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Author Osorio-Tejada, J.; Escriba-Gelonch, M.; Vertongen, R.; Bogaerts, A.; Hessel, V.
Title CO₂ conversion to CO via plasma and electrolysis : a techno-economic and energy cost analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Energy & environmental science Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue (up) Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Electrification and carbon capture technologies are essential for achieving net-zero emissions in the chemical sector. A crucial strategy involves converting captured CO2 into CO, a valuable chemical feedstock. This study evaluates the feasibility of two innovative methods: plasma activation and electrolysis, using clean electricity and captured CO2. Specifically, it compares a gliding arc plasma reactor with an embedded novel carbon bed system to a modern zero-gap type low-temperature electrolyser. The plasma method stood out with an energy cost of 19.5 GJ per tonne CO, marking a 43% reduction compared to electrolysis and conventional methods. CO production costs for plasma- and electrolysis-based plants were $671 and $962 per tonne, respectively. However, due to high uncertainty regarding electrolyser costs, the CO production costs in electrolysis-based plants may actually range from $570 to $1392 per tonne. The carbon bed system in the plasma method was a key factor in facilitating additional CO generation from O-2 and enhancing CO2 conversion, contributing to its cost-effectiveness. Challenges for electrolysis included high costs of equipment and low current densities. Addressing these limitations could significantly decrease production costs, but challenges arise from the mutual relationship between intrinsic parameters, such as CO2 conversion, CO2 input flow, or energy cost. In a future scenario with affordable feedstocks and equipment, costs could drop below $500 per tonne for both methods. While this may be more challenging for electrolysis due to complexity and expensive catalysts, plasma-based CO production appears more viable and competitive.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001218045900001 Publication Date 2024-05-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1754-5692; 1754-5706 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205986 Serial 9138
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Author Wu, X.; Ding, J.; Cui, W.; Lin, W.; Xue, Z.; Yang, Z.; Liu, J.; Nie, X.; Zhu, W.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Sang, X.
Title Enhanced electrical properties of Bi2-xSbxTe3 nanoflake thin films through interface engineering Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Energy & environment materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue (up) Pages e12755-8
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The structure-property relationship at interfaces is difficult to probe for thermoelectric materials with a complex interfacial microstructure. Designing thermoelectric materials with a simple, structurally-uniform interface provides a facile way to understand how these interfaces influence the transport properties. Here, we synthesized Bi2-xSbxTe3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4) nanoflakes using a hydrothermal method, and prepared Bi2-xSbxTe3 thin films with predominantly (0001) interfaces by stacking the nanoflakes through spin coating. The influence of the annealing temperature and Sb content on the (0001) interface structure was systematically investigated at atomic scale using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. Annealing and Sb doping facilitate atom diffusion and migration between adjacent nanoflakes along the (0001) interface. As such it enhances interfacial connectivity and improves the electrical transport properties. Interfac reactions create new interfaces that increase the scattering and the Seebeck coefficient. Due to the simultaneous optimization of electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient, the maximum power factor of the Bi1.8Sb0.2Te3 nanoflake films reaches 1.72 mW m(-1) K-2, which is 43% higher than that of a pure Bi2Te3 thin film.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001204495900001 Publication Date 2024-04-18
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 Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205438 Serial 9148
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Author Tsonev, I.; Ahmadi Eshtehardi, H.; Delplancke, M.-P.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Importance of geometric effects in scaling up energy-efficient plasma-based nitrogen fixation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Sustainable energy & fuels Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue (up) Pages 1-19
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Despite the recent promising potential of plasma-based nitrogen fixation, the technology faces significant challenges in efficient upscaling. To tackle this challenge, we investigate two reactors, i.e., a small one, operating in a flow rate range of 5-20 ln min-1 and current range of 200-500 mA, and a larger one, operating at higher flow rate (100-300 ln min-1) and current (400-1000 mA). Both reactors operate in a pin-to-pin configuration and are powered by direct current (DC) from the same power supply unit, to allow easy comparison and evaluate the effect of upscaling. In the small reactor, we achieve the lowest energy cost (EC) of 2.8 MJ mol-1, for a NOx concentration of 1.72%, at a flow rate of 20 ln min-1, yielding a production rate (PR) of 33 g h-1. These values are obtained in air; in oxygen-enriched air, the results are typically better, at the cost of producing oxygen-enriched air. In the large reactor, the higher flow rates reduce the NOx concentration due to lower SEI, while maintaining a similar EC. This stresses the important effect of the geometrical configuration of the arc, which is typically concentrated in the center of the reactor, resulting in limited coverage of the reacting gas flow, and this is identified as the limiting factor for upscaling. However, our experiments reveal that by changing the reactor configuration, and thus the plasma geometry and power deposition mechanisms, the amount of gas treated by the plasma can be enhanced, leading to successful upscaling. To obtain more insights in our experiments, we performed thermodynamic equilibrium calculations. First of all, they show that our measured lowest EC closely aligns with the calculated minimum thermodynamic equilibrium at atmospheric pressure. In addition, they reveal that the limited NOx production in the large reactor results from the contracted nature of the plasma. To solve this limitation, we let the large reactor operate in so-called torch configuration. Indeed, the latter enhances the NOx concentrations compared to the pin-to-pin configuration, yielding a PR of 80 g h-1 at an EC of 2.9 MJ mol-1 and NOx concentration of 0.31%. This illustrates the importance of reactor design in upscaling. With the focus on feasibility evaluation of scaling-up plasma-based nitrogen fixation by combined experiments and thermodynamic modelling, we aim to tackle the challenge of design and development of an energy-efficient and scaled-up plasma reactor.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001203657700001 Publication Date 2024-04-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205435 Serial 9155
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Author Arisnabarreta, N.; Hao, Y.; Jin, E.; Salame, A.; Muellen, K.; Robert, M.; Lazzaroni, R.; Van Aert, S.; Mali, K.S.; De Feyter, S.
