|
“A Chemical Approach to Raise Cell Voltage and Suppress Phase Transition in O3 Sodium Layered Oxide Electrodes”. Sathiya M, Jacquet Q, Doublet ML, Karakulina OM, Hadermann J, Tarascon J-M, Advanced energy materials (2018). http://doi.org/10.1002/aenm.201702599
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 21.875
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1002/aenm.201702599
|
|
|
“Blue-edge slow photons promoting visible-light hydrogen production on gradient ternary 3DOM TiO 2 -Au-CdS photonic crystals”. Zhao H, Hu Z, Liu J, Li Y, Wu M, Van Tendeloo G, Su B-L, Nano energy 47, 266 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.nanoen.2018.02.052
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.343
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2018.02.052
|
|
|
“The role of the electrode surface in Na-Air batteries : insights in electrochemical product formation and chemical growth of NaO2”. Lutz L, Corte DAD, Chen Y, Batuk D, Johnson LR, Abakumov A, Yate L, Azaceta E, Bruce PG, Tarascon J-M, Grimaud A, Advanced energy materials 8, 1701581 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1002/AENM.201701581
Abstract: The Na-air battery, because of its high energy density and low charging overpotential, is a promising candidate for low-cost energy storage, hence leading to intensive research. However, to achieve such a battery, the role of the positive electrode material in the discharge process must be understood. This issue is herein addressed by exploring the electrochemical reduction of oxygen, as well as the chemical formation and precipitation of NaO2 using different electrodes. Whereas a minor influence of the electrode surface is demonstrated on the electrochemical formation of NaO2, a strong dependence of the subsequent chemical precipitation of NaO2 is identified. In the origin, this effect stems from the surface energy and O-2/O-2(-) affinity of the electrode. The strong interaction of Au with O-2/O-2(-) increases the nucleation rate and leads to an altered growth process when compared to C surfaces. Consequently, thin (3 mu m) flakes of NaO2 are found on Au, whereas on C large cubes (10 mu m) of NaO2 are formed. This has significant impact on the cell performance and leads to four times higher capacity when C electrodes with low surface energy and O-2/O-2(-) affinity are used. It is hoped that these findings will enable the design of new positive electrode materials with optimized surfaces.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 16.721
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1002/AENM.201701581
|
|
|
“Approaching the limits of cationic and anionic electrochemical activity with the Li-rich layered rocksalt Li3IrO4”. Perez AJ, Jacquet Q, Batuk D, Iadecola A, Saubanere M, Rousse G, Larcher D, Vezin H, Doublet M-L, Tarascon J-M, Nature energy 2, 954 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1038/S41560-017-0042-7
Abstract: The Li-rich rocksalt oxides Li2MO3 (M = 3d/4d/5d transition metal) are promising positive-electrode materials for Li-ion batteries, displaying capacities exceeding 300 mAh g(-1) thanks to the participation of the oxygen non-bonding O(2p) orbitals in the redox process. Understanding the oxygen redox limitations and the role of the O/M ratio is therefore crucial for the rational design of materials with improved electrochemical performances. Here we push oxygen redox to its limits with the discovery of a Li3IrO4 compound (O/M = 4) that can reversibly take up and release 3.5 electrons per Ir and possesses the highest capacity ever reported for any positive insertion electrode. By quantitatively monitoring the oxidation process, we demonstrate the material's instability against O-2 release on removal of all Li. Our results show that the O/M parameter delineates the boundary between the material's maximum capacity and its stability, hence providing valuable insights for further development of high-capacity materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 55
DOI: 10.1038/S41560-017-0042-7
|
|
|
“Carbon Incorporation and Anion Dynamics as Synergistic Drivers for Ultrafast Diffusion in Superionic LiCB11H12 and NaCB11H12”. Dimitrievska M, Shea P, Kweon KE, Bercx M, Varley JB, Tang WS, Skripov AV, Stavila V, Udovic TJ, Wood BC, Advanced energy materials 8, 1703422 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1002/AENM.201703422
Abstract: The disordered phases of LiCB11H12 and NaCB11H12 possess superb superionic conductivities that make them suitable as solid electrolytes. In these materials, cation diffusion correlates with high orientational mobilities of the CB11H12- anions; however, the precise relationship has yet to be demonstrated. In this work, ab initio molecular dynamics and quasielastic neutron scattering are combined to probe anion reorientations and their mechanistic connection to cation mobility over a range of timescales and temperatures. It is found that anions do not rotate freely, but rather transition rapidly between orientations defined by the cation sublattice symmetry. The symmetry-breaking carbon atom in CB11H12- also plays a critical role by perturbing the energy landscape along the instantaneous orientation of the anion dipole, which couples fluctuations in the cation probability density directly to the anion motion. Anion reorientation rates exceed 3 x 10(10) s(-1), suggesting the underlying energy landscape fluctuates dynamically on diffusion-relevant timescales. Furthermore, carbon is found to modify the orientational preferences of the anions and aid rotational mobility, creating additional symmetry incompatibilities that inhibit ordering. The results suggest that synergy between the anion reorientational dynamics and the carbon-modified cation-anion interaction accounts for the higher ionic conductivity in CB11H12- salts compared with B12H122-.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 16.721
