“Structure and stability of Fe2 phases from density-functional theory calculations”. Fang CM, van Huis MA, Zandbergen HW, Scripta materialia 63, 418 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.scriptamat.2010.04.042
Abstract: Fe(2)C plays a crucial role in the precipitation of iron carbides. Jack's structural models for epsilon-Fe(2)C, and non-stoichiometric epsilon-Fe(2.4)C, are analyzed using first-principles calculations. Several new configurations of epsilon-Fe(2)C with even higher stability are found. We show how epsilon-Fe(2)C transforms into eta-Fe(2)C, and address the structural relationships with the chi-Fe(5)C(2), theta-Fe(3)C and Fe(7)C(3) phases. The relative occurrence of these phases in steel, as well as their probable evolution during tempering of quenched steels, is discussed. (C) 2010 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.747
Times cited: 32
DOI: 10.1016/j.scriptamat.2010.04.042
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“Investigating the plasma chemistry for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes/nanofibres in an inductively coupled plasma enhanced CVD system : the effect of different gas mixtures”. Mao M, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 43, 205201 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/43/20/205201
Abstract: A hybrid model, called the hybrid plasma equipment model (HPEM), was used to study an inductively coupled plasma in gas mixtures of H2 or NH3 with CH4 or C2H2 used for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes or carbon nanofibres (CNTs/CNFs). The plasma properties are discussed for different gas mixtures at low and moderate pressures, and the growth precursors for CNTs/CNFs are analysed. It is found that C2H2, C2H4 and C2H6 are the predominant molecules in CH4 containing plasmas besides the feedstock gas, and serve as carbon sources for CNT/CNF formation. On the other hand, long-chain hydrocarbons are observed in C2H2-containing plasmas. Furthermore, the background gases CH4 and C2H2 show a different decomposition rate with H2 or NH3 addition at moderate pressures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 52
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/43/20/205201
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“Selective bifunctional catalytic conversion of cellulose over reshaped ni particles at the tip of carbon nanofibers”. Van de Vyver S, Geboers J, Dusselier M, Schepers H, Vosch T, Zhang L, Van Tendeloo G, Jacobs PA, Sels BF, Chemsuschem 3, 698 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.201000087
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.226
Times cited: 136
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201000087
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“High-capacity hydrogen storage in Al-adsorbed graphene”. Ao ZM, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 205406 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.205406
Abstract: A high-capacity hydrogen storage mediumAl-adsorbed grapheneis proposed based on density-functional theory calculations. We find that a graphene layer with Al adsorbed on both sides can store hydrogen up to 13.79 wt % with average adsorption energy −0.193 eV/H2. Its hydrogen storage capacity is in excess of 6 wt %, surpassing U. S. Department of Energy (DOEs) target. Based on the binding-energy criterion and molecular-dynamics calculations, we find that hydrogen storage can be recycled at near ambient conditions. This high-capacity hydrogen storage is due to the adsorbed Al atoms that act as bridges to link the electron clouds of the H2 molecules and the graphene layer. As a consequence, a two-layer arrangement of H2 molecules is formed on each side of the Al-adsorbed graphene layer. The H2 concentration in the hydrogen storage medium can be measured by the change in the conductivity of the graphene layer.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 219
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.205406
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“Moderate pressure synthesis of rare earth nickelate with metal-insulator transition using polymeric precursors”. Napierala C, Lepoittevin C, Edely M, Sauques L, Giovanelli F, Laffez P, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of solid state chemistry 183, 1663 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2010.04.019
Abstract: Rare earth nickelates exhibit a reversible metalsemiconductor phase transition that is, in the infrared range, responsible for a thermo-optical contrast. The state of the art synthesis of these compounds usually requires high oxygen pressure to stabilize Ni in the oxidation state 3+. In this work, using polymeric precursor associated with moderate pressure annealing, we show that it is possible to obtain fully oxidized rare earth nickelate with metalinsulator transition. Using thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction and transmission electronic microscopy we compare different samples synthesized at different oxygen pressures and demonstrate their structural similarity. Thermo-optical properties were measured, in the infrared range, using reflectance measurements and confirmed the metalinsulator transition at 60 °C in both samples.TEM observations lead to the conclusion that the structure commonly obtained at 175 bar is perfectly observed in the 20 bar sample without major structural defects. The two samples exhibit a thermochromic behavior and thermo-optical properties of the two samples are equivalent.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.299
