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“Two-dimensional hydrogenated buckled gallium arsenide: an ab initio study”. Gonzalez-Garcia A, Lopez-Perez W, Gonzalez-Hernandez R, Rivera-Julio J, Espejo C, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 32, 145502 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/AB6043
Abstract: First-principles calculations have been carried out to investigate the stability, structural and electronic properties of two-dimensional (2D) hydrogenated GaAs with three possible geometries: chair, zigzag-line and boat configurations. The effect of van der Waals interactions on 2D H-GaAs systems has also been studied. These configurations were found to be energetic and dynamic stable, as well as having a semiconducting character. Although 2D GaAs adsorbed with H tends to form a zigzag-line configuration, the energy differences between chair, zigzag-line and boat are very small which implies the metastability of the system. Chair and boat configurations display a – direct bandgap nature, while pristine 2D-GaAs and zigzag-line are indirect semiconductors. The bandgap sizes of all configurations are also hydrogen dependent, and wider than that of pristine 2D-GaAs with both PBE and HSE functionals. Even though DFT-vdW interactions increase the adsorption energies and reduce the equilibrium distances of H-GaAs systems, it presents, qualitatively, the same physical results on the stability and electronic properties of our studied systems with PBE functional. According to our results, 2D buckled gallium arsenide is a good candidate to be synthesized by hydrogen surface passivation as its group III-V partners 2D buckled gallium nitride and boron nitride. The hydrogenation of 2D-GaAs tunes the bandgap of pristine 2D-GaAs, which makes it a potential candidate for optoelectronic applications in the blue and violet ranges of the visible electromagnetic spectrum.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.7
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/AB6043
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“Inhomogeneous superconductivity and quasilinear magnetoresistance at amorphous LaTiO₃/SrTiO₃, interfaces”. Lebedev N, Stehno M, Rana A, Gauquelin N, Verbeeck J, Brinkman A, Aarts J, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 33, 055001 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/ABC102
Abstract: We have studied the transport properties of LaTiO3/SrTiO3 (LTO/STO) heterostructures. In spite of 2D growth observed in reflection high energy electron diffraction, transmission electron microscopy images revealed that the samples tend to amorphize. Still, we observe that the structures are conducting, and some of them exhibit high conductance and/or superconductivity. We established that conductivity arises mainly on the STO side of the interface, and shows all the signs of the two-dimensional electron gas usually observed at interfaces between STO and LTO or LaAlO3, including the presence of two electron bands and tunability with a gate voltage. Analysis of magnetoresistance (MR) and superconductivity indicates the presence of spatial fluctuations of the electronic properties in our samples. That can explain the observed quasilinear out-of-plane MR, as well as various features of the in-plane MR and the observed superconductivity.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.7
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/ABC102
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“Magnetic field induced vortices in graphene quantum dots”. Lavor IR, da Costa DR, Chaves A, Farias GA, Macedo R, Peeters FM, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 32, 155501 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/AB6463
Abstract: The energy spectrum and local current patterns in graphene quantum dots (QD) are investigated for different geometries in the presence of an external perpendicular magnetic field. Our results demonstrate that, for specific geometries and edge configurations, the QD exhibits vortex and anti-vortex patterns in the local current density, in close analogy to the vortex patterns observed in the probability density current of semiconductor QD, as well as in the order parameter of mesoscopic superconductors.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.7
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/AB6463
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“Strain and electric field tuning of semi-metallic character WCrCO₂, MXenes with dual narrow band gap”. Bafekry A, Akgenc B, Ghergherehchi M, Peeters FM, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 32, 355504 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/AB8E88
Abstract: Motivated by the recent successful synthesis of double-M carbides, we investigate structural and electronic properties of WCrC and WCrCO2 monolayers and the effects of biaxial and out-of-plane strain and electric field using density functional theory. WCrC and WCrCO2 monolayers are found to be dynamically stable. WCrC is metallic and WCrCO2 display semi-metallic character with narrow band gap, which can be controlled by strain engineering and electric field. WCrCO2 monolayer exhibits a dual band gap which is preserved in the presence of an electric field. The band gap of WCrCO2 monolayer increases under uniaxial strain while it becomes metallic under tensile strain, resulting in an exotic 2D double semi-metallic behavior. Our results demonstrate that WCrCO2 is a new platform for the study of novel physical properties in two-dimensional Dirac materials and which may provide new opportunities to realize high-speed low-dissipation devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.7
Times cited: 45
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/AB8E88
