimensional homojunction, which is fabricated via vertically stacking four graphene monolayers with asymmetric metal contacts. The devices show excellent photovoltaic output with excitation wavelength ranging from visible light to mid-infrared. The wavelength dependence of the internal quantum efficiency gives direct evidence of the carrier multiplication effect in graphene. The simple fabrication process, easy scale-up, large photoresponsive active area, and broadband response of the vertical graphene device are very promising for practical applications in optoelectronics and photovoltaics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b02356
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“Polyethylene glycol conjugated polymeric nanocapsules for targeted delivery of quercetin to folate-expressing cancer cells in vitro and in vivo”. El-Gogary RI, Rubio N, Wang JTW, Al-Jamal WT, Bourgognon M, Kafa H, Naeem M, Klippstein R, Abbate V, Leroux F, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Kamel AO, Awad GAS, Mortada ND, Al-Jamal KT;, ACS nano 8, 1384 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn405155b
Abstract: In this work we describe the formulation and characterization of chemically modified polymeric nanocapsules incorporating the anticancer drug, quercetin, for the passive and active targeting to tumors. Folic acid was conjugated to poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) polymer to facilitate active targeting to cancer cells. Two different methods for the conjugation of PLGA to folic acid were employed utilizing polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a spacer. Characterization of the conjugates was performed using FTIR and H-1 NMR studies. The PEG and folk acid content was independent of the conjugation methodology employed. PEGylation has shown to reduce the size of the nanocapsule; moreover, zeta-potential was shown to be polymer-type dependent. Comparative studies on the cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of the different formulations by He La cells, in the presence and absence of excess folic acid, were carried out using MTT assay and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy, respectively. Both results confirmed the selective uptake and cytotoxicity of the folic acid targeted nanocapsules to the folate enriched cancer cells in a folate-dependent manner. Finally, the passive tumor accumulation and the active targeting of the nanocapsules to folate-expressing cells were confirmed upon intravenous administration in He La or IGROV-1 tumor-bearing mice. The developed nanocapsules provide a system for targeted delivery of a range of hydrophobic anticancer drugs in vivo.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 144
DOI: 10.1021/nn405155b
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“Self-organization of highly symmetric nanoassemblies : a matter of competition”. Galván-Moya JE, Altantzis T, Nelissen K, Peeters FM, Grzelczak M, Liz-Marán LM, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, ACS nano 8, 3869 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn500715d
Abstract: The properties and applications of metallic nanoparticles are inseparably connected not only to their detailed morphology and composition but also to their structural configuration and mutual interactions. As a result, the assemblies often have superior properties as compared to individual nanoparticles. Although it has been reported that nanoparticles can form highly symmetric clusters, if the configuration can be predicted as a function of the synthesis parameters, more targeted and accurate synthesis will be possible. We present here a theoretical model that accurately predicts the structure and configuration of self-assembled gold nanoclusters. The validity of the model is verified using quantitative experimental data extracted from electron tomography 3D reconstructions of different assemblies. The present theoretical model is generic and can in principle be used for different types of nanoparticles, providing a very wide window of potential applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 34
DOI: 10.1021/nn500715d
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“Study of the interface between rhodium and carbon nanotubes”. Suarez-Martinez I, Ewels CP, Ke X, Van Tendeloo G, Thiess S, Drube W, Felten A, Pireaux J-J, Ghijsen J, Bittencourt C, ACS nano 4, 1680 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn9015955
