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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.
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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 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.
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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 Chinnabathini, V.C.; Dingenen, F.; Borah, R.; Abbas, I.; van der Tol, J.; Zarkua, Z.; D'Acapito, F.; Nguyen, T.H.T.; Lievens, P.; Grandjean, D.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Janssens, E.
Title Gas phase deposition of well-defined bimetallic gold-silver clusters for photocatalytic applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal
Volume 15 Issue (down) 14 Pages 6696-6708
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract Cluster beam deposition is employed for fabricating well-defined bimetallic plasmonic photocatalysts to enhance their activity while facilitating a more fundamental understanding of their properties. AuxAg1-x clusters with compositions (x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9 and 1) spanning the metals' miscibility range were produced in the gas-phase and soft-landed on TiO2 P25-coated silicon wafers with an optimal coverage of 4 atomic monolayer equivalents. Electron microscopy images show that at this coverage most clusters remain well dispersed whereas EXAFS data are in agreement with the finding that the deposited clusters have an average size of ca. 5 nm and feature the same composition as the ablated alloy targets. A composition-dependant electron transfer from Au to Ag that is likely to impart chemical stability to the bimetallic clusters and protect Ag atoms against oxidation is additionally evidenced by XPS and XANES. Under simulated solar light, AuxAg1-x clusters show a remarkable composition-dependent volcano-type enhancement of their photocatalytic activity towards degradation of stearic acid, a model compound for organic fouling on surfaces. The Formal Quantum Efficiency (FQE) is peaking at the Au0.3Ag0.7 composition with a value that is twice as high as that of the pristine TiO2 P25 under solar simulator. Under UV the FQE of all compositions remains similar to that of pristine TiO2. A classical electromagnetic simulation study confirms that among all compositions Au0.3Ag0.7 features the largest near-field enhancement in the wavelength range of maximal solar light intensity, as well as sufficient individual photon energy resulting in a better photocatalytic self-cleaning activity. This allows ascribing the mechanism for photocatalysis mostly to the plasmonic effect of the bimetallic clusters through direct electron injection and near-field enhancement from the resonant cluster towards the conduction band of TiO2. These results not only demonstrate the added value of using well-defined bimetallic nanocatalysts to enhance their photocatalytic activity but also highlights the potential of the cluster beam deposition to design tailored noble metal modified photocatalytic surfaces with controlled compositions and sizes without involving potentially hazardous chemical agents.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000968631100001 Publication Date 2023-03-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2040-3364; 2040-3372 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.7 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.7; 2023 IF: 7.367
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:196040 Serial 7988
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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.
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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 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.
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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 Verbruggen, S.W.; Masschaele, K.; Moortgat, E.; Korany, T.E.; Hauchecorne, B.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Factors driving the activity of commercial titanium dioxide powders towards gas phase photocatalytic oxidation of acetaldehyde Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Catalysis science & technology Abbreviated Journal Catal Sci Technol
Volume 2 Issue (down) 11 Pages 2311-2318
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The photocatalytic activity of two commercial titanium dioxide powders (Cristal Global, Millennium PC500 and Evonik, P25) is compared towards acetaldehyde degradation in the gas phase. In contrast to the extensive literature available, we found a higher activity for the PC500 than for the P25 coating. Here, we present a comprehensive characterization of the bulk and surface properties of both powders. Our comparison shows that the material properties that dominate the overall photocatalytic activity in gas phase differ from those required for the photodegradation of water-borne pollutants.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000310863900020 Publication Date 2012-06-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2044-4753; 2044-4761 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.773 Times cited 33 Open Access
Notes ; S.W.V. acknowledges the Research Foundation of Flanders (FWO) for the financial support. J.A.M acknowledges long term funding (Methusalem). ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.773; 2012 IF: 3.753
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:105162 Serial 5952
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Author Claes, N.; Asapu, R.; Blommaerts, N.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.
Title Characterization of silver-polymer core–shell nanoparticles using electron microscopy Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal Nanoscale
Volume 10 Issue (down) 10 Pages 9186-9191
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Silver-polymer core–shell nanoparticles show interesting optical properties, making them widely applicable in the field of plasmonics. The uniformity, thickness and homogeneity of the polymer shell will affect the properties of the system which makes a thorough structural characterization of these core–shell silver-polymer nanoparticles of great importance. However, visualizing the shell and the particle simultaneously is far from straightforward due to the sensitivity of the polymer shell towards the electron beam. In this study, we use different 2D and 3D electron microscopy techniques to investigate different structural aspects of the polymer coating.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000437007700028 Publication Date 2018-04-16
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 7.367 Times cited 11 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes N. C. and S. B. acknowledge financial support from European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant #335078-COLOURATOMS) and from the FWO through project funding (G038116N). R. A. and S. L. acknowledge the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for financial support. (ROMEO:yellow; preprint:; postprint:restricted ; pdfversion:cannot); ECAS_Sara Approved Most recent IF: 7.367
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:151290UA @ admin @ c:irua:151290 Serial 4959
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Author Jammaer, J.; Aprile, C.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Pescarmona, P.P.; Martens, J.A.