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“Effect of zitterbewegung on the propagation of wave packets in ABC-stacked multilayer graphene : an analytical and computational approach”. Lavor IR, da Costa DR, Chaves A, Sena SHR, Farias GA, Van Duppen B, Peeters FM, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 33, 095503 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/ABCD7F
Abstract: The time evolution of a low-energy two-dimensional Gaussian wave packet in ABC-stacked n-layer graphene (ABC-NLG) is investigated. Expectation values of the position (x, y) of center-of-mass and the total probability densities of the wave packet are calculated analytically using the Green's function method. These results are confirmed using an alternative numerical method based on the split-operator technique within the Dirac approach for ABC-NLG, which additionally allows to include external fields and potentials. The main features of the zitterbewegung (trembling motion) of wave packets in graphene are demonstrated and are found to depend not only on the wave packet width and initial pseudospin polarization, but also on the number of layers. Moreover, the analytical and numerical methods proposed here allow to investigate wave packet dynamics in graphene systems with an arbitrary number of layers and arbitrary potential landscapes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/ABCD7F
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“Transition-metal adatoms on 2D-GaAs: a route to chiral magnetic 2D materials by design”. González-García A, López-Pérez W, González-Hernández R, Bacaksiz C, Šabani D, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 33, 145803 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/abe077
Abstract: Using relativistic density-functional calculations, we examine the magneto-crystalline anisotropy and exchange properties of transition-metal atoms adsorbed on 2D-GaAs. We show that single Mn and Mo atom (Co and Os) strongly bind on 2D-GaAs, and induce local out-of-plane (in-plane) magnetic anisotropy. When a pair of TM atoms is adsorbed on 2D-GaAs in a close range from each other, magnetisation properties change (become tunable) with respect to concentrations and ordering of the adatoms. In all cases, we reveal presence of strong Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction. These results indicate novel pathways towards two-dimensional chiral magnetic materials by design, tailored for desired applications in magneto-electronics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/abe077
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“Aluminum and lithium sulfur batteries : a review of recent progress and future directions”. Akgenc B, Sarikurt S, Yagmurcukardes M, Ersan F, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 33, 253002 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/ABFA5E
Abstract: Advanced materials with various micro-/nanostructures have attracted plenty of attention for decades in energy storage devices such as rechargeable batteries (ion- or sulfur based batteries) and supercapacitors. To improve the electrochemical performance of batteries, it is uttermost important to develop advanced electrode materials. Moreover, the cathode material is also important that it restricts the efficiency and practical application of aluminum-ion batteries. Among the potential cathode materials, sulfur has become an important candidate material for aluminum-ion batteries cause of its considerable specific capacity. Two-dimensional materials are currently potential candidates as electrodes from lab-scale experiments to possible pragmatic theoretical studies. In this review, the fundamental principles, historical progress, latest developments, and major problems in Li-S and Al-S batteries are reviewed. Finally, future directions in terms of the experimental and theoretical applications have prospected.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/ABFA5E
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“Charge transport in magnetic topological ultra-thin films : the effect of structural inversion asymmetry”. Sabzalipour A, Mir M, Zarenia M, Partoens B, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 33, 325702 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/AC0669
Abstract: We study the effect of structural inversion asymmetry, induced by the presence of substrates or by external electric fields, on charge transport in magnetic topological ultra-thin films. We consider general orientations of the magnetic impurities. Our results are based on the Boltzmann formalism along with a modified relaxation time scheme. We show that the structural inversion asymmetry enhances the charge transport anisotropy induced by the magnetic impurities and when only one conduction subband contributes to the charge transport a dissipationless charge current is accessible. We demonstrate how a substrate or gate voltage can control the effect of the magnetic impurities on the charge transport, and how this depends on the orientation of the magnetic impurities.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/AC0669
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“First-principles discovery of stable two-dimensional materials with high-level piezoelectric response”. Kocabas T, Cakir D, Sevik C, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 33, 115705 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/ABD3DA