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2010.04.019
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“Carbon clusters: from ring structures to nanographene”. Kosimov DP, Dzhurakhalov AA, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 195414 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.195414
Abstract: The lowest-energy configurations of Cn(n≤55) clusters are obtained using the energy-minimization technique with the conjugate gradient method where a modified Brenner potential is invoked to describe the carbon and hydrocarbon interaction. We found that the ground-state configuration consists of a single ring for small number of C atoms and multiring structures are found with increasing n, which can be in planar, bowl-like or caplike form. Contrary to previous predictions, the binding energy Eb does not show even-odd oscillations and only small jumps are found in the Eb(n) curve as a consequence of specific types of edges or equivalently the number of secondary atoms. We found that hydrogenation of the edge atoms may change the ground-state configuration of the nanocluster. In both cases we determined the magic clusters. Special attention is paid to trigonal and hexagonal shaped carbon clusters and to clusters having a graphenelike configuration. Trigonal clusters are never the ground state while hexagonal-shaped clusters are only the ground state when they have zigzag edges.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 55
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.195414
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“Vortex manipulation in a superconducting matrix with view on applications”. Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Applied physics letters 96, 192501 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3425672
Abstract: We show how a single flux quantum can be effectively manipulated in a superconducting film with a matrix of blind holes. Such a sample can serve as a basic memory element, where the position of the vortex in a k×l matrix of pinning sites defines the desired combination of n bits of information (2n = k×l). Vortex placement is achieved by strategically applied current and the resulting position is read out via generated voltage between metallic contacts on the sample. Such a device can also act as a controllable source of a nanoengineered local magnetic field for, e.g., spintronics applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1063/1.3425672
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“Circular dichroism in the electron microscope: progress and applications (invited)”. Schattschneider P, Ennen I, Stoger-Pollach M, Verbeeck J, Journal of applied physics 107, 09d311 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3365517
Abstract: According to theory, x-ray magnetic circular dichroism in a synchrotron is equivalent to energy loss magnetic chiral dichroism (EMCD) in a transmission electron microscope (TEM). After a synopsis of the development of EMCD, the theoretical background is reviewed and recent results are presented, focusing on the study of magnetic nanoparticles for ferrofluids and Heusler alloys for spintronic devices. Simulated maps of the dichroic strength as a function of atom position in the crystal allow evaluating the influence of specimen thickness and sample tilt on the experimental EMCD signal. Finally, the possibility of direct observation of chiral electronic transitions with atomic resolution in a TEM is discussed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1063/1.3365517
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“Photon-based techniques for nondestructive subsurface analysis of painted cultural heritage artifacts”. Janssens K, Dik J, Cotte M, Susini J, Accounts of chemical research 43, 814 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1021/AR900248E
Abstract: Often, just micrometers below a paintings surface lies a wealth of information, both with Old Masters such as Peter Paul Rubens and Rembrandt van Rijn and with more recent artists of great renown such as Vincent Van Gogh and James Ensor. Subsurface layers may include underdrawing, underpainting, and alterations, and in a growing number of cases conservators have discovered abandoned compositions on paintings, illustrating artists practice of reusing a canvas or panel. The standard methods for studying the inner structure of cultural heritage (CH) artifacts are infrared reflectography and X-ray radiography, techniques that are optionally complemented with the microscopic analysis of cross-sectioned samples. These methods have limitations, but recently, a number of fundamentally new approaches for fully imaging the buildup of hidden paint layers and other complex three-dimensional (3D) substructures have been put into practice. In this Account, we discuss these developments and their recent practical application with CH artifacts. We begin with a tabular summary of 14 IR- and X-ray-based imaging methods and then continue with a discussion of each technique, illustrating CH applications with specific case studies. X-ray-based tomographic and laminographic techniques can be used to generate 3D renditions of artifacts of varying dimensions. These methods are proving invaluable for exploring inner structures, identifying the conservation state, and postulating the original manufacturing technology of metallic and other sculptures. In the analysis of paint layers, terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) can highlight interfaces between layers in a stratigraphic buildup, whereas macrosopic scanning X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) has been employed to measure the distribution of pigments within these layers. This combination of innovative methods provides topographic and color information about the micrometer depth scale, allowing us to look into paintings in an entirely new manner. Over the past five years, several new variants of traditional IR- and X-ray-based imaging methods have been implemented by conservators and museums, and the first reports have begun to emerge in the primary research literature. Applying these state-of-the-art techniques in a complementary fashion affords a more comprehensive view of paintings and other artworks.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 20.268