Title Single-layered imine-linked porphyrin-based two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks targeting CO₂ reduction Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Advanced energy materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue (up) Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) using porphyrin-containing 2D covalent organic frameworks (2D-COFs) catalysts is widely explored nowadays. While these framework materials are normally fabricated as powders followed by their uncontrolled surface heterogenization or directly grown as thin films (thickness >200 nm), very little is known about the performance of substrate-supported single-layered (approximate to 0.5 nm thickness) 2D-COFs films (s2D-COFs) due to its highly challenging synthesis and characterization protocols. In this work, a fast and straightforward fabrication method of porphyrin-containing s2D-COFs is demonstrated, which allows their extensive high-resolution visualization via scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) in liquid conditions with the support of STM simulations. The as-prepared single-layered film is then employed as a cathode for the electrochemical reduction of CO2. Fe porphyrin-containing s2D-COF@graphite used as a single-layered heterogeneous catalyst provided moderate-to-high carbon monoxide selectivity (82%) and partial CO current density (5.1 mA cm(-2)). This work establishes the value of using single-layered films as heterogene ous catalysts and demonstrates the possibility of achieving high performance in CO2 reduction even with extremely low catalyst loadings.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001177577200001 Publication Date 2024-02-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1614-6832; 1614-6840 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:204856 Serial 9172
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Author Vasilakou, K.; Nimmegeers, P.; Thomassen, G.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.
Title Assessing the future of second-generation bioethanol by 2030 : a techno-economic assessment integrating technology learning curves Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Applied energy Abbreviated Journal
Volume 344 Issue (up) Pages 121263-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Lignocellulosic biomass is the most abundant source of renewable biomass and is seen as a high-potential replacement for petroleum-based resources. The conversion technologies to advanced biofuels are still at a low maturity level, thus allowing for future cost reductions through technological learning. This fact is barely considered in state-of-the-art techno-economic assessments and a structured approach to account for technological learning in techno-economic assessments is needed. In this study, a framework for techno-economic assessments of advanced biofuels, integrating learning curves, is proposed. As a validation of this framework, the economic feasibility of the valorization of corn stover for the production of second-generation bioethanol in Belgium is studied. Process flowsheet simulations in Aspen Plus are developed, with an emphasis on the comparison of four different pretreatment technologies and two plant capacities at 156 dry kt biomass/y and 667 dry kt/y. The dilute acid pretreatment model of the large-scale biorefinery required the lowest minimum learning rate to reach an economically feasible biorefinery by 2030, being 3.9%, almost half as the one calculated for the smaller scale plant. This learning rate seems to be achievable based on learning rates commonly estimated in literature. We conclude that there is a potential for advanced ethanol production in Belgium under the current state of technology for large-scale biorefineries, which require additional biomass imports, when accounting for future cost reductions through learning
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001007488700001 Publication Date 2023-05-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0306-2619 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:196509 Serial 9186
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Author Vasilakou, K.; Nimmegeers, P.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.
Title Geospatial environmental techno-economic assessment of pretreatment technologies for bioethanol production Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Renewable and sustainable energy reviews Abbreviated Journal
Volume 187 Issue (up) Pages 113743-16
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Second-generation biofuels, starting from lignocellulosic biomass, are considered as a renewable alternative for fossil fuels with lower environmental impact and potentially higher supply and energy security. The economic and environmental performance of second-generation bioethanol production from corn stover in the European Union (EU) is studied, starting in Belgium as base case. A comparative environmental techno-economic assessment has been conducted, with process simulations in Aspen Plus and corn stover availability data in thirteen EU countries to calculate minimum ethanol selling prices (MESP) and Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). In this analysis, the emphasis is on the comparison of different pretreatment technologies, namely (i) dilute acid, (ii) alkaline, (iii) steam explosion and (iv) liquid hot water. Dilute acid showed the best economic and environmental performance for the base case scenario. Within the EU, Hungary and Romania presented the lowest MESP for the steam explosion model at 0.39 and 0.43 EUR/L respectively. Poland showed the lowest GHGe, at 0.46 kg CO2eq/L for the alkaline model, mainly due to the avoided product allocation on electricity and its high carbon intensity in the electricity generation sector. The second lowest GHGe were obtained in France for the dilute acid model and are attributed to its low agricultural emissions intensity. This study identifies a location-dependence of the economic and environmental performance of pretreatment technologies, which can be extrapolated from the EU to other large regions around the world and should be taken into consideration by decision-makers.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001082526000001 Publication Date 2023-09-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198804 Serial 9205
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Author Vasilakou, K.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Nimmegeers, P.
Title A Pareto aggregation approach for environmental-economic multi-objective optimization applied on a second-generation bioethanol production model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Energy conversion and management Abbreviated Journal
Volume 303 Issue (up) Pages 118184-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract Multi-objective optimization is an important decision-making tool for energy processes, as multiple targets need to be achieved. These objectives are usually conflicting since a single solution cannot be optimal for all objectives, resulting in a set of Pareto-optimal solutions. Multiple indicators might be available to describe a sustainability objective, such as the environmental impact which is commonly evaluated by performing a life cycle assessment. In this study, Pareto aggregation is proposed as a method which employs a novel multi-objective optimization-based approach as an alternative to the classically used aggregation in life cycle assessment. This method identifies conflicting environmental indicators and performs an aggregation among those that require a trade-off. An environmental-economic optimization of a second-generation bioethanol plant is used to illustrate and evaluate the proposed method. Process parameters from a biochemical conversion pathway flowsheet simulation model are chosen as optimization variables. To reduce the computational time, surrogate models, based on artificial neural networks, are used. Out of the eighteen ReCiPe Midpoint environmental indicators, five were identified as conflicting, resulting in an aggregated environmental objective, which was then traded off with the economic objective function, chosen as the levelized cost of ethanol. Comparison with the widely used single-score EcoIndicator99 showed that the Pareto aggregation method can reduce most of the environmental indicators by up to 6.5%. This research provides an insight on non-redundant objective functions, aiming at reducing the dimensionality of multi-objective optimization problems, while taking into consideration decision-makers’ preferences.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001185718400001 Publication Date 2024-02-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0196-8904; 1879-2227 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203046 Serial 9216
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Author Vetters, J.; Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.
Title Sailing through end-of-life challenges : a comprehensive review for offshore wind Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Renewable and sustainable energy reviews Abbreviated Journal
Volume 199 Issue (up) Pages 114486-16
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract Over the past thirty years, European offshore wind farm development surged, yet end-of-life and decommissioning considerations were overshadowed by initial climate and energy security objectives during design and construction. As the first major projects near their final decade, numerous unanswered questions persist. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies, maps, and evaluates challenges across technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions spanning five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and site recovery. Examining 42 publications reveals 46 distinct challenges affecting stakeholders such as the end-of-life supply chain, policy makers, and society. While 33% of the challenges manifested in the technical dimension, 48% of the challenges covered the planning phase. Notably, the economic challenge of vessel cost and availability was raised most often. Less-explored challenges underscore the importance of consideration before the end-of-life phase intensifies. The study illustrates the complex interconnection of numerous end-of-life challenges across phases, dimensions, and disciplines, emphasizing the imperative of addressing bottlenecks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The results of this study help steering future research, while also improving awareness of challenges for stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders to address imminent challenges through transparent guidelines, data exchange, and circular design principles. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic, multidisciplinary approach, systematic framework for identifying challenges, and critical perspective unveiling interconnectedness.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-05-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205652 Serial 9226
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Kummamuru, N.B.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Houlleberghs, M.; Martens, J.; Breynaert, E.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Cool, P.; Perreault, P.