Title A non-aqueous synthesis of TiO2SiO2 composites in supercritical CO2 for the photodegradation of pollutants Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Chemsuschem Abbreviated Journal Chemsuschem
Volume 4 Issue (down) 10 Pages 1457-1463
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Titania/silica composites with different Ti/Si ratios are synthesized via a nonconventional synthesis route. The synthesis involves non-aqueous reaction of metal alkoxides and formic acid at 75 °C in supercritical carbon dioxide. The as-prepared composite materials contain nanometer-sized anatase crystallites and amorphous silica. Large specific surface areas are obtained. The composites are evaluated in the photocatalytic degradation of phenol in aqueous medium, and in the elimination of acetaldehyde from air. The highest photocatalytic activity in both processes is achieved with a composite containing 40 wt % TiO2.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000296497400010 Publication Date 2011-05-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1864-5631 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.226 Times cited 15 Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge sponsorship from CECAT and Methusalem (long-term financing of the Flemish government). We thank Dr. E. Gobechiya for assistance with XRD measurements and A. Lemaire for assistance with mercury porosimetry measurements. ; Approved Most recent IF: 7.226; 2011 IF: 6.827
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:93363 Serial 5973
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Author Dingenen, F.; Blommaerts, N.; Van Hal, M.; Borah, R.; Arenas-Esteban, D.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Layer-by-Layer-Stabilized Plasmonic Gold-Silver Nanoparticles on TiO2: Towards Stable Solar Active Photocatalysts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Nanomaterials Abbreviated Journal Nanomaterials-Basel
Volume 11 Issue (down) 10 Pages 2624
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract To broaden the activity window of TiO2, a broadband plasmonic photocatalyst has been designed and optimized. This plasmonic ‘rainbow’ photocatalyst consists of TiO2 modified with gold–silver composite nanoparticles of various sizes and compositions, thus inducing a broadband interaction with polychromatic solar light. However, these nanoparticles are inherently unstable, especially due to the use of silver. Hence, in this study the application of the layer-by-layer technique is introduced to create a protective polymer shell around the metal cores with a very high degree of control. Various TiO2 species (pure anatase, PC500, and P25) were loaded with different plasmonic metal loadings (0–2 wt %) in order to identify the most solar active composite materials. The prepared plasmonic photocatalysts were tested towards stearic acid degradation under simulated sunlight. From all materials tested, P25 + 2 wt % of plasmonic ‘rainbow’ nanoparticles proved to be the most promising (56% more efficient compared to pristine P25) and was also identified as the most cost-effective. Further, 2 wt % of layer-by-layer-stabilized ‘rainbow’ nanoparticles were loaded on P25. These layer-by-layer-stabilized metals showed superior stability under a heated oxidative atmosphere, as well as in a salt solution. Finally, the activity of the composite was almost completely retained after 1 month of aging, while the nonstabilized equivalent lost 34% of its initial activity. This work shows for the first time the synergetic application of a plasmonic ‘rainbow’ concept and the layer-by-layer stabilization technique, resulting in a promising solar active, and long-term stable photocatalyst.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000712759800001 Publication Date 2021-10-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2079-4991 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.553 Times cited 7 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Research was funded by Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), FN 700300001— Aspirant F. Dingenen. Approved Most recent IF: 3.553
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:183281 Serial 6812
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Author Yildiz, A.; Chouki, T.; Atli, A.; Harb, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Ninakanti, R.; Emin, S.
Title Efficient iron phosphide catalyst as a counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication ACS applied energy materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue (down) 10 Pages 10618-10626
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Developing an efficient material as a counter electrode (CE) with excellent catalytic activity, intrinsic stability, and low cost is essential for the commercial application of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Transition metal phosphides have been demonstrated as outstanding multifunctional catalysts in a broad range of energy conversion technologies. Here, we exploited different phases of iron phosphide as CEs in DSSCs with an I–/I3–-based electrolyte. Solvothermal synthesis using a triphenylphosphine precursor as a phosphorus source allows to grow a Fe2P phase at 300 °C and a FeP phase at 350 °C. The obtained iron phosphide catalysts were coated on fluorine-doped tin oxide substrates and heat-treated at 450 °C under an inert gas atmosphere. The solar-to-current conversion efficiency of the solar cells assembled with the Fe2P material reached 3.96 ± 0.06%, which is comparable to the device assembled with a platinum (Pt) CE. DFT calculations support the experimental observations and explain the fundamental origin behind the improved performance of Fe2P compared to FeP. These results indicate that the Fe2P catalyst exhibits excellent performance along with desired stability to be deployed as an efficient Pt-free alternative in DSSCs.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000711236300022 Publication Date 2021-10-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2574-0962 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:181953 Serial 7853
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Author Hauchecorne, B.; Tytgat, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Hauchecorne, D.; Terrens, D.; Smits, M.; Vinken, K.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Photocatalytic degradation of ethylene : an FTIR in situ study under atmospheric conditions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Applied catalysis : B : environmental Abbreviated Journal Appl Catal B-Environ
Volume 105 Issue (down) 1/2 Pages 111-116