Abstract: The rational design of two-dimensional (2D) piezoelectric materials has recently garnered great interest due to their increasing use in technological applications, including sensor technology, actuating devices, energy harvesting, and medical applications. Several materials possessing high piezoelectric response have been reported so far, but a high-throughput first-principles approach to estimate the piezoelectric potential of layered materials has not been performed yet. In this study, we systematically investigated the piezoelectric (e(11), d(11)) and elastic (C-11 and C-12) properties of 128 thermodynamically stable 2D semiconductor materials by employing first-principle methods. Our high-throughput approach demonstrates that the materials containing Group-V elements produce significantly high piezoelectric strain constants, d(11) > 40 pm V-1, and 49 of the materials considered have the e(11) coefficient higher than MoS2 insomuch as BrSSb has one of the largest d(11) with a value of 373.0 pm V-1. Moreover, we established a simple empirical model in order to estimate the d(11) coefficients by utilizing the relative ionic motion in the unit cell and the polarizability of the individual elements in the compounds.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/ABD3DA
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“Formation and stability of conformal spirals in confined 2D crystals”. Silva FCO, Menezes RM, Cabral LRE, de Souza Silva CC, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 32, 505401 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/ABB0A7
Abstract: We investigate the ground-state and dynamical properties of nonuniform two-dimensional (2D) clusters of long-range interacting particles. We demonstrate that, when the confining external potential is designed to produce an approximate 1/ r 2 density profile, the particles crystallize into highly ordered structures featuring spiral crystalline lines. Despite the strong inhomogeneity of the observed configurations, most of them are characterized by small density of topological defects, typical of conformal crystals, and the net topological charge induced by the simply-connected geometry of the system is concentrated near the cluster center. These crystals are shown to be robust with respect to thermal fluctuations up to a certain threshold temperature, above which the net charge is progressively redistributed from the center to the rest of the system and the topological order is lost. The crystals are also resilient to the shear stress produced by a small nonuniform azimuthal force field, rotating as a rigid body (RB). For larger forces, topological defects proliferate and the RB rotation gives place to plastic flow.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.7
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/ABB0A7
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“Promising room temperature thermoelectric conversion efficiency of zinc-blende AgI from first principles”. Bulut P, Beceren B, Yildirim S, Sevik C, Gurel T, Journal Of Physics-Condensed Matter 33, 015501 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/ABB867
Abstract: The theoretical investigation on structural, vibrational, and electronic properties of zinc-blende (ZB) AgI were carried out employing first principles density functional theory calculations. Thermoelectric properties then were predicted through semi-classical Boltzmann transport equations within the constant relaxation time approximation. Equilibrium lattice parameter, bulk modulus, elastic constants, and vibrational properties were calculated by using generalized gradient approximation. Calculated properties are in good agreement with available experimental values. Electronic and thermoelectric properties were investigated both with and without considering spin-orbit coupling (SOC) effect which is found to have a strong influence on p-type Seebeck coefficient as well as the power factor of the ZB-AgI. By inclusion of SOC, a reduction of the band-gap and p-type Seebeck coefficients as well as the power factor was found which is the indication of that spin-orbit interaction cannot be ignored for p-type thermoelectric properties of the ZB-AgI. By using deformation potential theory for electronic relaxation time and experimentally predicted lattice thermal conductivity, we obtained aZTvalue 1.69 (0.89) at 400 K for n-type (p-type) carrier concentration of 1.5 x 10(18)(4.6 x10(19)) cm(-3)that makes ZB-AgI as a promising room temperature thermoelectric material.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/ABB867
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“Reversible and concerted atom diffusion on supported gold nanoparticles”. Liu P, Madsen J, Schiotz J, Wagner JB, Hansen TW, Journal Of Physics-materials 3, 024009 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/2515-7639/AB82B4
Abstract: Traditionally, direct imaging of atom diffusion is only available by scanning tunneling microscopy and field ion microscopy on geometry-constrained samples: flat surfaces for STM and needle tips for FIM. Here we show time-resolved atomic-scale HRTEM investigations of CeO2-supported Au nanoparticle surfaces to characterize the surface dynamics of atom columns on gold nanoparticles. The observed surface dynamics have been categorized into four types: layer jumping, layer gliding, re-orientation and surface reconstruction. We successfully captured atoms moving in a concerted manner with a time resolution of 0.1 s. A quantitative approach for measuring the dynamics in various gaseous surroundings at elevated temperatures is presented. An approach for measuring quantitative electron beam effects on the surface dynamics is presented by counting atom column occupation as a function of time under a range of dose rates in high vacuum.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1088/2515-7639/AB82B4
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“Exact equations for large bipolarons in the strong-coupling limit”. Smondyrev MA, Peeters FM, Vansant P, Devreese JT, Journal of physics: A: mathematical and general 27, 7925 (1994)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Theory of quantum systems and complex systems
Times cited: 17