Title Surface modification of mesostructured cellular foam to enhance hydrogen storage in binary THF/H₂ clathrate hydrate Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Sustainable energy & fuels Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue (up) Pages 1-15
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA)
Abstract This study introduces solid-state tuning of a mesostructured cellular foam (MCF) to enhance hydrogen (H-2) storage in clathrate hydrates. Grafting of promoter-like molecules (e.g., tetrahydrofuran) at the internal surface of the MCF resulted in a substantial improvement in the kinetics of formation of binary H-2-THF clathrate hydrate. Identification of the confined hydrate as sII clathrate hydrate and enclathration of H-2 in its small cages was performed using XRD and high-pressure H-1 NMR spectroscopy respectively. Experimental findings show that modified MCF materials exhibit a similar to 1.3 times higher H-2 storage capacity as compared to non-modified MCF under the same conditions (7 MPa, 265 K, 100% pore volume saturation with a 5.56 mol% THF solution). The enhancement in H-2 storage is attributed to the hydrophobicity originating from grafting organic molecules onto pristine MCF, thereby influencing water interactions and fostering an environment conducive to H-2 enclathration. Gas uptake curves indicate an optimal tuning point for higher H-2 storage, favoring a lower density of carbon per nm(2). Furthermore, a direct correlation emerges between higher driving forces and increased H-2 storage capacity, culminating at 0.52 wt% (46.77 mmoles of H-2 per mole of H2O and 39.78% water-to-hydrate conversions) at 262 K for the modified MCF material with fewer carbons per nm(2). Notably, the substantial H-2 storage capacity achieved without energy-intensive processes underscores solid-state tuning's potential for H-2 storage in the synthesized hydrates. This study evaluated two distinct kinetic models to describe hydrate growth in MCF. The multistage kinetic model showed better predictive capabilities for experimental data and maintained a low average absolute deviation. This research provides valuable insights into augmenting H-2 storage capabilities and holds promising implications for future advancements.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001208396000001 Publication Date 2024-04-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205764 Serial 9232
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Author Sathiya, M.; Jacquet, Q; Doublet, M.L; Karakulina, O.M.; Hadermann, J.; Tarascon, J.-M.
Title A Chemical Approach to Raise Cell Voltage and Suppress Phase Transition in O3 Sodium Layered Oxide Electrodes Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Advanced energy materials Abbreviated Journal Adv. Energy Mater.
Volume Issue (up) Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Sodium ion batteries (NIBs) are one of the versatile technologies for lowcost rechargeable batteries. O3-type layered sodium transition metal oxides (NaMO2, M = transition metal ions) are one of the most promising positive electrode materials considering their capacity. However, the use of O3 phases is limited due to their low redox voltage and associated multiple phase transitions which are detrimental for long cycling. Herein, a simple strategy is proposed to successfully combat these issues. It consists of the introduction of a larger, nontransition metal ion Sn4+ in NaMO2 to prepare a series of NaNi0.5Mn0.5−y SnyO2 (y = 0–0.5) compositions with attractive electrochemical performances, namely for y = 0.5, which shows a single-phase transition from O3 ⇔ P3 at the very end of the oxidation process. Na-ion NaNi0.5Sn0.5O2/C coin cells are shown to deliver an average cell voltage of 3.1 V with an excellent capacity retention as compared to an average stepwise voltage of ≈2.8 V and limited capacity retention for the pure NaNi0.5Mn0.5O2 phase. This study potentially shows the way to manipulate the O3 NaMO2 for facilitating their practical use in NIBs.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000430163100013 Publication Date 2018-01-11
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 21.875 Times cited 28 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes M.S. and Q.J. contributed equally to this work. The authors thank Dr. Daniel Alves Dalla Corte and Sujoy Saha for electronic conductivity measurements and Prof. Dominique Larcher for fruitful discussions. Q.J. thanks the ANR “Deli-Redox” for Ph.D. funding. J.-M.T. acknowledges funding from the European Research Council (ERC) (FP/2014)/ERC Grant-Project 670116-ARPEMA. TGA analysis by Matthieu Courty, LRCS, Amiens, is greatly acknowledged. J.H. and O.M.K. acknowledge funding from FWO Vlaanderen project G040116N. Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:149515 Serial 4907
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Author Zhao, H.; Hu, Z.; Liu, J.; Li, Y.; Wu, M.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Su, B.-L.
Title Blue-edge slow photons promoting visible-light hydrogen production on gradient ternary 3DOM TiO 2 -Au-CdS photonic crystals Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Nano energy Abbreviated Journal Nano Energy
Volume 47 Issue (up) Pages 266-274
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The slow photon effect, a structural effect of photonic crystal photocatalyst, is very efficient in the enhancement of photocatalytic reactions. However, slow photons in powdered photonic crystal photocatalyst have rarely been discussed because they are usually randomly oriented when the photocatalytic reaction happens in solution under constant stirring. In this work, for the first time we design a gradient ternary TiO2-Au-CdS photonic crystal based on three-dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) TiO2 as skeleton, Au as electron transfer medium and CdS as active material for photocatalytic H2 production under visible-light. As a result, this gradient ternary photocatalyst is favorable to simultaneously enhance light absorption, extend the light responsive region and reduce the recombination rate of the charge carriers. In particular, we found that slow photons at blue-edge exhibit much higher photocatalytic activity than that at red-edge. The photonic crystal photocatalyst with a macropore size of 250 nm exhibits the highest visible-light H2 production rate of 3.50 mmolh⁻¹g⁻¹ due to the slow photon energy at the blue-edge to significantly enhance the incident photons utilization. This work verifies that slow photons at the blue-edge can largely enhance light harvesting and sheds a light on designing the powdered photonic crystal photocatalyst to promote the photocatalytic H2 production via slow photon effect.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000430057000027 Publication Date 2018-02-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2211-2855 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 12.343 Times cited 33 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes B. L. Su acknowledges the Chinese Central Government for an “Expert of the State” position in the Program of the “Thousand Talents”. Y. Li acknowledges Hubei Provincial Department of Education for the “Chutian Scholar” program. This work is financially supported the National KeyR&D Program of China (2016YFA0202602), National Natural Science Foundation of China (U1663225, 51502225), Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University (IRT_15R52), Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation (2015CFB516), International Science &Technology Cooperation Program of China (2015DFE52870) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (WUT: 2016III029). Approved Most recent IF: 12.343
Call Number EMAT @ lucian @c:irua:150721 Serial 4924
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Author Lu, Y.; Cheng, X.; Tian, G.; Zhao, H.; He, L.; Hu, J.; Wu, S.-M.; Dong, Y.; Chang, G.-G.; Lenaerts, S.; Siffert, S.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Li, Z.-F.; Xu, L.-L.; Yang, X.-Y.; Su, B.-L.
