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Author Minjauw, M.M.; Solano, E.; Sree, S.P.; Asapu, R.; Van Daele, M.; Ramachandran, R.K.; Heremans, G.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Martens, J.A.; Detavernier, C.; Dendooven, J.
Title Plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition of silver using Ag(fod)(PEt3) and NH3-plasma Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Chemistry of materials Abbreviated Journal Chem Mater
Volume 29 Issue (down) 17 Pages 7114-7121
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract A plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (ALD) process using the Ag(fod)(PEt3) precursor [(triethylphosphine)(6,6,7,7,8,8,8-heptafluoro-2,2-dimethy1-3,5-octanedionate)silver(I)] in combination with NH3-plasma is reported. The steady growth rate of the reported process (0.24 +/- 0.03 nm/cycle) was found to be 6 times larger than that of the previously reported Ag ALD process based on the same precursor in combination with H-2-plasma (0.04 +/- 0.02 nm/cycle). The ALD characteristics of the H-2-plasma and NH3-plasma processes were verified. The deposited Ag films were polycrystalline face-centered cubic Ag for both processes. The film morphology was investigated by ex situ scanning electron microscopy and grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering, and it was found that films grown with the NH3-plasma process exhibit a much higher particle areal density and smaller particle sizes on oxide substrates compared to those deposited using the H-2-plasma process. This control over morphology of the deposited Ag is important for applications in catalysis and plasmonics. While films grown with the H-2-plasma process had oxygen impurities (similar to 9 atom %) in the bulk, the main impurity for the NH3-plasma process was nitrogen (similar to 7 atom %). In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy experiments suggest that these nitrogen impurities are derived from NH surface groups generated during the NH3-plasma, which interact with the precursor molecules during the precursor pulse. We propose that the reaction of these surface groups with the precursor leads to additional deposition of Ag atoms during the precursor pulse compared to the H-2-plasma process, which explains the enhanced growth rate of the NH3-plasma process.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000410868600012 Publication Date 2017-08-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0897-4756 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.466 Times cited 9 Open Access
Notes ; M.M.M. and J.D. acknowledge the Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek Vlaanderen (FWO Vlaanderen) for financial support through a personal research grant. We also acknowledge FWO Vlaanderen for providing project funding for this work. We are grateful to the ESRF staff for smoothly running the synchrotron and beamline facilities. We also thank Olivier Janssens for performing the SEM measurements and Stefaan Broekaert for mechanical assistance. J.A.M. acknowledges the Flemish Government for long-term structural funding (Methusalem). ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.466
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:146757 Serial 5983
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Author Weiβ, R.; Gritsch, S.; Brader, G.; Nikolic, B.; Spiller, M.; Santolin, J.; Weber, H.K.; Schwaiger, N.; Pluchon, S.; Dietel, K.; Guebitz, G.; Nyanhongo, G.
Title A biobased, bioactive, low CO₂ impact coating for soil improvers Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Green Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Green Chem
Volume 23 Issue (down) 17 Pages 6501-6514
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Lignosulfonate-based bioactive coatings as soil improvers for lawns were developed using laccase as a biocatalyst. Incorporation of glycerol, xylitol and sorbitol as plasticizers considerably reduced the brittleness of the synthesized coatings of marine carbonate granules while thermal enzyme inactivation at 100 degrees C enabled the production of stable coatings. Heat inactivation produced stable coatings with a molecular weight of 2000 kDa and a viscosity of 4.5 x 10(-3) Pas. The desired plasticity for the spray coating of soil improver granules was achieved by the addition of 2.7% of xylitol. Agriculture beneficial microorganisms (four different Bacillus species) were integrated into the coatings. The stable coatings protected the marine calcium carbonate granules, maintained the viability of the microorganisms and showed no toxic effects on the germination and growth of model plants including corn, wheat, salad, and tomato despite a slight delay in germination. Moreover, the coatings reduced the dust formation of soil improvers by 70%. CO2 emission analysis showed potential for the reduction of up to 3.4 kg CO2-eq. kg(-1) product, making it a viable alternative to fossil-based coatings.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000683056500001 Publication Date 2021-08-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1463-9262; 1463-9270 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.125 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.125
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:180511 Serial 7558
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Author Meerburg, F.A.; Boon, N.; Van Winckel, T.; Pauwels, K.T.G.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Live Fast, Die Young: Optimizing Retention Times in High-Rate Contact Stabilization for Maximal Recovery of Organics from Wastewater Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Environmental science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 50 Issue (down) 17 Pages 9781-9790
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Wastewater is typically treated by the conventional activated sludge process, which suffers from an inefficient overall energy balance. The high-rate contact stabilization (HiCS) has been proposed as a promising primary treatment technology with which to maximize redirection of organics to sludge for subsequent energy recovery. It utilizes a feast famine cycle to select for bioflocculation, intracellular storage, or both. We optimized the HiCS process for organics recovery and characterized different biological pathways of organics removal and recovery. A total of eight HiCS reactors were operated at 15 degrees C at short solids retention times (SRT; 0.24-2.8 days), hydraulic contact times (t(c); 8 and 15 min), and stabilization times (t(s); 15 and 40 min). At an optimal SRT between 0.5 and 1.3 days and t(c) of 15 min and t(s) of 40 min, the HiCS system oxidized only 10% of influent chemical oxygen demand (COD) and recovered up to 55% of incoming organic matter into sludge. Storage played a minor role in the overall COD removal, which was likely dominated by aerobic biomass growth, bioflocculation onto extracellular polymeric substances, and settling. The HiCS process recovers enough organics to potentially produce 28 kWh of electricity per population equivalent per year by anaerobic digestion and electricity generation. This inspires new possibilities for energy-neutral wastewater treatment.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000382805800097 Publication Date 2016-08-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:138270 Serial 8176
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Author Huang, L.; Ratkowsky, D.A.; Hui, C.; Gielis, J.; Lian, M.; Shi, P.
