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Author Zanaga, D.; Bleichrodt, F.; Altantzis, T.; Winckelmans, N.; Palenstijn, W.J.; Sijbers, J.; de Nijs, B.; van Huis, M.A.; Sanchez-Iglesias, A.; Liz-Marzan, L.M.; van Blaaderen, A.; Joost Batenburg, K.; Bals, S.; Van Tendeloo, G.
  Title Quantitative 3D analysis of huge nanoparticle assemblies Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2016 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal Nanoscale
  Volume 8 Issue 8 Pages 292-299
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
  Abstract Nanoparticle assemblies can be investigated in 3 dimensions using electron tomography. However, it is not straightforward to obtain quantitative information such as the number of particles or their relative position. This becomes particularly difficult when the number of particles increases. We propose a novel approach in which prior information on the shape of the individual particles is exploited. It improves the quality of the reconstruction of these complex assemblies significantly. Moreover, this quantitative Sparse Sphere Reconstruction approach yields directly the number of particles and their position as an output of the reconstruction technique, enabling a detailed 3D analysis of assemblies with as many as 10 000 particles. The approach can also be used to reconstruct objects based on a very limited number of projections, which opens up possibilities to investigate beam sensitive assemblies where previous reconstructions with the available electron tomography techniques failed.
  Address EMAT, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, B-2020 Antwerp, Belgium. sara.bals@uantwerpen.be
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language English Wos 000366911700028 Publication Date 2015-11-19
  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 34 Open Access OpenAccess
  Notes The authors acknowledge financial support from European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant # 335078-COLOURATOMS, ERC Advanced Grant # 291667 HierarSACol and ERC Advanced Grant 267867 – PLASMAQUO), the European Union under the FP7 (Integrated Infrastructure Initiative N. 262348 European Soft Matter Infrastructure, ESMI and N. 312483 ESTEEM2), and from the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), project number 639.072.005 and NWO CW 700.57.026. Networking support was provided by COST Action MP1207.; esteem2jra4; ECASSara; (ROMEO:yellow; preprint:; postprint:restricted ; pdfversion:cannot); Approved Most recent IF: 7.367
  Call Number c:irua:131062 c:irua:131062 Serial 3979
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Buyle, M.; Maes, B.; Van Passel, S.; Boonen, K.; Vercalsteren, A.; Audenaert, A.
  Title Ex-ante LCA of emerging carbon steel slag treatment technologies : fast forwarding lab observations to industrial-scale production Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
  Volume 313 Issue Pages 127921
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings (EMIB)
  Abstract The valuable properties of carbon steel slag are currently underexploited. To date, research mainly focusses on valorising a single property of the slag. In this study an ex-ante life cycle assessment (LCA) was applied to evaluate the environmental profile of a novel technological pathway aimed at the extraction of chromium from carbon steel slag in combination with high quality valorisation of the residual matrix material. A comparison with current practice was made, not only by calculating the environmental impact of the lab scale observations, but more importantly by estimating the impact on an industrial scale. Practical guidance on ex-ante LCA is limited, so this study contributes by incorporating simulations on thermodynamic behaviour, complemented with empirical calculation rules and including information derived from similar technologies to perform the upscaling. These principles of ex-ante LCA were applied to the lab results of two consecutive research iterations. Substantial improvements of the environmental profile were observed: ex-ante results turned out to be a factor 20 lower compared to the results from the lab observations after the first iteration and had decreased by a factor 2 compared to the small pilot scale of the second iteration. All upscaled results are better than those from the worst case reference scenario (landfill). Based on the experience gained after this iterative research cycle, a practical recommendation is that at a low technology readiness level using more simple calculation rules in combination with a flowsheet based on elementary design principles for processes at an industrial scale is a more efficient way of modelling compared to a fully-fledged process design from the start.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000693416000002 Publication Date 2021-06-14
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.715
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179313 Serial 6922
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.
  Title The potential of microalgae biorefineries in Belgium and India : an environmental techno-economic assessment Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2018 Publication Bioresource Technology Abbreviated Journal Bioresource Technol
  Volume 267 Issue 267 Pages 271-280
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract This study performs an environmental techno-economic assessment (ETEA) for multiple microalgae biorefinery concepts at different locations, those being Belgium and India. The ETEA methodology, which integrates aspects of the TEA and LCA methodologies and provides a clear framework for an integrated assessment model, has been proposed and discussed. The scenario in India has a higher profitability with a NPV of (sic)40 million over a period of 10 years, while the environmental impact in Belgium is lower. The inclusion of a medium recycling step provides the best scenario from both perspectives. The crucial parameters for feasibility are the beta-caroteneprice and content, the upstream environmental impact of electricity and the maximum biomass concentration during cultivation. The identification of these parameters by the ETEA guides future technology developments and shortens the time-to-market for microalgal-based biorefineries.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000441876100034 Publication Date 2018-07-10
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 5.651 Times cited 8 Open Access
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.651
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153599 Serial 6270
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Author Van Passel, S.; Dubois, M.; Eyckmans, J.; de Gheldere, S.; Ang, F.; Jones, P.T.; Van Acker, K.