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Molecular Spectroscopy (MolSpec); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this paper, the reaction mechanism of the photocatalytic oxidation of ethylene is elucidated by means of an in-house developed FTIR in situ reactor. This reactor allowed us to look at the catalytic surface at the moment the reactions actually occur. This new approach gave some exciting new insights in how ethylene is photocatalytically oxidised. It was found that there is a change in dipole moment of the ethylene molecule when it is brought in the neighbourhood of the catalyst. From this finding, a hypothesis was formulated on how the CC-bond from ethylene will break. It was found that the aforementioned interaction between the catalyst and the molecule, allows the excited electrons from the UV irradiated catalyst to occupy the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the ethylene molecule through a process known as backdonation. Following this hypothesis, it was found that the degradation occurs through the formation of two intermediates: formaldehyde and formic acid, for which formaldehyde is bound in two different ways (coordinatively and as bidentate). Finally CO2 and H2O are found as end products, resulting in the complete mineralisation of the pollutant.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000291907400013 Publication Date 2011-04-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0926-3373 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.446 Times cited 29 Open Access
Notes ; The authors wish to thank the University of Antwerp for the funding of this research; Evonik, who delivered the photocatalyst and the 3rd grade bachelor students of the bio-science engineering department, who accompanied us in this work: Britt Berghmans, Margot Goossens, Ozlem Kocak and Laurent Van Linden. ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.446; 2011 IF: 5.625
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:89256 Serial 5978
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Ribbens, S.; Tytgat, T.; Hauchecorne, B.; Smits, M.; Meynen, V.; Cool, P.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title The benefit of glass bead supports for efficient gas phase photocatalysis : case study of a commercial and a synthesised photocatalyst Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 174 Issue (down) 1 Pages 318-325
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In the field of photocatalytic air purification, the immobilisation of catalyst particles on support surfaces without loss of photon efficiency is an important challenge. Therefore, an immobilisation method involving a one-step suspension coating of pre-synthesised photocatalysts on glass beads was applied. The various benefits are exemplified in the gas phase photodegradation of ethylene. Coating of glass beads is easy, fast, cheap and offers a more efficient alternative to bulk catalyst pellets. Furthermore, this coating procedure allows to use porous, pre-synthesised catalysts to their full potential, as the surface area and morphology of the initial powder is barely altered after coating, in strong contrast to pelletising. With this technique it became possible to study the gas phase photocatalytic activity of commercial titanium dioxide, trititanate nanotubes and mixed phase anatase/trititanate nanotubes in a packed bed reactor towards the degradation of ethylene without changing the catalyst properties. Coating of glass beads with the photocatalyst revealed the superior activity of the as-prepared nanotubes, compared to TiO2 Aerolyst® 7710 in gaseous phase.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000296950300041 Publication Date 2011-09-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited 39 Open Access
Notes ; The author wishes to acknowledge the Research Foundation of Flanders (FWO) for the financial support. Evonik is greatly thanked for supplying the TiO<INF>2</ INF> Aerolyst (R) 7710 pellets. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216; 2011 IF: 3.461
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:93364 Serial 5929
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Author Deng, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Martens, J.A.; Van den Berghe, S.; Devloo-Casier, K.; Devulder, W.; Dendoover, J.; Deduytsche, D.; Detavernier, C.
Title Controllable nitrogen doping in as deposited TiO2 film and its effect on post deposition annealing Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Journal of vacuum science and technology: A: vacuum surfaces and films Abbreviated Journal J Vac Sci Technol A
Volume 32 Issue (down) 1 Pages 01a123
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In order to narrow the band gap of TiO2, nitrogen doping by combining thermal atomic layer deposition (TALD) of TiO2 and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) of TiN has been implemented. By altering the ratio between TALD TiO2 and PEALD TiN, the as synthesized TiOxNy films showed different band gaps (from 1.91 eV to 3.14 eV). In situ x-ray diffraction characterization showed that the crystallization behavior of these films changed after nitrogen doping. After annealing in helium, nitrogen doped TiO2 films crystallized into rutile phase while for the samples annealed in air a preferential growth of the anatase TiO2 along (001) orientation was observed. Photocatalytic tests of the degradation of stearic acid were done to evaluate the effect of N doping on the photocatalytic activity.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000335847600023 Publication Date 2013-12-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0734-2101 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.374 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; The authors wish to thank the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for financial support. The authors acknowledge the European Research Council for funding under the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013)/ERC grant agreement Nos. 239865-COCOON and 246791-COUNTATO. The authors also acknowledge the support from UGENT-GOA-01G01513 and IWT-SBO SOSLion. J.A.M. acknowledges the Flemish government for long-term structural funding (Methusalem). J.D. acknowledges the Flemisch FWO for a postdoctoral fellowship. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.374; 2014 IF: 2.322
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:117296 Serial 5936
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Author Van Eynde, E.; Tytgat, T.; Smits, M.; Verbruggen, S.; Hauchecorne, B.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Diatom silica-titania materials for photocatalytic air purification Type A2 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Communications in agricultural and applied biological sciences Abbreviated Journal
Volume 1 Issue (down) 1 Pages 141-147
Keywords A2 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1379-1176 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:105334 Serial 5943
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Author Borah, R.; Ninakanti, R.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Plasmon resonance of gold and silver nanoparticle arrays in the Kretschmann (attenuated total reflectance) vs. direct incidence configuration Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Scientific reports Abbreviated Journal Sci Rep-Uk
Volume 12 Issue (down) 1 Pages 15738-19