Title Inequality measure of leaf area distribution for a drought-tolerant landscape plant Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Plants Abbreviated Journal
Volume 12 Issue (down) 17 Pages 3143-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Measuring the inequality of leaf area distribution per plant (ILAD) can provide a useful tool for quantifying the influences of intra- and interspecific competition, foraging behavior of herbivores, and environmental stress on plants’ above-ground architectural structures and survival strategies. Despite its importance, there has been limited research on this issue. This paper aims to fill this gap by comparing four inequality indices to measure ILAD, using indices for quantifying household income that are commonly used in economics, including the Gini index (which is based on the Lorenz curve), the coefficient of variation, the Theil index, and the mean log deviation index. We measured the area of all leaves for 240 individual plants of the species Shibataea chinensis Nakai, a drought-tolerant landscape plant found in southern China. A three-parameter performance equation was fitted to observations of the cumulative proportion of leaf area vs. the cumulative proportion of leaves per plant to calculate the Gini index for each individual specimen of S. chinensis. The performance equation was demonstrated to be valid in describing the rotated and right shifted Lorenz curve, given that >96% of root-mean-square error values were smaller than 0.004 for 240 individual plants. By examining the correlation between any of the six possible pairs of indices among the Gini index, the coefficient of variation, the Theil index, and the mean log deviation index, the data show that these indices are closely related and can be used interchangeably to quantify ILAD.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001065193100001 Publication Date 2023-08-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2223-7747 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199564 Serial 8886
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Author Wagaarachchige, J.D.; Idris, Z.; Arstad, B.; Kummamuru, N.B.; Sætre, K.A.S.; Halstensen, M.; Jens, K.-J.
Title Low-viscosity nonaqueous sulfolane–amine–methanol solvent blend for reversible CO2 capture Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Industrial and engineering chemistry research Abbreviated Journal
Volume 61 Issue (down) 17 Pages 5942-5951
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this work, the absorption–desorption performance of CO2 in six new solvent blends of amine (diisopropylamine (DPA), 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol (AMP), methyldiethanolamine (MDEA), diethanolamine (DEA), diisopropanolamine (DIPA), and ethanolamine (MEA)), sulfolane, and methanol has been monitored using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Additionally, NMR-based species confirmation and solvent viscosity analysis were done for DPA solvent samples. The identified CO2 capture products are monomethyl carbonate (MMC), carbamate, carbonate, and bicarbonate anions in different ratios. The DPA solvent formed MMC entirely with 0.88 molCO2/molamine capture capacity, 0.48 molCO2/molamine cyclic capacity, and 3.28 mPa·s CO2-loaded solvent viscosity. MEA, DEA, DIPA, and MDEA were shown to produce a low or a negligible amount of MMC while AMP occupied an intermediate position.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2022-04-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0888-5885; 1520-5045 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:199111 Serial 8895
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Author Hofman, J.; Samson, R.; Joosen, S.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Cyclist exposure to black carbon, ultrafine particles and heavy metals : an experimental study along two commuting routes near Antwerp, Belgium Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Environmental research Abbreviated Journal
Volume 164 Issue (down) 164 Pages 530-538
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Urban environments typically exhibit large atmospheric pollution variation, in both space and time. In contrast to traditional monitoring networks suffering from a limited spatial coverage, mobile platforms enable personalized high-resolution monitoring, providing valuable insights into personal atmospheric pollution exposure, and the identification of potential pollution hotspots. This study evaluated personal cyclist exposure to UFPs, BC and heavy metals whilst commuting near Antwerp, Belgium, by performing mobile measurements with wearable black carbon (BC) and ultrafine particle (UFP) instruments. Loaded micro-aethalometer filterstrips were chemically analysed and the inhaled pollutant dose determined from the exhibited heart rate. Considerable spatial pollutant variation was observed along the travelled routes, with distinct contributions from spatial factors (e.g. traffic intersections, urban park and market) and temporary events. On average 300% higher BC, 20% higher UFP and changing elemental concentrations are observed along the road traffic route (RT), when compared to the bicycle highway route (BH). Although the overall background pollution determines a large portion of the experienced personal exposure (in this case 53% for BC and 40% for UFP), cyclists can influence their personal atmospheric pollution exposure, by selecting less exposed commuting routes. Our results, hereby, strengthen the body of evidence in favour of further policy investments in isolated bicycle infrastructure.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000431387100063 Publication Date 2018-04-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 9 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would like to acknowledge the Flanders Environment Agency (VMM) for granting access to the 42R817 monitoring station and provision of telemetric pollutant and meteorological data. The corresponding author acknowledges the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for his postdoctoral research grant (12I4816N). ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:150540 Serial 5939
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Author Blommaerts, N.; Vanrompay, H.; Nuti, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Unraveling Structural Information of Turkevich Synthesized Plasmonic Gold-Silver Bimetallic Nanoparticles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Small Abbreviated Journal Small
Volume 15 Issue (down) 15 Pages 1902791
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract For the synthesis of gold-silver bimetallic nanoparticles, the Turkevich method has been the state-of-the-art method for several decades. It has been presumed that this procedure results in a homogeneous alloy, although this has been debatable for many years. In this work, it is shown that neither a full alloy, nor a perfect core-shell particle is formed but rather a core-shell-like particle with altering metal composition along the radial direction. In-depth wet-chemical experiments are performed in combination with advanced transmission electron microscopy, including EDX tomography, and Finite Element Method modeling to support the observations. From the electron tomography results, the core-shell structure could be clearly visualized and the spatial distribution of gold and silver atoms could be quantified. Theoretical simulations are performed to demonstrate that even though UV-Vis spectra show only one plasmon band, this still originates from core-shell type structures. The simulations also indicate that the core-shell morphology does not so much affect the location of the plasmon band, but mainly results in significant band broadening. Wet-chemistry experiments provide the evidence that the synthesis pathway starts with gold enriched alloy cores, and later on in the synthesis mainly silver is incorporated to end up with a silver enriched alloy shell.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000482637100001 Publication Date 2019-08-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1613-6810 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.643 Times cited 26 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Universiteit Antwerpen; Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, 1S32617N G.0369.15N G.0381.16N ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.643
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:161636 Serial 5290
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Author Lu, Y.; Liu, Y.-X.; He, L.; Wang, L.-Y.; Liu, X.-L.; Liu, J.-W.; Li, Y.-Z.; Tian, G.; Zhao, H.; Yang, X.-H.; Liu, J.; Janiak, C.; Lenaerts, S.; Yang, X.-Y.; Su, B.-L.