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1002/AENM.201703422
|
|
|
“Revealing pH-Dependent Activities and Surface Instabilities for Ni-Based Electrocatalysts during the Oxygen Evolution Reaction”. Yang C, Batuk M, Jacquet Q, Rousse G, Yin W, Zhang L, Hadermann J, Abakumov AM, Cibin G, Chadwick A, Tarascon J-M, Grimaud A, ACS energy letters , 2884 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.8b01818
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.8b01818
|
|
|
“A universal synthesis strategy for single atom dispersed cobalt/metal clusters heterostructure boosting hydrogen evolution catalysis at all pH values”. Yuan S, Pu Z, Zhou H, Yu J, Amiinu IS, Zhu J, Liang Q, Yang J, He D, Hu Z, Van Tendeloo G, Mu S, Nano energy 59, 472 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.NANOEN.2019.02.062
Abstract: The development of a stable, efficient and economic catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) of water splitting is one of the most hopeful approaches to confront the environmental and energy crisis. A two-step method is employed to obtain metal clusters (Ru, N, Pd etc.) combining single cobalt atoms anchored on nitrogen-doped carbon (Ru/Pt/Pd@Co-SAs/N-C). Based on the synergistic effect between Ru clusters and single cobalt atoms, Ru@Co-SAs/N-C exhibits an outstanding HER electrocatalytic activity. Specifically, Ru@Co-SAs/N-C only needs 7 mV overpotential at 10 mA cm(-2) in 1 M KOH solution, which is much better than commercial 20 wt% PVC (40 mV) catalyst. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations further reveal the synergy effect between surface Ru nanoclusters and Co-SAs/N-C toward hydrogen adsorption for HER. Additionally, Ru@CoSAs/N-C also exhibits excellent catalytic ability and durability under acidic and neutral media. The present study opens a new avenue towards the design of metal clusters/single cobalt atoms heterostructures with outstanding performance toward HER and beyond.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.343
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1016/J.NANOEN.2019.02.062
|
|
|
“Wide band gap kesterite absorbers for thin film solar cells: potential and challenges for their deployment in tandem devices”. Vermang B, Brammertz G, Meuris M, Schnabel T, Ahlswede E, Choubrac L, Harel S, Cardinaud C, Arzel L, Barreau N, van Deelen J, Bolt P-J, Bras P, Ren Y, Jaremalm E, Khelifi S, Yang S, Lauwaert J, Batuk M, Hadermann J, Kozina X, Handick E, Hartmann C, Gerlach D, Matsuda A, Ueda S, Chikyow T, Felix R, Zhang Y, Wilks RG, Baer M, Sustainable Energy &, Fuels 3, 2246 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1039/C9SE00266A
Abstract: This work reports on developments in the field of wide band gap Cu2ZnXY4 (with X = Sn, Si or Ge, and Y = S, Se) kesterite thin film solar cells. An overview on recent developments and the current understanding of wide band gap kesterite absorber layers, alternative buffer layers, and suitable transparent back contacts is presented. Cu2ZnGe(S,Se)(4) absorbers with absorber band gaps up to 1.7 eV have been successfully developed and integrated into solar cells. Combining a CdS buffer layer prepared by an optimized chemical bath deposition process with a 1.36 eV band gap absorber resulted in a record Cu2ZnGeSe4 cell efficiency of 7.6%, while the highest open-circuit voltage of 730 mV could be obtained for a 1.54 eV band gap absorber and a Zn(O,S) buffer layer. Employing InZnOx or TiO2 protective top layers on SnO2:In transparent back contacts yields 85-90% of the solar cell performance of reference cells (with Mo back contact). These advances show the potential as well as the challenges of wide band gap kesterites for future applications in high-efficiency and low-cost tandem photovoltaic devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1039/C9SE00266A
|
|
|
“Impact of rough substrates on hydrogen-doped indium oxides for the application in CIGS devices”. Erfurt D, Koida T, Heinemann MD, Li C, Bertram T, Nishinaga J, Szyszka B, Shibata H, Klenk R, Schlatmann R, Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells 206, 110300 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SOLMAT.2019.110300