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract While the behaviour of plasmonic solid thin films in the Kretschmann (also known as Attenuated Total Reflection, ATR) configuration is well-understood, the use of discrete nanoparticle arrays in this optical configuration is not thoroughly explored. It is important to do so, since close packed plasmonic nanoparticle arrays exhibit exceptionally strong light-matter interactions by plasmonic coupling. The present work elucidates the optical properties of plasmonic Au and Ag nanoparticle arrays in both the direct normal incidence and Kretschmann configuration by numerical models, that are validated experimentally. First, hexagonal close packed Au and Ag nanoparticle films/arrays are obtained by air–liquid interfacial assembly. The numerical models for the rigorous solution of the Maxwell’s equations are validated using experimental optical spectra of these films before systematically investigating various parameters. The individual far-field/near-field optical properties, as well as the plasmon relaxation mechanism of the nanoparticles, vary strongly as the packing density of the array increases. In the Kretschmann configuration, the evanescent fields arising from p – and s -polarized (or TM and TE polarized) incidence have different directional components. The local evanescent field intensity and direction depends on the polarization, angle of incidence and the wavelength of incidence. These factors in the Kretschmann configuration give rise to interesting far-field as well as near-field optical properties. Overall, it is shown that plasmonic nanoparticle arrays in the Kretschmann configuration facilitate strong broadband absorptance without transmission losses, and strong near-field enhancement. The results reported herein elucidate the optical properties of self-assembled nanoparticle films, pinpointing the ideal conditions under which the normal and the Kretschmann configuration can be exploited in multiple light-driven applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000858344700048 Publication Date 2022-09-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2045-2322 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.6 Times cited 11 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes R.B. acknowledges financial support from the University of Antwerp Special Research Fund (BOF) for a DOCPRO4 doctoral scholarship (Grant FN541100001). Approved Most recent IF: 4.6
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190864 Serial 7194
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Deng, S.; Kurttepeli, M.; Cott, D.J.; Vereecken, P.M.; Bals, S.; Martens, J.A.; Detavernier, C.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Photocatalytic acetaldehyde oxidation in air using spacious TiO2 films prepared by atomic layer deposition on supported carbonaceous sacrificial templates Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Applied catalysis : B : environmental Abbreviated Journal Appl Catal B-Environ
Volume 160 Issue (down) Pages 204-210
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Supported carbon nanosheets and carbon nanotubes served as sacrificial templates for preparing spacious TiO2 photocatalytic thin films. Amorphous TiO2 was deposited conformally on the carbonaceous template material by atomic layer deposition (ALD). Upon calcination at 550 °C, the carbon template was oxidatively removed and the as-deposited continuous amorphous TiO2 layers transformed into interlinked anatase nanoparticles with an overall morphology commensurate to the original template structure. The effect of type of template, number of ALD cycles and gas residence time of pollutant on the photocatalytic activity, as well as the stability of the photocatalytic performance of these thin films was investigated. The TiO2 films exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity toward photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde in air as a model reaction for photocatalytic indoor air pollution abatement. Optimized films outperformed a reference film of commercial PC500.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Amsterdam Editor
Language Wos 000340687900024 Publication Date 2014-05-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0926-3373; ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.446 Times cited 37 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes 335078 Colouratom; Iap-Pai P7/05; Fwo; ECAS_Sara; (ROMEO:green; preprint:; postprint:can ; pdfversion:cannot); Approved Most recent IF: 9.446; 2014 IF: 7.435
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:117094 Serial 2608
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Author Borah, R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Silver–Gold Bimetallic Alloy versus Core–Shell Nanoparticles: Implications for Plasmonic Enhancement and Photothermal Applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Journal Of Physical Chemistry C Abbreviated Journal J Phys Chem C
Volume Issue (down) Pages acs.jpcc.0c02630
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles enable tuning of the optical response and chemical stability by variation of the composition. The present numerical simulation study compares Ag–Au alloy, Ag@Au core–shell, and Au@Ag core–shell bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles of both spherical and anisotropic (nanotriangle and nanorods) shapes. By studying both spherical and anisotropic (with LSPR in the near-infrared region) shapes, cases with and without interband transitions of Au can be decoupled. Explicit comparisons are facilitated by numerical models supported by careful validation and examination of optical constants of Au–Ag alloys reported in the literature. Although both Au–Ag core–shell and alloy nanoparticles exhibit an intermediary optical response between that of pure Ag and Au nanoparticles, there are noticeable differences in the spectral characteristics. Also, the effect of the bimetallic constitution in anisotropic nanoparticles is starkly different from that in spherical nanoparticles due to the absence of Au interband transitions in the former case. In general, the improved chemical stability of Ag nanoparticles by incorporation of Au comes with a cost of reduction in plasmonic enhancement, also applicable to anisotropic nanoparticles with a weaker effect. A photothermal heat transfer study confirms that increased absorption by the incorporation of Au in spherical Ag nanoparticles also results in an increased steady-state temperature. On the other hand, anisotropic nanoparticles are inherently better absorbers and hence better photothermal sources, and their photothermal properties are apparently not strongly affected by the incorporation of one metal in the other. This study of the optical/spectral and photothermal characteristics of bimetallic Au–Ag alloy versus core–shell nanoparticles provides detailed physical insight for development of new taylor-made plasmonic nanostructures.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000538758700039 Publication Date 2020-05-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1932-7447 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes Universiteit Antwerpen, DOCPRO4 Rituraj Borah ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.7; 2020 IF: 4.536
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:169223 Serial 6367
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Author Borah, R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Silver–Gold Bimetallic Alloy versus Core–Shell Nanoparticles: Implications for Plasmonic Enhancement and Photothermal Applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Journal Of Physical Chemistry C Abbreviated Journal J Phys Chem C
Volume Issue (down) Pages acs.jpcc.0c02630