  Title The economics of enhanced landfill mining : private and societal performance drivers Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
  Volume 55 Issue Pages 92-102
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract This paper addresses the economics of Enhanced Landfill Mining (ELFM) both from a private point of view as well as from a society perspective. The private potential is assessed using a case study for which an investment model is developed to identify the impact of a broad range of parameters on the profitability of ELFM. We found that especially variations in Waste-to-Energy (WtE efficiency, electricity price, CO2-price, WtE investment and operational costs) and ELFM support explain the variation in economic profitability measured by the Internal Rate of Return. To overcome site-specific parameters we also evaluated the regional ELFM potential for the densely populated and industrial region of Flanders (north of Belgium). The total number of potential ELFM sites was estimated using a 5-step procedure and a simulation tool was developed to trade-off private costs and benefits. The analysis shows that there is a substantial economic potential for ELFM projects on the wider regional level. Furthermore, this paper also reviews the costs and benefits from a broader perspective. The carbon footprint of the case study was mapped in order to assess the project's net impact in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. Also the impacts of nature restoration, soil remediation, resource scarcity and reduced import dependence were valued so that they can be used in future social cost-benefit analysis. Given the complex trade-off between economic, social and environmental issues of ELFM projects, we conclude that further refinement of the methodological framework and the development of the integrated decision tools supporting private and public actors, are necessary. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000322802300010 Publication Date 2012-04-20
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited 65 Open Access
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2013 IF: 3.590
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127550 Serial 6266
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Author Afsharzade, N.; Papzan, A.; Ashjaee, M.; Delangizan, S.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
  Title Renewable energy development in rural areas of Iran Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2016 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
  Volume 65 Issue Pages 743-755
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Iran's energy system is extremely dependent on fossil fuels which, in turn, have led to problems such as fossil fuels depletion, social, economic and environmental damage and territorial imbalance. The country should therefore design a sustainable energy system based on clean energy as well as renewable energy. Accordingly, and given that Iran's rural areas suffer from the unsustainable energy system, it is necessary to integrate renewable energy into comprehensive development programs in general, and into rural development programs, specifically. This review paper answers the following questions: Why is renewable energy important for Iran at national and rural levels? How is renewable energy related to sustainable rural development? and What are the challenges in the promotion of renewable energy technologies in Iran? The paper concludes that although renewable energy has potential for development in Iran's rural areas due to environmental, social and economic advantages, it could face some infrastructural, managerial, socio-cultural and economic challenges. Accordingly, aggressive and innovative policy making is required to meet these challenges. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000383293800053 Publication Date 2016-07-23
  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; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 41 Open Access
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:137105 Serial 6243
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; You, F.
  Title How to assess the potential of emerging green technologies? Towards a prospective environmental and techno-economic assessment framework Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2019 Publication Green Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Green Chem
  Volume 21 Issue 18 Pages 4868-4886
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract For sustainable production and consumption, emerging green technologies need to be optimized towards a minimal environmental impact and a maximal economic impact. In an early stage of technology development, more flexibility is available to adapt the technology. Therefore, a prospective environmental and techno-economic assessment is required. The prospective assessment differs at the different stages of technology development, as also the data availability and accuracy evolves. This paper reviews the different prospective technological, economic and environmental assessment methods which have been used to assess the potential of new green chemical technologies. Based on the current best practices, an overarching framework is introduced to assess the technological, economic and environmental potential of an emerging green chemical technology at the different stages of technology development.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000486309300002 Publication Date 2019-08-13
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1463-9262; 1463-9270 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 9.125 Times cited 5 Open Access
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.125
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163782 Serial 6211
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Author Meul, M.; Van Passel, S.; Fremaut, D.; Haesaert, G.
  Title Higher sustainability performance of intensive grazing versus zero-grazing dairy systems Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2012 Publication Agronomy For Sustainable Development Abbreviated Journal Agron Sustain Dev
  Volume 32 Issue 3 Pages 629-638
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Although grazing of dairy cows is an integral part of dairy farming in many European countries, farmers today more often choose for zero-grazing systems, where cows are housed throughout the year. Some studies already compared grazing and zero-grazing systems for specific issues such as labor efficiency, environmental impact, or animal welfare. In our study, we perform a more integrated evaluation, considering relevant ecological, economic, and social aspects. This allows for a balanced and more complete comparison of the sustainability performance of the two production methods. We evaluated ten intensive grazing and ten zero-grazing specialized Flemish dairy farms on the use of nutrients and energy, productivity and profitability, labor input, and animal welfare. In addition, we put special effort in formulating useful management advice for farmers. Therefore, we combined a detailed analysis of the sustainability indicators with an intensive interaction and discussion with farmers and farm advisors. Results show that, on average, the zero-grazing farms performed significantly worse from an ecological and economic point of view. This fact is explained mainly due to a less efficient use of concentrates and byproducts. Social sustainability performance did not differ significantly between the two groups. As a result, the integrated sustainability performance was significantly lower for the zero-grazing group. This finding shows that a further shift from intensive grazing to zero-grazing can move dairy farming in Flanders further away from sustainability. An important advice to improve the ecological and economic performance of zero-grazing farms is to optimize cows' rations to include more forages and optimize forage production and use. More detailed site- and case-specific management advice for farmers of both groups was provided during a discussion meeting. We consider this an essential additional step to any sustainability evaluation, since progress can only be made when monitoring results are translated into practical measures.
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  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000306061800003 Publication Date 2012-01-11
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1774-0746 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 4.101 Times cited 26 Open Access
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.101; 2012 IF: 3.573
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127557 Serial 6209
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Author Moretti, M.; Van Dael, M.; Malina, R.; Van Passel, S.
  Title Environmental assessment of waste feedstock mono-dimensional and bio-refinery systems : combining manure co-digestion and municipal waste anaerobic digestion Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2018 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
  Volume 171 Issue 171 Pages 954-961
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Organic municipal solid waste (OMSW) as a feedstock for energy recovery and material recycling offers the potential to reduce environmental impacts from energy production while displacing emission intensive waste management strategies such as landfills. This paper quantifies the environmental impact of anaerobic digestion of local, residual biomass. A life-cycle assessment was jointly performed for two scenarios for the biological treatment of local organic municipal solid waste and pig manure in the Netherlands. Scenario 1 was a separate treatment using anaerobic digestion, and Scenario 2 was a bio-refinery system that integrates anaerobic digestion of organic, municipal solid waste, and co digestion of pig manure and other organic co-substrates \. For both scenarios, electricity and heat are generated using a combined heat and power engine. The bio-refinery system (Scenario 2) contribution to climate change resulted in 0.16 Mt CO2 eq./yr, which is lower than the 0.17 Mt CO2 eq./yr of Scenario 1. Both scenarios are found to be beneficial with regard to resource depletion and human toxicity. The integration of organic waste and manure anaerobic digestion has no effect on acidification and terrestrial eutrophication impact categories, resulting in 43.59 AE eq. and 86.33 AE eq. for Scenario 1 and 43.58 AE eq. and 86.30 AE eq. for Scenario 2. Moreover, Scenario 2 yields 18% lower emissions than those from natural gas derived electricity in the Netherlands. The biorefinery system represents an opportunity to improve organic waste-management strategies, at the same time as reducing the environmental impact from energy production and the costs for surplus manure disposal by producing high-quality commodities that can be traded on the market. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000418978100085 Publication Date 2017-10-13
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited 12 Open Access
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:148444 Serial 6199
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Author Jones, P.T.; Geysen, D.; Tielemans, Y.; Van Passel, S.; Pontikes, Y.; Blanpain, B.; Quaghebeur, M.; Hoekstra, N.