Times cited: 78
DOI: 10.1021/AR900248E
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“Atomic spectroscopy: a review”. Bings NH, Bogaerts A, Broekaert JAC, Analytical chemistry 82, 4653 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1021/ac1010469
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 6.32
Times cited: 65
DOI: 10.1021/ac1010469
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“Passive samplers for monitoring VOCs in groundwater and the prospects related to mass flux measurements”. Verreydt G, Bronders J, van Keer I, Diels L, Vanderauwera P, Ground water monitoring and remediation 30, 114 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1111/J.1745-6592.2010.01281.X
Abstract: Measurement and interpretation of mass fluxes in favor of concentrations is gaining more and more interest, especially within the framework of the characterization and management of large-scale volatile organic carbon (VOC) groundwater contamination (source zones and plumes). Traditional methods of estimating contaminant fluxes and discharges involve individual measurements/calculations of the Darcy water flux and the contaminant concentrations. However, taken into account the spatially and temporally varying hydrologic conditions in complex, heterogeneous aquifers, higher uncertainty arises from such indirect estimation of contaminant fluxes. Therefore, the potential use of passive sampling devices for the direct measurement of groundwater-related VOC mass fluxes is examined. A review of current passive samplers for the measurement of organic contaminants in water yielded the selection of 18 samplers that were screened for a number of criteria. These criteria are related to the possible application of the sampler for the measurement of VOC mass fluxes in groundwater. This screening study indicates that direct measurement of VOC mass fluxes in groundwater is possible with very few passive samplers. Currently, the passive flux meter (PFM) is the only passive sampler which has proven to effectively measure mass fluxes in near source groundwater. A passive sampler for mass flux measurement in plume zones with regard to long-term monitoring (several months to a year) still needs to be developed or optimized. A passive sampler for long-term monitoring of contaminant mass fluxes in groundwater would be of considerable value in the development of risk-based assessment and management of soil and groundwater pollutions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1111/J.1745-6592.2010.01281.X
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“Experimental observation of single-file water filling of thin single-wall carbon nanotubes down to chiral index (5,3)”. Cambré, S, Schoeters B, Luyckx S, Goovaerts E, Wenseleers W, Physical review letters 104, 207401 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.207401
Abstract: Single-file transport of water into carbon nanotubes is experimentally demonstrated for the first time through the splitting of the radial breathing mode (RBM) vibration in Raman spectra of bile salt solubilized tubes when both empty (closed) and water-filled (open-ended) tubes are present. D2O filling is observed for a wide range of diameters, d, down to very thin tubes [e.g., (5,3) tube, d=0.548 nm] for which only a single water molecule fits in the cross section of the internal nanotube channel. The shift in RBM frequency upon filling is found to display a very complex dependence on nanotube diameter and chirality, in support of a different yet well-defined ordering and orientation of water molecules at room temperature. Large shifts of the electronic transitions are also observed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Particle Physics Group; Nanostructured and organic optical and electronic materials (NANOrOPT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 8.462
Times cited: 140
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.207401
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“Transmission electron microscopy investigation of dislocation slip during superelastic cycling of NiTi wires”. Delville R, Malard B, Pilch J, Sittner P, Schryvers D, International journal of plasticity 27, 282 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijplas.2010.05.005