Abstract: Indium oxide based transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) are promising contact layers in solar cells due to their outstanding electrical and optical properties. However, when applied in Cu(In,Ga)Se-2 or Si-hetero-junction solar cells the specific roughness of the material beneath can affect the growth and the properties of the TCO. We investigated the electrical properties of hydrogen doped and hydrogen-tungsten co-doped indium oxides grown on rough Cu(In,Ga)Se-2 samples as well as on textured and planar glass. At sharp ridges and V-shaped valleys crack-shaped voids form inside the indium oxide films, which limit the effective electron mobility of the In2O3:H and In2O3:H,W thin films. This was found for films deposited by magnetron sputtering and reactive plasma deposition at several deposition parameters, before as well as after annealing and solid phase crystallization. This suggests universal behavior that will have a wide impact on solar cell devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.9
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOLMAT.2019.110300
|
|
|
“The path towards efficient wide band gap thin-film kesterite solar cells with transparent back contact for viable tandem application”. 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, Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells 219, 110824 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.solmat.2020.110824
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.784
DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2020.110824
|
|
|
“Facile dry coating method of high-nickel cathode material by nanostructured fumed alumina (Al2O3) improving the performance of lithium-ion batteries”. Herzog MJ, Gauquelin N, Esken D, Verbeeck J, Janek J, Energy technology 9, 2100028 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1002/ENTE.202100028
Abstract: Surface coating is a crucial method to mitigate the aging problem of high-Ni cathode active materials (CAMs). By avoiding the direct contact of the CAM and the electrolyte, side reactions are hindered. Commonly used techniques like wet or ALD coating are time consuming and costly. Therefore, a more cost-effective coating technique is desirable. Herein, a facile and fast dry powder coating process for CAMs with nanostructured fumed metal oxides are reported. As the model case, the coating of high-Ni NMC (LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2) by nanostructured fumed Al2O3 is investigated. A high coverage of the CAM surface with an almost continuous coating layer is achieved, still showing some porosity. Electrochemical evaluation shows a significant increase in capacity retention, cycle life and rate performance of the coated NMC material. The coating layer protects the surface of the CAM successfully and prevents side reactions, resulting in reduced solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation and charge transfer impedance during cycling. A mechanism on how the coating layer enhances the cycling performance is hypothesized. The stable coating layer effectively prevents crack formation and particle disintegration of the NMC. In depth analysis indicates partial formation of LixAl2O3/LiAlO2 in the coating layer during cycling, enhancing lithium ion diffusivity and thus, also the rate performance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1002/ENTE.202100028
|
|
|
“Interface cation migration kinetics induced oxygen release heterogeneity in layered lithium cathodes”. Li C-F, Zhao K, Liao X, Hu Z-Y, Zhang L, Zhao Y, Mu S, Li Y, Li Y, Van Tendeloo G, Sun C, Energy Storage Materials 36, 115 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENSM.2020.12.018
Abstract: The irreversible release of the lattice oxygen in layered cathodes is one of the major degradation mechanisms of lithium ion batteries, which accounts for a number of battery failures including the voltage/capacity fade, loss of cation ions and detachment of the primary particles, etc. Oxygen release is generally attributed to the stepwise thermodynamic controlled phase transitions from the layered to spinel and rock salt phases. Here, we report a strong kinetic effect from the mobility of cation ions, whose migration barrier can be significantly modulated by the phase epitaxy at the degrading interface. It ends up with a clear oxygen release heterogeneity and completely different reaction pathways between the thin and thick areas, as well as the interparticle valence boundaries, both of which widely exist in the mainstream cathode design with the secondary agglomerates. This work unveils the origin of the heterogenous oxygen release in the layered cathodes. It also sheds light on the rational design of cathode materials with enhanced oxygen stability by suppressing the cation migration.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENSM.2020.12.018
|
|
|
“Increased Performance Improvement of Lithium-Ion Batteries by Dry Powder Coating of High-Nickel NMC with Nanostructured Fumed Ternary Lithium Metal Oxides”. Herzog MJ, Gauquelin N, Esken D, Verbeeck J, Janek J, ACS applied energy materials 4, 8832 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsaem.1c00939