Abstract: X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy at 3.5 keV photon energy, in combination with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, is used to follow the formation of the interface between rhodium and carbon nanotubes. Rh nucleates at defect sites, whether initially present or induced by oxygen-plasma treatment. More uniform Rh cluster dispersion is observed on plasma-treated CNTs. Experimental results are compared to DFT calculations of small Rh clusters on pristine and defective graphene. While Rh interacts as strongly with the carbon as Ti, it is less sensitive to the presence of oxygen, suggesting it as a good candidate for nanotube contacts.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1021/nn9015955
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“Tailoring ZnSe-CdSe colloidal quantum dots via cation exchange : from core/shell to alloy nanocrystals”. Groeneveld E, Witteman L, Lefferts M, Ke X, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, de Mello Donega C, ACS nano 7, 7913 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn402931y
Abstract: We report a study of Zn2+ by Cd2+ cation exchange (CE) in colloidal ZnSe nanocrystals (NCs). Our results reveal that CE in ZnSe NCs is a thermally activated isotropic process. The CE efficiency (i.e., fraction of Cd2+ ions originally in solution, Cdsol, that is incorporated in the ZnSe NC) increases with temperature and depends also on the Cdsol/ZnSe ratio. Interestingly, the reaction temperature can be used as a sensitive parameter to tailor both the composition and the elemental distribution profile of the product (Zn,Cd)Se NCs. At 150 °C ZnSe/CdSe core/shell hetero-NCs (HNCs) are obtained, while higher temperatures (200 and 220 °C) produce (Zn1xCdx)Se gradient alloy NCs, with increasingly smoother gradients as the temperature increases, until homogeneous alloy NCs are obtained at T ≥ 240 °C. Remarkably, sequential heating (150 °C followed by 220 °C) leads to ZnSe/CdSe core/shell HNCs with thicker shells, rather than (Zn1xCdx)Se gradient alloy NCs. Thermal treatment at 250 °C converts the ZnSe/CdSe core/shell HNCs into (Zn1xCdx)Se homogeneous alloy NCs, while preserving the NC shape. A mechanism for the cation exchange in ZnSe NCs is proposed, in which fast CE takes place at the NC surface, and is followed by relatively slower thermally activated solid-state cation diffusion, which is mediated by Frenkel defects. The findings presented here demonstrate that cation exchange in colloidal ZnSe NCs provides a very sensitive tool to tailor the nature and localization regime of the electron and hole wave functions and the optoelectronic properties of colloidal ZnSeCdSe NCs.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 153
DOI: 10.1021/nn402931y
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“Three-dimensional valency mapping in ceria nanocrystals”. Goris B, Turner S, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, ACS nano 8, 10878 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn5047053
Abstract: Using electron tomography combined with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), we are able to map the valency of the Ce ions in CeO2-x nanocrystals in three dimensions. Our results show a clear facet-dependent reduction shell at the surface of ceria nanoparticles; {111} surface facets show a low surface reduction, whereas at {001} surface facets, the cerium ions are more likely to be reduced over a larger surface shell. Our generic tomographic technique allows a full 3D data cube to be reconstructed, containing an EELS spectrum in each voxel. This possibility enables a three-dimensional investigation of a plethora of material-specific physical properties such as valency, chemical composition, oxygen coordination, or bond lengths, triggering the synthesis of nanomaterials with improved properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 85
DOI: 10.1021/nn5047053
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“Multi-functional copper oxide nanosystems for H2 sustainable production and sensing”. Gasparotto A, Barreca D, Fornasiero P, Gombac V, Lebedev O, Maccato C, Montini T, Tondello E, Van Tendeloo G, Comini E, Sberveglieri G, ECS transactions 25, 1169 (2009)
Abstract: This work focuses on the use of tailored copper oxide nanoarchitectures as multi-functional materials for the sustainable production of hydrogen and its on-line detection. An innovative copper(II) precursor, Cu(hfa)2TMEDA, was adopted in the CVD of CuxO (x=1,2) nanosystems under both O2 and O2+H2O atmospheres on Si(100) and Al2O3 substrates. A multi-technique characterization indicates that both the phase composition (from Cu2O to CuO) and morphology (from continuous films to entangled quasi-1D nanosystems) can be tailored by varying the growth temperature and reaction atmosphere. The obtained CuxO nanodeposits are active in the photocatalytic H2 production from aqueous solutions under UV-Vis irradiation and display interesting gas sensing performances towards hydrogen detection even at moderate temperatures.