Abstract: Superelastic deformation of thin NiTi wires containing various nanograined microstructures was investigated by tensile cyclic loading with in situ evaluation of electric resistivity. Defects created by the superelastic cycling in these wires were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. The role of dislocation slip in superelastic deformation is discussed. NiTi wires having finest microstructures (grain diameter <100 nm) are highly resistant against dislocation slip, while those with fully recrystallized microstructure and grain size exceeding 200 nm are prone to dislocation slip. The density of the observed dislocation defects increases significantly with increasing grain size. The upper plateau stress of the superelastic stressstrain curves is largely grain size independent from 10 up to 1000 nm. It is hence claimed that the HallPetch relationship fails for the stress-induced martensitic transformation in this grain size range. It is proposed that dislocation slip taking place during superelastic cycling is responsible for the accumulated irreversible strains, cyclic instability and degradation of functional properties. No residual martensite phase was found in the microstructures of superelastically cycled wires by TEM and results of the in situ electric resistance measurements during straining also indirectly suggest that none or very little martensite phase remains in the studied cycled superelastic wires after unloading. The accumulation of dislocation defects, however, does not prevent the superelasticity. It only affects the shape of the stressstrain response, makes it unstable upon cycling and changes the deformation mode from localized to homogeneous. The activity of dislocation slip during superelastic deformation of NiTi increases with increasing test temperature and ultimately destroys the superelasticity as the plateau stress approaches the yield stress for slip. Deformation twins in the austenite phase ({1 1 4} compound twins) were frequently found in cycled wires having largest grain size. It is proposed that they formed in the highly deformed B19′ martensite phase during forward loading and are retained in austenite after unloading. Such twinning would represent an additional deformation mechanism of NiTi yielding residual irrecoverable strains.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.702
Times cited: 157
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijplas.2010.05.005
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“Globular structure of M2 high speed steel by thermomechanical treatment in the semisolid state”. Amin-Ahmadi B, Aashuri H, Steel research international 81, 381 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1002/srin.201000014
Abstract: The globular structure of M2 high speed steel in the rolled – annealed and as cast conditions was investigated in the semisolid state. Metallographic observations resulted in globular austenite particles that were surrounded by a liquid phase. Dissolution of various carbides in the austenite phase at semisolid temperatures led to grain boundary liquation and formation of near-spherical solid grains in a liquid matrix. Therefore, at the semisolid state, the solid particles were free from carbides. MC- type and M6C- type eutectic carbides re- precipitated at the grain boundaries during cooling of the samples from the semisolid temperature. The variation of shape factor versus holding time and holding temperature was examined. A transition value for shape factor changes in high speed steels was achieved. The growth rate constants of the Ostwald ripening and the coalescence mechanisms were calculated by using the experimentally determined rate constant. It was observed that less liquid droplets were enclosed inside the solid particles compared with non-ferrous alloys. Besides, it has been shown that at high solid fraction, the Ostwald ripening mechanism plays a prominent role in the coarsening phenomenon in comparison with the coalescence mechanism. Grains can rotate and arrange low misorientation with each other at high liquid contents, therefore low energetic grain boundaries form between these grains. These grain boundaries play an important role in the coalescence mechanism.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.235
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1002/srin.201000014
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“Coupling a hydrological water quality model and an economic optimization model to set up a cost-effective emission reduction scenario for nitrogen”. Cools J, Broekx S, Vandenberghe V, Seuntjens P, ea, Environmental modelling and software 26, 44 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENVSOFT.2010.04.017
Abstract: A modelling approach is presented that determines the most cost-effective set of reduction measures to reach an in-stream concentration target. The framework is based on the coupling of two models: the hydrological water quality model SWAT and an economic optimization model (Environmental Costing Model, ECM). SWAT is used to determine the relationship between the modelled in-stream concentration at the river basin outlet and the associated emission reduction. The ECM is used to set up marginal abatement cost curves for nutrients and oxygen demanding substances. Results for nitrogen are presented for the Grote Nete river basin in Belgium for the year 2006. Results show that the good status for total nitrogen can be reached in the study area. The most cost-effective measures are more productive dairy cattle, implementing basic measures as defined in the WFD, winter cover crops, improved efficiency of WWTP, enhanced fodder efficiency for pigs, further treatment of industrial waste water and tuned fertilization. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVSOFT.2010.04.017