Abstract: Dry powder coating is an effective approach to protect the surfaces of layered cathode active materials (CAMs) in lithium-ion batteries. Previous investigations indicate an incorporation of lithium ions in fumed Al2O3, ZrO2, and TiO2 coatings on LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2 during cycling, improving the cycling performance. Here, this coating approach is transferred for the first time to fumed ternary LiAlO2, Li4Zr3O8, and Li4Ti5O12 and directly compared with their lithium-free equivalents. All materials could be processed equally and their nanostructured small aggregates accumulate on the CAM surfaces to quite homogeneous coating layers with a certain porosity. The LiNixMnyCozO2 (NMC) coated with lithium-containing materials shows an enhanced improvement in overall capacity, capacity retention, rate performance, and polarization behavior during cycling, compared to their lithium-free analogues. The highest rate performance was achieved with the fumed ZrO2 coating, while the best long-term cycling stability with the highest absolute capacity was obtained for the fumed LiAlO2-coated NMC. The optimal coating agent for NMC to achieve a balanced system is fumed Li4Ti5O12, providing a good compromise between high rate capability and good capacity retention. The coating agents prevent CAM particle cracking and degradation in the order LiAlO2 ≈ Al2O3 > Li4Ti5O12 > Li4Zr3O8 > ZrO2 > TiO2. A schematic model for the protection and electrochemical performance enhancement of high-nickel NMC with fumed metal oxide coatings is sketched. It becomes apparent that physical and chemical characteristics of the coating significantly influence the performance of NMC. A high degree of coating-layer porosity is favorable for the rate capability, while a high coverage of the surface, especially in vulnerable grain boundaries, enhances the long-term cycling stability and improves the cracking behavior of NMCs. While zirconium-containing coatings possess the best chemical properties for high rate performances, aluminum-containing coatings feature a superior chemical nature to protect high-nickel NMCs.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1021/acsaem.1c00939
|
|
|
“Grain boundaries as a diffusion-limiting factor in lithium-rich NMC cathodes for high-energy lithium-ion batteries”. Abakumov AM, Li C, Boev A, Aksyonov DA, Savina AA, Abakumova TA, Van Tendeloo G, Bals S, ACS applied energy materials 4, 6777 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSAEM.1C00872
Abstract: High-energy lithium-rich layered transition metal oxides are capable of delivering record electrochemical capacity and energy density as positive electrodes for Li-ion batteries. Their electrochemical behavior is extremely complex due to sophisticated interplay between crystal structure, electronic structure, and defect structure. Here we unravel an extra level of this complexity by revealing that the most typical representative Li1.2Ni0.13Mn0.54Co0.13O2 material, prepared by a conventional coprecipitation technique with Na2CO3 as a precipitating agent, contains abundant coherent (001) grain boundaries with a Na-enriched P2-structured block due to segregation of the residual sodium traces. The trigonal prismatic oxygen coordination of Na triggers multiple nanoscale twinning, giving rise to incoherent (104) boundaries. The cationic layers at the (001) grain boundaries are filled with transition metal cations being Mn-depleted and Co-enriched; this makes them virtually not permeable for the Li+ cations, and therefore they negatively influence the Li diffusion in and out of the spherical agglomerates. These results demonstrate that besides the mechanisms intrinsic to the crystal and electronic structure of Li-rich cathodes, their rate capability might also be depreciated by peculiar microstructural aspects. Dedicated engineering of grain boundaries opens a way for improving inherently sluggish kinetics of these materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1021/ACSAEM.1C00872
|
|
|
“Exploring the role of graphene oxide as a co-catalyst in the CZTS photocathodes for improved photoelectrochemical properties”. Vishwakarma M, Batra Y, Hadermann J, Singh A, Ghosh A, Mehta BR, ACS applied energy materials 5, 7538 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSAEM.2C01011
Abstract: The hydrogen evolution properties of CZTS heterostructure photocathodes are reported with graphene oxide (GO) as a co-catalyst layer coated by a drop-cast method and an Al2O3 protection layer fabricated using atomic layer deposition. In the CZTS absorber, a minor deviation from stoichiometry across the cross section of the thin film results in nanoscale growth of spurious phases, but the kesterite phase remains the dominant phase. We have investigated the band alignment parameters such as the band gap, work function, and Fermi level position that are crucial for making kesterite-based heterostructure devices. The photocurrent density in the photocathode CZTS/CdS/ZnO is found to be improved to -4.71 mAmiddotcm(-2) at -0.40 V-RHE, which is 3 times that of the pure CZTS. This enhanced photoresponse can be attributed to faster carrier separation at p-n junction regions driven by upward band bending at CZTS grain boundaries and the ZnO layer. GO as a co-catalyst over the heterostructure photocathode significantly improves the photocurrent density to -6.14 mAmiddotcm(-2) at -0.40 V-RHE by effective charge migration in the CZTS/CdS/ZnO/GO configuration, but the onset potential shifts only after application of the Al2O3 protection layer. Significant photocurrents of -29 mAmiddotcm(-2) at -0.40 V-RHE and -8 mAmiddotcm(-2) at 0 V-RHE are observed, with an onset potential of 0.7 V-RHE in CZTS/CdS/ZnO/GO/Al2O3. The heterostructure configuration and the GO co-catalyst reduce the charge-transfer resistance, while the Al2O3 top layer provides a stable photocurrent for a prolonged time (similar to 16 h). The GO co-catalyst increases the flat band potential from 0.26 to 0.46 V-RHE in CZTS/CdS/ZnO/GO, which supports the bias-induced band bending at the electrolyte-electrode interface.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.4
