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Author Xu, H.; Li, H.; Gauquelin, N.; Chen, X.; Wu, W.-F.; Zhao, Y.; Si, L.; Tian, D.; Li, L.; Gan, Y.; Qi, S.; Li, M.; Hu, F.; Sun, J.; Jannis, D.; Yu, P.; Chen, G.; Zhong, Z.; Radovic, M.; Verbeeck, J.; Chen, Y.; Shen, B.
Title Giant tunability of Rashba splitting at cation-exchanged polar oxide interfaces by selective orbital hybridization Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Advanced materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The 2D electron gas (2DEG) at oxide interfaces exhibits extraordinary properties, such as 2D superconductivity and ferromagnetism, coupled to strongly correlated electrons in narrow d-bands. In particular, 2DEGs in KTaO3 (KTO) with 5d t2g orbitals exhibit larger atomic spin-orbit coupling and crystal-facet-dependent superconductivity absent for 3d 2DEGs in SrTiO3 (STO). Herein, by tracing the interfacial chemistry, weak anti-localization magneto-transport behavior, and electronic structures of (001), (110), and (111) KTO 2DEGs, unambiguously cation exchange across KTO interfaces is discovered. Therefore, the origin of the 2DEGs at KTO-based interfaces is dramatically different from the electronic reconstruction observed at STO interfaces. More importantly, as the interface polarization grows with the higher order planes in the KTO case, the Rashba spin splitting becomes maximal for the superconducting (111) interfaces approximately twice that of the (001) interface. The larger Rashba spin splitting couples strongly to the asymmetric chiral texture of the orbital angular moment, and results mainly from the enhanced inter-orbital hopping of the t2g bands and more localized wave functions. This finding has profound implications for the search for topological superconductors, as well as the realization of efficient spin-charge interconversion for low-power spin-orbitronics based on (110) and (111) KTO interfaces. An unambiguous cation exchange is discovered across the interfaces of (001), (110), and (111) KTaO3 2D electron gases fabricated at room temperature. Remarkably, the (111) interfaces with the highest superconducting transition temperature also turn out to show the strongest electron-phonon interaction and the largest Rashba spin splitting. image
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001219658400001 Publication Date 2024-03-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0935-9648 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 29.4 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 29.4; 2024 IF: 19.791
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206037 Serial 9152
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Author Lelouche, S.N.K.; Lemir, I.; Biglione, C.; Craig, T.; Bals, S.; Horcajada, P.
Title AuNP/MIL-88B-NH₂ nanocomposite for the valorization of nitroarene by green catalytic hydrogenation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Chemistry: a European journal Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The efficiency of a catalytic process is assessed based on conversion, yield, and time effectiveness. However, these parameters are insufficient for evaluating environmentally sustainable research. As the world is urged to shift towards green catalysis, additional factors such as reaction media, raw material availability, sustainability, waste minimization and catalyst biosafety, need to be considered to accurately determine the efficacy and sustainability of the process. By combining the high porosity and versatility of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and the activity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), efficient, cyclable and biosafe composite catalysts can be achieved. Thus, a composite based on AuNPs and the nanometric flexible porous iron(III) aminoterephthalate MIL-88B-NH2 was successfully synthesized and fully characterized. This nanocomposite was tested as catalyst in the reduction of nitroarenes, which were identified as anthropogenic water pollutants, reaching cyclable high conversion rates at short times for different nitroarenes. Both synthesis and catalytic reactions were performed using green conditions, and even further tested in a time-optimizing one-pot synthesis and catalysis experiment. The sustainability and environmental impact of the catalytic conditions were assessed by green metrics. Thus, this study provides an easily implementable synthesis, and efficient catalysis, while minimizing the environmental and health impact of the process.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001204094600001 Publication Date 2024-03-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0947-6539 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 4.3 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.3; 2024 IF: 5.317
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205426 Serial 9135
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Author Linek, J.; Wyszynski, M.; Müller, B.; Korinski, D.; Milošević, M.V.; Kleiner, R.; Koelle, D.
Title On the coupling of magnetic moments to superconducting quantum interference devices Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Superconductor science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 37 Issue 2 Pages 025010-25012
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract We investigate the coupling factor phi( mu) that quantifies the magnetic flux phi per magnetic moment mu of a point-like magnetic dipole that couples to a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). Representing the dipole by a tiny current-carrying (Amperian) loop, the reciprocity of mutual inductances of SQUID and Amperian loop provides an elegant way of calculating phi(mu)(r,e(mu)) vs. position r and orientation e(mu) of the dipole anywhere in space from the magnetic field B-J(r) produced by a supercurrent circulating in the SQUID loop. We use numerical simulations based on London and Ginzburg-Landau theory to calculate phi (mu) from the supercurrent density distributions in various superconducting loop geometries. We treat the far-field regime ( r greater than or similar to a= inner size of the SQUID loop) with the dipole placed on (oriented along) the symmetry axis of circular or square shaped loops. We compare expressions for phi (mu) from simple filamentary loop models with simulation results for loops with finite width w (outer size A > alpha), thickness d and London penetration depth lambda(L )and show that for thin ( d << alpha ) and narrow (w < alpha) loops the introduction of an effective loop size a(eff) in the filamentary loop-model expressions results in good agreement with simulations. For a dipole placed right in the center of the loop, simulations provide an expression phi(mu)(a,A,d,lambda(L)) that covers a wide parameter range. In the near-field regime (dipole centered at small distance z above one SQUID arm) only coupling to a single strip representing the SQUID arm has to be considered. For this case, we compare simulations with an analytical expression derived for a homogeneous current density distribution, which yields excellent agreement for lambda(L)>w,d . Moreover, we analyze the improvement of phi(mu) provided by the introduction of a narrow constriction in the SQUID arm below the magnetic dipole.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001145725500001 Publication Date 2024-01-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0953-2048 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.6 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.6; 2024 IF: 2.878
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202759 Serial 9067
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Author Parrilla, M.; Sena-Torralba, A.; Steijlen, A.; Morais, S.; Maquieira, Á.; De Wael, K.