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“Bulk magnetic order in a two-dimensional Ni1+/Ni2+ (d9/d8) nickelate, isoelectronic with superconducting cuprates”. Poltavets VV, Lokshin KA, Nevidomskyy AH, Croft M, Tyson TA, Hadermann J, Van Tendeloo G, Egami T, Kotliar G, ApRoberts-Warren N, Dioguardi AP, Curro NJ, Greenblatt M;, Physical review letters 104, 206403 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.206403
Abstract: The Ni(1+)/Ni(2+) states of nickelates have the identical (3d(9)/3d(8)) electronic configuration as Cu(2+)/Cu(3+) in the high temperature superconducting cuprates, and are expected to show interesting properties. An intriguing question is whether mimicking the electronic and structural features of cuprates would also result in superconductivity in nickelates. Here we report experimental evidence for a bulklike magnetic transition in La(4)Ni(3)O(8) at 105 K. Density functional theory calculations relate the transition to a spin density wave nesting instability of the Fermi surface.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.462
Times cited: 35
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.104.206403
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“Strong influence of nonlocal nonequilibrium effects on the dynamics of the order parameter in a phase-slip center: ring studies”. Vodolazov DY, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 184521 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.184521
Abstract: We study the influence of the inelastic relaxation time τ̃E of the quasiparticle distribution function f(E) on the phase slip process in quasi-one-dimensional superconducting rings at a temperature close to the critical temperature Tc. We find that the initial time of growth of the order parameter |Δ| in the phase slip core after the phase slip is a nonmonotonic function of τ̃E which has a maximum at τ̃E≃τ̃GL=πℏ/8kB(Tc−T) and has a tendency to saturate for large τ̃E⪢τ̃GL. The effective heating of the electron subsystem due to the increase in |Δ| in the phase slip center together with the above effect result in a nonmonotonic dependence of the number of subsequent phase slips on τ̃E in rings of relatively large radius (in which each phase slip reduces the current density to a small fraction of its initial value). During the phase slip process the order parameter distribution has two peaks near the phase slip core due to the diffusion of the nonequilibrium quasiparticles from that region.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.184521
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“Characterization of nickel silicides using EELS-based methods”. Verleysen E, Bender H, Richard O, Schryvers D, Vandervorst W, Journal of microscopy 240, 75 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2818.2010.03391.x
Abstract: The characterization of Ni-silicides using electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) based methods is discussed. A series of Ni-silicide phases is examined: Ni3Si, Ni31Si12, Ni2Si, NiSi and NiSi2. The composition of these phases is determined by quantitative core-loss EELS. A study of the low loss part of the EELS spectrum shows that both the energy and the shape of the plasmon peak are characteristic for each phase. Examination of the Ni-L edge energy loss near edge structure (ELNES) shows that the ratio and the sum of the L2 and L3 white line intensities are also characteristic for each phase. The sum of the white line intensities is used to determine the trend in electron occupation of the 3d states of the phases. The dependence of the plasmon energy on the electron occupation of the 3d states is demonstrated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.692
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2818.2010.03391.x
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“Conversion of carbon dioxide to value-added chemicals in atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharges”. Paulussen S, Verheyde B, Tu X, De Bie C, Martens T, Petrovic D, Bogaerts A, Sels B, Plasma sources science and technology 19, 034015 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1088/0963-0252/19/3/034015
Abstract: The aim of this work consists of the evaluation of atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharges for the conversion of greenhouse gases into useful compounds. Therefore, pure CO2 feed flows are administered to the discharge zone at varying discharge frequency, power input, gas temperature and feed flow rates, aiming at the formation of CO and O2. The discharge obtained in CO2 is characterized as a filamentary mode with a microdischarge zone in each half cycle of the applied voltage. It is shown that the most important parameter affecting the CO2-conversion levels is the gas flow rate. At low flow rates, both the conversion and the CO-yield are significantly higher. In addition, also an increase in the gas temperature and the power input give rise to higher conversion levels, although the effect on the CO-yield is limited. The optimum discharge frequency depends on the power input level and it cannot be unambiguously stated that higher frequencies give rise to increased conversion levels. A maximum CO2 conversion of 30% is achieved at a flow rate of 0.05 L min−1, a power density of 14.75 W cm−3 and a frequency of 60 kHz. The most energy efficient conversions are achieved at a flow rate of 0.2 L min−1, a power density of 11 W cm−3 and a discharge frequency of 30 kHz.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.302
Times cited: 116
DOI: 10.1088/0963-0252/19/3/034015