  Title Enhanced landfill mining in view of multiple resource recovery : a critical review Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
  Volume 55 Issue Pages 45-55
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract In a circular economy material loops are closed by recycling of pre-consumer manufacturing scrap/residues, urban mining of End-of-Life products and landfill mining of historic (and future) urban waste streams. However, in the past landfill mining was not performed with a focus on resource recovery. This paper addresses this gap by introducing the concept of Enhanced Landfill Mining, defined as the safe conditioning, excavation and integrated valorization of landfilled waste streams as both materials and energy, using innovative transformation technologies and respecting the most stringent social and ecological criteria. The feasibility of ELFM is studied by synthesizing the research on the Closing the Circle project, the first ELFM project targeting the 18 million metric ton landfill in Houthalen-Helchteren in the East of Belgium. It is argued that Environmental Impact Assessments of ELFM projects should be wide in scope and time. Embedded in a broad resource management perspective, the worldwide potential of ELFM is highlighted, in terms of climate gains, materials and energy utilization, job creation and land reclamation. The potential is quantified for the EU-27 with its 150,000-500,000 landfills. However, for ELFM to reach its full potential, strategic policy decisions and tailored support systems, including combined incentives for material recycling, energy utilization and nature restoration, are required. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000322802300005 Publication Date 2012-05-26
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited 144 Open Access
  Notes ; The authors acknowledge the European and Flemish authorities for the funding of, respectively, the EFRO project 'Closing the Circle, a demonstration of Enhanced Landfill Mining (ELFM)' and the IWT O&O Project 100517. The authors acknowledge the ELFM Consortium Members, including Karel Van Acker, Tom Van Gerven, Marc Craps, Alain De Vocht, Johan Eyckmans, Maarten Dubois, Koen Sips, Luk Umans, Maurice Ballard, Lieve Helsen and Anouk Bosmans. The authors acknowledge the members of the EU ELMIRE Consortium, in particular Hans Groot, Raffaello Cossu, William Hogland and Rainer Stegmann. Finally, the authors thank the reviewers for their critical comments and suggested improvements. ; Approved Most recent IF: 5.715; 2013 IF: 3.590
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127549 Serial 6195
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Author Van Dael, M.; Marquez, N.; Reumerman, P.; Pelkmans, L.; Kuppens, T.; Van Passel, S.
  Title Development and techno-economic evaluation of a biorefinery based on biomass (waste) streams : case study in the Netherlands Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2014 Publication Biofuels Bioproducts & Biorefining-Biofpr Abbreviated Journal Biofuel Bioprod Bior
  Volume 8 Issue 5 Pages 635-644
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract In this paper, the technical and economic advantages of combining conversion technologies into a multi-dimensional plant primarily using regional biomass residues are investigated. The main objective is to show how locally available biomass can be used more efficiently as a source for renewable energy and bio-based products. Therefore, not only is the theoretical perspective considered, but also a reality check for the local situation is taken into account. Although industrial attitude toward biorefineries is positive, the efficient production of a portfolio of bio-based products has not yet been implemented. A biorefinery concept for Moerdijk (the Netherlands) was developed, focusing on grass refining, production of pyrolysis oil, biodiesel production, and bio-LNG production. Grass refining is the most experimental technique of all proposed conversion techniques. In terms of development, pyrolysis oil and bio-LNG production are in the demonstration phase. Anaerobic digestion and biodiesel production are proven techniques. It is shown that this concept allows for synergies with regard to the utilization of residue flows from internal processes. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that by integrating different conversion technologies, an economically feasible concept can be developed in which technologies, currently residing in a demonstration phase, can also be brought to the market. (c) 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
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  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000342662200015 Publication Date 2013-11-20
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1932-104x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 3.694 Times cited 18 Open Access
  Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. The Energy Conversion Parks (ECP) project is funded by the Interreg IVa – Flanders-Netherlands program from the European Fund for Regional Development that stimulates cross-border projects. Also the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Flemish Government, the Provinces of Noord-Brabant (NL), Zeeland (NL), Limburg (BE) and the partners (VITO, Avans University of Applied Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Hasselt University, and Zeeland University of Applied Sciences) themselves are co-financing the project. We also would like to express our gratitude toward the organization of the 2nd Iberoamerican Congress on Biorefineries in Jaen (Spain) for giving us the opportunity to present and thereby fine-tune our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.694; 2014 IF: 4.214
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127541 Serial 6180
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Author Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Pelkmans, L.; Guisson, R.; Swinnen, G.; Schreurs, E.
  Title Determining potential locations for biomass valorization using a macro screening approach Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2012 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
  Volume 45 Issue Pages 175-186
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract European policy states that by 2020 at least 20% of final energy consumption should come from renewable energy sources. Biomass as a renewable energy source cannot be disregarded in order to attain this target. In this study a macro screening approach is developed to determine potential locations for biomass valorization in a specified region. The approach consists of five steps: (1) criteria determination, (2) data gathering, (3) weight assignment, (4) final score, (5) spatial representation. The resulting outcome provides a first well balanced scan of the possibilities for energy production using regional biomass. This way policy makers and investors can be supported and motivated to study the possibilities of building energy production plants at specific locations in more detail, which can be described as a 'micro-screening'. In our case study the approach is applied to determine the potentially interesting locations to establish a biomass project. The region has been limited to the forty-four communities in the province of Limburg (Belgium). The macro screening approach has shown to be very effective since the amount of interesting locations has been reduced drastically. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000308384500019 Publication Date 2012-06-30
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 3.219 Times cited 23 Open Access
  Notes ; The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from INTERREG and the province of Limburg. Special thanks to our colleague Thomas Voets for his effort in making the GIS maps. Moreover, the authors would like to thank the two anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.219; 2012 IF: 2.975
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127554 Serial 6178
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Author Van Dael, M.; Van Passel, S.; Pelkmans, L.; Guisson, R.; Reumermann, P.; Luzardo, N.M.; Witters, N.; Broeze, J.
