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Author Gogoi, A.; Neyts, E.C.; Milošević, M.V.; Peeters, F.M.
Title Arresting aqueous swelling of layered graphene-oxide membranes with H3O+ and OH- ions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication ACS applied materials and interfaces Abbreviated Journal Acs Appl Mater Inter
Volume 14 Issue 30 Pages 34946-34954
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Over the past decade, graphene oxide (GO) has emerged as a promising membrane material with superior separation performance and intriguing mechanical/chemical stability. However, its practical implementation remains very challenging primarily because of its undesirable swelling in an aqueous environment. Here, we demonstrated that dissociation of water molecules into H3O+ and OH- ions inside the interlayer gallery of a layered GO membrane can strongly affect its stability and performance. We reveal that H3O+ and OH- ions form clusters inside the GO laminates that impede the permeance of water and salt ions through the membrane. Dynamics of those clusters is sensitive to an external ac electric field, which can be used to tailor the membrane performance. The presence of H3O+ and OH- ions also leads to increased stability of the hydrogen bond (H-bond) network among the water molecules and the GO layers, which further reduces water permeance through the membrane, while crucially imparting stability to the layered GO membrane against undesirable swelling. KEYWORDS: layered graphene-oxide membrane, aqueous stability, H3O+ and OH- ions, external electric field, molecular dynamics
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000835946500001 Publication Date 2022-07-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1944-8244 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.5 Times cited 9 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.5
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189467 Serial 7127
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Author Omranian, S.R.; Geluykens, M.; Van Hal, M.; Hasheminejad, N.; Rocha Segundo, I.; Pipintakos, G.; Denys, S.; Tytgat, T.; Fraga Freitas, E.; Carneiro, J.; Verbruggen, S.; Vuye, C.
Title Assessing the potential of application of titanium dioxide for photocatalytic degradation of deposited soot on asphalt pavement surfaces Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Construction and building materials Abbreviated Journal Constr Build Mater
Volume 350 Issue Pages 128859-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract It is known that pollutants and their irreparable influence can considerably jeopardize the environment and human health. Such disastrous, growing, hazardous particles urged researchers to find effective ways and diminish their destructive impacts and preserve our planet. This study evaluates the potential of incorporating Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) semiconductor nanoparticles on asphalt pavements to degrade pollutants without compromising bitumen performance. Accordingly, the Response Surface Method (RSM) was employed to develop an experimental matrix based on the central composite design. Image Analysis (IA) was used to determine the rate of soot degradation (as pollutant representative) using MATLAB and ImageJ software. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) were finally carried out to estimate the effects of adding different percentages of TiO2 on the micro -structural features and dispersion of the TiO2, chemical fingerprinting, and rheological performance of the bituminous binder. The results showed a promising potential of TiO2 to degrade soot (over 50%) during the conducted experiments. In addition, the RSM outcomes showed that applying a higher amount of TiO2 is more efficient for pollutant degradation. Finally, no negative impact was observed, neither on the rheological behavior nor on the aging susceptibility of the bitumen, even though the homogenous dispersion of the TiO2 was clearly captured via CLSM.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000848227000001 Publication Date 2022-08-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0950-0618 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189820 Serial 7128
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Author Shafiei, M.; Fazileh, F.; Peeters, F.M.; Milošević, M.V.
Title Axion insulator states in a topological insulator proximitized to magnetic insulators : a tight-binding characterization Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Physical review materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 6 Issue 7 Pages 074205-74208
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract The recent discovery of axion states in materials such as antiferromagnetic topological insulators has boosted investigations of the magnetoelectric response in topological insulators and their promise towards realizing dissipationless topological electronics. In this paper, we develop a tight-binding methodology to explore the emergence of axion states in Bi2Se3 in proximity to magnetic insulators on the top and bottom surfaces. The topological protection of the surface states is lifted by a time-reversal-breaking perturbation due to the proximity of a magnetic insulator, and a gap is opened on the surfaces, giving rise to half-quantized Hall conductance and a zero Hall plateau-evidencing an axion insulator state. We developed a real-space tight-binding Hamiltonian for Bi2Se3 using first-principles data. Transport properties of the system were obtained within the Landauer-Buttiker formalism, and we discuss the creation of axion states through Hall conductance and a zero Hall plateau at the surfaces, as a function of proximitized magnetization and corresponding potentials at the surfaces, as well as the thickness of the topological insulator.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000832387000006 Publication Date 2022-07-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2475-9953 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.4 Times cited 4 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189498 Serial 7130
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Author Xie, Y.; Spiller, M.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title A bioreactor and nutrient balancing approach for the conversion of solid organic fertilizers to liquid nitrate-rich fertilizers : mineralization and nitrification performance complemented with economic aspects Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ
Volume 806 Issue Pages 150415