Title Interfacial co-existence of oxygen and titanium vacancies in nanostructured TiO₂ for enhancement of carrier transport Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal Nanoscale
Volume 12 Issue (down) 15 Pages 8364-8370
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The interfacial co-existence of oxygen and metal vacancies in metal oxide semiconductors and their highly efficient carrier transport have rarely been reported. This work reports on the co-existence of oxygen and titanium vacancies at the interface between TiO2 and rGO via a simple two-step calcination treatment. Experimental measurements show that the oxygen and titanium vacancies are formed under 550 degrees C/Ar and 350 degrees C/air calcination conditions, respectively. These oxygen and titanium vacancies significantly enhance the transport of interfacial carriers, and thus greatly improve the photocurrent performances, the apparent quantum yield, and photocatalysis such as photocatalytic H-2 production from water-splitting, photocatalytic CO2 reduction and photo-electrochemical anticorrosion of metals. A new “interfacial co-existence of oxygen and titanium vacancies” phenomenon, and its characteristics and mechanism are proposed at the atomic-/nanoscale to clarify the generation of oxygen and titanium vacancies as well as the interfacial carrier transport.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000529201500029 Publication Date 2020-02-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2040-3364 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.7 Times cited 4 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (51861135313, U1663225, U1662134, and 51472190), the International Science & Technology Cooperation Program of China (2015DFE52870), the Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University (IRT_15R52), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (19lgpy113 and 19lgzd16), the Jilin Province Science and Technology Development Plan (20180101208JC) and the Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (2016CFA033). ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.7; 2020 IF: 7.367
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:169578 Serial 6550
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Author Wang, L.; Miao, Q.; Niinemets, Ü.; Gielis, J.; Shi, P.
Title Quantifying the variation in the geometries of the outer rims of corolla tubes of Vinca major L Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Plants Abbreviated Journal
Volume 11 Issue (down) 15 Pages 1987-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Many geometries of plant organs can be described by the Gielis equation, a polar coordinate equation extended from the superellipse equation, . Here, r is the polar radius corresponding to the polar angle φ; m is a positive integer that determines the number of angles of the Gielis curve when φ ∈ [0 to 2π); and the rest of the symbols are parameters to be estimated. The pentagonal radial symmetry of calyxes and corolla tubes in top view is a common feature in the flowers of many eudicots. However, prior studies have not tested whether the Gielis equation can depict the shapes of corolla tubes. We sampled randomly 366 flowers of Vinca major L., among which 360 had five petals and pentagonal corolla tubes, and six had four petals and quadrangular corolla tubes. We extracted the planar coordinates of the outer rims of corolla tubes (in top view) (ORCTs), and then fitted the data with two simplified versions of the Gielis equation with k = 1 and m = 5: (Model 1), and (Model 2). The adjusted root mean square error (RMSEadj) was used to evaluate the goodness of fit of each model. In addition, to test whether ORCTs are radially symmetrical, we correlated the estimates of n2 and n3 in Model 1 on a log-log scale. The results validated the two simplified Gielis equations. The RMSEadj values for all corolla tubes were smaller than 0.05 for both models. The numerical values of n2 and n3 were demonstrated to be statistically equal based on the regression analysis, which suggested that the ORCTs of V. major are radially symmetrical. It suggests that Model 1 can be replaced by the simpler Model 2 for fitting the ORCT in this species. This work indicates that the pentagonal or quadrangular corolla tubes (in top view) can both be modeled by the Gielis equation and demonstrates that the pentagonal or quadrangular corolla tubes of plants tend to form radial symmetrical geometries during their development and growth.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000839115100001 Publication Date 2022-08-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2223-7747 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189315 Serial 7200
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Author Seuntjens, D.; Van Tendeloo, M.; Chatzigiannidou, I.; Carvajal-Arroyo, J.M.; Vandendriessche, S.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Boon, N.
Title Synergistic exposure of return-sludge to anaerobic starvation, sulfide and free ammonia to suppress nitrite oxidizing bacteria Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Environmental science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 52 Issue (down) 15 Pages 8725-8732
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract A key step toward energy-positive sewage treatment is the development of mainstream partial nitritation/anammox, a nitrogen removal technology where aerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AerAOB) are desired, while nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) are not. To suppress NOB, a novel return-sludge treatment was investigated. Single and combined effects of sulfide (0-600 mg S L-1), anaerobic starvation (0-8 days), and a free ammonia (FA) shock (30 mg FA-N L-1 for 1 h) were tested for immediate effects and long-term recovery. AerAOB and NOB were inhibited immediately and proportionally by sulfide, with AerAOB better coping with the inhibition, while the short FA shock and anaerobic starvation had minor effects. Combinatory effects inhibited AerAOB and NOB more strongly. A combined treatment of sulfide (150 mg S L-1), 2 days of anaerobic starvation, and FA shock (30 mg FA-N L-1) inhibited AerAOB 14% more strongly compared to sulfide addition alone, while the AerAOB/NOB activity ratio remained constant. Despite no positive change being observed in the immediate-stress response, AerAOB recovered much faster than NOB, with a nitrite accumulation ratio (effluent nitrite on nitrite + nitrate) peak of 50% after 12 days. Studying long-term recovery is therefore crucial for design of an optimal NOB-suppression treatment, while applying combined stressors regularly may lead toward practical implementation.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000441477600073 Publication Date 2018-05-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:152909 Serial 8635
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Author Alaerts, L.; Van Acker, K.; Rousseau, S.; De Jaeger, S.; Moraga, G.; Dewulf, J.; De Meester, S.; Van Passel, S.; Compernolle, T.; Bachus, K.; Vrancken, K.; Eyckmans, J.