DOI: 10.1021/ACSAEM.2C01011
|
|
|
“Topotactic redox cycling in SrFeO2.5+&delta, explored by 3D electron diffraction in different gas atmospheres”. Batuk M, Vandemeulebroucke D, Ceretti M, Paulus W, Hadermann J, Journal of materials chemistry A : materials for energy and sustainability (2022). http://doi.org/10.1039/D2TA03247C
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 11.9
DOI: 10.1039/D2TA03247C
|
|
|
“3D-cavity-confined CsPbBr₃, quantum dots for visible-light-driven photocatalytic C(sp³)-H bond activation”. Gao Y-J, Jin H, Esteban DA, Weng B, Saha RA, Yang M-Q, Bals S, Steele JA, Huang H, Roeffaers MBJ, Carbon Energy , e559 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1002/CEY2.559
Abstract: Metal halide perovskite (MHP) quantum dots (QDs) offer immense potential for several areas of photonics research due to their easy and low-cost fabrication and excellent optoelectronic properties. However, practical applications of MHP QDs are limited by their poor stability and, in particular, their tendency to aggregate. Here, we develop a two-step double-solvent strategy to grow and confine CsPbBr3 QDs within the three-dimensional (3D) cavities of a mesoporous SBA-16 silica scaffold (CsPbBr3@SBA-16). Strong confinement and separation of the MHP QDs lead to a relatively uniform size distribution, narrow luminescence, and good ambient stability over 2 months. In addition, the CsPbBr3@SBA-16 presents a high activity and stability for visible-light-driven photocatalytic toluene C(sp(3))-H bond activation to produce benzaldehyde with similar to 730 mu mol g(-1) h(-1) yield rate and near-unity selectivity. Similarly, the structural stability of CsPbBr3@SBA-16 QDs is superior to that of both pure CsPbBr3 QDs and those confined in MCM-41 with 1D channels.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1002/CEY2.559
|
|
|
“Single-layered imine-linked porphyrin-based two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks targeting CO₂, reduction”. Arisnabarreta N, Hao Y, Jin E, Salame A, Muellen K, Robert M, Lazzaroni R, Van Aert S, Mali KS, De Feyter S, Advanced energy materials (2024). http://doi.org/10.1002/AENM.202304371
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 27.8
DOI: 10.1002/AENM.202304371
|
|
|
“Probing charge transport and microstructural attributes in solvent- versus water-based electrodes with a spotlight on Li-S battery cathode”. Yari S, Bird L, Rahimisheikh S, Reis AC, Mohammad M, Hadermann J, Robinson J, Shearing PR, Safari M, Advanced energy materials , 2402163 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1002/AENM.202402163
Abstract: In the quest for environmentally benign battery technologies, this study examines the microstructural and transport properties of water-processed electrodes and compares them to conventionally formulated electrodes using the toxic solvent, N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). Special focus is placed on sulfur electrodes utilized in lithium-sulfur batteries for their sustainability and compatibility with diverse binder/solvent systems. The characterization of the electrodes by X-ray micro-computed tomography reveals that in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide/NMP, sulfur particles tend to remain in large clusters but break down into finer particles in carboxymethyl cellulose-styrene butadiene rubber (CMC-SBR)/water and lithium polyacrylate (LiPAA)/water dispersions. The findings reveal that in the water-based electrodes, the binder properties dictate the spatial arrangement of carbon particles, resulting in either thick aggregates with short-range connectivity or thin films with long-range connectivity among sulfur particles. Additionally, cracking is found to be particularly prominent in thicker water-based electrodes, propagating especially in regions with larger particle agglomerates and often extending to cause local delamination of the electrodes. These microstructural details are shown to significantly impact the tortuosity and contact resistance of the sulfur electrodes and thereby affecting the cycling performance of the Li-S battery cells. The choice of solvent and binder is crucial in determining particle surface charge, which directly influences active material dispersion and carbon-binder arrangement within the battery porous electrodes. This, in turn, affects ionic and electronic transport properties, ultimately impacting electrochemical performance. Meticulous engineering of the slurry to control these factors is essential for efficient and sustainable water-based electrode processing. image