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“Computer modelling of magnetron discharges”. Bogaerts A, Bultinck E, Kolev I, Schwaederlé, L, van Aeken K, Buyle G, Depla D, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 42, 194018 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/42/19/194018
Abstract: In this paper, some modelling approaches to describe direct current (dc) magnetron discharges developed in our research groups will be presented, including an analytical model, Monte Carlo simulations for the electrons and for the sputtered atoms, a hybrid Monte Carlo-fluid model and particle-in-cell-Monte Carlo collision simulations. The strengths and limitations of the various modelling approaches will be explained, and some characteristic simulation results will be illustrated. Furthermore, some other simulation methods related to the magnetron device will be briefly explained, more specifically for calculating the magnetic field distribution inside the discharge, and for describing the (reactive) sputtering.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 32
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/42/19/194018
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“Computer modelling of the plasma chemistry and plasma-based growth mechanisms for nanostructured materials”. Bogaerts A, Eckert M, Mao M, Neyts E, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 44, 174030 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/44/17/174030
Abstract: In this review paper, an overview is given of different modelling efforts for plasmas used for the formation and growth of nanostructured materials. This includes both the plasma chemistry, providing information on the precursors for nanostructure formation, as well as the growth processes itself. We limit ourselves to carbon (and silicon) nanostructures. Examples of the plasma modelling comprise nanoparticle formation in silane and hydrocarbon plasmas, as well as the plasma chemistry giving rise to carbon nanostructure formation, such as (ultra)nanocrystalline diamond ((U)NCD) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The second part of the paper deals with the simulation of the (plasma-based) growth mechanisms of the same carbon nanostructures, i.e. (U)NCD and CNTs, both by mechanistic modelling and detailed atomistic simulations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/44/17/174030
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“Computer simulations of plasmabiomolecule and plasmatissue interactions for a better insight in plasma medicine”. Neyts EC, Yusupov M, Verlackt CC, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 47, 293001 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/47/29/293001
Abstract: Plasma medicine is a rapidly evolving multidisciplinary field at the intersection of chemistry, biochemistry, physics, biology, medicine and bioengineering. It holds great potential in medical, health care, dentistry, surgical, food treatment and other applications. This multidisciplinary nature and variety of possible applications come along with an inherent and intrinsic complexity. Advancing plasma medicine to the stage that it becomes an everyday tool in its respective fields requires a fundamental understanding of the basic processes, which is lacking so far. However, some major advances have already been made through detailed experiments over the last 15 years. Complementary, computer simulations may provide insight that is difficultif not impossibleto obtain through experiments. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the various simulations that have been carried out in the context of plasma medicine so far, or that are relevant for plasma medicine. We focus our attention mostly on atomistic simulations dealing with plasmabiomolecule interactions. We also provide a perspective and tentative list of opportunities for future modelling studies that are likely to further advance the field.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/47/29/293001
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“Cryogenic etching of silicon with SF6 inductively coupled plasmas: a combined modelling and experimental study”. Tinck S, Tillocher T, Dussart R, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 48, 155204 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/48/15/155204
Abstract: A hybrid Monte Carlofluid model is applied to simulate the wafer-temperature-dependent etching of silicon with SF6 inductively coupled plasmas (ICP). The bulk plasma within the ICP reactor volume as well as the surface reactions occurring at the wafer are self-consistently described. The calculated etch rates are validated by experiments. The calculations and experiments are performed at two different wafer temperatures, i.e. 300 and 173 K, resembling conventional etching and cryoetching, respectively. In the case of cryoetching, a physisorbed SFx layer (x = 06) is formed on the wafer, which is negligible at room temperature, because of fast thermal desorption, However, even in the case of cryoetching, this layer can easily be disintegrated by low-energy ions, so it does not affect the etch rates. In the investigated pressure range of 19 Pa, the etch rate is always slightly higher at cryogenic conditions, both in the experiments and in the model, and this could be explained in the model due to a local cooling of the gas above the wafer, making the gas denser and increasing the flux of reactive neutrals, like F and F2, towards the wafer.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/48/15/155204
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“Densification of thin a-C: H films grown from low-kinetic energy hydrocarbon radicals under the influence of H and C particle fluxes: a molecular dynamics study”. Neyts E, Bogaerts A, van de Sanden MCM, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 39, 1948 (2006). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/39/9/034