Keywords: A2 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
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“Identification of substitutional nitrogen and surface paramagnetic centers in nanodiamond of dynamic synthesis by electron paramagnetic resonance”. Orlinskii SB, Bogomolov RS, Kiyamova AM, Yavkin BV, Mamin GM, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Shiryaev AA, Vlasov II, Shenderova O, Nanoscience and nanotechnology letters 3, 63 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1166/nnl.2011.1121
Abstract: Production of nanodiamond particles containing substitutional nitrogen is important for a wide variety of advanced applications. In the current work nanodiamond particles synthesized from a mixture of graphite and hexogen were analyzed to determine the presence of substitutional nitrogen using pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Nitrogen paramagnetic centers in the amount of 1.2 ppm have been identified. The spin relaxation characteristics for both nitrogen and surface defects are also reported. A new approach for efficient depletion of the strong non-nitrogen EPR signal in nanodiamond material by immersing nanodiamond particles into ice matrix is suggested. This approach allows an essential decrease of the spin relaxation time of the dominant non-nitrogen defects, while preserving the substitutional nitrogen spin relaxation time.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.889
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1166/nnl.2011.1121
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“Cocatalyzing Pt/PtO phase-junction nanodots on hierarchically porous TiO2 for highly enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production”. Ren X-N, Hu Z-Y, Jin J, Wu L, Wang C, Liu J, Liu F, Wu M, Li Y, Van Tendeloo G, Su B-L, ACS applied materials and interfaces 9, 29687 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSAMI.7B07226
Abstract: Phase-junctions. between a cocatalyst and its semiconductor host are quite effective to enhance the photo catalytic activity and are widely studied, while reports on the phase-juncted cocatalyst are still rare. In this work, we report the deposition of the Pt/PtO phase-juncted nanodots as cocatalyst via NaOH modification of an interconnected meso-macroporous TiO2 network with high surface area and inner-particle mesopores to enhance the performance of photocatalytic H-2 production. Our results show that NaOH modification can largely influence Pt/PtO phase-juncted nanodot formation and dispersity. Compared to the TiO2 nano particles, the hierarchically meso-macroporous TiO2 network containing 0.18 wt % Pt/PtO phase-juneted cocatalyst demonstrates a highest photocatalytic H-2 rate of 13 mmol g(-1) h(-1) under simulated solar light, and possesses a stable cycling activity without obvious decrease after five cycles. Such high H-2 production performance can be attributed to both the phase-juncted Pt/PtO providing more active sites while PtO suppresses the undesirable hydrogen back reaction, and the special hierarchically porous TiO2 network with inner-particle mesopores presenting short diffusion path lengths for photogenerated electrons and enhanced light harvesting efficiency. This work suggests that Pt/PtO phase-juncted cocatalyst on hierarchically porous TiO2 nanostructures is a promising strategy for advanced photocatalytic H-2 production.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.504
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.7B07226
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“Direct visualization of atomic-scale heterogeneous structure dynamics in MnO₂, nanowires”. Peng X, Peng H, Zhao K, Zhang Y, Xia F, Lyu J, Van Tendeloo G, Sun C, Wu J, Acs Applied Materials &, Interfaces 13, 33644 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSAMI.1C07929
Abstract: Manganese oxides are attracting great interest owing to their rich polymorphism and multiple valent states, which give rise to a wide range of applications in catalysis, capacitors, ion batteries, and so forth. Most of their functionalities are connected to transitions among the various polymorphisms and Mn valences. However, their atomic-scale dynamics is still a great challenge. Herein, we discovered a strong heterogeneity in the crystalline structure and defects, as well as in the Mn valence state. The transitions are studied by in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and they involve a complex ordering of [MnO6] octahedra as the basic building tunnels. MnO2 