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“Frustrated square lattice with spatial anisotropy: crystal structure and magnetic properties of PbZnVO(PO4)2”. Tsirlin AA, Nath R, Abakumov AM, Shpanchenko RV, Geibel C, Rosner H, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 81, 174424 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.81.174424
Abstract: Crystal structure and magnetic properties of the layered vanadium phosphate PbZnVO(PO4)2 are studied using x-ray powder diffraction, magnetization and specific-heat measurements, as well as band-structure calculations. The compound resembles AA′VO(PO4)2 vanadium phosphates and fits to the extended frustrated square-lattice model with the couplings J1, J1′ between nearest neighbors and J2, J2′ between next-nearest neighbors. The temperature dependence of the magnetization yields estimates of averaged nearest-neighbor and next-nearest-neighbor couplings, J̅ 1≃−5.2 K and J̅ 2≃10.0 K, respectively. The effective frustration ratio α=J̅ 2/J̅ 1 amounts to −1.9 and suggests columnar antiferromagnetic ordering in PbZnVO(PO4)2. Specific-heat data support the estimates of J̅ 1 and J̅ 2 and indicate a likely magnetic ordering transition at 3.9 K. However, the averaged couplings underestimate the saturation field, thus pointing to the spatial anisotropy of the nearest-neighbor interactions. Band-structure calculations confirm the identification of ferromagnetic J1, J1′ and antiferromagnetic J2, J2′ in PbZnVO(PO4)2 and yield (J1′−J1)≃1.1 K in excellent agreement with the experimental value of 1.1 K, deduced from the difference between the expected and experimentally measured saturation fields. Based on the comparison of layered vanadium phosphates with different metal cations, we show that a moderate spatial anisotropy of the frustrated square lattice has minor influence on the thermodynamic properties of the model. We discuss relevant geometrical parameters, controlling the exchange interactions in these compounds and propose a strategy for further design of strongly frustrated square-lattice materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.81.174424
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“Insights into the growth of (ultra)nanocrystalline diamond by combined molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations”. Eckert M, Neyts E, Bogaerts A, Crystal growth &, design 10, 3005 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1021/cg100063c
Abstract: In this paper, we present the results of combined molecular dynamics−Metropolis Monte Carlo (MD-MMC) simulations of hydrocarbon species at flat diamond (100)2 × 1 and (111)1 × 1 surfaces. The investigated species are considered to be the most important growth species for (ultra)nanocrystalline diamond ((U)NCD) growth. When applying the MMC algorithm to stuck species at monoradical sites, bonding changes are only seen for CH2. The sequence of the bond breaking and formation as put forward by the MMC simulations mimics the insertion of CH2 into a surface dimer as proposed in the standard growth model of diamond. For hydrocarbon species attached to two adjacent radical (biradical) sites, the MMC simulations give rise to significant changes in the bonding structure. For UNCD, the combinations of C3 and C3H2, and C3 and C4H2 (at diamond (100)2 × 1) and C and C2H2 (at diamond (111)1 × 1) are the most successful in nucleating new crystal layers. For NCD, the following combinations pursue the diamond structure the best: C2H2 and C3H2 (at diamond (100)2 × 1) and CH2 and C2H2 (at diamond (111)1 × 1). The different behaviors of the hydrocarbon species at the two diamond surfaces are related to the different sterical hindrances at the diamond surfaces.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.055
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1021/cg100063c
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“Reducing the formation of FIB-induced FCC layers on Cu-Zn-Al austenite”. Zelaya E, Schryvers D, Microscopy research and technique 74, 84 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/jemt.20877
Abstract: The irradiation effects of thinning a sample of a Cu-Zn-Al shape memory alloy to electron transparency by a Ga+ focused ion beam were investigated. This thinning method was compared with conventional electropolishing and Ar+ ion milling. No implanted Ga was detected but surface FCC precipitation was found as a result of the focused ion beam sample preparation. Decreasing the irradiation dose by lowering the energy and current of the Ga+ ions did not lead to a complete disappearance of the FCC structure. The latter could only be removed after gentle Ar+ ion milling of the sample. It was further concluded that the precipitation of the FCC is independent of the crystallographic orientation of the surface.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.147
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20877
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“Comparing frontier methods for economic-environmental trade-off analysis”. Van Meensel J, Lauwers L, Van Huylenbroeck G, Van Passel S, European Journal Of Operational Research 207, 1027 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.EJOR.2010.05.026