Title A 3D-printed hollow microneedle-based electrochemical sensing device for in situ plant health monitoring Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Biosensors and bioelectronics Abbreviated Journal
Volume 251 Issue Pages 116131-116139
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Plant health monitoring is devised as a new concept to elucidate in situ physiological processes. The need for increased food production to nourish the growing global population is inconsistent with the dramatic impact of climate change, which hinders crop health and exacerbates plant stress. In this context, wearable sensors play a crucial role in assessing plant stress. Herein, we present a low-cost 3D-printed hollow microneedle array (HMA) patch as a sampling device coupled with biosensors based on screen-printing technology, leading to affordable analysis of biomarkers in the plant fluid of a leaf. First, a refinement of the 3D-printing method showed a tip diameter of 25.9 ± 3.7 μm with a side hole diameter on the microneedle of 228.2 ± 18.6 μm using an affordable 3D printer (<500 EUR). Notably, the HMA patch withstanded the forces exerted by thumb pressing (i.e. 20-40 N). Subsequently, the holes of the HMA enabled the fluid extraction tested in vitro and in vivo in plant leaves (i.e. 13.5 ± 1.1 μL). A paper-based sampling strategy adapted to the HMA allowed the collection of plant fluid. Finally, integrating the sampling device onto biosensors facilitated the in situ electrochemical analysis of plant health biomarkers (i.e. H2O2, glucose, and pH) and the electrochemical profiling of plants in five plant species. Overall, this electrochemical platform advances precise and versatile sensors for plant health monitoring. The wearable device can potentially improve precision farming practices, addressing the critical need for sustainable and resilient agriculture in changing environmental conditions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001198047000001 Publication Date 2024-02-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0956-5663 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 12.6 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 12.6; 2024 IF: 7.78
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203204 Serial 8998
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Author Bissonnette-Dulude, J.; Heirman, P.; Coulombe, S.; Bogaerts, A.; Gervais, T.; Reuter, S.
Title Coupling the COST reference plasma jet to a microfluidic device: a computational study Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Plasma sources science and technology Abbreviated Journal Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.
Volume 33 Issue 1 Pages 015001
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract The use of microfluidic devices in the field of plasma-liquid interaction can unlock unique possibilities to investigate the effects of plasma-generated reactive species for environmental and biomedical applications. So far, very little simulation work has been performed on microfluidic devices in contact with a plasma source. We report on the modelling and computational simulation of physical and chemical processes taking place in a novel plasma-microfluidic platform. The main production and transport pathways of reactive species both in plasma and liquid are modelled by a novel modelling approach that combines 0D chemical kinetics and 2D transport mechanisms. This combined approach, applicable to systems where the transport of chemical species occurs in unidirectional flows at high Péclet numbers, decreases calculation times considerably compared to regular 2D simulations. It takes advantage of the low computational time of the 0D reaction models while providing spatial information through multiple plug-flow simulations to yield a quasi-2D model. The gas and liquid flow profiles are simulated entirely in 2D, together with the chemical reactions and transport of key chemical species. The model correctly predicts increased transport of hydrogen peroxide into the liquid when the microfluidic opening is placed inside the plasma effluent region, as opposed to inside the plasma region itself. Furthermore, the modelled hydrogen peroxide production and transport in the microfluidic liquid differs by less than 50% compared with experimental results. To explain this discrepancy, the limits of the 0D–2D combined approach are discussed.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001136607100001 Publication Date 2024-01-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0963-0252 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.8 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, RGPIN-06820 ; FWO, 1100421N ; McGill University, the TransMedTech Institute; Approved Most recent IF: 3.8; 2024 IF: 3.302
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:202783 Serial 8990
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Author Smith, G.J.; Diomede, P.; Gibson, A.R.; Doyle, S.J.; Guerra, V.; Kushner, M.J.; Gans, T.; Dedrick, J.P.
Title Low-pressure inductively coupled plasmas in hydrogen : impact of gas heating on the spatial distribution of atomic hydrogen and vibrationally excited states Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Plasma sources science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 33 Issue 2 Pages 025002-25020
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Non-equilibrium inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs) operating in hydrogen are of significant interest for applications including large-area materials processing. Increasing control of spatial gas heating, which drives the formation of neutral species density gradients and the rate of gas-temperature-dependent reactions, is critical. In this study, we use 2D fluid-kinetic simulations with the Hybrid Plasma Equipment Model to investigate the spatially resolved production of atomic hydrogen in a low-pressure planar ICP operating in pure hydrogen (10-20 Pa or 0.075-0.15 Torr, 300 W). The reaction set incorporates self-consistent calculation of the spatially resolved gas temperature and 14 vibrationally excited states. We find that the formation of neutral-gas density gradients, which result from spatially non-uniform electrical power deposition at constant pressure, can drive significant variations in the vibrational distribution function and density of atomic hydrogen when gas heating is spatially resolved. This highlights the significance of spatial gas heating on the production of reactive species in relatively high-power-density plasma processing sources.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001154851700001 Publication Date 2024-01-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0963-0252 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.8 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.8; 2024 IF: 3.302
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203866 Serial 9054
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Author Albrechts, M.; Tsonev, I.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Investigation of O atom kinetics in O2plasma and its afterglow Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Plasma Sources Science and Technology Abbreviated Journal Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.
Volume 33 Issue 4 Pages 045017
Keywords A1 Journal Article; oxygen plasma, pseudo-1D plug-flow kinetic model, O atoms, low-pressure validation, atmospheric pressure microwave torch; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract We have developed a comprehensive kinetic model to study the O atom kinetics in an O<sub>2</sub>plasma and its afterglow. By adopting a pseudo-1D plug-flow formalism within the kinetic model, our aim is to assess how far the O atoms travel in the plasma afterglow, evaluating its potential as a source of O atoms for post-plasma gas conversion applications. Since we could not find experimental data for pure O<sub>2</sub>plasma at atmospheric pressure, we first validated our model at low pressure (1–10 Torr) where very good experimental data are available. Good agreement between our model and experiments was achieved for the reduced electric field, gas temperature and the densities of the dominant neutral species, i.e. O<sub>2</sub>(a), O<sub>2</sub>(b) and O. Subsequently, we confirmed that the chemistry set is consistent with thermodynamic equilibrium calculations at atmospheric pressure. Finally, we investigated the O atom densities in the O<sub>2</sub>plasma and its afterglow, for which we considered a microwave O<sub>2</sub>plasma torch, operating at a pressure between 0.1 and 1 atm, for a flow rate of 20 slm and an specific energy input of 1656 kJ mol<sup>−1</sup>. Our results show that for both pressure conditions, a high dissociation degree of ca. 92% is reached within the discharge. However, the O atoms travel much further in the plasma afterglow for<italic>p</italic>= 0.1 atm (9.7 cm) than for<italic>p</italic>= 1 atm (1.4 cm), attributed to the longer lifetime (3.8 ms at 0.1 atm vs 1.8 ms at 1 atm) resulting from slower three-body recombination kinetics, as well as a higher volumetric flow rate.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001209453500001 Publication Date 2024-04-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0963-0252 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.8 Times cited Open Access
Notes This research was supported by the Horizon Europe Framework Program ‘Research and Innovation Actions’ (RIA), Project CANMILK (Grant No. 101069491). Approved Most recent IF: 3.8; 2024 IF: 3.302
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:205920 Serial 9125
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Author Manaigo, F.; Chatterjee, A.; Bogaerts, A.; Snyders, R.