  Title A techno-economic evaluation of a biomass energy conversion park Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Applied Energy Abbreviated Journal Appl Energ
  Volume 104 Issue Pages 611-622
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Biomass as a renewable energy source has many advantages and is therefore recognized as one of the main renewable energy sources to be deployed in order to attain the target of 20% renewable energy use of final energy consumption by 2020 in Europe. In this paper the concept of a biomass Energy Conversion Park (ECP) is introduced. A biomass ECP can be defined as a synergetic, multi-dimensional biomass conversion site with a highly integrated set of conversion technologies in which a multitude of regionally available biomass (residue) sources are converted into energy and materials. A techno-economic assessment is performed on a case study in the Netherlands to illustrate the concept and to comparatively assess the highly integrated system with two mono-dimensional models. The three evaluated models consist of (1) digestion of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, (2) co-digestion of manure and co-substrates, and (3) integration. From a socio-economic point of view it can be concluded that it is economically and energetically more interesting to invest in the integrated model than in two separate models. The integration is economically feasible and environmental benefits can be realized. For example, the integrated model allows the implementation of a co-digester. Unmanaged manure would otherwise represent a constant pollution risk. However, from an investor's standpoint one should firstly invest in the municipal solid waste digester since the net present value (NPV) of this mono-dimensional model is higher than that of the multi-dimensional model. A sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the most influencing parameters. Our results are of interest for companies involved in the conversion of biomass. The conclusions are useful for policy makers when deciding on policy instruments concerning manure processing or biogas production. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000316152700062 Publication Date 2012-12-25
  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 7.182 Times cited 45 Open Access
  Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. Furthermore, the authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support from INTERREG and the province of Limburg (Belgium). Also, we would like to thank all remaining partners of the ECP project (Eloi Schreurs, Dries Maes, Kristian Coppoolse, Han ten Berge, Bert Annevelink, Nathalie Devriendt, Erwin Cornelissen, Hannes Pieper, Pieter Vollaard, Jan Venselaar, and Hessel Abbink Spaink) for their support and contributions. Finally, we would like to express our gratitude towards the organization of the eighth International Conference on Renewable Resources and Biorefineries in Toulouse (France) for giving us the opportunity to present and thereby fine-tune our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 7.182; 2013 IF: 5.261
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127552 Serial 6145
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Author Lizin, S.; Leroy, J.; Delvenne, C.; Dijk, M.; De Schepper, E.; Van Passel, S.
  Title A patent landscape analysis for organic photovoltaic solar cells : identifying the technology's development phase Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2013 Publication Renewable Energy Abbreviated Journal Renew Energ
  Volume 57 Issue Pages 5-11
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Organic photovoltaics (OPV) have developed into a vast research area. Progress in various directions has made it difficult to monitor the technology's precise development state. We offer a patent landscape analysis over all OPV devices, their substrates and encapsulation materials to provide an overview of patenting activity from a historical, organizational, geographical and technological point of view. Such an exercise is instrumental for private companies and research institutes aiming at both internal or external technology creation. We discuss our findings in the context of the Industrial Life Cycle model and find OPV still residing in the fluid technology development phase. Technology development is still following an exponential growth path, with the majority of patents coming from the Asian continent and in general private companies. For devices, the main technological focus can be traced back to the “H01L-031” international patent classification (IPC) main group. For the queried substrates, the most attention has gone to glass, but paper and textile have drawn significant interest too. Finally, encapsulation is found to be a less mature research field given the smaller number of patent families. The latter shows that the technology has not matured to the level where processing is carried out on a commercial scale. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000319025000002 Publication Date 2013-02-13
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0960-1481 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 4.357 Times cited 18 Open Access
  Notes ; The authors are much obliged to INTERREG for their financial support of the ORGANEXT project (www.organext.org), without which it would have been impossible to conduct this research. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.357; 2013 IF: 3.361
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127551 Serial 6143
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Author Ghorbani, A.; Mousazadeh, H.; Taheri, F.; Ehteshammajd, S.; Azadi, H.; Yazdanpanah, M.; Khajehshahkohi, A.; Tanaskovik, V.; Van Passel, S.
  Title An attempt to develop ecotourism in an unknown area : the case of Nehbandan County, South Khorasan Province, Iran Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
  Volume 23 Issue 8 Pages 11792-11817
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract This study is an attempt to develop ecotourism in Nehbandan County, in the South Khorasan Province, Iran, by representing unknown areas that have tourism potential. The most important obstacle in the development of tourism industry is the lack of strong marketing plans, tourism management, accommodations for overnight and long stays, and medical and health clinic in the desert. This is a qualitative, exploratory case study investigating the status of environmental, sociocultural, and economic impacts of ecotourism development on the native people's livelihood in Nehbandan County in Iran. The methodology is based on field observations, secondary data sources, and field survey. It is an interpretive approach that avoids numbers but focuses on issues linked to culture and nature. In the present study, the grounded theory was used to perform data analysis. Based on the findings, ecotourism has undoubtedly proven to be an effective environmental conservation tool in the study site and enables local people to increase their livelihood security through employment in activities relating to ecotourism and the development of rural livelihood.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000604534700011 Publication Date 2021-01-04
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1387-585x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174994 Serial 6914
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Author Girma, H.; Huge, J.; Gebrehiwot, M.; Van Passel, S.
  Title Farmers' willingness to contribute to the restoration of an Ethiopian Rift Valley lake : a contingent valuation study Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
  Volume 23 Issue 7 Pages 10646-10665
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Lakes provide considerable social, economic, and ecological benefits. However, lakes are shrinking and the water quality is declining, due to human pressures such as water withdrawal and land use change, particularly in the developing world. Despite this, information regarding the economic impact of lake level reduction and local willingness to support restoration programs is lacking. This study employed a contingent valuation method to estimate willingness to pay and to contribute labor to Lake Ziway restoration program, Ethiopia. Face-to-face interviews were administered to 259 randomly selected respondents. Our findings revealed that about one-third of the respondents are willing to pay and about two-third are willing to contribute labor to restore the lake. From the interval regression models, the annual mean willingness to pay was estimated about 21.0 USD for the status quo scenario (the program works to keep water levels constant at current levels) and 31.1 USD for the improvement scenario (the program works to increase the water levels permanently). The annual mean willingness to contribute labor was estimated about 27.7 man-days for the status quo and 39.3 man-days for the improvement scenarios. 'Farm income' positively influenced the willingness to pay together with 'farm plot area.' Similarly, labor contribution was positively influenced by 'farm plot area' and 'education' and negatively by 'farm plot distance.' The economic values derived from this study reflect societal preferences and can form a significant input for policymakers, in support of informed and evidence-based decision-making regarding lake management and restoration in developing countries like Ethiopia.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000590038300001 Publication Date 2020-11-16
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1387-585x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:174271 Serial 6926
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Author Azadi, H.; Moghaddam, S.M.; Burkart, S.; Mahmoudi, H.; Van Passel, S.; Kurban, A.; Lopez-Carr, D.