Abstract: This paper uses a mechanistic frontier approach as a reference to evaluate the ability of conventional parametric (SFA) and non-parametric (DEA) frontier approaches for analyzing economicenvironmental trade-offs. Conventional frontier approaches are environmentally adjusted through incorporating the materials balance principle. The analysis is worked out for the Flemish pig finishing case, which is both representative and didactic. Results show that, on average, SFA and DEA yield adequate economicenvironmental trade-offs. Both methods are good estimators for technical efficiency. Cost allocative and environmental allocative efficiency scores are less robust, due to the well-known methodological advantages and disadvantages of SFA and DEA. For particular firms, SFA, DEA and the mechanistic approach may yield different economicenvironmental trade-offs. One has therefore to be careful when using conventional frontier approaches for firm-specific decision support. The mechanistic approach allows for optimizing performances per average present finisher, which is the production unit in pig finishing. Conventional frontier methods do not allow for this optimization since the number of average present finishers varies along the production functions. Since the mechanistic production function is based on underlying growth, feed uptake and mortality functions, additional firm-specific indicators can also be calculated at each point of the production function.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics
Impact Factor: 3.297
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1016/J.EJOR.2010.05.026
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“Voltammetric assay of anti-vertigo drug betahistine hydrochloride in sodium lauryl sulphate”. Jain R, Yadav RK, Rather JA, Colloids and surfaces: A: physicochemical and engineering aspects 366, 63 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.COLSURFA.2010.05.027
Abstract: Assay and electrochemical behaviour of betahistine hydrochloride in BrittonRobinsons (BR) buffer of pH range 2.512.0 at a glassy carbon electrode have been investigated. Addition of anionic surfactant (sodium lauryl sulphate) to the betahistine hydrochloride solution containing electrolyte enhanced the reduction current signal while neutral surfactant (Tween-20) and cationic surfactant cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) showed an opposite effect. Voltammograms of betahistine hydrochloride exhibited a single wave. Based on reduction behaviour of betahistine hydrochloride, a direct square-wave voltammetric method has been developed for the assay of betahistine hydrochloride in pharmaceutical formulation. The proposed method has been validated as per ICH guideline. System and method precision in terms of RSD were 1.88% and 1.60% respectively, whereas the method accuracy was indicated by the recovery of 97.6101.9%. Reduction peak current was linear over the target concentration with correlation coefficient 0.998. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of betahistine hydrochloride in pharmaceutical formulation. The results were compared with those obtained by the reference high performance liquid chromatographic method. No significant differences were found between results of proposed and reference methods.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFA.2010.05.027
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“Modeling the capacitance-voltage response of In0.53Ga0.47As metal-oxide-semiconductor structures : charge quantization and nonparabolic corrections”. O'Regan TP, Hurley PK, Sorée B, Fischetti MV, Applied Physics Letters 96, 213514 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3436645
Abstract: The capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristic is calculated for p-type In<sub>0.53</sub>Ga<sub>0.47</sub>As metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) structures based on a self-consistent PoissonSchrödinger solution. For strong inversion, charge quantization leads to occupation of the satellite valleys which appears as a sharp increase in the capacitance toward the oxide capacitance. The results indicate that the charge quantization, even in the absence of interface defects (D<sub>it</sub>), is a contributing factor to the experimental observation of an almost symmetric C-V response for In<sub>0.53</sub>Ga<sub>0.47</sub>As MOS structures. In addition, nonparabolic corrections are shown to enhance the depopulation of the Γ valley, shifting the capacitance increase to lower inversion charge densities.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT);
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1063/1.3436645
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“Topological confinement in graphene bilayer quantum rings”. Xavier LJP, Pereira JM, Chaves A, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Applied physics letters 96, 212108 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3431618
Abstract: We find localized electron and hole states in a ring-shaped potential kink in biased bilayer graphene. Within the continuum description, we show that for sharp potential steps the Dirac equation describing carrier states close to the K (or K′) point of the first Brillouin zone can be solved analytically for a circular kink/antikink dot. The solutions exhibit interfacial states which exhibit AharonovBohm oscillations as functions of the height of the potential step and/or the radius of the ring.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 29
DOI: 10.1063/1.3431618
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“Microstructure changes during non-conventional heat treatment of thin NiTi wires by pulsed electric current studied by transmission electron microscopy”. Delville R, Malard B, Pilch J, Schryvers D, Acta materialia 58, 4503 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.actamat.2010.04.046