Title Hierarchical CdS/m-TiO 2 /G ternary photocatalyst for highly active visible light-induced hydrogen production from water splitting with high stability Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Nano energy Abbreviated Journal Nano Energy
Volume 47 Issue (up) Pages 8-17
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Hierarchical semiconductors are the most important photocatalysts, especially for visible light-induced hydrogen production from water splitting. We demonstrate herein a hierarchical electrostatic assembly approach to hierarchical CdS/m-TiO2/G ternary photocatalyst, which exhibits high photoactivity and excellent photostability (more than twice the activity of pure CdS while 82% of initial photoactivity remained after 15 recycles during 80 h irradiation). The ternary nanojunction effect of the photocatalyst has been investigated from orbitals hybrid, bonding energy to atom-stress distortion and nano-interface fusion. And a coherent separation mechanism of charge carriers in the ternary system has been proposed at an atomic/nanoscale. This work offers a promising way to inhibit the photocorrosion of CdS and, more importantly, provide new insights for the design of ternary nanostructured photocatalysts with an ideal heterojunction.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000430057000002 Publication Date 2018-02-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2211-2855 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 12.343 Times cited 58 Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes This work supported by National Key R&D Program of China (2017YFC1103800), Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University (IRT_15R52), National Natural Science Foundation of China (U1663225, U1662134, 51472190, 51611530672, 21711530705, 51503166, 51602236, 21706199), International Science & Technology Cooperation Program of China (2015DFE52870), Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province (2016CFA033, 2017CFB487), Open 22 Project Program of State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Pollution Control (PPC2016007) CNPC Research Institute of Safety and Environmental Technology., China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2016M592400), Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (WUT: 2017IVB012). Approved Most recent IF: 12.343
Call Number EMAT @ lucian @c:irua:150720 Serial 4925
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Author Yang, C.; Batuk, M.; Jacquet, Q.; Rousse, G.; Yin, W.; Zhang, L.; Hadermann, J.; Abakumov, A.M.; Cibin, G.; Chadwick, A.; Tarascon, J.-M.; Grimaud, A.
Title Revealing pH-Dependent Activities and Surface Instabilities for Ni-Based Electrocatalysts during the Oxygen Evolution Reaction Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication ACS energy letters Abbreviated Journal Acs Energy Lett
Volume Issue (up) Pages 2884-2890
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Multiple electrochemical processes are involved at the catalyst/ electrolyte interface during the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). With the purpose of elucidating the complexity of surface dynamics upon OER, we systematically studied two Ni-based crystalline oxides (LaNiO3−δ and La2Li0.5Ni0.5O4) and compared them with the state-of-the-art Ni−Fe (oxy)- hydroxide amorphous catalyst. Electrochemical measurements such as rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) and electrochemical quartz microbalance microscopy (EQCM) coupled with a series of physical characterizations including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) were conducted to unravel the exact pH effect on both the OER activity and the catalyst stability. We demonstrate that for Ni-based crystalline catalysts the rate for surface degradation depends on the pH and is greater than the rate for surface reconstruction. This behavior is unlike that for the amorphous Ni oxyhydroxide catalyst, which is found to be more stable and pH-independent.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000453805100005 Publication Date 2018-11-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2380-8195 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access: Available from 06.11.2019
Notes C.Y., J.-M.T., and A.G. acknowledge funding from the European Research Council (ERC) (FP/2014)/ERC GrantProject 670116-ARPEMA. A.G. acknowledges financial support from the ANR MIDWAY (Project ID ANR-17-CE05- 0008). We acknowledge Diamond Light Source for time awarded to the Energy Materials BAG on Beamline B18, under Proposal sp12559. Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:155046 Serial 5067
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Author Srivastava, A.; Van Passel, S.; Kessels, R.; Valkering, P.; Laes, E.
Title Reducing winter peaks in electricity consumption: A choice experiment to structure demand response programs Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Energy Policy Abbreviated Journal Energ Policy
Volume 137 Issue (up) Pages 111183
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Winter peaks in Belgian electricity demand are significantly higher than the summer peaks, creating a greater potential for imbalances between demand and supply. This potential is exacerbated because of the risk of outages in its ageing nuclear power plants, which are being phased out in the medium term. This paper conducts a choice experiment to investigate the acceptability of a load control-based demand response program in the winter months. It surveys 186 respondents on their willingness to accept limits on the use of home appliances in return for a compensation. Results indicate that respondents are most affected by the days of the week that their appliance usage would be curtailed, and by the compensation they would receive. The willingness to enroll in a program increases with age, environmental consciousness, home ownership, and lower privacy concerns. The analysis predicts that 95% of the sample surveyed could enroll in a daily load control program for a compen- sation of €41 per household per year. Thus while an initial rollout among older and more pro-environment homeowners could be successful, a wider implementation would require an explanation of its environmental and financial benefits to the population, and a greater consideration of their data privacy concerns.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000515439900040 Publication Date 2019-12-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0301-4215 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors gratefully acknowledge the guidance offered by the Flemish Electricity Regulatory Agency (VREG), the Flemish Department for Environment, Nature, and Energy (LNE), and Guido Pepermans in designing the experiment. We are also grateful for the translations provided by Loic De Weerdt, and the support extended by Macarena MacLean Larrain in pre-testing the experiment. Finally, Roselinde Kes- sels thanks the Flemish Research Foundation (FWO) for her postdoctoral fellowship and the JMP Division of SAS Institute for further financial support. Approved Most recent IF: 9; 2020 IF: 4.14
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:167253 Serial 6348
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.; Dewulf, J.