Title Insight in NO synthesis in a gliding arc plasma via gas temperature and density mapping by laser-induced fluorescence Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Plasma Sources Science and Technology Abbreviated Journal Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.
Volume 33 Issue 7 Pages 075005
Keywords A1 Journal Article; plasma nitrogen fixation, gliding arc plasmatron, laser-induced fluorescence, afterglow rotational temperature, afterglow NO concentration; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract A gliding arc (GA) plasma, operating at atmospheric pressure in a gas mixture of 50% N<sub>2</sub>and 50% O<sub>2</sub>, is studied using laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy. The main goal is to determine the two-dimensional distribution of both the gas temperature and the NO ground state density in the afterglow. As GA plasma discharges at atmospheric pressure normally produce rather high NO<sub><italic>x</italic></sub>densities, the high concentration of relevant absorbers, such as NO, may impose essential restrictions for the use of ‘classical’ laser-induced fluorescence methods (dealing with excitation in the bandhead vicinity), as the laser beam would be strongly absorbed along its propagation in the afterglow. Since this was indeed the case for the studied discharge, an approach dealing with laser-based excitation of separate rotational lines is proposed. In this case, due to a non-saturated absorption regime, simultaneous and reliable measurements of both the NO density and the gas temperature (using a reference fitting spectrum) are possible. The proposed method is applied to provide a two-dimensional map for both the NO density and the gas temperature at different plasma conditions. The results show that the input gas flow rate strongly alters the plasma shape, which appears as an elongated column at low input gas flow rate and spreads laterally as the flow rate increases. Finally, based on temperature map analysis, a clear correlation between the gas temperature and NO concentration is found. The proposed method may be interesting for the plasma-chemical analysis of discharges with high molecular production yields, where knowledge of both molecular concentration and gas temperature is required.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-07-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0963-0252 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 3.8 Times cited Open Access
Notes Fonds De La Recherche Scientifique – FNRS, EOS O005118F ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.8; 2024 IF: 3.302
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9253
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Author Iungin, O.; Shydlovska, O.; Moshynets, O.; Vasylenko, V.; Sidorenko, M.; Mickevicius, S.; Potters, G.
Title Metal-based nanoparticles : an alternative treatment for biofilm infection in hard-to-heal wounds Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of wound care Abbreviated Journal
Volume 33 Issue s:[4A] Pages 99-110
Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp engineering, PhotoElectroChemistry & Sensing (A-PECS)
Abstract Metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) are promoted as effective compounds in the treatment of bacterial infections and as possible alternatives to antibiotics. These MNPs are known to affect a broad spectrum of microorganisms using a multitude of strategies, including the induction of reactive oxygen species and interaction with the inner structures of the bacterial cells. The aim of this review was to summarise the latest studies about the effect of metal-based nanoparticles on pathogenic bacterial biofilm formed in wounds, using the examples of Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as provide an overview of possible clinical applications. Declaration of interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001208810700003 Publication Date 2024-04-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 0969-0700 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 1.9 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.9; 2024 IF: 1.446
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205959 Serial 9159
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Author Ding, L.; Zhao, M.; Ehlers, F.J.H.; Jia, Z.; Zhang, Z.; Weng, Y.; Schryvers, D.; Liu, Q.; Idrissi, H.
Title “Branched” structural transformation of the L12-Al3Zr phase manipulated by Cu substitution/segregation in the Al-Cu-Zr alloy system Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of materials science & technology Abbreviated Journal Journal of Materials Science & Technology
Volume 185 Issue Pages 186-206
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The effect of Cu on the evolution of the Al3Zr phase in an Al-Cu-Zr cast alloy during solution treatment at 500 °C has been thoroughly studied by combining atomic resolution high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and first-principles cal- culations. The heat treatment initially produces a pure L12-Al3Zr microstructure, allowing for about 13 % Cu to be incorporated in the dispersoid. Cu incorporation increases the energy barrier for anti-phase boundary (APB) activation, thus stabilizing the L12 structure. Additional heating leads to a Cu-induced “branched”path for the L12 structural transformation, with the latter process accelerated once the first APB has been created. Cu atoms may either (i) be repelled by the APBs, promoting the transformation to a Cu-poor D023 phase, or (ii) they may segregate at one Al-Zr layer adjacent to the APB, promoting a transformation to a new thermodynamically favored phase, Al4CuZr, formed when these segregation layers are periodically arranged. Theoretical studies suggest that the branching of the L12 transformation path is linked to the speed at which an APB is created, with Cu attraction triggered by a comparatively slow process. This unexpected transformation behavior of the L12-Al3Zr phase opens a new path to understanding, and potentially regulating the Al3Zr dispersoid evolution for high temperature applications.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001154261100001 Publication Date 2023-12-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1005-0302 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 10.9 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program (No. 2020YFA0405900), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 52371111 and U2141215 ), the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province (No. BE2022159 ). We are grateful to the High Performance Computing Center of Nanjing Tech University for supporting the computational resources. H. Idrissi is mandated by the Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research (FSR- FNRS). Approved Most recent IF: 10.9; 2024 IF: 2.764
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:202392 Serial 8981
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Author Zhang, L.; Quinn, B.K.; Hui, C.; Lian, M.; Gielis, J.; Gao, J.; Shi, P.