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles enable tuning of the optical response and chemical stability by variation of the composition. The present numerical simulation study compares Ag–Au alloy, Ag@Au core–shell, and Au@Ag core–shell bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles of both spherical and anisotropic (nanotriangle and nanorods) shapes. By studying both spherical and anisotropic (with LSPR in the near-infrared region) shapes, cases with and without interband transitions of Au can be decoupled. Explicit comparisons are facilitated by numerical models supported by careful validation and examination of optical constants of Au–Ag alloys reported in the literature. Although both Au–Ag core–shell and alloy nanoparticles exhibit an intermediary optical response between that of pure Ag and Au nanoparticles, there are noticeable differences in the spectral characteristics. Also, the effect of the bimetallic constitution in anisotropic nanoparticles is starkly different from that in spherical nanoparticles due to the absence of Au interband transitions in the former case. In general, the improved chemical stability of Ag nanoparticles by incorporation of Au comes with a cost of reduction in plasmonic enhancement, also applicable to anisotropic nanoparticles with a weaker effect. A photothermal heat transfer study confirms that increased absorption by the incorporation of Au in spherical Ag nanoparticles also results in an increased steady-state temperature. On the other hand, anisotropic nanoparticles are inherently better absorbers and hence better photothermal sources, and their photothermal properties are apparently not strongly affected by the incorporation of one metal in the other. This study of the optical/spectral and photothermal characteristics of bimetallic Au–Ag alloy versus core–shell nanoparticles provides detailed physical insight for development of new taylor-made plasmonic nanostructures.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000538758700039 Publication Date 2020-05-19
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1932-7447 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.7 Times cited Open Access
Notes Universiteit Antwerpen, DOCPRO4 Rituraj Borah ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.7; 2020 IF: 4.536
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:169223 Serial 6368
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Author Blommaerts, N.; Hoeven, N.; Arenas Esteban, D.; Campos, R.; Mertens, M.; Borah, R.; Glisenti, A.; De Wael, K.; Bals, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Cool, P.
Title Tuning the turnover frequency and selectivity of photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO and methane using platinum and palladium nanoparticles on Ti-Beta zeolites Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 410 Issue (down) Pages 128234
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract A Ti-Beta zeolite was used in gas phase photocatalytic CO2 reduction to reduce the charge recombination rate and increase the surface area compared to P25 as commercial benchmark, reaching 607 m2 g-1. By adding Pt nanoparticles, the selectivity can be tuned toward CO, reaching a value of 92% and a turnover frequency (TOF) of 96 µmol.gcat-1.h-1, nearly an order of magnitude higher in comparison with P25. By adding Pd nanoparticles the selectivity can be shifted from CO (70% for a bare Ti-Beta zeolite), toward CH4 as the prevalent species (60%). In this way, the selectivity toward CO or CH4 can be tuned by either using Pt or Pd. The TOF values obtained in this work outperform reported state-of-the-art values in similar research. The improved activity by adding the nanoparticles was attributed to an improved charge separation efficiency, together with a plasmonic contribution of the metal nanoparticles under the applied experimental conditions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000623394200004 Publication Date 2021-01-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited 15 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes N.B., S.L., S.W.V. and P.C. wish to thank the Flemish government and Catalisti for financial support and coordination in terms of a sprint SBO in the context of the moonshot project D2M. N.H. thanks the Flanders Innovation and Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) for the financial support. The Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research (SPHERE) group, R. Blust, University of Antwerp is acknowledged for the ICP-MS measurements. Approved Most recent IF: 6.216
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:174591 Serial 6662
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Author Van Hoecke, L.; Laffineur, L.; Campe, R.; Perreault, P.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Challenges in the use of hydrogen for maritime applications Type A1 Journal Article;Review article, Hydrogen Production, Hydrogen Storage, Maritime Applications
Year 2021 Publication Energy & Environmental Science Abbreviated Journal Energ Environ Sci
Volume Issue (down) Pages
Keywords A1 Journal Article;Review article, Hydrogen Production, Hydrogen Storage, Maritime Applications; Sustainable energy, air and water technology (DuEL)
Abstract Maritime shipping is a key factor that enables the global economy, however the pressure it exerts on the environment is increasing rapidly. In order to reduce the emissions of harmful greenhouse gasses, the search is on for alternative fuels for the maritime shipping industry. In this work the usefulness of hydrogen and hydrogen carriers is being investigated as a fuel for sea going ships. Due to the low volumetric energy density of hydrogen under standard conditions, the need for efficient storage of this fuel is high. Key processes in the use of hydrogen are discussed, starting with the production of hydrogen from fossil and renewable sources. The focus of this review is different storage methods, and in this work we discuss the storage of hydrogen at high pressure, in liquefied form at cryogenic temperatures and bound to liquid or solid-state carriers. In this work a theoretical introduction to different hydrogen storage methods precedes an analysis of the energy-efficiency and practical storage density of the carriers. In the final section the major challenges and hurdles for the development of hydrogen storage for the maritime industry are discussed. The most likely challenges will be the development of a new bunkering infrastructure and suitable monitoring of the safety to ensure safe operation of these hydrogen carriers on board the ship.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000621101100009 Publication Date 2021-01-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1754-5692 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 29.518 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes For the completion of this work we would like to thank, Compagnie Maritime Belge for initial funding 9 of the research into maritime hydrogen storage and the University of Antwerp for funding of the 10 Doctoral Project that allowed for the completion of this work. Approved Most recent IF: 29.518
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:174754 Serial 6668
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Author Borah, R.; Ninakanti, R.; Nuyts, G.; Peeters, H.; Pedrazo-Tardajos, A.; Nuti, S.; Vande Velde, C.; De Wael, K.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.