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 27.8
DOI: 10.1002/AENM.202402163
|
|
|
“Nickel-containing N-doped carbon as effective electrocatalysts for the reduction of CO2 to CO in a continuous-flow electrolyzer”. Daems N, De Mot B, Choukroun D, Van Daele K, Li C, Hubin A, Bals S, Hereijgers J, Breugelmans T, Sustainable energy &, fuels 4, 1296 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1039/C9SE00814D
Abstract: Nickel-containing N-doped carbons were synthesized for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CO, which is a promising approach to reduce the atmospheric CO2 levels and its negative impact on the environment. Unfortunately, poor performance (activity, selectivity and/or stability) is still a major hurdle for the economical implementation of this type of materials. The electrocatalysts were prepared through an easily up-scalable and easily tunable method based on the pyrolysis of Ni-containing N-doped carbons. Ni–N–AC–B1 synthesized with a high relative amount of nitrogen and nickel with respect to carbon, was identified as the most promising candidate for this reaction based on its partial CO current density (4.2 mA cm−2), its overpotential (0.57 V) and its faradaic efficiency to CO (>99%). This results in unprecedented values for the current density per g active sites (690 A g−1 active sites). Combined with its decent stability and its high performance in an actual electrolyzer setup, this makes it a promising candidate for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CO on a larger scale. Finally, the evaluation of this kind of material in a flow-cell setup has been limited and to the best of our knowledge never included an evaluation of several crucial parameters (e.g. electrolyte type, anode composition and membrane type) and is an essential investigation in the move towards up-scaling and ultimately industrial application of this technique. This study resulted in an optimal cell configuration, consisting of Pt as an anode, Fumatech® as the membrane and 1 M KHCO3 and 2 M KOH as catholyte and anolyte, respectively. In conclusion, this research offers a unique combination of electrocatalyst development and reactor optimization.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1039/C9SE00814D
|
|
|
“Monitoring oxygen production on mass-selected iridium–tantalum oxide electrocatalysts”. Zheng Y-R, Vernieres J, Wang Z, Zhang K, Hochfilzer D, Krempl K, Liao T-W, Presel F, Altantzis T, Fatermans J, Scott SB, Secher NM, Moon C, Liu P, Bals S, Van Aert S, Cao A, Anand M, Nørskov JK, Kibsgaard J, Chorkendorff I, Nature Energy (2021). http://doi.org/10.1038/s41560-021-00948-w
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Times cited: 95
DOI: 10.1038/s41560-021-00948-w
|
|
|
“Toward the rational design of Cu electrocatalysts for improved performance of the NO3RR”. Hoekx S, Daems N, Arenas Esteban D, Bals S, Breugelmans T, ACS applied energy materials 7, 3761 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSAEM.3C03207
Abstract: Cu is one of the most promising materials as an electrocatalyst for the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) to ammonia, a reaction that can simultaneously remove nitrates from wastewater and produce ammonia, a high-value commodity chemical. However, a rational approach to catalyst design is lacking, limiting efficient catalyst optimization. In this work, we propose a way to synthesize monodisperse, polycrystalline Cu NPs with small variances in size by changing the carbon chain length of the phosphonic acid-based ligand. Cu NPs with 8.3, 10.0, and 11.9 nm diameters are successfully synthesized, and high-resolution electron microscopy and tomography are used to characterize these NPs in depth. By isolating Cu NP size as a parameter, we can unequivocally establish its effect on electrochemical performance for the NO3RR to ammonia under optimal operating conditions for the catalyst (0.1 M KOH electrolyte at -1.25 V vs RHE, as established in the first phase). The smallest Cu NPs (8.3 nm with a TDPA ligand) perform best, achieving Faradaic efficiencies (FEs) of 85.4% and absolute current densities of similar to 250 mA cm(-2), with increasing current densities and constant FEs as the particle size decreases. To allow for a rational approach to Cu-based catalyst design from a stability perspective, this work completed a first study of the main degradation pathway that the Cu NPs undergo during NO3RR. High-resolution electron microscopy and tomography are used to characterize the particles at various stages of the reaction. The NPs undergo agglomeration, pulverization, and particle detachment due to the reaction, starting at a particle size of 8.3 nm and progressively getting smaller, but leveling off, until a NP size of 2.6 nm is reached after 2 h of electrolysis. This decrease in NP size goes paired with a decrease in FE from 83% after the first 15 min to 74% after 2 h at -0.75 V vs RHE, despite the increase in active surface area. These insights into the most prominent degradation mechanisms allow for rational adjustments to future catalysts to combat these changes; for example, by embedding NPs in a tailored support, morphological degradation could be impeded. Therefore, these insights allow for a rational approach to the improvement of the stability of Cu-based catalysts for the NO3RR, a very important but often an overlooked aspect of catalyst design.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Impact Factor: 6.4