nanowires synthesized using solution-based hydrothermal methods usually exhibit a large number of multiple polymorphism impurities with different tunnel sizes. Upon heating, MnO2 nanowires undergo a series of stoichiometric polymorphism changes, followed by oxygen release toward an oxygen-deficient spinel and rock-salt phase. The impurity polymorphism exhibits an abnormally high stability with interesting small-large-small tunnel size transition, which is attributed to a preferential stabilizer (K+) concentration, as well as a strong competition of kinetics and thermodynamics. Our results unveil the complicated intergrowth of polymorphism impurities in MnO2, which provide insights into the heterogeneous kinetics, thermodynamics, and transport properties of the tunnel-based building blocks.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.504
DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.1C07929
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“Vapor phase processing of \alpha-Fe2O3 photoelectrodes for water splitting : an insight into the structure/property interplay”. Warwick MEA, Kaunisto K, Barreca D, Carraro G, Gasparotto A, Maccato C, Bontempi E, Sada C, Ruoko TP, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G;, ACS applied materials and interfaces 7, 8667 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.5b00919
Abstract: Harvesting radiant energy to trigger water photoelectrolysis and produce clean hydrogen is receiving increasing attention in the search of alternative energy resources. In this regard, hematite (alpha-Fe2O3) nanostructures with controlled nano-organization have been fabricated and investigated for use as anodes in photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells. The target systems have been grown on conductive substrates by plasma enhanced-chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD) and subjected to eventual ex situ annealing in air to further tailor their structure and properties. A detailed multitechnique approach has enabled to elucidate between system characteristics and the generated photocurrent. The present alpha-Fe2O3 systems are characterized by a high purity and hierarchical morphologies consisting of nanopyramids/organized dendrites, offering a high contact area with the electrolyte. PEC data reveal a dramatic response enhancement upon thermal treatment, related to a more efficient electron transfer. The reasons underlying such a phenomenon are elucidated and discussed by transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS) studies of photogenerated charge carrier kinetics, investigated on different time scales for the first time on PE-CVD Fe2O3 nanostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.504
Times cited: 51
DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5b00919
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“Characterization of nano-crystalline diamond films grown under continuous DC bias during plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition”. Mortet V, Zhang L, Echert M, Soltani A, d' Haen J, Douheret O, Moreau M, Osswald S, Neyts E, Troadec D, Wagner P, Bogaerts A, Van Tendeloo G, Haenen K, Materials Research Society symposium proceedings (2009). http://doi.org/10.1557/PROC-1203-J05-03
Abstract: Nanocrystalline diamond films have generated much interested due to their diamond-like properties and low surface roughness. Several techniques have been used to obtain a high re-nucleation rate, such as hydrogen poor or high methane concentration plasmas. In this work, the properties of nano-diamond films grown on silicon substrates using a continuous DC bias voltage during the complete duration of growth are studied. Subsequently, the layers were characterised by several morphological, structural and optical techniques. Besides a thorough investigation of the surface structure, using SEM and AFM, special attention was paid to the bulk structure of the films. The application of FTIR, XRD, multi wavelength Raman spectroscopy, TEM and EELS yielded a detailed insight in important properties such as the amount of crystallinity, the hydrogen content and grain size. Although these films are smooth, they are under a considerable compressive stress. FTIR spectroscopy points to a high hydrogen content in the films, while Raman and EELS indicate a high concentration of sp2 carbon. TEM and EELS show that these films consist of diamond nano-grains mixed with an amorphous sp2 bonded carbon, these results are consistent with the XRD and UV Raman spectroscopy data.