  Title Rethinking resilient agriculture : from Climate-Smart Agriculture to Vulnerable-Smart Agriculture Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Journal Of Cleaner Production Abbreviated Journal J Clean Prod
  Volume 319 Issue Pages 128602
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) is seeking to overcome the food security problem and develop rural livelihoods while minimizing negative impacts on the environment. However, when such synergies exist, the situation of small-scale farmers is often overlooked, and they are unable to implement new practices and technologies. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to improve CSA by adding the neglected but very important element “small-scale farmer”, and introduce Vulnerable-Smart Agriculture (VSA) as a complete version of CSA. VSA indicates, based on the results of this study, that none of the decisions made by policymakers can be realistic and functional as long as the voice of the farmers influenced by their decisions is not heard. Therefore, to identify different levels for possible interventions and develop VSA monitoring indicators, a new conceptual framework needs to be developed. This study proposed such a framework consisting of five elements: prediction of critical incidents by farmers, measuring the consequences of incidents, identifying farmers' coping strategies, assessing farmers' livelihood capital when facing an incident, and adapting to climate incidents. The primary focus of this study is on farmers' learning and operational preparation to deal with tension and disasters at farm level. Understanding the implications of threats from climate change and the recognizing of coping mechanisms will contribute to an increase in understanding sustainable management.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000728681500005 Publication Date 2021-08-10
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0959-6526 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 5.715 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.715
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:184869 Serial 6942
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Author Naderi Mahdei, K.; Esfahani, S.M.J.; Lebailly, P.; Dogot, T.; Van Passel, S.; Azadi, H.
  Title Environmental impact assessment and efficiency of cotton : the case of Northeast Iran Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
  Volume Issue Pages 1-21
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Cotton is one of the important crops that play an important role in creating a livelihood for rural people in many parts of Iran. Cotton production necessitates a large amount of resources (e.g., fossil energy and agrochemicals, all of which have the potential to damage the environment in various ways). The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the environmental effects of cotton production in the South Khorasan Province of Iran. For this purpose, life cycle assessment (LCA) and data envelopment analysis (DEA) techniques have been applied to investigate the environmental impacts of cotton production. LCA is a practical method to evaluate the environment on the product flow, in which all aspects of the product life cycle are examined by a comprehensive approach. Furthermore, combining the LCA method with other managerial strategies such as DEA could allow researchers to provide decision-makers with more practical and interpretable data. The findings of the efficiency test showed that the average technical efficiency, pure technical efficiency, and scale efficiency were 0.81, 0.92, and 0.87, respectively. Respiratory inorganics (i.e., respiratory effects resulting from winter smog caused by emissions of dust, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides to air) posed the greatest environmental burden in cotton production, followed by non-renewable energy, carcinogens, and global warming. In addition, the highest effects were on human health, and then, on resources and climate change. Energy, on-system pollution, and waste played a crucial role in the environmental impacts of cotton processing. This study suggests improving farmers' knowledge toward the optimum application of chemical fertilizers, or their substitution with green fertilizers, which reduces the environmental effect of growing cotton in the area.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000826851400001 Publication Date 2022-07-18
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1387-585x; 1573-2975 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189630 Serial 7356
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Author Chekol Zewdie, M.; Moretti, M.; Tenessa, D.B.; Van Passel, S.
  Title Farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for improved irrigation water supply program : a discrete choice experiment Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
  Volume Issue Pages 1-24
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract This study examines smallholder farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for an improved irrigation water supply program in northwest Ethiopia. We employed a discrete choice experiment with five attributes and three levels. Data were collected from randomly selected sample households of both irrigation users and non-users. A total of 379 respondents participated, and a mixed logit model was used to analyze the household-level survey data. The result indicates that to deviate from the business-as-usual scenario, smallholder farmers are willing to pay between 3,228 and 8,327 Ethiopian Birr per hectare of irrigated land. Furthermore, the results showed a strong public preference for access to produce cash crops, followed by irrigation water availability in the dry season, and adequate access to improved farm inputs. The results also provide useful information for policymakers and suggested possibilities for generating finance from farmers to cover the operation and maintenance costs of irrigation schemes. Also, this study result reveals that irrigation development and expansion must be integrated into a comprehensive support package that combines irrigation water with access to improved farm inputs and access to produce cash crops on farmers' farm plots.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 001048896000004 Publication Date 2023-08-14
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1387-585x; 1573-2975 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9; 2023 IF: NA
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198283 Serial 9204
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Author Gebremariam, Y.A.; Dessein, J.; Wondimagegnhu, B.A.; Breusers, M.; Lenaerts, L.; Adgo, E.; Van Passel, S.; Minale, A.S.; Nyssen, J.