Title Towards a more direct policy feedback in circular economy monitoring via a societal needs perspective Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 149 Issue (down) 149 Pages 363-371
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The increasing focus on circular economy at the level of governments and policy requires the development of appropriate indicators to effectively monitor the progress towards the circular economy. Currently two very different types of indicator areas are under development: (i) monitoring frameworks based on macro indicators that summarize the progress at (supra)national level, and (ii) micro indicators tailored towards assessing circularity at the level of products. It is not possible to obtain sufficiently direct feedback about the impact of policy interventions by either macro or micro indicators alone. In this paper, a conceptual approach is developed that aims to bridge the gap between the micro and macro level with meso level indicators, and thus ultimately deliver more direct feedback for policymakers, via the insertion of an extra level of meso indicators in between the macro and the micro level. These indicators have been extracted from a dedicated workshop that involved policy, sector and societal stakeholders. The aim of these indicators is to report on progress towards circular economy objectives based on the fulfillment of societal needs. In this way the consumption perspective is given a central position, and the role of circular business models is acknowledged. Following the development of the concept, the next steps towards tailored, flexible and agile monitoring frameworks for circular economy at (supra)national and regional level are outlined. The paper concludes with an illustrative example of the framework applied to the mobility system.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000483414300034 Publication Date 2019-06-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors are very grateful for financial support received from the Flemish administration via the Steunpunt Circulaire Economie (Policy Research Centre Circular Economy). This publication contains the opinions of the authors, not that of the Flemish administration. The Flemish administration will not carry any liability with respect to the use that can be made of the produced data or conclusions. The authors are also grateful to the numerous stakeholders for extended discussions and comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.313
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162774 Serial 6271
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Author Bia, P.; Caratelli, D.; Mescia, L.; Gielis, J.
Title Analysis and synthesis of supershaped dielectric lens antennas Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication IET microwaves, antennas and propagation Abbreviated Journal
Volume 9 Issue (down) 14 Pages 1497-1504
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Mass communications; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract A novel class of supershaped dielectric lens antennas, whose geometry is described by the three-dimensional (3D) Gielis formula, is introduced and analysed. To this end, a hybrid modelling approach based on geometrical and physical optics is adopted in order to efficiently analyse the multiple wave reflections occurring within the lens and to evaluate the relevant impact on the radiation properties of the antenna under analysis. The developed modelling procedure has been validated by comparison with numerical results already reported in the literature and, afterwards, applied to the electromagnetic characterisation of Gielis dielectric lens antennas with shaped radiation pattern. Furthermore, a dedicated optimisation algorithm based on quantum particle swarm optimisation has been developed for the synthesis of 3D supershaped lens antennas with single feed, as well as with beamforming capabilities.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000364491200002 Publication Date 2015-08-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1751-8725 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:128659 Serial 7441
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Author Mao, D.; Lookman, R.; van de Weghe, H.; Vanermen, G.; de Brucker, N.; Diels, L.
Title Aqueous solubility calculation for petroleum mixtures in soil using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography analysis data Type A1 Journal article
Year 2009 Publication Journal of chromatography : A Abbreviated Journal
Volume 1216 Issue (down) 14 Pages 2873-2880
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract An assessment of aqueous solubility (leaching potential) of soil contaminations with petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) is important in the context of the evaluation of (migration) risks and soil/groundwater remediation. Field measurements using monitoring wells often overestimate real TPH concentrations in case of presence of pure oil in the screened interval of the well. This paper presents a method to calculate TPH equilibrium concentrations in groundwater using soil analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography followed by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (HPLCGCXGC). The oil in the soil sample is divided into 79 defined hydrocarbon fractions on two GCXGC color plots. To each of these fractions a representative water solubility is assigned. Overall equilibrium water solubility of the non-aqueous phase liquid (NAPL) present in the sample and the water phase's chemical composition (in terms of the 79 fractions defined) are then calculated using Raoult's law. The calculation method was validated using soil spiked with 13 different TPH mixtures and 1 field-contaminated soil. Measured water solubilities using a column recirculation equilibration experiment agreed well to calculated equilibrium concentrations and water phase TPH composition.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000264730900020 Publication Date 2008-08-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0021-9673 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:76414 Serial 7492
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Author Decostere, B.; Coppens, J.; Vervaeren, H.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; De Gelder, L.; Boon, N.; Nopens, I.; Van Hulle, S.W.H.
Title Kinetic exploration of intracellular nitrate storage in marine microalgae Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Journal of environmental science and health : part A: toxic/hazardous substances and environmental engineering Abbreviated Journal
Volume 52 Issue (down) 14 Pages 1303-1311
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this study, a recently developed model accounting for intracellular nitrate storage kinetics was thoroughly studied to understand and compare the storage capacity of Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Amphora coffeaeformis. In the first stage the identifiability of the biokinetic parameters was examined. Next, the kinetic model was calibrated for both microalgal species based on experimental observations during batch growth experiments. Two kinetic parameters were calibrated, namely the maximum specific growth rate (mu(max)) and the nitrate storage rate (k(sto)). A significant difference was observed for the nitrate storage rate between both species. For P. tricornutum, the nitrate storage rate was much higher (k(sto) = 0.036m(3) g(-1) DW d(-1)) compared to A. coffeaeformis (k(sto) = 0.0004m(3) g(-1) DW d(-1)). This suggests that P. tricornutum has a more efficient nitrate uptake ability and intracellular nitrate storage capacity and also indicates the need for determination of k(sto) in order to quantify nitrate storage.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000415634300004 Publication Date 2017-09-26
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1093-4529; 1532-4117 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:147467 Serial 8137
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Author Neven, L.; Barich, H.; Ching, H.Y.V.; Khan, S.U.; Colomier, C.; Patel, H.H.; Gorun, S.M.; Verbruggen, S.; Van Doorslaer, S.; De Wael, K.