Keywords: A3 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
DOI: 10.1557/PROC-1203-J05-03
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“Structure and magnetotransport properties of La2/3Ca1/3MnO3 thin films prepared by pulsed laser deposition”. Lebedev OI, Van Tendeloo G, Amelinckx S, Leibold B, Habermeier HU, Phillipp F, Materials Research Society symposium proceedings
T2 –, Symposium on Advances in Laser Ablation of Materials at the 1998 MRS, Spring Meeting, April 13-16, 1998, San Francisco, Calif. , 219 (1998). http://doi.org/10.1557/PROC-526-219
Abstract: La1-xCaxMnO3-delta (LCMO) thin films are grown by pulsed laser deposition on a (100) SrTiO3 substrate at temperatures between 530 degrees C and 890 degrees C. The magnetotransport properties show a high negative magnetoresistance and a shift of the maximum of the R(T) curve as function of temperature. The Curie temperature changes with deposition temperature and film quality in the range of 100-220K. The film quality is characterised by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM); film and target compositions were verified by atomic emission spectroscopy. The local structure of the film depends on the growth conditions and substrate temperature. TEM reveals a slight distortion of the film leading to a breakdown of the symmetry from orthorhombic to monoclinic. At the highest growth temperatures, a well defined interface is observed within the LCMO film, parallel to the substrate surface; this interface divides the film into two lamellae with a different microstructure. The lamella close to the substrate is perfectly coherent with the substrate, suggesting that it is strained as a result of the lattice parameter mismatch; the upper lamella shows a typical domain structure with unusual translation interfaces characterised by a displacement vector of the type 1/2[010](m) and 1/2[001](m) when referred ten the monoclinic lattice.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1557/PROC-526-219
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“Au@Ag nanoparticles : halides stabilize {100} facets”. Gómez-Graña S, Goris B, Altantzis T, Fernández-López C, Carbó-Argibay E, Guerrero-Martínez A, Almora-Barrios N, López N, Pastoriza-Santos I, Pérez-Juste J, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Liz-Marzán LM;, The journal of physical chemistry letters 4, 2209 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1021/jz401269w
Abstract: Seed-mediated growth is the most efficient methodology to control the size and shape of colloidal metal nanoparticles. In this process, the final nanocrystal shape is defined by the crystalline structure of the initial seed as well as by the presence of ligands and other additives that help to stabilize certain crystallographic facets. We analyze here the growth mechanism in aqueous solution of silver shells on presynthesized gold nanoparticles displaying various well-defined crystalline structures and morphologies. A thorough three-dimensional electron microscopy characterization of the morphology and internal structure of the resulting core-shell nanocrystals indicates that {100} facets are preferred for the outer silver shell, regardless of the morphology and crystallinity of the gold cores. These results are in agreement with theoretical analysis based on the relative surface energies of the exposed facets in the presence of halide ions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.353
Times cited: 131
DOI: 10.1021/jz401269w
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“Two-in-one solution using insect wings to produce graphene-graphite films for efficient electrocatalysis”. Li H, Zhang L, Li L, Wu C, Huo Y, Chen Y, Liu X, Ke X, Luo J, Van Tendeloo G, Nano Research 12, 33 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1007/S12274-018-2172-Z
Abstract: Natural organisms contain rich elements and naturally optimized smart structures, both of which have inspired various innovative concepts and designs in human society. In particular, several natural organisms have been used as element sources to synthesize low-cost and environmentally friendly electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in fuel cells and metal-air batteries, which are clean energy devices. However, to date, no naturally optimized smart structures have been employed in the synthesis of ORR catalysts, including graphene-based materials. Here, we demonstrate a novel strategy to synthesize graphene-graphite films (GGFs) by heating butterfly wings coated with FeCl3 in N-2, in which the full power of natural organisms is utilized. The wings work not only as an element source for GGF generation but also as a porous supporting structure for effective nitrogen doping, two-dimensional spreading, and double-face exposure of the GGFs. These GGFs exhibit a half-wave potential of 0.942 V and a H2O2 yield of < 0.07% for ORR electrocatalysis; these values are comparable to those for the best commercial Pt/C and all previously reported ORR catalysts in alkaline media. This two-in-one strategy is also successful with cicada and dragonfly wings, indicating that it is a universal, green, and cost-effective method for developing high-performance graphene-based materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.354
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1007/S12274-018-2172-Z
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“Defect structure of Hg-based ceramic superconductors (invited)”. Van Tendeloo G, Hervieu M, Chaillout C, Sciences , 949 (1994)
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
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“HREM imaging analysis in the study of pretransition and nucleation phenomena in alloys (Invited)”. Schryvers D, Van Tendeloo G, van Landuyt J, Le Tanner, , 659 (1994)
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
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“HREM study of Rb6C60 and helical shaped carbon nanotubules”. Bernaerts D, Zhang X, Zhang X, Van Tendeloo G, Vanlanduyt J, Amelinckx S, Sciences , 305 (1994)
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
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