Title New indices to balance α-diversity against tree size inequality Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of forestry research Abbreviated Journal
Volume 35 Issue 1 Pages 31-39
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The number and composition of species in a community can be quantified with alpha-diversity indices, including species richness (R), Simpson's index (D), and the Shannon-Wiener index (HGREEK TONOS). In forest communities, there are large variations in tree size among species and individuals of the same species, which result in differences in ecological processes and ecosystem functions. However, tree size inequality (TSI) has been largely neglected in studies using the available diversity indices. The TSI in the diameter at breast height (DBH) data for each of 999 20 m x 20 m forest census quadrats was quantified using the Gini index (GI), a measure of the inequality of size distribution. The generalized performance equation was used to describe the rotated and right-shifted Lorenz curve of the cumulative proportion of DBH and the cumulative proportion of number of trees per quadrat. We also examined the relationships of alpha-diversity indices with the GI using correlation tests. The generalized performance equation effectively described the rotated and right-shifted Lorenz curve of DBH distributions, with most root-mean-square errors (990 out of 999 quadrats) being < 0.0030. There were significant positive correlations between each of three alpha-diversity indices (i.e., R, D, and H') and the GI. Nevertheless, the total abundance of trees in each quadrat did not significantly influence the GI. This means that the TSI increased with increasing species diversity. Thus, two new indices are proposed that can balance alpha-diversity against the extent of TSI in the community: (1 – GI) x D, and (1 – GI) x H'. These new indices were significantly correlated with the original D and HGREEK TONOS, and did not increase the extent of variation within each group of indices. This study presents a useful tool for quantifying both species diversity and the variation in tree sizes in forest communities, especially in the face of cumulative species loss under global climate change.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001131698000001 Publication Date 2023-12-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1007-662x; 1993-0607 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3; 2024 IF: 0.774
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:201972 Serial 9061
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Author Peeters, H.; Raes, A.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Plasmonic photocatalytic coatings with self-cleaning, antibacterial, air and water purifying properties tested according to ISO standards Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of photochemistry and photobiology: A: chemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 451 Issue Pages 115529-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract ISO 10678:2010, ISO 22197–1 and 2, ISO 27447:2019 and ISO 27448:2009 for the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes (methylene blue), air pollution (NOx and acetaldehyde), bacteria (E. coli and S. aureus) and solid organic fouling (oleic acid) are performed on plasmon-embedded TiO2 thin films on Borofloat® glass, as well as the commercially available titania-based self-cleaning glass PilkingtonActivTM. These standardised protocols measure the performance for the four main applications of photocatalytic materials: water purification, air purification, antibacterial and self-cleaning activity, respectively. The standards are performed exactly as prescribed to measure the activity under UV irradiation, and also in a slightly adapted manner to measure the performance under simulated solar light or visible light. Performing experiments according to ISO standards, enables an objective comparison amongst samples tested here, as well as with results from literature. This is a major asset compared to the myriad of customised setups used in laboratories worldwide that hinder a fair comparison. We point at the importance of meticulously following the ISO instructions, as we have noticed that multiple published studies adopting the ISO standards too often deviate from these protocols, thereby nullifying the added value of standardized testing. Following the ISO tests to the letter, we have demonstrated the superior performance of a previously developed plasmonic titania coating with fully embedded gold-silver nanoparticles towards all four application areas. Furthermore, our empirical data strongly support the need for a nuanced understanding of standardized testing, to ensure accurate assessment of photocatalytic materials. An examination of the ISO standards used in this work reveals notable drawbacks, including concerns about the reliability of the methylene blue degradation protocol, the issues of HNO3 accumulation in the NOx removal test, and limitations in assessing antibacterial activity and water contact angles.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001188107100001 Publication Date 2024-02-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1010-6030 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 4.3 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.3; 2024 IF: 2.625
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203203 Serial 9075
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Author Vanden Abeele, M.M.P.; Vandebosch, H.; Koster, E.H.W.; De Leyn, T.; Van Gaeveren, K.; de Segovia Vicente, D.; Van Bruyssel, S.; van Timmeren, T.; De Marez, L.; Poels, K.; DeSmet, A.; De Wever, B.; Verbruggen, M.; Baillien, E.
Title Why, how, when, and for whom does digital disconnection work? A process-based framework of digital disconnection Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Communication theory Abbreviated Journal
Volume 34 Issue 1 Pages 3-17
Keywords A1 Journal article; Mass communications; Media, ICT and interpersonal relations in Organisations and Society (MIOS)
Abstract Digital disconnection has emerged as a concept describing the actions people take to limit their digital connectivity to enhance their well-being. To date, evidence on its effectiveness is mixed, leading to calls for greater consideration of why, how, when, and for whom digital disconnection works. This article responds to these calls, presenting a framework that differentiates four key harms that contribute to experiences of digital ill-being (time displacement, interference, role blurring, and exposure effects). Using these four harms as a starting point, the framework explains: (1) why people are motivated to digitally disconnect; (2) how specific disconnection strategies (i.e., placing limits on time, access, channels, and contents, interactions and features) may help them; and for whom (3) and under which conditions (when) these strategies can be effective.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001154547700001 Publication Date 2024-02-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1050-3293; 1468-2885 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203874 Serial 9245
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Author Leigh, S.; Doyle, S.J.; Smith, G.J.; Gibson, A.R.; Boswell, R.W.; Charles, C.; Dedrick, J.P.
Title Ionization and neutral gas heating efficiency in radio frequency electrothermal microthrusters : the role of driving frequency Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Physics of plasmas Abbreviated Journal
Volume 31 Issue 2 Pages 023509-23513
Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract The development of compact, low power, charge-neutral propulsion sources is of significant recent interest due to the rising application of micro-scale satellite platforms. Among such sources, radio frequency (rf) electrothermal microthrusters present an attractive option due to their scalability, reliability, and tunable control of power coupling to the propellant. For micropropulsion applications, where available power is limited, it is of particular importance to understand how electrical power can be transferred to the propellant efficiently, a process that is underpinned by the plasma sheath dynamics. In this work, two-dimensional fluid/Monte Carlo simulations are employed to investigate the effects of applied voltage frequency on the electron, ion, and neutral heating in an rf capacitively coupled plasma microthruster operating in argon. Variations in the electron and argon ion densities and power deposition, and their consequent effect on neutral-gas heating, are investigated with relation to the phase-averaged and phase-resolved sheath dynamics for rf voltage frequencies of 6-108 MHz at 450 V. Driving voltage frequencies above 40.68 MHz exhibit enhanced volumetric ionization from bulk electrons at the expense of the ion heating efficiency. Lower driving voltage frequencies below 13.56 MHz exhibit more efficient ionization due to secondary electrons and an increasing fraction of rf power deposition into ions. Thermal efficiencies are improved by a factor of 2.5 at 6 MHz as compared to the more traditional 13.56 MHz, indicating a favorable operating regime for low power satellite applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001207449000001 Publication Date 2024-02-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1070-664x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.2; 2024 IF: 2.115
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205506 Serial 9156
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Author Zhou, S.; Zhang, C.; Xu, W.; Zhang, J.; Xiao, Y.; Ding, L.; Wen, H.; Cheng, X.; Hu, C.; Li, H.; Li, X.; Peeters, F.M.