Title A review on learning effects in prospective technology assessment Type A1 journal article
Year 2020 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 130 Issue (up) Pages 109937
Keywords A1 journal article; Learning effects; Life cycle assessment; Techno-economic assessment; Prospective technology assessment; Learning-by-doing; Learning curve; Progress rate; Experience curve; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Global environmental problems have urged the need for developing sustainable technologies. However, new technologies that enter the market have often higher economic costs and potentially higher environmental impacts than conventional technologies. This can be explained by learning effects: a production process that is performed for the first time runs less smooth than a production process that has been in operation for years. To obtain a fair estimation of the potential of a new technology, learning effects need to be included. A review on the current literature on learning effects was conducted in order to provide guidelines on how to include learning effects in prospective technology assessment. Based on the results of this review, five recommendations have been formulated and an integration of learning effects in the structure of prospective technology assessment has been proposed. These five recommendations include the combined use of learning effects on the component level and on the end product level; the combined use of learning effects on the technical, economic and environmental level; the combined use of extrapolated values and expert estimates; the combined use of learning-by-doing and learning-by-searching effects and; a tier-based method, including quality criteria, to calculate the learning effect. These five complementary strategies could lead to a clearer perspective on the environmental impact and cost structure of the new technology and a fairer comparison base with conventional technologies, potentially resulting in a faster adoption and a shorter time-to-market for sustainable technologies.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000548790900008 Publication Date 2020-06-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 15.9 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors acknowledge the full financial support received from the Flemish administration via the Steunpunt Circulaire Economie (Policy Research Centre Circular Economy). We would also like to thank the SDEWES conference for the best paper award which was granted to the current paper. The authors declare no competing financial interests. 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. Approved Most recent IF: 15.9; 2020 IF: 8.05
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:170076 Serial 6389
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Author Bogaerts, A.; Centi, G.
Title Plasma Technology for CO2 Conversion: A Personal Perspective on Prospects and Gaps Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Frontiers in energy research Abbreviated Journal Front. Energy Res.
Volume 8 Issue (up) Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract There is increasing interest in plasma technology for CO2 conversion because it can operate at mild conditions and it can store fluctuating renewable electricity into

value-added compounds and renewable fuels. This perspective paper aims to provide a view on the future for non-specialists who want to understand the role of plasma

technology in the new scenario for sustainable and low-carbon energy and chemistry. Thus, it is prepared to give a personal view on future opportunities and challenges. First, we introduce the current state-of-the-art and the potential of plasma-based CO2 conversion. Subsequently, we discuss the challenges to overcome the current limitations and to apply plasma technology on a large scale. The final section discusses the general context and the potential benefits of plasma-based CO2 conversion for our life and the impact on climate change. It also includes a brief analysis on the future scenario for energy and chemical production, and how plasma technology may realize new paths for CO2 utilization.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000553392300001 Publication Date 2020-07-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2296-598X ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes We acknowledge financial support from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (grant agreement no. 810182 – SCOPE ERC Synergy project). We thank A. Berthelot, M. Ramakers, R. Snoeckx, G. Trenchev, and V. Vermeiren for providing the figures used in this article. Approved Most recent IF: 3.4; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:170136 Serial 6390
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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 (up) 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 Buchmayr, A.; Verhofstadt, E.; Van Ootegem, L.; Sanjuan Delmás, D.; Thomassen, G.; Dewulf, J.
Title The path to sustainable energy supply systems: Proposal of an integrative sustainability assessment framework Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2021 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 138 Issue (up) Pages 110666
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Energy supply is essential for the functioning and well-being of a society. Decision-makers are faced with the challenge to balance burdens and benefits of energy supply practices with the aim to achieve environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Literature exhibits a broad variety of sustainability assessment frameworks for energy supply technologies. However, there is no consensus on which aspects need to be covered for a comprehensive assessment of sustainability. While some aspects, such as environmental emission damage, receive predominant attention, there is a lack of coverage and adequate quantification for others. This led in the past to an unbalanced basis for decision-making.

Based on an analysis of literature, 12 impact categories were identified for the assessment of energy technologies. The analysis included the judgement of quantification approaches regarding their significance for describing the impact categories and their maturity resulting in the proposal of 12 concrete indicators. A framework is proposed to manage and integrate the assessment of single impact categories. The framework produces normalized and weighted output indicators to use in the form of a dashboard or alternatively a single sustainability index for informed decision-making.

Finally, the proposed sustainability assessment framework relies on life cycle, local impact, and supply chain risks assessment. It consists of both well-established assessment methods as well as suggestions for new indicators in order to allow a full assessment of all impact categories. It thereby goes beyond the isolated assessment of impacts and offers the basis for comparison of complete energy supply mixes.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2020-12-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes The authors acknowledge the financial support received from the Special Research Fund (Bijzonder Onderzoeksfonds – BOF) of Ghent University under grant agreement number BOF.24Y.2018.003. Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number ENM @ enm @ Serial 6680
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Author Khelifi, S.; Brammertz, G.; Choubrac, L.; Batuk, M.; Yang, S.; Meuris, M.; Barreau, N.; Hadermann, J.; Vrielinck, H.; Poelman, D.; Neyts, K.; Vermang, B.; Lauwaert, J.
Title The path towards efficient wide band gap thin-film kesterite solar cells with transparent back contact for viable tandem application Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 219 Issue (up) Pages 110824
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Wide band gap thin-film kesterite solar cell based on non-toxic and earth-abundant materials might be a suitable candidate as a top cell for tandem configuration in combination with crystalline silicon as a bottom solar cell. For this purpose and based on parameters we have extracted from electrical and optical characterization techniques of Cu2ZnGeSe4 absorbers and solar cells, a model has been developed to describe the kesterite top cell efficiency limitations and to investigate the different possible configurations with transparent back contact for fourterminal tandem solar cell application. Furthermore, we have studied the tandem solar cell performance in view of the band gap and the transparency of the kesterite top cell and back contact engineering. Our detailed analysis shows that a kesterite top cell with efficiency > 14%, a band gap in the range of 1.5-1.7 eV and transparency above 80% at the sub-band gaps photons energies are required to achieve a tandem cell with higher efficiency than with a single silicon solar cell.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000591683500002 Publication Date 2020-10-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.784 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes The authors would like to acknowledge the SWInG project financed by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 640868 and the Research Foundation Flanders-Hercules Foundation (FWO-Vlaanderen, project No AUGE/13/16:FT-IMAGER). Approved Most recent IF: 4.784
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:174337 Serial 6706
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Author Biswas, A.N.; Winter, L.R.; Loenders, B.; Xie, Z.; Bogaerts, A.; Chen, J.G.