Abstract: Transmission electron microscopy, electrical resistivity measurements and mechanical testing were employed to investigate the evolution of microstructure and functional superelastic properties of 0.1 mm diameter as-drawn NiTi wires subjected to a non-conventional heat treatment by controlled electric pulse currents. This method enables a better control of the recovery and recrystallization processes taking place during the heat treatment and accordingly a better control on the final microstructure. Using a stepwise approach of millisecond pulse annealing, it is shown how the microstructure evolves from a severely deformed state with no functional properties to an optimal nanograined microstructure (2050 nm) that is partially recovered through polygonization and partially recrystallized and that has the best functional properties. Such a microstructure is highly resistant against dislocation slip upon cycling, while microstructures annealed for longer times and showing mostly recrystallized grains were prone to dislocation slip, particularly as the grain size exceeds 200 nm.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.301
Times cited: 110
DOI: 10.1016/j.actamat.2010.04.046
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“Semisolid structure for M2 high speed steel prepared by cooling slope”. Amin-Ahmadi B, Aashuri H, Journal of materials processing technology 210, 1632 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmatprotec.2010.05.011
Abstract: Effects of cooling slope angle and the temperature of molten metal on the globular structure of M2 high speed steel after holding at the semisolid state have been investigated. The globular structure was achieved by pouring the molten metal at 1595 °C on the ceramic cooling slope with the length of 200 mm and the angle of 25°. The globular structure of M2 high speed steel in the form of rolledannealed and as cast condition after holding at semisolid state has been achieved. The size of globular grains of cooling slope sample was smaller than that of the rolledannealed and as cast samples. Solid particles of rolledannealed sample after holding at semisolid state had better roundness compared with cooling slope sample. Dissolution of carbides in the austenite phase at grain boundaries leads to formation of globular particles in the semisolid state. MC-type and M6C-type eutectic carbides reprecipitate during cooling cycle along grain boundaries.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.147
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/j.jmatprotec.2010.05.011
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“From polyester grafting onto POSS nanocage by ring-opening polymerization to high performance polyester/POSS nanocomposites”. Goffin A-L, Duquesne E, Raquez J-M, Miltner HE, Ke X, Alexandre M, Van Tendeloo G, van Mele B, Dubois P, Journal of materials chemistry 20, 9415 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1039/c0jm00283f
Abstract: Polyester-grafted polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanohybrids selectively produced by ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone and L,L-lactide (A.-L. Goffin, E. Duquesne, S. Moins, M. Alexandre, Ph. Dubois, Eur. Polym. Journal, 2007, 43, 4103) were studied as masterbatches by melt-blending within their corresponding commercial polymeric matrices, i.e., poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(L,L-lactide) (PLA). For the sake of comparison, neat POSS nanoparticles were also dispersed in PCL and PLA. The objective was to prepare aliphatic polyester-based nanocomposites with enhanced crystallization behavior, and therefore, enhanced thermo-mechanical properties. Wide-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy attested for the dispersion of individualized POSS nanoparticles in the resulting nanocomposite materials only when the polyester-grafted POSS nanohybrid was used as a masterbatch. The large impact of such finely dispersed (grafted) nanoparticles on the crystallization behavior for the corresponding polyester matrices was noticed, as evidenced by differential scanning calorimetry analysis. Indeed, well-dispersed POSS nanoparticles acted as efficient nucleating sites, significantly increasing the crystallinity degree of both PCL and PLA matrices. As a result, a positive impact on thermo-mechanical properties was highlighted by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 42
DOI: 10.1039/c0jm00283f
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“Molecular dynamics simulations of Cl+ etching on a Si(100) surface”. Gou F, Neyts E, Eckert M, Tinck S, Bogaerts A, Journal of applied physics 107, 113305 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3361038
Abstract: Molecular dynamics simulations using improved TersoffBrenner potential parameters were performed to investigate Cl+ etching of a {2×1} reconstructed Si(100) surface. Steady-state Si etching accompanying the Cl coverage of the surface is observed. Furthermore, a steady-state chlorinated reaction layer is formed. The thickness of this reaction layer is found to increase with increasing energy. The stoichiometry of SiClx species in the reaction layer is found to be SiCl:SiCl2:SiCl3 = 1.0:0.14:0.008 at 50 eV. These results are in excellent agreement with available experimental data. While elemental Si products are created by physical sputtering, most SiClx (0<x<4) etch products are produced by chemical-enhanced physical sputtering.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1063/1.3361038
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