Title Observation of temperature induced phase transitions in TiO superconducting thin film via infrared measurement Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Infrared physics and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 137 Issue Pages 105160-105169
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract In contrast to conventional polycrystalline titanium oxide (TiO), it was found recently that the superconducting transition temperature Tc can be significantly enhanced from about 2 K to 7.4 K in cubic TiO thin films grown epitaxially on alpha-Al2O3 substrates. This kind of TiO film is also expected to have distinctive optoelectronic properties, which are still not very clear up to now. Herein, by using infrared (IR) reflection measurement we investigate the temperature-dependent optoelectronic response of a cubic TiO thin film, in which temperature induced phase transitions are observed. The semiconductor-, metallic- and semiconductor-like electronic phases of this superconducting film are found in the temperature regimes from 10 to 110 K, 110 to 220 K and above 220 K, respectively. The results obtained optically are consistent with those measured by transport experiment. Furthermore, based on an improved reflection model developed here, we extract the complex optical conductivity of the cubic TiO thin film. We are able to approximately determine the characteristic parameters (e.g., effective electron mass, carrier density, scattering time, etc.) for different electronic phases by fitting the optical conductivity with the modified Lorentz formula. These results not only deepen our understanding of the fundamental physics for cubic TiO thin films but also may find applications in optoelectronic devices based on superconductors.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001170490200001 Publication Date 2024-01-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1350-4495 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.3 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.3; 2024 IF: 1.713
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204853 Serial 9162
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Author Xiao, H.; Wen, H.; Xu, W.; Cheng, Y.; Zhang, J.; Cheng, X.; Xiao, Y.; Ding, L.; Li, H.; He, B.; Peeters, F.M.
Title Terahertz magneto-optical properties of Nitrogen-doped diamond Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Infrared physics and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 138 Issue Pages 105237-105239
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Nitrogen-doped diamond (N-D) is one of the most important carbon-based electronic and optical materials. Here we study the terahertz (THz) magneto-optical (MO) properties of N-D grown by microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The optical microscope, SEM, XRD, Raman spectrum, FTIR spectroscopy and XPS are used for the characterization of N-D samples. Applying THz time-domain spectroscopy (TDS), in combination with the polarization test and the presence of magnetic field in Faraday geometry, THz MO transmissions through N-D are measured from 0 to 8 T at 80 K. The complex right- and left-handed circular transmission coefficients and MO conductivities for N-D are obtained accordingly. Through fitting the experimental results with theoretical formulas of the dielectric constant and MO conductivities for an electron gas, we are able to determine magneto-optically the key electronic parameters of N-D, such as the static dielectric constant epsilon b, the electron density ne, the electronic relaxation time tau, the electronic localization factor alpha and, particularly, the effective electron mass m* obtained under non-resonant condition. The dependence of these parameters upon magnetic field is examined and analyzed. We find that the MO conductivities of N-D can be described rightly by the MO Drude-Smith formulas developed by us previously. It is shown that N-doping and the presence of the magnetic field can lead towards the larger epsilon b and heavier m* in diamond, while ne/tau/alpha in N-D decreases/increases/decreases with increasing magnetic field. The results obtained from this work are benefit to us in gaining an in-depth understanding of the electronic and optoelectronic properties of N-D.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001200173100001 Publication Date 2024-02-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1350-4495 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.3 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.3; 2024 IF: 1.713
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205523 Serial 9178
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Author Broos, W.; Wittner, N.; Dries, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Gunde-Cimerman, N.; Cornet, I.
Title Rhodotorula kratochvilovae outperforms Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum in the valorisation of lignocellulosic wastewater to microbial oil Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Process biochemistry (1991) Abbreviated Journal
Volume 137 Issue Pages 229-238
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
Abstract Rhodotorula kratochvilovae has shown to be a promising species for microbial oil production from lignin-derived compounds. Yet, information on R. kratochvilovae’s detoxification and microbial oil production is scarce. This study investigated the growth and microbial oil production on the phenolic-containing effluent from poplar steam explosion and its detoxification with five R. kratochvilovae strains (EXF11626, EXF9590, EXF7516, EXF3697, EXF3471) and compared them with Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum. The R. kratochvilovae strains reached a maximum growth rate up to four times higher than C. oleaginosum. Furthermore, all R. kratochvilovae strains generally degraded phenolics more rapidly and to a larger extent than C. oleaginosum. However, the diluted substrate limited the lipid production by all strains as the maximum lipid content and titre were 10.5% CDW and 0.40 g/L, respectively. Therefore, future work should focus on increasing lipid production by using advanced fermentation strategies and stimulating the enzyme excretion by the yeasts for complex substrate breakdown.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-01-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1359-5113 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor 4.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.4; 2024 IF: 2.497
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202365 Serial 9087
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Author Mary Joy, R.; Pobedinskas, P.; Baule, N.; Bai, S.; Jannis, D.; Gauquelin, N.; Pinault-Thaury, M.-A.; Jomard, F.; Sankaran, K.J.; Rouzbahani, R.; Lloret, F.; Desta, D.; D’Haen, J.; Verbeeck, J.; Becker, M.F.; Haenen, K.
Title The effect of microstructure and film composition on the mechanical properties of linear antenna CVD diamond thin films Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Acta materialia Abbreviated Journal Acta Materialia
Volume 264 Issue Pages 119548
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract This study reports the impact of film microstructure and composition on the Young’s modulus and residual stress in nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) thin films ( thick) grown on silicon substrates using a linear antenna microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD) system. Combining laser acoustic wave spectroscopy to determine the elastic properties with simple wafer curvature measurements, a straightforward method to determine the intrinsic stress in NCD films is presented. Two deposition parameters are varied: (1) the substrate temperature from 400 °C to 900 °C, and (2) the [P]/[C] ratio from 0 ppm to 8090 ppm in the H2/CH4/CO2/PH3 diamond CVD plasma. The introduction of PH3 induces a transition in the morphology of the diamond film, shifting from NCD with larger grains to ultra-NCD with a smaller grain size, concurrently resulting in a decrease in Young’s modulus. Results show that the highest Young’s modulus of (113050) GPa for the undoped NCD deposited at 800 °C is comparable to single crystal diamond, indicating that NCD with excellent mechanical properties is achievable with our process for thin diamond films. Based on the film stress results, we propose the origins of tensile intrinsic stress in the diamond films. In NCD, the tensile intrinsic stress is attributed to larger grain size, while in ultra-NCD films the tensile intrinsic stress is due to grain boundaries and impurities.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001126632800001 Publication Date 2023-11-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1359-6454 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes This work was financially supported by the Special Research Fund (BOF) via Methusalem NANO network, the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) via Project G0D4920N, and the CORNET project nr 263-EN “ULTRAHARD: Ultrahard optical diamond coatings” (2020–2021). Approved Most recent IF: 9.4; 2024 IF: 5.301
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:202169 Serial 8989
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Author Coulombier, M.; Baral, P.; Orekhov, A.; Dohmen, R.; Raskin, J.P.; Pardoen, T.; Cordier, P.; Idrissi, H.