Title Correlation between the fluorination degree of perfluorinated zinc phthalocyanines, their singlet oxygen generation ability, and their photoelectrochemical response for phenol sensing Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 94 Issue (down) 13 Pages 5221-5230
Keywords A1 Journal article; Organic synthesis (ORSY); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Electron-withdrawing perfluoroalkyl peripheral groups grafted on phthalocyanine (Pc) macrocycles improve their single-site isolation, solubility, and resistance to self-oxidation, all beneficial features for catalytic applications. A high degree of fluorination also enhances the reducibility of Pcs and could alter their singlet oxygen (1O2) photoproduction. The ethanol/toluene 20:80 vol % solvent mixture was found to dissolve perfluorinated FnPcZn complexes, n = 16, 52, and 64, and minimize the aggregation of the sterically unencumbered F16PcZn. The 1O2 production ability of FnPcZn complexes was examined using 9,10-dimethylanthracene (DMA) and 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine (TEMP) in combination with UV–vis and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, respectively. While the photoreduction of F52PcZn and F64PcZn in the presence of redox-active TEMP lowered 1O2 production, DMA was a suitable 1O2 trap for ranking the complexes. The solution reactivity was complemented by solid-state studies via the construction of photoelectrochemical sensors based on TiO2-supported FnPcZn, FnPcZn|TiO2. Phenol photo-oxidation by 1O2, followed by its electrochemical reduction, defines a redox cycle, the 1O2 production having been found to depend on the value of n and structural features of the supported complexes. Consistent with solution studies, F52PcZn was found to be the most efficient 1O2 generator. The insights on reactivity testing and structural–activity relationships obtained may be useful for designing efficient and robust sensors and for other 1O2-related applications of FnPcZn.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000786254500002 Publication Date 2022-03-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187522 Serial 7141
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Author Maes, R.R.; Potters, G.; Fransen, E.; Van Schaeren, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Influence of adding low concentration of oxygenates in mineral diesel oil and biodiesel on the concentration of NO, NO₂ and particulate matter in the exhaust gas of a one-cylinder diesel generator Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication International journal of environmental research and public health Abbreviated Journal
Volume 19 Issue (down) 13 Pages 7637-18
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Air quality currently poses a major risk to human health worldwide. Transportation is one of the principal contributors to air pollution due to the quality of exhaust gases. For example, the widely used diesel fuel is a significant source of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). To reduce the content NOx and PM, different oxygenated compounds were mixed into a mineral diesel available at the pump, and their effect on the composition of exhaust gas emissions was measured using a one-cylinder diesel generator. In this setup, adding methanol gave the best relative results. The addition of 2000 ppm of methanol decreased the content of NO by 56%, 2000 ppm of isopropanol decreased NO2 by 50%, and 2000 ppm ethanol decreased PM by 63%. An interesting question is whether it is possible to reduce the impact of hazardous components in the exhaust gas even more by adding oxygenates to biodiesels. In this article, alcohol is added to biodiesel in order to establish the impact on PM and NOx concentrations in the exhaust gases. Adding methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol at concentrations of 2000 ppm and 4000 ppm did not improve NOx emissions. The best results were using pure RME for a low NO content, pure diesel for a low NO2 content, and for PM there were no statistically significant differences.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000825645900001 Publication Date 2022-06-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1661-7827; 1660-4601 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189476 Serial 7172
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Author Zankowski, S.P.; Van Hoecke, L.; Mattelaer, F.; de Raedt, M.; Richard, O.; Detavernier, C.; Vereecken, P.M.
Title Redox layer deposition of thin films of MnO2 on nanostructured substrates from aqueous solutions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Chemistry of materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 31 Issue (down) 13 Pages 4805-4816
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this work, we report a new method for depositing thin films of MnO2 on planar and complex nanostructured surfaces, with high precision and conformality. The method is based on repeating cycles of adsorption of an unsaturated alcohol on a surface, followed by its oxidation with aqueous KMnO4 and formation of thin, solid MnO2. The amount of manganese oxide formed in each cycle is limited by the quantity of the adsorbed alcohol; thus, the growth exhibits the self-limiting characteristics of atomic layer deposition (ALD). Contrary to the typical ALD, however, the new redox layer deposition is performed in air, at room temperature, using common chemicals and simple laboratory glassware, which greatly reduces its cost and complexity. We also demonstrate application of the method for the fabrication of a nanostructured MnO2/Ni electrode, which was not possible with thermal ALD because of the rapid decomposition of the gaseous precursor on the high surface-area substrate. Thanks to its simplicity, the conformal deposition of MnO2 can be easily upscaled and thus exploited for its numerous (electro)chemical applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000475408400021 Publication Date 2019-06-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0897-4756; 1520-5002 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:161225 Serial 8465
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Author Maes, R.R.; Potters, G.; Fransen, E.; Geuens, J.; Van Schaeren, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Can we find an optimal fatty acid composition of biodiesel in order to improve oxidation stability? Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume 15 Issue (down) 13 Pages 10310-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Medical Genetics (MEDGEN)
Abstract Air quality currently poses a major risk for human health. Currently, diesel is widely used as fuel and is a significant source of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), both hazardous to human health. A good alternative for mineral diesel is biodiesel, not only for the improvement of hazardous components in the exhaust gases but also because it can be produced in view of a circular economy. Biodiesel consists of a mix of different fatty acid methyl esters, which can react with oxygen. As a consequence, the oxidation stability of biodiesel has to be studied, because the oxidation of biodiesel could affect the performance of the engine due to the wear of injectors and fuel pumps. The oxidation stability could also affect the quality of the exhaust gases due to increases in NOx and PM. The basic question we try to answer in this communication is: 'Can we find an optimal fatty acid composition in order to have a maximal oxidation stability?' In this article, we try to find the optimal fatty acid composition according to the five most common fatty acid methyl esters present in biodiesel in order to reach a maximal oxidation stability. The measurements and statistical analysis show, however, that there is no useful regression model because there are statistically significant two- and three-way interactions among the different fatty acids.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001028597300001 Publication Date 2023-06-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2071-1050 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.9; 2023 IF: 1.789
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198241 Serial 8839
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Author Dong, Y.; Chen, S.-Y.; Lu, Y.; Xiao, Y.-X.; Hu, J.; Wu, S.-M.; Deng, Z.; Tian, G.; Chang, G.-G.; Li, J.; Lenaerts, S.; Janiak, C.; Yang, X.-Y.; Su, B.-L.
Title Hierarchical MoS2@TiO2 heterojunctions for enhanced photocatalytic performance and electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Chemistry: an Asian journal Abbreviated Journal Chem-Asian J
Volume 13 Issue (down) 12 Pages 1609-1615
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Hierarchical MoS2@TiO2 heterojunctions were synthesized through a one-step hydrothermal method by using protonic titanate nanosheets as the precursor. The TiO2 nanosheets prevent the aggregation of MoS2 and promote the carrier transfer efficiency, and thus enhance the photocatalytic and electrocatalytic activity of the nanostructured MoS2. The obtained MoS2@TiO2 has significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity in the degradation of rhodamineB (over 5.2times compared with pure MoS2) and acetone (over 2.8times compared with pure MoS2). MoS2@TiO2 is also beneficial for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution (26times compared with pure MoS2, based on the cathodic current density). This work offers a promising way to prevent the self-aggregation of MoS2 and provides a new insight for the design of heterojunctions for materials with lattice mismatches.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000435773300011 Publication Date 2018-04-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1861-4728; 1861-471x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.083 Times cited 22 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China (2017YFC1103800), PCSIRT (IRT15R52), NSFC (U1662134, U1663225, 51472190, 51611530672, 51503166, 21706199, 21711530705), ISTCP (2015DFE52870), HPNSF (2016CFA033, 2017CFB487), and SKLPPC (PPC2016007). ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.083
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:151971 Serial 5956
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Author Caretti, I.; Keulemans, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Van Doorslaer, S.