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/39/9/034
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“Effect of oxygen rf-plasma on electronic properties of CNTs”. Felten A, Ghijsen J, Pireaux J-J, Johnson RL, Whelan CM, Liang D, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 40, 7379 (2007). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/40/23/019
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/40/23/019
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“The effect of the magnetic field strength on the sheath region of a dc magnetron discharge”. Bultinck E, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 41, 202007 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/41/20/202007
Abstract: A 2d3v particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo collisions model was applied to study the influence of the magnetic field strength on the cathode sheath region of a direct current (dc) magnetron discharge. When applying a magnetic field of 520-730 G, the cathode sheath width decreases with magnetic field strength, whereas, if a stronger magnetic field is applied (i. e. from 730 to 2600 G), the sheath width increases. This is explained by studying the structure of the sheath in different magnetic field strengths in terms of the electron and ion densities. The consequences of sheath structure on the sputter deposition process are also investigated. It is found that the magnetic field strength can control the erosion profile and the sputter rate.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/41/20/202007
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“Fluid modelling of an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge in cylindrical geometry”. Petrović, D, Martens T, van Dijk J, Brok WJM, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 42, 205206 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/42/20/205206
Abstract: A numerical parameter study has been performed for a cylindrical atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) in helium with nitrogen impurities using a two-dimensional time-dependent fluid model. The calculated electric currents and gap voltages as a function of time for a given applied potential are presented, as well as the number densities of the various plasma species. This study shows that for the geometry under consideration the applied voltage parameters have a large impact on the electric current profiles and that the discharge current is always determined by the electron and ion conduction currents while the displacement current is nearly negligible. A relative broadening of the current profiles (compared with the duration of the half cycle of the applied voltage) with an increase in the applied frequency is obtained. Nearly sinusoidal current wave forms, usually typical for radio frequency DBDs, are observed while still operating at the frequencies of tens of kilohertz. For the setup under investigation, the Townsend mode of the DBD is observed in the entire range of applied voltage amplitudes and frequencies. It is shown that the average power density dissipated in the discharge increases with rising applied voltage and frequency. An increase in applied voltage frequency leads to an increase in the electron density and a decrease in electron energy, while increasing the voltage amplitude has the opposite effect.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 29
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/42/20/205206
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“Fluid simulation of the phase-shift effect in hydrogen capacitively coupled plasmas: 1 : transient behaviour of electrodynamics and power deposition”. Zhang Y-R, Xu X, Bogaerts A, Wang Y-N, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 45, 015202 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/45/1/015202
Abstract: A two-dimensional self-consistent fluid model coupled with the full set of Maxwell equations is established to investigate the phase-shift effect on the transient behaviour of electrodynamics and power deposition in a hydrogen capacitively coupled plasma. The effect has been examined at 13.56 MHz and 100 MHz, respectively, because of the different phase-shift modulation when the electromagnetic effects are dominant. The results indicate that the spatiotemporal distributions of the plasma characteristics obtained for various phase-shift cases are obviously different both in shape and especially in absolute values. Indeed, when the phase difference varies from 0 to π, there is an increase in the electron flux, thus the power deposition becomes more pronounced. At the frequency of 13.56 MHz, the axial electron flux in the bulk plasma becomes uniform along the z-axis, and the radial electron flux exhibits two peaks within one period at the reverse-phase case, whereas the oscillation is less pronounced at the in-phase case. Furthermore, in the very high frequency discharge, the radial electron flux is alternately positive and negative with four peaks during one period, and the ionization mainly occurs in the sheath region, due to the prominent power deposition there at a phase difference equal to π.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 57
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/45/1/015202
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“Fluid simulation of the phase-shift effect in hydrogen capacitively coupled plasmas: 2 : radial uniformity of the plasma characteristics”. Zhang Y-R, Xu X, Bogaerts A, Wang Y-N, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 45, 015203 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/45/1/015203