Title On-chip very low strain rate rheology of amorphous olivine films Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Acta materialia Abbreviated Journal
Volume 266 Issue Pages 119693-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Recent observations made by the authors revealed the activation of stress induced amorphization and sliding at grain boundary in olivine [1], a mechanism which is expected to play a pivotal role in the viscosity drop at the lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary and the brittle -ductile transition in the lithospheric mantle. However, there is a lack of information in the literature regarding the intrinsic mechanical properties and the elementary deformation mechanisms of this material, especially at time scales relevant for geodynamics. In the present work, amorphous olivine films were obtained by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). The mechanical response including the rate dependent behavior are investigated using a tension -on -chip (TOC) method developed at UCLouvain allowing to perform creep/relaxation tests on thin films at extremely low strain rates. In the present work, strain rate down to 10-12 s- 1 was reached which is unique. High strain rate sensitivity of 0.054 is observed together with the activation of relaxation at the very early stage of deformation. Furthermore, digital image correlation (DIC), used for the first time on films deformed by TOC, reveals local strain heterogeneities. The relationship between such heterogeneities, the high strain rate sensitivity and the effect of the electron beam in the scanning electron microscope is discussed and compared to the literature.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001170513400001 Publication Date 2024-01-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1359-6454 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.4 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.4; 2024 IF: 5.301
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204864 Serial 9163
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Author Baral, P.; Kashiwar, A.; Coulombier, M.; Delannay, L.; Hoummada, K.; Raskin, J.P.; Idrissi, H.; Pardoen, T.
Title Grain boundary-mediated plasticity in aluminum films unraveled by a statistical approach combining nano-DIC and ACOM-TEM Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Acta materialia Abbreviated Journal
Volume 276 Issue Pages 120081-14
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Nanomechanical on-chip testing is combined with nanoscale in situ digital image correlation and automated crystal orientation mapping in TEM to deliver novel statistically representative quantitative data about the deformation mechanisms in nanocrystalline aluminum films. The films are very ductile, with a rare stable multiple necking process with local strains reaching up to 0.45 and macroscopic elongation up to 0.17. The strain fields with resolution below 100 nm are related to the underlying microstructure and crystallographic orientation maps. This reveals nanoscopic shear bands forming preferentially along GB with high misorientations, tilted at +/− 45° with respect to loading direction. The analysis of these data prove that the strong strain delocalization process is promoted by GB migration and grain rotation, leading to large strain rate sensitivity. The distribution of misorientation angles between grains evolve during deformation. The GBs with misorientation between 20° and 40°, which are the GBs with highest energy, involve the largest strains.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos https://www.webofscience.com/api/gateway?GWVersion=2&SrcApp=brocade2&SrcAuth=WosAPI&KeyUT=WOS:001258 Publication Date 2024-06-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1359-6454 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 9.4 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.4; 2024 IF: 5.301
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:206419 Serial 9294
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Author Faraji, F.; Neyts, E.C.; Milošević, M.V.; Peeters, F.M.
Title Comment on “Misinterpretation of the Shuttleworth equation” Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Scripta Materialia Abbreviated Journal Scripta Materialia
Volume 250 Issue Pages 116186
Keywords A1 Journal Article; CMT
Abstract
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001252293900001 Publication Date 2024-05-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1359-6462 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 6 Times cited Open Access
Notes Research Foundation Flanders; Approved Most recent IF: 6; 2024 IF: 3.747
Call Number UA @ lucian @ CMTc:irua:206327 Serial 9116
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Author Vetters, J.; Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.
Title Sailing through end-of-life challenges : a comprehensive review for offshore wind Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Renewable and sustainable energy reviews Abbreviated Journal
Volume 199 Issue Pages 114486-16
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Over the past thirty years, European offshore wind farm development surged, yet end-of-life and decommissioning considerations were overshadowed by initial climate and energy security objectives during design and construction. As the first major projects near their final decade, numerous unanswered questions persist. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies, maps, and evaluates challenges across technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions spanning five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and site recovery. Examining 42 publications reveals 46 distinct challenges affecting stakeholders such as the end-of-life supply chain, policy makers, and society. While 33% of the challenges manifested in the technical dimension, 48% of the challenges covered the planning phase. Notably, the economic challenge of vessel cost and availability was raised most often. Less-explored challenges underscore the importance of consideration before the end-of-life phase intensifies. The study illustrates the complex interconnection of numerous end-of-life challenges across phases, dimensions, and disciplines, emphasizing the imperative of addressing bottlenecks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The results of this study help steering future research, while also improving awareness of challenges for stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders to address imminent challenges through transparent guidelines, data exchange, and circular design principles. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic, multidisciplinary approach, systematic framework for identifying challenges, and critical perspective unveiling interconnectedness.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor 15.9 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15.9; 2024 IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205652 Serial 9226
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Author Teleshkan, E.; Van Schoubroeck, S.; Spiller, M.; Van Passel, S.