Title Oxygenate Production from Plasma-Activated Reaction of CO2and Ethane Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Acs Energy Letters Abbreviated Journal Acs Energy Lett
Volume Issue (up) Pages 236-241
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Upgrading ethane with CO2 as a soft oxidant represents a desirable means of obtaining oxygenated hydrocarbons. This reaction is not thermodynamically feasible under mild conditions and has not been previously achieved as a one-step process. Nonthermal plasma was implemented as an alternative means of supplying energy to overcome activation barriers, leading to the production of alcohols, aldehydes, and acids as well as C1−C5+ hydrocarbons under ambient pressure, with a maximum total oxygenate selectivity of 12%. A plasma chemical kinetic computational model was developed and found to be in good agreement with the experimental trends. Results from this study illustrate the potential to use plasma for the direct synthesis of value-added alcohols, acids, and aldehydes from ethane and CO2 under mild conditions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000732435700001 Publication Date 2021-12-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2380-8195 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Basic Energy Sciences, DE-SC0012704 ; Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, S001619N ; H2020 European Research Council, 810182 ; National Science Foundation, DGE 16-44869 ; This research was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Catalysis Science Program (grant no. DE-SC0012704). L.R.W. acknowledges the U.S. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program grant number DGE 16-44869. B.L. and A.B. acknowledge support from the FWO-SBO project PLASMA240 Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:184812 Serial 6897
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Author Zheng, Y.-R.; Vernieres, J.; Wang, Z.; Zhang, K.; Hochfilzer, D.; Krempl, K.; Liao, T.-W.; Presel, F.; Altantzis, T.; Fatermans, J.; Scott, S.B.; Secher, N.M.; Moon, C.; Liu, P.; Bals, S.; Van Aert, S.; Cao, A.; Anand, M.; Nørskov, J.K.; Kibsgaard, J.; Chorkendorff, I.
Title Monitoring oxygen production on mass-selected iridium–tantalum oxide electrocatalysts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Nature Energy Abbreviated Journal Nat Energy
Volume Issue (up) Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Abstract Development of low-cost and high-performance oxygen evolution reaction catalysts is key to implementing polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzers for hydrogen production. Iridium-based oxides are the state-of-the-art acidic oxygen evolution reactio catalysts but still suffer from inadequate activity and stability, and iridium's scarcity motivates the discovery of catalysts with lower iridium loadings. Here we report a mass-selected iridium-tantalum oxide catalyst prepared by a magnetron-based cluster source with considerably reduced noble-metal loadings beyond a commercial IrO2 catalyst. A sensitive electrochemistry/mass-spectrometry instrument coupled with isotope labelling was employed to investigate the oxygen production rate under dynamic operating conditions to account for the occurrence of side reactions and quantify the number of surface active sites. Iridium-tantalum oxide nanoparticles smaller than 2 nm exhibit a mass activity of 1.2 ± 0.5 kA “g” _“Ir” ^“-1” and a turnover frequency of 2.3 ± 0.9 s-1 at 320 mV overpotential, which are two and four times higher than those of mass-selected IrO2, respectively. Density functional theory calculations reveal that special iridium coordinations and the lowered aqueous decomposition free energy might be responsible for the enhanced performance.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000728458000001 Publication Date 2021-12-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2058-7546 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 95 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Y.-R.Z. and Z.W acknowledge funding from the Toyota Research Institute. This project has received funding from VILLUM FONDEN (grant no. 9455) and the European Research Council under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grants no. 741860-CLUNATRA, no. 815128−REALNANO and no. 770887−PICOMETRICS). S.B. and S.V.A. acknowledge funding from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO, G026718N and G050218N). T.A. acknowledges the University of Antwerp Research Fund (BOF). STEM measurements were supported by the European Union's Horizon 2020 Research Infrastructure-Integrating Activities for Advanced Communities under grant agreement No 823717 – ESTEEM3.; sygmaSB Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:184794 Serial 6903
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Author Osorio-Tejada, J.; van't Veer, K.; Long, N.V.D.; Tran, N.N.; Fulcheri, L.; Patil, B.S.; Bogaerts, A.; Hessel, V.
Title Sustainability analysis of methane-to-hydrogen-to-ammonia conversion by integration of high-temperature plasma and non-thermal plasma processes Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Energy Conversion And Management Abbreviated Journal Energ Convers Manage
Volume 269 Issue (up) Pages 116095
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract The Covid era has made us aware of the need for resilient, self-sufficient, and local production. We are likely willing to pay an extra price for that quality. Ammonia (NH3) synthesis accounts for 2 % of global energy production and is an important point of attention for the development of green energy technologies. Therefore, we propose a thermally integrated process for H2 production and NH3 synthesis using plasma technology, and we evaluate its techno-economic performance and CO2 footprint by life cycle assessment (LCA). The key is to integrate energy-wise a high-temperature plasma (HTP) process, with a (low-temperature) non-thermal plasma (NTP) process and to envision their joint economic potential. This particularly means raising the temperature of the NTP process, which is typically below 100 ◦ C, taking advantage of the heat released from the HTP process. For that purpose, we proposed the integrated process and conducted chemical kinetics simulations in the NTP section to determine the thermodynamically feasible operating window of this novel combined plasma process. The results suggest that an NH3 yield of 2.2 mol% can be attained at 302 ◦ C at an energy yield of 1.1 g NH3/kWh. Cost calculations show that the economic performance is far from commercial, mainly because of the too low energy yield of the NTP process. However, when we base our costs on the best literature value and plausible future scenarios for the NTP energy yield, we reach a cost prediction below 452 $/tonne NH3, which is competitive with conventional small-scale Haber-Bosch NH3 synthesis for distributed production. In addition, we demonstrate that biogas can be used as feed, thus allowing the proposed integrated reactor concept to be part of a biogas-to-ammonia circular concept. Moreover, by LCA we demonstrate the environmental benefits of the pro­posed plant, which could cut by half the carbon emissions when supplied by photovoltaic electricity, and even invert the carbon balance when supplied by wind power due to the avoided emissions of the carbon black credits.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000880662100007 Publication Date 0000-00-00
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0196-8904 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 10.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes European Research Council; European Commission, 810182 ; The authors acknowledge support from the ERC Synergy Grant “Surface-COnfined fast modulated Plasma for process and Energy intensification” (SCOPE), from the European Commission, with Grant No. 810182. Approved Most recent IF: 10.4
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:191785 Serial 7103
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Author Batuk, M.; Vandemeulebroucke, D.; Ceretti, M.; Paulus, W.; Hadermann, J.