Title Selectivity in ligand functionalization of photocatalytic metal oxide nanoparticles for phase transfer and self‐assembly applications Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Chemistry-A European Journal Abbreviated Journal Chem-Eur J
Volume Issue (down) Pages chem.202100029-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Functionalization of photocatalytic metal oxide nanoparticles of TiO 2 , ZnO, WO 3 and CuO with amine‐terminated (oleylamine) and thiol‐terminated (1‐dodecanethiol) alkyl chained ligands was studied under ambient conditions. A high selectivity was observed in the binding specificity of a ligand towards nanoparticles of these different oxides. It was observed that oleylamine binds stably to only TiO 2 and WO 3 , while 1‐dodecanethiol binds stably only to ZnO and CuO. Similarly, polar to non‐polar solvent phase transfer of TiO 2 and WO 3 nanoparticles could be achieved by using oleylamine, but not by 1‐dodecanethiol, while the contrary holds for ZnO and CuO. The surface chemistry of ligand functionalized nanoparticles was probed by ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy, that enabled to elucidate the occupation of the ligands at the active sites. The photo‐stability of the ligands on the nanoparticle surface was determined by the photocatalytic self‐cleaning properties of the material. While TiO 2 and WO 3 degrade the ligands within 24 hours under both UV and visible light, ligands on ZnO and CuO remain unaffected. The gathered insights are also highly relevant from an application point of view. As an example, since the ligand functionalized nanoparticles are hydrophobic in nature, they can thus be self‐assembled at the air‐water interface, for obtaining nanoparticle films with demonstrated photocatalytic as well as anti‐fogging properties.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000652651400001 Publication Date 2021-04-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0947-6539 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.317 Times cited 15 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes R.B. and S.W.V. acknowledge financial support from the University of Antwerp Special Research Fund (BOF) for a DOCPRO4 doctoral scholarship. S.B. and A.P.-T. acknowledge financial support from the European Commission under the Horizon 2020 Program by means of the grant agreement no. 731019 EUSMI and the ERC Consolidator grant no. 815128 REALNANO.; sygmaSB Approved Most recent IF: 5.317
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177495 Serial 6787
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Author Borah, R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Effect of size distribution, skewness and roughness on the optical properties of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Colloids and surfaces: A: physicochemical and engineering aspects Abbreviated Journal Colloid Surface A
Volume 640 Issue (down) Pages 128521
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract It is a generally accepted idea that the particle size distribution strongly affects the optical spectra of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles. It is often quoted as one of the main reasons while explaining the mismatch between the theoretical and experimental optical spectra of such nanoparticles. In this work, these aspects are critically analyzed by means of a bottom up statistical approach that considers variables such as mean, standard deviation and skewness of the nanoparticle size distribution independently from one another. By assuming normal and log-normal distributions of the particle size, the effect of the statistical parameters on the Mie analytical optical spectra of colloidal nanoparticles was studied. The effect of morphology was also studied numerically in order to understand to what extent it can play a role. It is our finding that the particle polydispersity, skewness and surface morphology in fact only weakly impact the optical spectra. While, the selection of suitable optical constants with regard to the crystallinity of the nanoparticles is a far more influential factor for correctly predicting both the plasmon band position and the plasmon bandwidth in theoretical simulations of the optical spectra. It is shown that the mean particle size can be correctly estimated directly from the plasmon band position, as it is the mean that determines the resonance wavelength. The standard deviation can on the other hand be estimated from the intensity distribution data obtained from dynamic light scattering experiments. The results reported herein clear the ambiguity around particle size distribution and optical response of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Elservier Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000765946900002 Publication Date 2022-02-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-7757 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.2
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:185704 Serial 6908
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Author Tytgat, T.; Hauchecorne, B.; Abakumov, A.M.; Smits, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Photocatalytic process optimisation for ethylene oxidation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 209 Issue (down) Pages 494-500
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract When studying photocatalysis it is important to consider, beside the chemical approach, the engineering part related to process optimisation. To achieve this a fixed bed photocatalytic set-up consisting of different catalyst placings, in order to vary catalyst distribution, is studied. The use of a fixed quantity of catalyst placed packed or randomly distributed in the reactor, results in an almost double degradation for the distributed catalyst. Applying this knowledge leads to an improved performance with limited use of catalyst. A reactor only half filled with catalyst leads to higher degradation performance compared to a completely filled reactor. Taking into account this simple process optimisation by better distributing the catalyst a more sustainable photocatalytic air purification process is achieved. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Lausanne Editor
Language Wos 000311190500058 Publication Date 2012-08-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited 12 Open Access
Notes ; We are grateful for the delivered photocatalyst by Evonik as well as for the PhD grant (T. Tytgat) given by the Institute of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT). ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216; 2012 IF: 3.473