Title Assessing policy impacts on nutrient circularity : a comprehensive review Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Nutrient cycling in agroecosystems Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Nutrient circularity is an emerging concept that seeks to address the environmental problems and nutrient losses caused by agriculture and food consumption. The implementation of circular nutrient technologies and practices (CNTPs), that recover, reuse, and recycle nutrients from agricultural and urban waste is an important policy objective. Yet, which policies govern the adoption of CNTPs is not well defined. This study presents the first systematic review of impact evaluations of policy measures that aim to improve nutrient circularity regulating components of the biological cycle of the circular economy, particularly focusing on bioaccessible nutrients. The key CNTPs that were subject to existing impact evaluations were identified. CNTPs were categorized into nutrient circularity themes, with manure management emerging as a prominent focus. The reviewed studies implemented several methods to assess the impacts of policies on various dependent variables, associated with nutrient circularity. Economic simulation models and linear programming were the most prevalent methods for impact evaluation. Policy measures were labeled as either enabling or not-enabling nutrient circularity based on whether they sufficiently promoted nutrient circularity through facilitating the adoption of CNTPs, and controlling for soil, water and air health, preventing its contamination. It is concluded that incentive policies, harmonizing market support, tax incentives, and technological advancements, as well as coherence of local, national and cross-country legislation prove indispensable in steering the economic feasibility and sustainability of CNTPs, offering a promising avenue for progress and a transformative shift towards nutrient circularity.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001175764500001 Publication Date 2024-02-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1385-1314; 1573-0867 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1; 2024 IF: 1.843
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204250 Serial 9185
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Author Wang, K.; Ceulemans, S.; Zhang, H.; Tsonev, I.; Zhang, Y.; Long, Y.; Fang, M.; Li, X.; Yan, J.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Inhibiting recombination to improve the performance of plasma-based CO2 conversion Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal
Volume 481 Issue Pages 148684
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma-based CO2 splitting Recombination reactions In-situ gas sampling Fluid dynamics modeling Kinetics modeling Afterglow quenching; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract Warm plasma offers a promising route for CO2 splitting into valuable CO, yet recombination reactions of CO with oxygen, forming again CO2, have recently emerged as critical limitation. This study combines experiments and fluid dynamics + chemical kinetics modelling to comprehensively analyse the recombination reactions upon CO2 splitting in an atmospheric plasmatron. We introduce an innovative in-situ gas sampling technique, enabling 2D spatial mapping of gas product compositions and temperatures, experimentally confirming for the first time the substantial limiting effect of CO recombination reactions in the afterglow region. Our results show that the CO mole fraction at a 5 L/min flow rate drops significantly from 11.9 % at a vertical distance of z = 20 mm in the afterglow region to 8.6 % at z = 40 mm. We constructed a comprehensive 2D model that allows for spatial reaction rates analysis incorporating crucial reactions, and we validated it to kinetically elucidate this phenomenon. CO2 +M⇌O+CO+M and CO2 +O⇌CO+O2 are the dominant reactions, with the forward reactions prevailing in the plasma region and the backward reactions becoming prominent in the afterglow region. These results allow us to propose an afterglow quenching strategy for performance enhancement, which is further demonstrated through a meticulously developed plasmatron reactor with two-stage cooling. Our approach substantially increases the CO2 conversion (e.g., from 6.6 % to 19.5 % at 3 L/min flow rate) and energy efficiency (from 13.5 % to 28.5 %, again at 3 L/min) and significantly shortens the startup time (from ~ 150 s to 25 s). Our study underscores the critical role of inhibiting recombination reactions in plasma-based CO2 conversion and offers new avenues for performance enhancement.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001168999200001 Publication Date 2024-01-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Key Research and Development Program of Zhejiang Province, 2023C03129 ; Vlaamse regering; European Research Council; National Natural Science Foundation of China, 51976191 52276214 ; Horizon 2020 Framework Programme; Fonds De La Recherche Scientifique – FNRS; Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, 1101524N ; Vlaams Supercomputer Centrum; Horizon 2020, 101081162 810182 ; European Research Council; Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:204352 Serial 8993
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Author De Meyer, R.; Gorbanev, Y.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Cool, P.; Bals, S.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Importance of plasma discharge characteristics in plasma catalysis: Dry reforming of methane vs. ammonia synthesis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal
Volume 488 Issue Pages 150838
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Plasma catalysis is a rapidly growing field, often employing a packed-bed dielectric barrier discharge plasma reactor. Such dielectric barrier discharges are complex, especially when a packing material (e.g., a catalyst) is introduced in the discharge volume. Catalysts are known to affect the plasma discharge, though the underlying mechanisms influencing the plasma physics are not fully understood. Moreover, the effect of the catalysts on the plasma discharge and its subsequent effect on the overall performance is often overlooked. In this work, we deliberately design and synthesize catalysts to affect the plasma discharge in different ways. These Ni or Co alumina-based catalysts are used in plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane and ammonia synthesis. Our work shows that introducing a metal to the dielectric packing can affect the plasma discharge, and that the distribution of the metal is crucial in this regard. Further, the altered discharge can greatly influence the overall performance. In an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge reactor, this apparently more uniform plasma yields a significantly better performance for ammonia synthesis compared to the more conventional filamentary discharge, while it underperforms in dry reforming of methane. This study stresses the importance of analyzing the plasma discharge in plasma catalysis experiments. We hope this work encourages a more critical view on the plasma discharge characteristics when studying various catalysts in a plasma reactor.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001221606600001 Publication Date 2024-03-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes This research was supported through long-term structural funding (Methusalem FFB15001C) and by the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme with grant agreement No 810182 (SCOPE ERC Synergy project) and with grant agreement No 815128 (REALNANO). We acknowledge the practical contribution of Senne Van Doorslaer. Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:205154 Serial 9115
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Author Maerivoet, S.; Tsonev, I.; Slaets, J.; Reniers, F.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Coupled multi-dimensional modelling of warm plasmas: Application and validation for an atmospheric pressure glow discharge in CO2/CH4/O2 Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal
Volume 492 Issue Pages 152006
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract To support experimental research into gas conversion by warm plasmas, models should be developed to explain the experimental observations. These models need to describe all physical and chemical plasma properties in a coupled way. In this paper, we present a modelling approach to solve the complete set of assumed relevant equations, including gas flow, heat balance and species transport, coupled with a rather extensive chemistry set, consisting of 21 species, obtained by reduction of a more detailed chemistry set, consisting of 41 species. We apply this model to study the combined CO2 and CH4 conversion in the presence of O2, in a direct current atmospheric pressure glow discharge. Our model can predict the experimental trends, and can explain why higher O2 fractions result in higher CH4 conversion, namely due to the higher gas temperature, rather than just by additional chemical reactions. Indeed, our model predicts that when more O2 is added, the energy required to reach any set temperature (i.e., the enthalpy) drops, allowing the system to reach higher temperatures with similar amounts of energy. This is in turn related to the higher H2O fraction and lower H2 fraction formed in the plasma, as demonstrated by our model. Altogether, our new self-consistent model can capture the main physics and chemistry occurring in this warm plasma, which is an important step towards predictive modelling for plasma-based gas conversion.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes This research was supported by the Excellence of Science FWO-FNRS project (FWO grant ID G0I1822N; EOS ID 40007511) and the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No. 810182–SCOPE ERC Synergy project, and grant agreement No. 101081162–PREPARE ERC Proof of Concept project). computational resources and services used in this work were provided by the HPC core facility CalcUA of the Universiteit Antwerpen, and VSC (Flemish Supercomputer Center), funded by the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) and the Flemish Government. Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9132
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Author Lv, H.; Meng, S.; Cui, Z.; Li, S.; Li, D.; Gao, X.; Guo, H.; Bogaerts, A.; Yi, Y.