Title Topotactic redox cycling in SrFeO2.5+δ explored by 3D electron diffraction in different gas atmospheres Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Journal of materials chemistry A : materials for energy and sustainability Abbreviated Journal J Mater Chem A
Volume Issue (up) Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract For oxygen conducting materials applied in solid oxide fuel cells and chemical-looping processes, the understanding of the oxygen diffusion mechanism and the materials’ crystal structure at different stages of the redox reactions is a key parameter to control their performance. In this paper we report the first ever in situ 3D ED experiment in a gas environment and with it uncover the structure evolution of SrFeO2.5 as notably different from that reported from in situ X-ray and in situ neutron powder diffraction studies in gas environments. Using in situ 3D ED on submicron sized single crystals obtained from a high quality monodomain SrFeO2.5 single crystal , we observe the transformation under O2 flow of SrFeO2.5 with an intra- and interlayer ordering of the left and right twisted (FeO4) tetrahedral chains (space group Pcmb) into consecutively SrFeO2.75 with space group Cmmm (at 350°C, 33% O2) and SrFeO3-δ with space group Pm3 ̅m (at 400°C, 100% O2). Upon reduction in H2 flow, the crystals return to the brownmillerite structure with intralayer order, but without regaining the interlayer order of the pristine crystals. Therefore, redox cycling of SrFeO2.5 crystals in O2 and H2 introduces stacking faults into the structure, resulting in an I2/m(0βγ)0s symmetry with variable β.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000891928400001 Publication Date 0000-00-00
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7488 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Financial support is acknowledged from the FWO-Hercules fund I003218N ‘Infrastructure for imaging nanoscale processes in gas/vapor or liquid environments’, from the University of Antwerp through grant BOF TOP 38689. This work was supported by the European Commission Horizon 2020 NanED grant number 956099. Financial support from the French National Research Agency (ANR) through the project “Structural induced Electronic Complexity controlled by low temperature Topotactic Reaction” (SECTOR No. ANR-14-CE36- 0006-01) is gratefully acknowledged. Approved Most recent IF: 11.9
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:192325 Serial 7229
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Author Manaigo, F.; Rouwenhorst, K.; Bogaerts, A.; Snyders, R.
Title Feasibility study of a small-scale fertilizer production facility based on plasma nitrogen fixation Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Energy Conversion and Management Abbreviated Journal Energy Conversion and Management
Volume 302 Issue (up) Pages 118124
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma-based nitrogen fixation Haber-Bosch Feasibility study Fertilizer production; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001171038200001 Publication Date 2024-01-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0196-8904 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 10.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes This research is supported by the FNRS-FWO project ‘‘NITROPLASM’’, EOS O005118F. The authors thank Dr. L. Hollevoet (KU Leuven) for the draft reviewing and for providing additional information on the lean NO???? trap. Approved Most recent IF: 10.4; 2024 IF: 5.589
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:204351 Serial 8992
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Author Loenders, B.; Michiels, R.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Is a catalyst always beneficial in plasma catalysis? Insights from the many physical and chemical interactions Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of Energy Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Journal of Energy Chemistry
Volume 85 Issue (up) Pages 501-533
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract Plasma-catalytic dry reforming of CH4 (DRM) is promising to convert the greenhouse gasses CH4 and CO2 into value-added chemicals, thus simultaneously providing an alternative to fossil resources as feedstock for the chemical industry. However, while many experiments have been dedicated to plasma-catalytic DRM, there is no consensus yet in literature on the optimal choice of catalyst for targeted products, because the underlying mechanisms are far from understood. Indeed, plasma catalysis is very complex, as it encompasses various chemical and physical interactions between plasma and catalyst, which depend on many parameters. This complexity hampers the comparison of experimental results from different studies, which, in our opinion, is an important bottleneck in the further development of this promising research field. Hence, in this perspective paper, we describe the important physical and chemical effects that should be accounted for when designing plasma-catalytic experiments in general, highlighting the need for standardized experimental setups, as well as careful documentation of packing properties and reaction conditions, to further advance this research field. On the other hand, many parameters also create many windows of opportunity for further optimizing plasma-catalytic systems. Finally, various experiments also reveal the lack of improvement in plasma catalysis compared to plasma-only, specifically for DRM, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Therefore, we present our newly developed coupled plasma-surface kinetics model for DRM, to provide more insight in the underlying reasons. Our model illustrates that transition metal catalysts can adversely affect plasmacatalytic DRM, if radicals dominate the plasma-catalyst interactions. Thus, we demonstrate that a good understanding of the plasma-catalyst interactions is crucial to avoiding conditions at which these interactions negatively affect the results, and we provide some recommendations for improvement. For instance, we believe that plasma-catalytic DRM may benefit more from higher reaction temperatures, at which vibrational excitation can enhance the surface reactions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2023-06-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2095-4956 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor 13.1 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes This research was supported by the FWO-SBO project PlasMa- CatDESIGN (FWO grant ID S001619N), the FWO fellowship of R. Michiels (FWO grant ID 1114921N), and the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No 810182 – SCOPE ERC Synergy project). The computational resources and services used in this work were provided by the HPC core facility CalcUA of the Universiteit Antwerpen, and VSC (Flemish Supercomputer Center), funded by the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) and the Flemish Government. Approved Most recent IF: 13.1; 2023 IF: 2.594
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:198159 Serial 8806
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Author Wanten, B.; Vertongen, R.; De Meyer, R.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Plasma-based CO2 conversion: How to correctly analyze the performance? Type A1 journal article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of Energy Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Journal of Energy Chemistry
Volume 86 Issue (up) Pages 180-196
Keywords A1 journal article; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001070885000001 Publication Date 2023-07-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2095-4956 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.1 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes We acknowledge financial support from the Fund for Scientific Research (FWO) Flanders (Grant ID 110221N), the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program (grant agreement No 810182 – SCOPE ERC Synergy project), and the Methusalem funding of the University of Antwerp. We acknowledge the icons from the graphical abstract made by dDara, geotatah, Spashicons and Freepik on www.flaticon.com. We also thank Stein Maerivoet, Joachim Slaets, Elizabeth Mercer, Colín Ó’Modráin, Joran Van Turnhout, Pepijn Heirman, dr. Yury Gorbanev, dr. Fanny Girard-Sahun and dr. Sean Kelly for the interesting discussions and feedback. Approved Most recent IF: 13.1; 2023 IF: 2.594
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:198709 Serial 8816
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Author Cai, Y.; Mei, D.; Chen, Y.; Bogaerts, A.; Tu, X.