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:105185 Serial 2609
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Keulemans, M.; Filippousi, M.; Flahaut, D.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Lacombe, S.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Plasmonic goldsilver alloy on TiO2 photocatalysts with tunable visible light activity Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Applied catalysis : B : environmental Abbreviated Journal Appl Catal B-Environ
Volume 156 Issue (down) Pages 116-121
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Adaptation of the photoresponse of anatase TiO2 to match the solar spectrum is an important scientific challenge. Modification of TiO2 with noble metal nanoparticles displaying surface plasmon resonance effects is one of the promising approaches. Surface plasmon resonance typically depends on chemical composition, size, shape and spatial organization of the metal nanoparticles in contact with TiO2. AuxAg(1 − x) alloy nanoparticles display strong composition-dependent surface plasmon resonance in the visible light region of the spectrum. In this work, a general strategy is presented to prepare plasmonic TiO2-based photocatalysts with a visible light response that can be accurately tuned over a broad range of the spectrum. The application as self-cleaning material toward the degradation of stearic acid is demonstrated for a plasmonic TiO2 photocatalyst displaying visible light photoactivity at the intensity maximum of solar light around 490 nm.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Amsterdam Editor
Language Wos 000336013200014 Publication Date 2014-03-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0926-3373; ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.446 Times cited 84 Open Access
Notes Flanders(FWO); Methusalem Approved Most recent IF: 9.446; 2014 IF: 7.435
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:115552 Serial 2646
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Author Keulemans, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Hauchecorne, B.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Activity versus selectivity in photocatalysis : morphological or electronic properties tipping the scale Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Journal of catalysis Abbreviated Journal J Catal
Volume 344 Issue (down) Pages 221-228
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this paper a structure-activity and structure-selectivity relation is established for three commercial TiO2 sources (P25, P90, and PC500). Morphological and electronic parameters of the photocatalysts are determined using widely applicable and inexpensive characterization procedures. More specifically, the electronic properties are rigorously characterized using an electron titration method yielding quantitative information on the amount of defect sites present in the catalyst. Surface photovoltage measurements on the other hand provide complementary information on the charge carrier recombination process. As model reaction, the degradation of a solid layer of stearic acid is studied using an in situ FTIR reaction cell that enables to investigate the catalyst surface and possible formation of reaction intermediates while the reactions are ongoing. We show that the order of photocatalytic conversion is PC500 > P90 > P25, matching the order of favorable morphological properties. In terms of selectivity to CO2 formation (complete mineralization), however, this trend is reversed: P25 > P90 > PC500, now matching the order of advantageous electronic properties, i.e. low charge carrier recombination and high charge carrier generation. With this we intend to provide new mechanistic insights using a wide variety of physical, (wet) chemical and operando analysis methods that aid the development of performant (self-cleaning) photocatalytic materials.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000390182800022 Publication Date 2016-10-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0021-9517 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.844 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; M.K. acknowledges Flemish Agency for Innovation & Entrepreneurship for the doctoral scholarship. S.W.V. acknowledges the Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (FWO) for a post-doctoral fellowship. J.A.M. acknowledges the Flemish government for long-term structural funding (Methusalem). ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.844
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136339 Serial 5926
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Denys, S.
Title Analytic versus CFD approach for kinetic modeling of gas phase photocatalysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 262 Issue (down) Pages 1-8
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this work two methods for determining the LangmuirHinshelwood kinetic parameters for a slit-shaped flat bed photocatalytic reactor are compared: an analytic mass transfer based model adapted from literature and a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach that was used in conjunction with a simplex optimization routine. Despite the differences between both approaches, similar values for the kinetic parameters and similar trends in terms of their UV intensity dependence were found. Using an effectiveness-NTU (number of transfer units) approach, the analytic mass transfer based method could quantify the relative contributions of the rate limiting steps through a reaction effectiveness parameter. The numeric CFD approach on the other hand could yield the two kinetic parameters that determine the photocatalytic reaction rate simultaneously. Furthermore, it proved to be more accurate as it accounts for the spatial variation of flow rate, reaction rate and concentrations at the surface of the photocatalyst. We elaborate this dual kinetic analysis with regard to the photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde in air over a silicon wafer coated with a layer of TiO2 P25 (Evonik) and study the usefulness and limitations of both strategies.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000347577700001 Publication Date 2014-09-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited 30 Open Access
Notes ; S.W.V. acknowledges the Research Foundation of Flanders (FWO) for financial support. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216; 2015 IF: 4.321
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:119724 Serial 5927
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Author van Walsem, J.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Modde, B.; Lenaerts, S.; Denys, S.