Title Light-induced processes in plasmonic Gold/TiO2 photocatalysts studied by electron paramagnetic resonance Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Topics in catalysis Abbreviated Journal Top Catal
Volume 58 Issue (down) 12 Pages 776-782
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract X-band and W-band continuous-wave (CW) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) was used to study in situ light-induced (LI) mechanisms in commercial P90 titania (90 % anatase/10 % rutile) compared to plasmon-enhanced Au-P90 photocatalyst. These materials were excited using UV and 532 nm visible light to generate different excitation states and distinguish pure charge separation from plasmon-assisted resonance processes. Up to nine different photoinduced species of trapped electrons and holes were identified. LI CW EPR of P90 is presented for the first time, showing a UV excitation response similar to the well-known mixed-phase P25 titania. It is shown that incorporation of Au nanoparticles in Au-P90 and formation of a Schottky junction affects the charge separation state of the catalyst under UV light. Moreover, Au impregnation activated P90 through plasmon hot electron injection under visible light excitation (plasmonic sensitization effect). In general, EPR proved to be crucial to determine the different photoexciation paths and reactions that regulate plasmonic photocatalysis.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000360011200008 Publication Date 2015-08-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1022-5528 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.486 Times cited 22 Open Access
Notes ; IC and SVD acknowledge the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for financial support (Grant G.0687.13). SV thanks FWO for financial support through a postdoctoral fellowship and MK acknowledges the agency for Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT) for financial support (Ph.D. Grant). ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.486; 2015 IF: 2.365
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127413 Serial 5968
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Author Van Wesenbeeck, K.; Hauchecorne, B.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Study of positive and negative plasma catalytic oxidation of ethylene Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Environmental technology Abbreviated Journal Environ Technol
Volume 38 Issue (down) 12 Pages 1554-1561
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The effect of introducing a photocatalytically active coating inside a plasma unit is investigated. This technique combines the advantages of high product selectivity from catalysis and the fast start-up from plasma technology. In this study, a preselected TiO2 coating is applied on the collector electrode of a DC corona discharge unit as non-thermal plasma reactor, in order to study the oxidation of ethylene. For both positive and negative polarities an enhanced mineralization is observed while the formation of by-products drastically decreases. The plasma catalytic unit gave the best results when using negative polarity at a voltage of 15kV. This shows the potential of plasma catalysis as indoor air purification technology.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000402018900010 Publication Date 2016-10-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0959-3330 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.751 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; The authors wish to thank the University of Antwerp for supporting and funding this research. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.751
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:144351 Serial 5993
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Author Wang, L.; Ratkowsky, D.A.; Gielis, J.; Ricci, P.E.; Shi, P.
Title Effects of the numerical values of the parameters in the Gielis equation on its geometries Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Symmetry Abbreviated Journal Symmetry-Basel
Volume 14 Issue (down) 12 Pages 2475-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The Lamé curve is an extension of an ellipse, the latter being a special case. Dr. Johan Gielis further extended the Lamé curve in the polar coordinate system by introducing additional parameters (n1, n2, n3; m): rφ=1Acosm4φn2+1Bsinm4φn3−1/n1, which can be applied to model natural geometries. Here, r is the polar radius corresponding to the polar angle φ; A, B, n1, n2 and n3 are parameters to be estimated; m is the positive real number that determines the number of angles of the Gielis curve. Most prior studies on the Gielis equation focused mainly on its applications. However, the Gielis equation can also generate a large number of shapes that are rotationally symmetric and axisymmetric when A = B and n2 = n3, interrelated with the parameter m, with the parameters n1 and n2 determining the shapes of the curves. In this paper, we prove the relationship between m and the rotational symmetry and axial symmetry of the Gielis curve from a theoretical point of view with the condition A = B, n2 = n3. We also set n1 and n2 to take negative real numbers rather than only taking positive real numbers, then classify the curves based on extremal properties of r(φ) at φ = 0, π/m when n1 and n2 are in different intervals, and analyze how n1, n2 precisely affect the shapes of Gielis curves.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000904525700001 Publication Date 2022-11-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2073-8994 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191860 Serial 7301
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Author Alloul, A.; Ganigue, R.; Spiller, M.; Meerburg, F.; Cagnetta, C.; Rabaey, K.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Capture-ferment-upgrade : a three-step approach for the valorization of sewage organics as commodities Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Environmental science and technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 52 Issue (down) 12 Pages 6729-6742
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract This critical review outlines a roadmap for the conversion of chemical oxygen demand (COD) contained in sewage to commodities based on three-steps: capture COD as sludge, ferment it to volatile fatty acids (VFA), and upgrade VFA to products. The article analyzes the state-of-the-art of this three step approach and discusses the bottlenecks and challenges. The potential of this approach is illustrated for the European Union's 28 member states (EU-28) through Monte Carlo simulations. High-rate contact stabilization captures the highest amount of COD (66-86 g COD person equivalent(-1) day(-1) in 60% of the iterations). Combined with thermal hydrolysis, this would lead to a VFA-yield of 23-44 g COD person equivalent(-1) day(-1). Upgrading VFA generated by the EU-28 would allow, in 60% of the simulations, for a yearly production of 0.2-2.0 megatonnes of esters, 0.7-1.4 megatonnes of polyhydroxyalkanoates or 0.6-2.2 megatonnes of microbial protein substituting, respectively, 20-273%, 70-140% or 21-72% of their global counterparts (i.e., petrochemical-based esters, bioplastics or fishmeal). From these flows, we conclude that sewage has a strong potential as biorefinery feedstock, although research is needed to enhance capture, fermentation and upgrading efficiencies. These developments need to be supported by economic/environmental analyses and policies that incentivize a more sustainable management of our resources.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000436018900004 Publication Date 2018-05-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:151968 Serial 7574
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Author Zhang, Q.; De Clippeleir, H.; Su, C.; Al-Omari, A.; Wett, B.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Murthy, S.