  Title Undoing the development army : a paradigm shift from transfer of technology to agricultural innovation system in Ethiopian extension Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Environment, development and sustainability Abbreviated Journal
  Volume Issue Pages 1-27
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
  Abstract Appropriate use of agricultural technologies and diversifying the farming activities is critical to addressing food security problems in Africa, including Ethiopia. The country is experimenting with the new Agricultural Innovation System (AIS) approach alongside the well-established Transfer of Technology (ToT) approach. This paper analyzes the gaps between policy discourses (as reflected in policy documents and strategic orientation documents) and extension practices (as reflected in the daily exchanges between farmers and the frontline staff of the Ethiopian extension system). It provides insights into the challenges faced and emphasizes the need for better coordination between policy formulation and implementation to enhance extension services. Policymakers, practitioners, and researchers can benefit from the valuable perspectives the findings offer. The study contributes to understanding the relationship between policy discourses and extension practices, and its implications can inform policy design and implementation in similar contexts. A qualitative research approach was deployed to analyze policy discourse and practice. Data were collected in Fogera, a district in Northwest Ethiopia, between August 2018 and February 2019. The data for the paper were obtained from 23 Focus Group Discussions conducted with men and women. 13 Informant Interviews (KIIs) were also carried out with personnel at different levels of government agricultural services and departments. Transcripts of recordings of the Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were analyzed using a deductive approach. The study focuses on rice crops in the Fogera district, which are crucial for food security and reducing poverty. Although the geographic area is limited, the results can be used to improve the extension system in other areas facing similar challenges. Specifically, the study suggests switching from the traditional transfer of technology approach to the agricultural innovation system approach. Furthermore, the study's techniques, such as qualitative interviews, may have limitations and not fully capture the intricacies of policy and extension practices. The findings demonstrate that, although the policy documents strongly adhere to agricultural innovation system principles, top-down transfer of technology approaches continues to dominate in practice. Moreover, we have found potential discrepancies between the training content delivered and the specific needs of smallholder farmers. Practically, prescriptive systems are still used because agricultural innovation system approaches are not well understood by the Extension Agents. To realize a genuine agricultural innovation system, Ethiopia's extension apparatus should move forward with building committed and robust relationships between farmers, extension agents, researchers, private sectors, and non-governmental organizations. To this end, more research, enhanced training, and improved institutions are needed on what genuine agricultural innovation system could look like at the grass-roots level. This also includes understanding the roles that different actors within Ethiopia's development army should assume how a multi-actor policy dialogue can be organized.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 001126500500006 Publication Date 2023-12-19
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1387-585x; 1573-2975 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9; 2023 IF: NA
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:202804 Serial 9238
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Author Buyle, M.; Audenaert, A.; Billen, P.; Boonen, K.; Van Passel, S.
  Title The future of Ex-Ante LCA? Lessons learned and practical recommendations Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2019 Publication Sustainability Abbreviated Journal Sustainability-Basel
  Volume 11 Issue 19 Pages 5456
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE); Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings (EMIB)
  Abstract Every decision-oriented life cycle assessment (LCAs) entails, at least to some extent, a future-oriented feature. However, apart from the ex-ante LCAs, the majority of LCA studies are retrospective in nature and do not explicitly account for possible future effects. In this review a generic theoretical framework is proposed as a guideline for ex-ante LCA. This framework includes the entire technology life cycle, from the early design phase up to continuous improvements of mature technologies, including their market penetration. The compatibility with commonly applied system models yields an additional aspect of the framework. Practical methods and procedures are categorised, based on how they incorporate future-oriented features in LCA. The results indicate that most of the ex-ante LCAs focus on emerging technologies that have already gone through some research cycles within narrowly defined system boundaries. There is a lack of attention given to technologies that are at a very early development stage, when all options are still open and can be explored at a low cost. It is also acknowledged that technological learning impacts the financial and environmental performance of mature production systems. Once technologies are entering the market, shifts in market composition can lead to substantial changes in environmental performance.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000493525500315 Publication Date 2019-10-01
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 2071-1050 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 1.789 Times cited 4 Open Access
  Notes ; Thanks to Koen Breemersch for providing insightful and useful comments on draft versions of this manuscript. This work was supported by the University of Antwerp and the Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO). The authors also acknowledge anonymous reviewers for the constructive suggestions and the stimulating discussion. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.789
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162571 Serial 6205
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Author Quintelier, M.; Perkisas, T.; Poppe, R.; Batuk, M.; Hendrickx, M.; Hadermann, J.
  Title Determination of spinel content in cycled Li1.2Ni0.13Mn0.54Co0.13O2 using three-dimensional electron diffraction and precession electron diffraction Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Symmetry-Basel Abbreviated Journal Symmetry-Basel
  Volume 13 Issue 11 Pages 1989-17
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
  Abstract Among lithium battery cathode materials, Li1.2Ni0.13Mn0.54Co0.13O2 (LR-NMC) has a high theoretical capacity, but suffers from voltage and capacity fade during cycling. This is partially ascribed to transition metal cation migration, which involves the local transformation of the honeycomb layered structure to spinel-like nano-domains. Determination of the honeycomb layered/spinel phase ratio from powder X-ray diffraction data is hindered by the nanoscale of the functional material and the domains, diverse types of twinning, stacking faults, and the possible presence of the rock salt phase. Determining the phase ratio from transmission electron microscopy imaging can only be done for thin regions near the surfaces of the crystals, and the intense beam that is needed for imaging induces the same transformation to spinel as cycling does. In this article, it is demonstrated that the low electron dose sufficient for electron diffraction allows the collection of data without inducing a phase transformation. Using calculated electron diffraction patterns, we demonstrate that it is possible to determine the volume ratio of the different phases in the particles using a pair-wise comparison of the intensities of the reflections. Using this method, the volume ratio of spinel structure to honeycomb layered structure is determined for a submicron sized crystal from experimental three-dimensional electron diffraction (3D ED) and precession electron diffraction (PED) data. Both twinning and the possible presence of the rock salt phase are taken into account. After 150 charge-discharge cycles, 4% of the volume in LR-NMC particles was transformed irreversibly from the honeycomb layered structure to the spinel structure. The proposed method would be applicable to other multi-phase materials as well.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000815310500001 Publication Date 2021-10-21
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 2073-8994 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
  Impact Factor 1.457 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.457
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189468 Serial 7080
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Author Brienza, F.; Van Aelst, K.; Devred, F.; Magnin, D.; Tschulkow, M.; Nimmegeers, P.; Van Passel, S.; Sels, B.F.; Gerin, P.; Debecker, D.P.; Cybulska, I.
  Title Unleashing lignin potential through the dithionite-assisted organosolv fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
  Volume 450 Issue 3 Pages 138179-14
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
  Abstract The development of biomass pretreatment approaches that, next to (hemi)cellulose valorization, aim at the conversion of lignin to chemicals is essential for the long-term success of a biorefinery. Herein, we discuss a dithionite-assisted organosolv fractionation (DAOF) of lignocellulose in n-butanol and water to produce cellulosic pulp and mono-/oligo-aromatics. The study frames the technicalities of this biorefinery process and relates them to the features of the obtained product streams. We comprehensively identify and quantify all products of interest: solid pulp (acid hydrolysis-HPLC, ATR-FTIR, XRD, SEM, enzymatic hydrolysis-HPLC), lignin derivatives (GPC, GC-MS/FID, 1H-13C HSQC NMR, ICP-AES), and carbohydrate derivatives (HPLC). These results were used for inspecting the economic feasibility of DAOF. In the best process configuration, a high yield of monophenolics was reached (~20%, based on acid insoluble lignin in birch sawdust). Various other lignocellulosic feedstocks were also explored, showing that DAOF is particularly effective on hardwood and herbaceous biomass. Overall, this study demonstrates that DAOF is a viable fractionation method for the sustainable upgrading of lignocellulosic biomass.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000888204900005 Publication Date 2022-07-20
  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 15.1 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15.1
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189322 Serial 7373
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Author Kovács, A.; Billen, P.; Cornet, I.; Wijnants, M.; Neyts, E.C.