DOI: 10.1021/ACSAEM.3C03207
|
|
|
“Understanding the Activation of Anionic Redox Chemistry in Ti4+-Substituted Li2MnO3as a Cathode Material for Li-Ion Batteries”. Paulus A, Hendrickx M, Mayda S, Batuk M, Reekmans G, von Holst M, Elen K, Abakumov AM, Adriaensens P, Lamoen D, Partoens B, Hadermann J, Van Bael MK, Hardy A, ACS applied energy materials 6, 6956 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsaem.3c00451
Abstract: Layered Li-rich oxides, demonstrating both cationic and anionic redox chemistry being used as positive electrodes for Li-ion batteries,have raised interest due to their high specific discharge capacities exceeding 250 mAh/g. However, irreversible structural transformations triggered by anionic redox chemistry result in pronounced voltagefade (i.e., lowering the specific energy by a gradual decay of discharge potential) upon extended galvanostatic cycling. Activating or suppressing oxygen anionic redox through structural stabilization induced by redox-inactivecation substitution is a well-known strategy. However, less emphasishas been put on the correlation between substitution degree and theactivation/suppression of the anionic redox. In this work, Ti4+-substituted Li2MnO3 was synthesizedvia a facile solution-gel method. Ti4+ is selected as adopant as it contains no partially filled d-orbitals. Our study revealedthat the layered “honeycomb-ordered” C2/m structure is preserved when increasing the Ticontent to x = 0.2 in the Li2Mn1-x Ti (x) O-3 solidsolution, as shown by electron diffraction and aberration-correctedscanning transmission electron microscopy. Galvanostatic cycling hintsat a delayed oxygen release, due to an improved reversibility of theanionic redox, during the first 10 charge-discharge cyclesfor the x = 0.2 composition compared to the parentmaterial (x = 0), followed by pronounced oxygen redoxactivity afterward. The latter originates from a low activation energybarrier toward O-O dimer formation and Mn migration in Li2Mn0.8Ti0.2O3, as deducedfrom first-principles molecular dynamics (MD) simulations for the“charged” state. Upon lowering the Ti substitution to x = 0.05, the structural stability was drastically improvedbased on our MD analysis, stressing the importance of carefully optimizingthe substitution degree to achieve the best electrochemical performance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 6.4
DOI: 10.1021/acsaem.3c00451
|
|
|
“Hierarchical CdS/m-TiO 2 /G ternary photocatalyst for highly active visible light-induced hydrogen production from water splitting with high stability”. 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, Nano energy 47, 8 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.nanoen.2018.02.021
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 12.343
Times cited: 58
DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2018.02.021
|
|
|
“The future of organic photovoltaic solar cells as a direct power source for consumer electronics”. Lizin S, Van Passel S, De Schepper E, Vranken L, Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells 103, 1 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SOLMAT.2012.04.001
Abstract: As the search for marketable photovoltaic solar cells continues, organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells have been identified as a technology with many attractive features for commercialization. Most photovoltaic technologies on the market today were improved in the consumer electronics market segment. A similar evolution has been envisioned for OPV. Hence this paper investigates consumer preferences for solar cells directly powering consumer electronics. Choice experiments were designed and responses were collected using a random sample of 300 individuals from the Flemish region (northern part of Belgium). Results allow for computation of attribute importance, willingness to pay (WTP), and simulation of theoretical market share. These measures point towards OPV being able to reach considerable market share in the long run, bearing in mind that efforts are first needed in elevating OPV's efficiency and lifetime as they most determine consumers' preferences. Price is found to be the least important product characteristic for OPV solar cells to be incorporated in consumer electronics devices. We therefore warn against generalizing attributes' importance across the boundaries of market segments. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.784
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOLMAT.2012.04.001
|
|
|
“Steering the adoption of battery storage through electricity tariff design”. Milis K, Peremans H, Van Passel S, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 98, 125 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2018.09.005