Title Deammonification for digester supernatant pretreated with thermal hydrolysis : overcoming inhibition through process optimization Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Applied microbiology and biotechnology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 100 Issue (down) 12 Pages 5595-5606
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The thermal hydrolysis process (THP) has been proven to be an excellent pretreatment step for an anaerobic digester (AD), increasing biogas yield and decreasing sludge disposal. The goal of this work was to optimize deammonification for efficient nitrogen removal despite the inhibition effects caused by the organics present in the THP-AD sludge filtrate (digestate). Two sequencing batch reactors were studied treating conventional digestate and THP-AD digestate, respectively. Improved process control based on higher dissolved oxygen set-point (1 mg O-2/L) and longer aeration times could achieve successful treatment of THP-AD digestate. This increased set-point could overcome the inhibition effect on aerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AerAOB), potentially caused by particulate and colloidal organics. Moreover, based on the mass balance, anoxic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB) contribution to the total nitrogen removal decreased from 97 +/- A 1 % for conventional to 72 +/- A 5 % for THP-AD digestate treatment, but remained stable by selective AnAOB retention using a vibrating screen. Overall, similar total nitrogen removal rates of 520 +/- A 28 mg N/L/day at a loading rate of 600 mg N/L/day were achieved in the THP-AD reactor compared to the conventional digestate treatment operating at low dissolved oxygen (DO) (0.38 +/- A 0.10 mg O-2/L).
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000376456700033 Publication Date 2016-02-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0175-7598; 1432-0614 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:134166 Serial 7755
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Author Tirez, K.; Vanhoof, C.; Bronders, J.; Seuntjens, P.; Bleux, N.; Berghmans, P.; De Brucker, N.; Vanhaecke, F.
Title Do ICP-MS based methods fulfill the EU monitoring requirements for the determination of elements in our environment? Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Environmental science : processes & impacts Abbreviated Journal
Volume 17 Issue (down) 12 Pages 2034-2050
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Undoubtedly, the most important advance in the environmental regulatory monitoring of elements of the last decade is the widespread introduction of ICP-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) due to standards developed by the European Committee for Standardization. The versatility of ICP-MS units as a tool for the determination of major, minor and trace elements (Al, As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, Ti, V and Zn) in surface water, groundwater, river sediment, topsoil, subsoil, fine particulates and atmospheric deposition is illustrated in this paper. Ranges of background concentrations for major, minor and trace elements obtained from a regional case study (Flanders, Belgium) are summarized for all of these environmental compartments and discussed in the context of a harmonized implementation of European regulatory monitoring requirements. The results were derived from monitoring programs in support of EU environmental quality directives and were based on a selection of (non-polluted) background locations. Because of the availability of ICP-MS instruments nowadays, it can be argued that the main hindrance for meeting the European environmental monitoring requirements is no longer the technical feasibility of analysis at these concentration levels, but rather (i) potential contamination during sampling and analysis, (ii) too limited implementation of quality control programs, validating the routinely applied methods (including sampling and low level verification) and (iii) lack of harmonization in reporting of the chemical environmental status between the individual member states.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000365915600005 Publication Date 2015-10-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7887; 2050-7895 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:130316 Serial 7821
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Author De Paepe, J.; Clauwaert, P.; Gritti, M.C.; Ganigue, R.; Sas, B.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Rabaey, K.
Title Electrochemical in situ pH control enables chemical-free full urine nitrification with concomitant nitrate extraction Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Environmental Science & Technology Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Technol
Volume 55 Issue (down) 12 Pages 8287-8298
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Urine is a valuable resource for nutrient recovery. Stabilization is, however, recommended to prevent urea hydrolysis and the associated risk for ammonia volatilization, uncontrolled precipitation, and malodor. This can be achieved by alkalinization and subsequent biological conversion of urea and ammonia into nitrate (nitrification) and organics into CO2. Yet, without pH control, the extent of nitrification is limited as a result of insufficient alkalinity. This study explored the feasibility of an integrated electrochemical cell to obtain on-demand hydroxide production through water reduction at the cathode, compensating for the acidification caused by nitritation, thereby enabling full nitrification. To deal with the inherent variability of the urine influent composition and bioprocess, the electrochemical cell was steered via a controller, modulating the current based on the pH in the bioreactor. This provided a reliable and innovative alternative to base addition, enabling full nitrification while avoiding the use of chemicals, the logistics associated with base storage and dosing, and the associated increase in salinity. Moreover, the electrochemical cell could be used as an in situ extraction and concentration technology, yielding an acidic concentrated nitrate-rich stream. The make-up of the end product could be tailored by tweaking the process configuration, offering versatility for applications on Earth and in space.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000663939900052 Publication Date 2021-06-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.198 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.198
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179779 Serial 7862
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Author Alloul, A.; Cerruti, M.; Adamczyk, D.; Weissbrodt, D.G.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Operational strategies to selectively produce purple bacteria for microbial protein in raceway reactors Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Environmental Science & Technology Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Technol
Volume 55 Issue (down) 12 Pages 8278-8286
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Purple non-sulfur bacteria (PNSB) show potential for microbial protein production on wastewater as animal feed. They offer good selectivity (i.e., low microbial diversity and high abundance of one species) when grown anaerobically in the light. However, the cost of closed anaerobic photobioreactors is prohibitive for protein production. Although open raceway reactors are cheaper, their feasibility to selectively grow PNSB is thus far unexplored. This study developed operational strategies to boost PNSB abundance in the biomass of a raceway reactor fed with volatile fatty acids. For a flask reactor run at a 2 day sludge retention time (SRT), matching the chemical oxygen demand (COD) loading rate to the removal rate in the light period prevented substrate availability during the dark period and increased the PNSB abundance from 50-67 to 88-94%. A raceway reactor run at a 2 day SRT showed an increased PNSB abundance from 14 to 56% when oxygen supply was reduced (no stirring at night). The best performance was achieved at the highest surface-to-volume ratio (10 m(2) m(-3) increased light availability) showing productivities up to 0.2 g protein L-1 day(-1) and a PNSB abundance of 78%. This study pioneered in PNSB-based microbial protein production in raceway reactors, yielding high selectivity while avoiding the combined availability of oxygen, COD, and darkness.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000663939900051 Publication Date 2021-06-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0013-936x; 1520-5851 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.198 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.198