  Title Modeling the physicochemical properties of natural deep eutectic solvents : a review Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2020 Publication Chemsuschem Abbreviated Journal Chemsuschem
  Volume 13 Issue 15 Pages 3789-3804
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
  Abstract Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) are mixtures of naturally derived compounds with a significantly decreased melting point due to the specific interactions among the constituents. NADES have benign properties (low volatility, flammability, toxicity, cost) and tailorable physicochemical properties (by altering the type and molar ratio of constituents), hence they are often considered as a green alternative to common organic solvents. Modeling the relation between their composition and properties is crucial though, both for understanding and predicting their behavior. Several efforts were done to this end, yet this review aims at structuring the present knowledge as an outline for future research. First, we reviewed the key properties of NADES and relate them to their structure based on the available experimental data. Second, we reviewed available modeling methods applicable to NADES. At the molecular level, density functional theory and molecular dynamics allow interpreting density differences and vibrational spectra, and computation of interaction energies. Additionally, properties at the level of the bulk media can be explained and predicted by semi-empirical methods based on ab initio methods (COSMO-RS) and equation of state models (PC-SAFT). Finally, methods based on large datasets are discussed; models based on group contribution methods and machine learning. A combination of bulk media and dataset modeling allows qualitative prediction and interpretation of phase equilibria properties on the one hand, and quantitative prediction of melting point, density, viscosity, surface tension and refractive indices on the other hand. In our view, multiscale modeling, combining the molecular and macroscale methods, will strongly enhance the predictability of NADES properties and their interaction with solutes, yielding truly tailorable solvents to accommodate (bio)chemical reactions.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000541499100001 Publication Date 2020-05-07
  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 8.4 Times cited Open Access
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 8.4; 2020 IF: 7.226
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:168851 Serial 6770
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Author Calogiuri, T.; Hagens, M.; Van Groenigen, J.W.; Corbett, T.; Hartmann, J.; Hendriksen, R.; Janssens, I.; Janssens, I.A.; Ledesma Dominguez, G.; Loescher, G.; Mortier, S.; Neubeck, A.; Niron, H.; Poetra, R.P.; Rieder, L.; Struyf, E.; Van Tendeloo, M.; De Schepper, T.; Verdonck, T.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Vicca, S.; Vidal, A.
  Title Design and construction of an experimental setup to enhance mineral weathering through the activity of soil organisms Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Journal of visualized experiments Abbreviated Journal
  Volume Issue 201 Pages e65563-30
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Internet Data Lab (IDLab); Applied mathematics; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
  Abstract Enhanced weathering (EW) is an emerging carbon dioxide (CO2) removal technology that can contribute to climate change mitigation. This technology relies on accelerating the natural process of mineral weathering in soils by manipulating the abiotic variables that govern this process, in particular mineral grain size and exposure to acids dissolved in water. EW mainly aims at reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations by enhancing inorganic carbon sequestration. Until now, knowledge of EW has been mainly gained through experiments that focused on the abiotic variables known for stimulating mineral weathering, thereby neglecting the potential influence of biotic components. While bacteria, fungi, and earthworms are known to increase mineral weathering rates, the use of soil organisms in the context of EW remains underexplored. This protocol describes the design and construction of an experimental setup developed to enhance mineral weathering rates through soil organisms while concurrently controlling abiotic conditions. The setup is designed to maximize weathering rates while maintaining soil organisms' activity. It consists of a large number of columns filled with rock powder and organic material, located in a climate chamber and with water applied via a downflow irrigation system. Columns are placed above a fridge containing jerrycans to collect the leachate. Representative results demonstrate that this setup is suitable to ensure the activity of soil organisms and quantify their effect on inorganic carbon sequestration. Challenges remain in minimizing leachate losses, ensuring homogeneous ventilation through the climate chamber, and avoiding flooding of the columns. With this setup, an innovative and promising approach is proposed to enhance mineral weathering rates through the activity of soil biota and disentangle the effect of biotic and abiotic factors as drivers of EW.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 001127854400015 Publication Date 2023-11-12
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 1940-087x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
  Impact Factor 1.2 Times cited Open Access
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.2; 2023 IF: 1.232
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:200770 Serial 9019
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Author Parrilla, M.; Vanhooydonck, A.; Johns, M.; Watts, R.; De Wael, K.
  Title 3D-printed microneedle-based potentiometric sensor for pH monitoring in skin interstitial fluid Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Sensors and actuators : B : chemical Abbreviated Journal
  Volume 378 Issue Pages 133159-10
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Internet Data Lab (IDLab); Product development; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
  Abstract Wearable electrochemical sensors are driven by the user-friendly capability of continuous monitoring of key biomarkers for diagnostic or therapeutic operations. Particularly, microneedle (MN)-based sensors can access the interstitial fluid (ISF) in the dermis layer of skin to carry out on-body transdermal detection of analytes. Interestingly, 3D-printing technology allows for rapid and versatile prototyping reaching micrometer resolution. Herein, for the first time, we explore 3D-printed hollow MN patches (1 mm height x 1 mm base with 0.3 mm hole) which are modified with conductive inks to develop a potentiometric sensor for pH monitoring. First, the piercing capability of 3D-printed MN patches is demonstrated by using the parafilm model and their insertion in porcine skin. Subsequently, the hollow MNs are filled with conductive inks to engineer a set of microelectrodes. Thereafter, the working and reference electrodes are properly modified with polyaniline and polyvinyl butyral, respectively, toward a highly stable potentiometric cell. A full in vitro characterization is performed within a broad range of pH (i.e. pH 4 to pH 9). Besides, the MN sensor is analytically assessed in phantom gel and pierced on porcine skin to evaluate the resilience of the MN sensor. Finally, the MN sensor is pierced on the forearm of a subject and tested for its on-body monitoring capability. Overall, 3D-printed MN-based potentiometric sensing brings a versatile and affordable technology to minimally-invasively monitor key physiological parameters in the body.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000904590500008 Publication Date 2022-12-12
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 0925-4005 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:192381 Serial 8824
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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 Pages 1-15
  Keywords (up) 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 Most recent IF: NA
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:205764 Serial 9232
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Author Kaliyappan, P.; Paulus, A.; D’Haen, J.; Samyn, P.; Uytdenhouwen, Y.; Hafezkhiabani, N.; Bogaerts, A.; Meynen, V.; Elen, K.; Hardy, A.; Van Bael, M.K.