Title Plasma-catalytic direct oxidation of methane to methanol over Cu-MOR: Revealing the zeolite-confined Cu2+ active sites Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal
Volume 496 Issue Pages 154337
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Direct oxidation Methanol production Plasma catalysis Copper-mordenite catalysts; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract Efficient methane conversion to methanol remains a significant challenge in chemical industry. This study investigates the direct oxidation of methane to methanol under mild conditions, employing a synergy of nonthermal plasma and Cu-MOR (Copper-Mordenite) catalysts. Catalytic tests demonstrate that the Cu-MOR IE-3 catalyst (i.e., prepared by three cycles of ion exchange) exhibits superior catalytic performance (with 51 % methanol selectivity and 7.9 % methane conversion). Conversely, the Cu-MOR catalysts prepared via wetness impregnation tend to over-oxidize CH4 to CO and CO2. Through systematic catalyst characterizations (XRD, TPR, UV–Vis, HRTEM, XPS), we elucidate that ion exchange mainly leads to the formation of zeolite-confined Cu2+ species, while wetness impregnation predominantly results in CuO particles. Based on the catalytic performance, catalyst characterizations and in-situ FTIR spectra, we conclude that zeolite-confined Cu2+ species serve as the active sites for plasma-catalytic direct oxidation of methane to methanol.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-08-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes PetroChina Innovation Foundation, 2018D-5007-0501 ; Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, DUT21JC40 ; Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities; China Scholarship Council; National Natural Science Foundation of China, 22272015 ; Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9260
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Author Sun, J.; Chen, Q.; Qin, W.; Wu, H.; Liu, B.; Li, S.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Plasma-catalytic dry reforming of CH4: Effects of plasma-generated species on the surface chemistry Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal
Volume 498 Issue Pages 155847
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Dry reforming of methane Plasma catalysis Plasma-enhanced surface chemistry Path flux and sensitivity analysis Coking kinetics; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract By means of steady-state experiments and a global model, we studied the effects of plasma-generated reactive species on the surface chemistry and coking in plasma-catalytic CH4/CO2 reforming at reduced pressure (8–40 kPa). We used a hybrid ZDPlasKin-CHEMKIN model to predict the species densities over time. The detailed plasma-catalytic mechanism consists of the plasma discharge scheme, a gas-phase chemistry set and a surface mechanism. Our experimental results show that the coupling of Ni/SiO2 catalyst with plasma is more effective in CH4/CO2 activation and conversion than unpacked DBD plasma, with syngas being the main products. The

highest total conversion of 16 % was achieved at 8000 V and 473 K, with corresponding CO and H2 yields of 15 % and 12 %, respectively. The reactants conversion and product selectivity are well captured by the kinetic model. Our simulation results suggest that vibrational species and radicals can accelerate the dissociative adsorption and Eley-Rideal (E-R) reactions. Path flux analysis shows that E-R reactions dominate the surface reaction pathways, which differs from thermal catalysis, indicating that the coupling of non-equilibrium plasma and catalysis can effectively shift the formation and consumption pathways of important adsorbates. For instance, our model suggests that HCOO(s) is primarily generated through the E-R reaction CO2(v) + H(s) → HCOO(s), while the hydrogenation reaction HCOO(s) + H → HCOOH(s) is the main source of HCOOH(s). Carbon deposition on the

catalyst surface is primarily formed through the stepwise dehydrogenation of CH4, while the E-R reactions enhanced by plasma-generated H and O atoms dominate the consumption of carbon deposition. This work provides new insights into the effects of reactive species on the surface chemistry in plasma-catalytic CH4/CO2 reforming.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-09-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes National Natural Science Foundation of China; Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9266
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Author Fedirchyk, I.; Tsonev, I.; Quiroz Marnef, R.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Plasma-assisted NH3 cracking in warm plasma reactors for green H2 production Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chemical Engineering Journal
Volume 499 Issue Pages 155946
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma-assisted NH3 cracking Plasma reactors Warm plasma H2 production from NH3; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract renewable energy. Plasma technology is promising for this purpose, as it can crack NH3 without the need for a catalyst and is highly compatible with renewable electricity, reducing the environmental footprint of the cracking process. This work investigates the NH3 cracking performance of four different warm plasma reactors with different configurations and operating in a wide range of conditions. We show that the NH3 conversion in warm plasma reactors is primarily determined by the specific energy input, with the main difference observed in the energy cost (EC) of cracking. The lowest EC obtained is 146 kJ/mol but at a conversion of only 8 %. A more reasonable conversion of around 50 % yields an EC of around 200 kJ/mol in two of the reactors investigated. Plasma reactors operating at higher feed flow rates are more efficient and yield a higher H2 production rate. Our data indicate that NH3 cracking in these warm plasma reactors occurs mainly via thermal chemistry, with nonthermal plasma chemistry playing a less prominent role. NH3 decomposes not only inside the plasma core but also in a hot volume around it, which reduces the EC. Our study shows that warm plasmas are significantly more efficient for NH3 cracking than cold plasmas, even when the latter are combined with catalysts.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-09-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes Belgian Federal Government; European Commission Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions; Approved Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9267
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Author Gholam, S.; Denisov, N.; Orekhov, A.; Verbeeck, J.; Hadermann, J.
Title An Investigation on 3D Electron Diffraction and 4-Dimensional Scanning Diffraction Tomography Using a Scanning Electron Microscope Type P1 Conference Proceedings
Year 2024 Publication Microscopy and Microanalysis Abbreviated Journal
Volume 30 Issue Supplement_1 Pages
Keywords P1 Conference Proceedings; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;
Abstract During the last decade, 3D-Electron Diffraction (3D-ED) has emerged as a powerful technique for studying the structure of sub-micron particles. It is used in a variety of applications, from unit cell and space group determination to the complete solution of the structure similar to X-ray diffraction techniques. So far, this technique has been only implemented in Transmission Electron Microscopes (TEMs). Performing such an experiment in a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) can be challenging, mainly due to the lower acceleration voltage. This lower beam energy raises concerns about severe multiple scattering and limited transmissivity of the sample for the weakly accelerated electrons.

In this work, we show the possibilities of operating similar studies in a modified SEM. For this aim, we equipped our SEM with a custom stage and holder, a direct electron detector and a custom high-angle annular dark-field detector (HAADF). A range of samples was studied in the form of lamellas and sub-micron particles, and the quality of the diffraction data was evaluated for different purposes, such as unit cell determination and space group determination. Moreover, the ability to integrate the diffraction data for structure solution and refinement has been assessed and compared to similar data acquired in a TEM.

Finally, we also demonstrate the potential for combining diffraction tomography and 4-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM) in our setup. This method opens an avenue to obtain multiple 3DED datasets out of 5D-STEM data. These 3DED datasets can be created using object tracking methods from several regions of a multi-domain particle or from multiple single crystals within the scanning region. This provides an attractive route to high-throughput and statistically relevant characterization of polycrystalline materials or powders of nanoparticles.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-07-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN (up) 1431-9276 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 2.8 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors acknowledge the financial support of the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO, Belgium) project SBO S000121N. The authors are also grateful to Amsterdam Scientific Instruments. Approved Most recent IF: 2.8; 2024 IF: 1.891
Call Number EMAT @ emat @ Serial 9269
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