Abstract: The economic viability of electricity storage using batteries, under different tariff structures and system configurations, is investigated. The economic outcomes of the different combinations of tariff design and system configuration are evaluated. Based on a discussion of the relevant literature, the following tariff designs are used in the study: (i) fixed energy prices, (ii) real-time energy pricing, (iii) fixed rate capacity tariffs, and (iv) capacity dependent capacity tariffs. Next, the different simulated system configurations are outlined: (i) no battery storage, (ii) battery storage only, and (iii) battery storage and decentralized renewable energy production with PV. Our study provides insights for policy makers, showing that capacity block pricing only incentivises storage as part of an (existing) PV installation, while the combination of real time energy pricing and capacity block pricing promotes a wider adoption of battery storage.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2018.09.005
|
|
|
“Renewable energy development in rural areas of Iran”. Afsharzade N, Papzan A, Ashjaee M, Delangizan S, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 65, 743 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2016.07.042
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 41
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2016.07.042
|
|
|
“Life cycle analyses of organic photovoltaics : a review”. Lizin S, Van Passel S, De Schepper E, Maes W, Lutsen L, Manca J, Vanderzande D, Energy &, Environmental Science 6, 3136 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1039/C3EE42653J
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 29.518
Times cited: 124
DOI: 10.1039/C3EE42653J
|
|
|
“Interference of regional support policies on the economic and environmental performance of a hybrid cogeneration-solar panel energy system”. Maes D, Van Passel S, Energy Policy 42, 670 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENPOL.2011.12.044
Abstract: This paper assesses unintentional interference between different public policies promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy. The paper develops a methodology to study the interference by analysing the economic and technical behaviour of a hybrid energy system. The hybrid energy system in this case consists of an existing cogeneration unit extended with a new installation of thermal solar panels. This puts two complementary heating technologies in juxtaposition. The two technologies are supported with distinct regional support instruments in each region. The design and operation of the energy system is optimised from the point of view of the investor according to the different support instruments. The optimal configuration is analysed as well as its effect on reduced CO2-emissions during the lifetime of the project. The methodology is applied to a case-study for two neighbouring regions, the Netherlands and Flanders. The policies in the Netherlands show a beneficial synergy. In Flanders, the hybrid energy system is not interesting, indicating unbalanced high support for cogeneration in this case. From the point of view of the authorities, a more balanced regional policy as in the Netherlands provides a larger CO2-emission reduction for a smaller cost. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.14
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENPOL.2011.12.044
|
|
|
“The impact of policy on microgrid economics : a review”. Milis K, Peremans H, Van Passel S, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 81, 3111 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RSER.2017.08.091
Abstract: This paper investigates the impact of government policy on the optimal design of microgrid systems from an economic cost minimisation perspective, and provides both an overview of the current state of the art of the field, as well as highlighting possible avenues of future research. Integer programming, to select microgrid components and to economically dispatch these components, is the optimisation method of choice in the literature. Using this methodology, a broad range of policy topics is investigated: impact of carbon taxation, economic incentives and mandatory emissions reduction or mandatory minimum percentage participation of renewables in local generation. However, the impact of alternative tariff systems, such as capacity tariffs are still unexplored. Additionally, the investigated possible benefits of microgrids are confined to emissions reduction and a possible decrease in total energy procurement costs. Possible benefits such as increased security of supply, increased power quality or energy independence are not investigated yet. Under the expected policy measures the optimal design of a microgrid will be based on a CHP-unit to provide both heat and electricity, owning to the lower capital costs associated with CHP-units when compared to those associated with renewable technologies. This means that current economic analyses indicate that the adoption of renewable energy sources within microgrids is not economically rational.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 8.05
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1016/J.RSER.2017.08.091
|
|