  Title Probing the impact of material properties of core-shell SiO₂@TiO₂ spheres on the plasma-catalytic CO₂ dissociation using a packed bed DBD plasma reactor Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Journal Of Co2 Utilization Abbreviated Journal J Co2 Util
  Volume 46 Issue Pages 101468
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
  Abstract Plasma catalysis, a promising technology for conversion of CO2 into value-added chemicals near room temperature, is gaining increasing interest. A dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma has attracted attention due to its simple design and operation at near ambient conditions, ease to implement catalysts in the plasma zone and upscaling ability to industrial applications. To improve its main drawbacks, being relatively low conversion and energy efficiency, a packing material is used in the plasma discharge zone of the reactor, sometimes decorated by a catalytic material. Nevertheless, the extent to which different properties of the packing material influence plasma performance is still largely unexplored and unknown. In this study, the particular effect of synthesis induced differences in the morphology of a TiO2 shell covering a SiO2 core packing material on the plasma conversion of CO2 is studied. TiO2 has been successfully deposited around 1.6–1.8 mm sized SiO2 spheres by means of spray coating, starting from aqueous citratoperoxotitanate(IV) precursors. Parameters such as concentration of the Ti(IV) precursor solutions and addition of a binder were found to affect the shells’ properties and surface morphology and to have a major impact on the CO2 conversion in a packed bed DBD plasma reactor. Core-shell SiO2@TiO2 obtained from 0.25 M citratoperoxotitante(IV) precursors with the addition of a LUDOX binder showed the highest CO2 conversion 37.7% (at a space time of 70 s corresponding to an energy efficiency of 2%) and the highest energy efficiency of 4.8% (at a space time of 2.5 s corresponding to a conversion of 3%).
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000634280300004 Publication Date 2021-02-15
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 2212-9820 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
  Impact Factor 4.292 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.292
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:175958 Serial 6773
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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 1 Pages 318-325
  Keywords (up) 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.
  Address
  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 Volders, J.; Elen, K.; Raes, A.; Ninakanti, R.; Kelchtermans, A.-S.; Sastre, F.; Hardy, A.; Cool, P.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Buskens, P.; Van Bael, M.K.
  Title Sunlight-powered reverse water gas shift reaction catalysed by plasmonic Au/TiO₂ nanocatalysts : effects of Au particle size on the activity and selectivity Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Nanomaterials Abbreviated Journal Nanomaterials-Basel
  Volume 12 Issue 23 Pages 4153-13
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
  Abstract This study reports the low temperature and low pressure conversion (up to 160 °C, p = 3.5 bar) of CO2 and H2 to CO using plasmonic Au/TiO2 nanocatalysts and mildly concentrated artificial sunlight as the sole energy source (up to 13.9 kW·m-2 = 13.9 suns). To distinguish between photothermal and non-thermal contributors, we investigated the impact of the Au nanoparticle size and light intensity on the activity and selectivity of the catalyst. A comparative study between P25 TiO2-supported Au nanocatalysts of a size of 6 nm and 16 nm displayed a 15 times higher activity for the smaller particles, which can only partially be attributed to the higher Au surface area. Other factors that may play a role are e.g., the electronic contact between Au and TiO2 and the ratio between plasmonic absorption and scattering. Both catalysts displayed ≥84% selectivity for CO (side product is CH4). Furthermore, we demonstrated that the catalytic activity of Au/TiO2 increases exponentially with increasing light intensity, which indicated the presence of a photothermal contributor. In dark, however, both Au/TiO2 catalysts solely produced CH4 at the same catalyst bed temperature (160 °C). We propose that the difference in selectivity is caused by the promotion of CO desorption through charge transfer of plasmon generated charges (as a non-thermal contributor).
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000896093900001 Publication Date 2022-11-24
  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 5.3 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.3
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191843 Serial 7341
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Author Gupta, A.; Baron, G.V.; Perreault, P.; Lenaerts, S.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Cool, P.; Mileo, P.G.M.; Rogge, S.; Van Speybroeck, V.; Watson, G.; Van Der Voort, P.; Houlleberghs, M.; Breynaert, E.; Martens, J.; Denayer, J.F.M.
  Title Hydrogen clathrates : next generation hydrogen storage materials Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Energy Storage Materials Abbreviated Journal
  Volume 41 Issue Pages 69-107
  Keywords (up) A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
  Abstract Extensive research has been carried on the molecular adsorption in high surface area materials such as carbonaceous materials and MOFs as well as atomic bonded hydrogen in metals and alloys. Clathrates stand among the ones to be recently suggested for hydrogen storage. Although, the simulations predict lower capacity than the expected by the DOE norms, the additional benefits of clathrates such as low production and operational cost, fully reversible reaction, environmentally benign nature, low risk of flammability make them one of the most promising materials to be explored in the next decade. The inherent ability to tailor the properties of clathrates using techniques such as addition of promoter molecules, use of porous supports and formation of novel reverse micelles morphology provide immense scope customisation and growth. As rapidly evolving materials, clathrates promise to get as close as possible in the search of “holy grail” of hydrogen storage. This review aims to provide the audience with the background of the current developments in the solid-state hydrogen storage materials, with a special focus on the hydrogen clathrates. The in-depth analysis of the hydrogen clathrates will be provided beginning from their discovery, various additives utilised to enhance their thermodynamic and kinetic properties, challenges in the characterisation of hydrogen in clathrates, theoretical developments to justify the experimental findings and the upscaling opportunities presented by this system. The review will present state of the art in the field and also provide a global picture for the path forward.
  Address
  Corporate Author Thesis
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor
  Language Wos 000685118300009 Publication Date 2021-06-08
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition
  ISSN 2405-8297 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:178744 Serial 8045
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