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179768 Serial 8334
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Author Van Tendeloo, M.; Bundervoet, B.; Carlier, N.; Van Beeck, W.; Mollen, H.; Lebeer, S.; Colsen, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Piloting carbon-lean nitrogen removal for energy-autonomous sewage treatment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Environmental Science-Water Research & Technology Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci-Wat Res
Volume 7 Issue (down) 12 Pages 2268-2281
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Energy-autonomous sewage treatment can be achieved if nitrogen (N) removal does not rely on organic carbon (∼chemical oxygen demand, COD), so that a maximum of the COD can be redirected to energy recovery. Shortcut N removal technologies such as partial nitritation/anammox and nitritation/denitritation are therefore essential, enabling carbon- and energy-lean nitrogen removal. In this study, a novel three-reactor pilot design was tested and consisted of a denitrification, an intermittent aeration, and an anammox tank. A vibrating sieve was added for differential sludge retention time (SRT) control. The 13 m3 pilot was operated on pre-treated sewage (A-stage effluent) at 12–24 °C. Selective suppression of unwanted nitrite-oxidizing bacteria over aerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria was achieved with strict floccular SRT management combined with innovative aeration control, resulting in a minimal nitrate production ratio of 17 ± 10%. Additionally, anoxic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB) activity could be maintained in the reactor for at least 150 days because of long granular SRT management and the anammox tank. Consequently, the COD/N removal ratio of 2.3 ± 0.7 demonstrated shortcut N removal almost three times lower than the currently applied nitrification/denitrification technology. The effluent total N concentrations of 17 ± 3 mg TN per L (at 21 ± 1 °C) and 17 ± 6 mg TN per L (at 15 ± 1 °C) were however too high for application at the sewage treatment plant Nieuwveer (Breda, The Netherlands). Corresponding N removal efficiencies were 52 ± 12% and 37 ± 21%, respectively. Further development should focus on redirecting more nitrite to AnAOB in the B-stage, exploring effluent-polishing options, or cycling nitrate for increased A-stage denitrification.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000714159900001 Publication Date 2021-10-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2053-1400 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.817 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.817
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:183347 Serial 8383
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Author Desmet, N.J.S.; van Belleghem, S.; Seuntjens, P.; Bouma, T.J.; Buis, K.; Meire, P.
Title Quantification of the impact of macrophytes on oxygen dynamics and nitrogen retention in a vegetated lowland river Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Physics and chemistry of the earth, parts A/B/C Abbreviated Journal
Volume 36 Issue (down) 12 Pages 479-489
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract When macrophytes are growing in the river, the vegetation induces substantial changes to the water quality. Some effects are the result of direct interactions, such as photosynthetic activity or nutrient uptake, whereas others may be attributed to indirect effects of the water plants on hydrodynamics and river processes. This research focused on the direct effect of macrophytes on oxygen dynamics and nutrient cycling. Discharge, macrophyte biomass density, basic water quality, dissolved oxygen and nutrient concentrations were in situ monitored throughout the year in a lowland river (Nete catchment, Belgium). In addition, various processes were investigated in more detail in multiple ex situ experiments. The field and aquaria measurement results clearly demonstrated that aquatic plants can exert considerable impact on dissolved oxygen dynamics in a lowland river. When the river was dominated by macrophytes, dissolved oxygen concentrations varied from 5 to 10 mg l−1. Considering nutrient retention, it was shown that the investigated in-stream macrophytes could take up dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) from the water column at rates of View the MathML source. And DIN fluxes towards the vegetation were found to vary from 0.03 to 0.19 g N ha−1 h−1 in spring and summer. Compared to the measured changes in DIN load over the river stretch, it means that about 313% of the DIN retention could be attributed to direct nitrogen uptake from the water by macrophytes. Yet, the role of macrophytes in rivers should not be underrated as aquatic vegetation also exerts considerable indirect effects that may have a greater impact than the direct fixation of nutrients into the plant biomass.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000295862600001 Publication Date 2008-06-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1474-7065 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:92439 Serial 8436
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Author Huang, W.; Li, Y.; Niklas, K.J.; Gielis, J.; Ding, Y.; Cao, L.; Shi, P.
Title A superellipse with deformation and its application in describing the cross-sectional shapes of a square bamboo Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Symmetry-Basel Abbreviated Journal Symmetry-Basel
Volume 12 Issue (down) 12 Pages 2073
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Many cross-sectional shapes of plants have been found to approximate a superellipse rather than an ellipse. Square bamboos, belonging to the genus Chimonobambusa (Poaceae), are a group of plants with round-edged square-like culm cross sections. The initial application of superellipses to model these culm cross sections has focused on Chimonobambusa quadrangularis (Franceschi) Makino. However, there is a need for large scale empirical data to confirm this hypothesis. In this study, approximately 750 cross sections from 30 culms of C. utilis were scanned to obtain cross-sectional boundary coordinates. A superellipse exhibits a centrosymmetry, but in nature the cross sections of culms usually deviate from a standard circle, ellipse, or superellipse because of the influences of the environment and terrain, resulting in different bending and torsion forces during growth. Thus, more natural cross-sectional shapes appear to have the form of a deformed superellipse. The superellipse equation with a deformation parameter (SEDP) was used to fit boundary data. We find that the cross-sectional shapes (including outer and inner rings) of C. utilis can be well described by SEDP. The adjusted root-mean-square error of SEDP is smaller than that of the superellipse equation without a deformation parameter. A major finding is that the cross-sectional shapes can be divided into two types of superellipse curves: hyperellipses and hypoellipses, even for cross sections from the same culm. There are two proportional relationships between ring area and the product of ring length and width for both the outer and inner rings. The proportionality coefficients are significantly different, as a consequence of the two different superellipse types (i.e., hyperellipses and hypoellipses). The difference in the proportionality coefficients between hyperellipses and hypoellipses for outer rings is greater than that for inner rings. This work informs our understanding and quantifying of the longitudinal deformation of plant stems for future studies to assess the influences of the environment on stem development. This work is also informative for understanding the deviation of natural shapes from a strict rotational symmetry.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000602546300001 Publication Date 2020-12-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2073-8994 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.7; 2020 IF: 1.457
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174472 Serial 8622
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