Title Machine learning-driven optimization of plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2024 Publication Journal of Energy Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Journal of Energy Chemistry
Volume 96 Issue (up) Pages 153-163
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Plasma catalysis Machine learning Process optimization Dry reforming of methane Syngas production; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
Abstract This study investigates the dry reformation of methane (DRM) over Ni/Al2O3 catalysts in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) non-thermal plasma reactor. A novel hybrid machine learning (ML) model is developed to optimize the plasma-catalytic DRM reaction with limited experimental data. To address the non-linear and complex nature of the plasma-catalytic DRM process, the hybrid ML model integrates three well-established algorithms: regression trees, support vector regression, and artificial neural networks. A genetic algorithm (GA) is then used to optimize the hyperparameters of each algorithm within the hybrid ML model. The ML model achieved excellent agreement with the experimental data, demonstrating its efficacy in accurately predicting and optimizing the DRM process. The model was subsequently used to investigate the impact of various operating parameters on the plasma-catalytic DRM performance. We found that the optimal discharge power (20 W), CO2/CH4 molar ratio (1.5), and Ni loading (7.8 wt%) resulted in the maximum energy yield at a total flow rate of 51 mL/min. Furthermore, we investigated the relative significance of each operating parameter on the performance of the plasmacatalytic DRM process. The results show that the total flow rate had the greatest influence on the conversion, with a significance exceeding 35% for each output, while the Ni loading had the least impact on the overall reaction performance. This hybrid model demonstrates a remarkable ability to extract valuable insights from limited datasets, enabling the development and optimization of more efficient and selective plasma-catalytic chemical processes.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2024-04-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2095-4956 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 13.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes This project received funding from the European Union’s Hori- zon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement No. 813393. Approved Most recent IF: 13.1; 2024 IF: 2.594
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @ Serial 9124
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Author Kertik, A.; Wee, L.H.; Pfannmöller, M.; Bals, S.; Martens, J.A.; Vankelecom, I.F.J.
Title Highly selective gas separation membrane using in situ amorphised metal-organic frameworks Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Energy & environmental science Abbreviated Journal Energ Environ Sci
Volume 10 Issue (up) 10 Pages 2342-2351
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Conventional carbon dioxide (CO2) separation in the petrochemical industry via cryogenic distillation is energy intensive and environmentally unfriendly. Alternatively, polymer membrane-based separations are of significant interest owing to low production cost, low-energy consumption and ease of upscaling. However, the implementation of commercial polymeric membranes is limited by their permeability and selectivity trade-off and the insufficient thermal and chemical stability. Herein, a novel type of amorphous mixed matrix membrane (MMM) able to separate CO2/CH4 mixtures with the highest selectivities ever reported for MOF based MMMs is presented. The MMM consists of an amorphised metal-organic framework (MOF) dispersed in an oxidatively cross-linked matrix achieved by fine tuning of the thermal treatment temperature in air up to 350 degrees C which drastically boosts the separation properties of the MMM. Thanks to the protection of the surrounding polymer, full oxidation of this MOF (i.e. ZIF-8) is prevented, and amorphisation of the MOF is realized instead, thus in situ creating a molecular sieve network. In addition, the treatment also improves the filler-polymer adhesion and induces an oxidative cross-linking of the polyimide matrix, resulting in MMMs with increased stability or plasticization resistance at high pressure up to 40 bar, marking a new milestone as new molecular sieve MOF MMMs for challenging natural gas purification applications. A new field for the use of amorphised MOFs and a variety of separation opportunities for such MMMs are thus opened.
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Language Wos 000414774500007 Publication Date 2017-08-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
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ISSN 1754-5692; 1754-5706 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 29.518 Times cited 122 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes ; A.K. acknowledges financial support from the Erasmus-Mundus Doctorate in Membrane Engineering (EUDIME) Programme. L.H.W. thanks the FWO-Vlaanderen for a postdoctoral research fellowship (12M1415N). M. P. acknowledges financial support by the FP7 European project SUNFLOWER (FP7 #287594). S. B. acknowledges financial support from European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant # 335078-COLOURATOMS). J. A. M. gratefully acknowledges financial supports from the Flemish Government for long-term Methusalem funding. J. A. M. and I. F. J. V. acknowledge the Belgian Government for IAP-PAI networking. A. K. would also like to thank Frank Mathijs for the mechanical tests, Roy Bernstein for the XPS analysis and Lien Telen and Bart Goderis for the DSC measurements. We thank Verder Scientific Benelux for providing the service of ZIF-8 ball milling. ; ecas_sara Approved Most recent IF: 29.518
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:147399UA @ admin @ c:irua:147399 Serial 4879
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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 (up) 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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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 Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; De Schepper, E.; Maes, W.; Lutsen, L.; Manca, J.; Vanderzande, D.
Title Life cycle analyses of organic photovoltaics : a review Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Energy & Environmental Science Abbreviated Journal Energ Environ Sci
Volume 6 Issue (up) 11 Pages 3136-3149
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper reviews the available life cycle analysis (LCA) literature on organic photovoltaics (OPVs). This branch of OPV research has focused on the environmental impact of single-junction bulk heterojunction polymer solar cells using a P3HT/PC60BM active layer blend processed on semi-industrial pilot lines in ambient surroundings. The environmental impact was found to be strongly decreasing through continuous innovation of the manufacturing procedures. The current top performing cell regarding environmental performance has a cumulative energy demand of 37.58 MJp m(-2) and an energy payback time in the order of months for cells having 2% efficiency, thereby rendering OPV cells one of the best performing PV technologies from an environmental point of view. Nevertheless, we find that LCA literature is lagging behind on the main body of OPV literature due to the lack of readily available input data. Still, LCA research has led us to believe that in the quest for higher efficiencies, environmental sustainability is being disregarded on the materials' side. Hence, we advise the scientific community to take the progress made on environmental sustainability aspects of OPV preparations into account not only because standard procedures put a bigger strain on the environment, but also because these methods may not be transferrable to an industrial process. Consequently, we recommend policy makers to subsidize research that bridges the gaps between fundamental materials research, stability, and scalability given that these constraints have to be fulfilled simultaneously if OPVs are ever to be successful on the market. Additionally, environmental sustainability will have to keep on being monitored to steer future developments in the right direction.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000325946400002 Publication Date 2013-10-11
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1754-5692; 1754-5706 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 29.518 Times cited 124 Open Access
Notes ; The authors are much obliged to both the INTERREG ORGAN-EXT project and FP7 MOLESOL project for their financial support, without which it would have been impossible to conduct this research. ; Approved Most recent IF: 29.518; 2013 IF: 15.490
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127548 Serial 6223
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