Abstract: A two-dimensional fluid model, including the full set of Maxwell equations, has been developed and applied to investigate the effect of a phase shift between two power sources on the radial uniformity of several plasma characteristics in a hydrogen capacitively coupled plasma. This study was carried out at various frequencies in the range 13.56200 MHz. When the frequency is low, at 13.56 MHz, the plasma density is characterized by an off-axis peak when both power sources are in-phase (phgr = 0), and the best radial uniformity is obtained at phgr = π. This trend can be explained because the radial nonuniformity caused by the electrostatic edge effect can be effectively suppressed by the phase-shift effect at a phase difference equal to π. When the frequency rises to 60 MHz, the plasma density profiles shift smoothly from edge-peaked over uniform to centre-peaked as the phase difference increases, due to the pronounced standing-wave effect, and the best radial uniformity is reached at phgr = 0.3π. At a frequency of 100 MHz, a similar behaviour is observed, except that the maximum of the plasma density moves again towards the radial edge at the reverse-phase case (phgr = π), because of the dominant skin effect. When the frequency is 200 MHz, the bulk plasma density increases significantly with increasing phase-shift values, and a better uniformity is obtained at phgr = 0.4π. This is because the density in the centre increases faster than at the radial edge as the phase difference rises, due to the increasing power deposition Pz in the centre and the decreasing power density Pr at the radial edge. As the phase difference increases to π, the maximum near the radial edge becomes obvious again. This is because the skin effect has a predominant influence on the plasma density under this condition, resulting in a high density at the radial edge. Moreover, the axial ion flux increases monotonically with phase difference, and exhibits similar profiles to the plasma density. The calculation results illustrate that the radial uniformity of the various plasma characteristics is strongly dependent on the applied frequency and the phase shift between both power sources, which is important to realize, for controlling the uniformity of the plasma etch and deposition processes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/45/1/015203
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“Fluid simulation of the phase-shift effect in Ar/CF4 capacitively coupled plasmas”. Zhang Y-R, Bogaerts A, Wang Y-N, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 45, 485204 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/45/48/485204
Abstract: A two-dimensional self-consistent fluid model combined with the full set of Maxwell equations is employed to investigate an Ar/CF4 capacitively coupled plasma, focusing on the phase-shift effect on the plasma characteristics at various frequencies and gas mixture ratios. When the discharge is sustained by a single frequency at 13.56 MHz in an Ar/CF4 mixture with a ratio of 0.9/0.1, no obvious difference is detected between the electron densities obtained in the so-called electrostatic model (with only the static electric fields taken into account) and the electromagnetic model (which includes the electromagnetic effects). However, as the frequency increases to 60 and 100 MHz, the difference becomes distinct, due to the significant influence of the electromagnetic effects. The phase-shift effect on the plasma radial uniformity has also been investigated in a dual frequency discharge, i.e. when the top driven source is switched on with a phase difference phiv ranging from 0 to π, in the frequency range 13.56100 MHz. At low concentration of CF4 (10%), Ar+ ions are the major positive ions in the entire range of frequencies. When the frequency is low, i.e. 13.56 MHz, the Ar+ density exhibits an off-axis peak at phiv = 0 due to the edge effect, and a better uniformity caused by the phase-shift modulation is obtained at phiv = π. At 60 MHz, the Ar+ density varies from edge-peaked at phiv = 0 to uniform (i.e. at phiv = 0.53π), and finally at phiv = π, a broad maximum is observed at the centre due to the standing-wave effect. As the frequency increases to 100 MHz, the best radial uniformity is reached at 0.25π, and the maximum moves again towards the radial wall in the reverse-phase case (phiv = π) due to the dominant skin effect. When the frequency is fixed at 100 MHz, the phase-shift control shows a different behaviour at a high concentration of CF4. For instance, the ${\rm CF}_3
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/45/48/485204
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“Functionalization of MWCNTs with atomic nitrogen : electronic structure”. Ruelle B, Felten A, Ghijsen J, Drube W, Johnson RL, Liang D, Erni R, Van Tendeloo G, Dubois P, Hecq M, Bittencourt C;, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 41, 045202 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/41/4/045202
Abstract: The changes induced by exposing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to atomic nitrogen were analysed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), x-ray and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that the atomic nitrogen generated by a microwave plasma effectively grafts chemical groups onto the CNT surface altering the density of valence electronic states. HRTEM showed that the exposure to atomic nitrogen does not significantly damage the CNT surface.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/41/4/045202
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“Interaction of O and OH radicals with a simple model system for lipids in the skin barrier : a reactive molecular dynamics investigation for plasma medicine”. Van der Paal J, Aernouts S, van Duin ACT, Neyts EC, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 46, 395201 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/46/39/395201