Title CFD investigation of a multi-tube photocatalytic reactor in non-steady-state conditions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 304 Issue (down) Pages 808-816
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract A novel multi-tube photoreactor is presented with a high efficiency (over 90% conversion) toward the degradation of acetaldehyde in air under UV conditions with an incident intensity of 2.1 mW cm−2. A CFD model was developed to simulate the transient adsorption and photocatalytic degradation processes of acetaldehyde in this reactor design and to estimate the corresponding kinetic parameters through an optimization routine using the experimentally determined outlet concentration profiles. The CFD model takes into account the entire reactor geometry and all relevant flow parameters, in contrast to analytical methods that often oversimplify the physical and chemical process characteristics. Using CFD, we show that both adsorption and desorption rate constants increase by respectively one and two orders of magnitude when the UV light is switched on, which clearly affects the transient behavior. The agreement of the experimental and modelled concentration profiles is excellent as evidenced by a coefficient of determination of at least 0.965. To demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of all parameters obtained from the modelling approach, an ultimate validation test was performed using other conditions than the ones used for estimating the kinetic parameters. The model was able to accurately simulate simultaneous adsorption, desorption and photocatalytic degradation.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000384777200089 Publication Date 2016-07-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; J.V.W. acknowledges the Agentschap Innoveren & Ondernemen for a PhD fellowship. S.W.V. acknowledges the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) for a postdoctoral fellowship. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139620 Serial 5933
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Keulemans, M.; van Walsem, J.; Tytgat, T.; Lenaerts, S.; Denys, S.
Title CFD modeling of transient adsorption/desorption behavior in a gas phase photocatalytic fiber reactor Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 292 Issue (down) Pages 42-50
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract We present the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for accurately determining the adsorption parameters of acetaldehyde on photocatalytic fiber filter material, integrated in a continuous flow system. Unlike the traditional analytical analysis based on Langmuir adsorption, not only steady-state situations but also transient phenomena can be accounted for. Air displacement effects in the reactor and gas detection cell are investigated and inherently made part of the model. Incorporation of a surface aldol condensation reaction in the CFD analysis further improves the accuracy of the model which enables to extract precise, intrinsic adsorption parameters for situations in which analytical analysis would otherwise fail.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000373648000005 Publication Date 2016-02-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited 12 Open Access
Notes ; S.W.V. acknowledges the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) for a postdoctoral fellowship. M.K. acknowledges the IWT for a Ph.D. fellowship. Konstantina Kalafata and Ioanna Fasaki are greatly thanked for providing the NanoPhos suspension. Bioscience Engineering bachelor students M. Gerritsma, J. Helsen and Y. Riahi Drif are thanked for their assistance in performing the adsorption experiments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:130876 Serial 5934
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Author Van Eynde, E.; Lenaerts, B.; Tytgat, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Hauchecorne, B.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Effect of pretreatment and temperature on the properties of Pinnularia biosilica frustules Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication RSC advances Abbreviated Journal Rsc Adv
Volume 4 Issue (down) Pages 56200-56206
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Diatoms are unicellular microalgae that self-assemble an intricate porous silica cell wall, called frustule. Diatom frustules possess a unique combination of physical and chemical properties (chemical inertness, high mechanical strength, large surface area, low density, good porosity and highly ordered features on the nano-to-micro scale) making diatom frustules suited for many nanotechnological applications. For most proposed applications the organic material covering the frustules needs to be removed. In this paper we investigate the effect of different frustule cleaning methods (drying, autoclavation, SDS/EDTA treatment, H2O2 treatment and HNO3 treatment) and subsequent heat treatment at different temperatures (105 °C, 350 °C, 550 °C and 750 °C) on the material characteristics of the diatom Pinnularia sp. Material characteristics under study are morphology, surface area, pore size, elemental composition and organic content. The cleaned Pinnularia frustules are subsequently investigated as adsorbents to remove methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solution.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000344997800060 Publication Date 2014-10-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2046-2069 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.108 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.108; 2014 IF: 3.840
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:121377 Serial 5945
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Dirckx, J.J.J.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Surface photovoltage measurements : a quick assessment of the photocatalytic activity? Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Catalysis today Abbreviated Journal Catal Today
Volume 209 Issue (down) Pages 215-220
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Surface photovoltage (SPV) measurements can contribute to a better understanding of electronic properties of photocatalysts under illumination. Direct linking of SPV data to the actual photocatalytic activity remains troublesome. This work aims to discuss SPV measurements from a photocatalytic point of view. By means of several application-based scenarios we illustrate that the trend between SPV and photocatalysis strongly depends on parameters such as the crystal structure, surface modifications, morphology and humidity. This makes the interpretation far from straightforward.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000319498800035 Publication Date 2013-01-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0920-5861 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.636 Times cited 8 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.636; 2013 IF: 3.309
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:106520 Serial 5995
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