Abstract: Plasma medicine has been claimed to provide a novel route to heal wounds and regenerate skin, although very little is currently known about the elementary processes taking place. We carried out a series of ReaxFF-based reactive molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the interaction of O and OH radicals with lipids, more specifically with α-linolenic acid as a model for the free fatty acids present in the upper skin layer. Our calculations predict that the O and OH radicals most typically abstract a H atom from the fatty acids, which can lead to the formation of a conjugated double bond, but also to the incorporation of alcohol or aldehyde groups, thereby increasing the hydrophilic character of the fatty acids and changing the general lipid composition of the skin. Within the limitations of the investigated model, no formation of possibly toxic products was observed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/46/39/395201
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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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“Investigating the plasma chemistry for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes/nanofibres in an inductively coupled plasma-enhanced CVD system : the effect of processing parameters”. Mao M, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 43, 315203 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/43/31/315203
Abstract: A parameter study is carried out for an inductively coupled plasma used for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes or carbon nanofibres (CNTs/CNFs), by means of the Hybrid Plasma Equipment Model. The influence of processing parameters including gas ratio for four different gas mixtures typically used for CNT/CNF growth (i.e. CH4/H2, CH4/NH3, C2H2/H2 and C2H2/NH3), inductively coupled plasma (ICP) power (501000 W), operating pressure (10 mTorr1 Torr), bias power (01000 W) and temperature of the substrate (01000 °C) on the plasma chemistry is investigated and the optimized conditions for CNT/CNF growth are analysed. Summarized, our calculations suggest that a lower fraction of hydrocarbon gases (CH4 or C2H2, i.e. below 20%) and hence a higher fraction of etchant gases (H2 or NH3) in the gas mixture result in more 'clean' conditions for controlled CNT/CNF growth. The same applies to a higher ICP power, a moderate ICP gas pressure above 100 mTorr (at least for single-walled carbon nanotubes), a high bias power (for aligned CNTs) and an intermediate substrate temperature.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/43/31/315203
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“Investigation of etching and deposition processes of Cl2/O2/Ar inductively coupled plasmas on silicon by means of plasmasurface simulations and experiments”. Tinck S, Boullart W, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 42, 095204 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/42/9/095204
Abstract: In this paper, a simulation method is described to predict the etching behaviour of Cl2/O2/Ar inductively coupled plasmas on a Si substrate, as used in shallow trench isolation for the production of electronic devices. The hybrid plasma equipment model (HPEM) developed by Kushner et al is applied to calculate the plasma characteristics in the reactor chamber and two additional Monte Carlo simulations are performed to predict the fluxes, angles and energy of the plasma species bombarding the Si substrate, as well as the resulting surface processes such as etching and deposition. The simulations are performed for a wide variety of operating conditions such as gas composition, chamber pressure, power deposition and substrate bias. It is predicted by the simulations that when the fraction of oxygen in the gas mixture is too high, the oxidation of the Si substrate is superior to the etching of Si by chlorine species, resulting in an etch rate close to zero as is also observed in the experiments.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 23
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/42/9/095204
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“Kinetic modelling for an atmospheric pressure argon plasma jet in humid air”. Van Gaens W, Bogaerts A, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 46, 275201 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/46/27/275201
Abstract: A zero-dimensional, semi-empirical model is used to describe the plasma chemistry in an argon plasma jet flowing into humid air, mimicking the experimental conditions of a setup from the Eindhoven University of Technology. The model provides species density profiles as a function of the position in the plasma jet device and effluent. A reaction chemistry set for an argon/humid air mixture is developed, which considers 84 different species and 1880 reactions. Additionally, we present a reduced chemistry set, useful for higher level computational models. Calculated species density profiles along the plasma jet are shown and the chemical pathways are explained in detail. It is demonstrated that chemically reactive H, N, O and OH radicals are formed in large quantities after the nozzle exit and H2, O2(1Δg), O3, H2O2, NO2, N2O, HNO2 and HNO3 are predominantly formed as 'long living' species. The simulations show that water clustering of positive ions is very important under these conditions. The influence of vibrational excitation on the calculated electron temperature is studied. Finally, the effect of varying gas temperature, flow speed, power density and air humidity on the chemistry is investigated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 115
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/46/27/275201
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