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Due to the high water- and nutrient-use efficiency, hydroponic cultivation is increasingly vital in progressing to environment-friendly food production. To further alleviate the environmental impacts of synthetic fertilizer production, the use of recovered nutrients should be encouraged in horticulture and agriculture at large. Solid organic fertilizers can largely contribute to this, yet their physical and chemical nature impedes application in hydroponics. This study proposes a bioreactor for mineralization and nitrification followed by a supplementation step for limiting macronutrients to produce nitrate-based solutions from solid fertilizers, here based on a novel microbial fertilizer. Batch tests showed that aerobic conversions at 35 °C could realize a nitrate (NO₃−-N) production efficiency above 90% and a maximum rate of 59 mg N L−1 d−1. In the subsequent bioreactor test, nitrate production efficiencies were lower (44–51%), yet rates were higher (175–212 mg N L−1 d−1). Calcium and magnesium hydroxide were compared to control the bioreactor pH at 6.0 ± 0.2, while also providing macronutrients for plant production. A mass balance estimation to mimic the Hoagland nutrient solution showed that 92.7% of the NO₃−-N in the Ca(OH)₂ scenario could be organically sourced, while this was only 37.4% in the Mg(OH)₂ scenario. Besides, carbon dioxide (CO₂) generated in the bioreactor can be used for greenhouse carbon fertilization to save operational expenditure (OPEX). An estimation of the total OPEX showed that the production of a nutrient solution from solid organic fertilizers can be cost competitive compared to using commercially available liquid inorganic fertilizer solutions.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000707640400021 Publication Date 2021-09-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.8
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181787 Serial 7132
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Author Papini, G.; Muys, M.; Van Winckel, T.; Meerburg, F.A.; Van Beeck, W.; Vermeir, P.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Boosting aerobic microbial protein productivity and quality on brewery wastewater : impact of anaerobic acidification, high-rate process and biomass age Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Bioresource technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 368 Issue Pages 128285
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Consortia of aerobic heterotrophic bacteria (AHB) are appealing as sustainable alternative protein ingredient for aquaculture given their high nutritional qualities, and their production potential on feed-grade industrial wastewater. Today, the impacts of pre-treatment, bioprocess choice and key parameter settings on AHB productivity and nutritional properties are unknown. This study investigated for the first time AHB microbial protein production effects based on (i) raw vs anaerobically fermented brewery wastewater, (ii) high-rate activated sludge (HRAS) without vs with feast-famine conditions, and (iii) three short solid retention time (SRT): 0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 d. High biomass (4.4–8.0 g TSS/L/d) and protein productivities (1.9–3.2 g protein/L/d) were obtained while achieving COD removal efficiencies up to 98 % at SRT 0.50 d. The AHB essential amino acid (EAA) profiles were above rainbow trout requirements, excluding the S-containing EAA, highlighting the AHB biomass replacement potential for unsustainable fishmeal in salmonid diets.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000902092100009 Publication Date 2022-11-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-8524 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 11.4; 2023 IF: 5.651
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191780 Serial 7133
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Author Penders, A.G.; Konstantinović, M.J.; Van Renterghem, W.; Bosch, R.-W.; Schryvers, D.; Somville, F.
Title Characterization of IASCC crack tips extracted from neutron-irradiated flux thimble tube specimens in view of a probabilistic fracture model Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Journal of nuclear materials Abbreviated Journal J Nucl Mater
Volume 571 Issue Pages 154015-154016
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract This study reports the properties of irradiation assisted stress corrosion crack tips extracted by means of focused-ion beam from 60 to 80 dpa neutron-irradiated O-ring specimens tested under straining conditions under a pressurized-water reactor environment. Various crack tip morphologies and surrounding deformation features were analyzed as a function of applied stress, surface oxidation state and loading form – constant versus cyclic. All investigated cracks exhibit grain boundary oxidation in front of the crack tip, with the extent of oxidation being proportional to applied stress. These findings clearly demonstrate that, under the subcritical crack propagation regime, the grain boundary oxide grows faster than the crack. On the other hand, crack tips appertaining to specimens with removed oxide layer at the outer surface show comparatively less oxidation at the crack tip, which could indicate towards crack initiation from regions that exemplify lower stress, such as the O-ring inner surface. Cyclic loading is found to have a more pronounced effect on the crack tip microstructure, demonstrating increased deformation twinning and -martensitic transformation, which signifies towards an increased susceptibility to intergranular failure. Still, the extent of crack tip grain boundary oxidation in this case agrees well with expected values for maximum stress applied during cyclic loading. All results are interpreted based on the probabilistic subcritical crack propagation mechanism and provide strong support to a stress-driven internal oxidation model.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000872389200009 Publication Date 2022-09-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0022-3115 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.1 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190375 Serial 7135
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Author Shafiei, M.; Fazileh, F.; Peeters, F.M.; Milošević, M.V.
Title Controlling the hybridization gap and transport in a thin-film topological insulator : effect of strain, and electric and magnetic field Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Physical review B Abbreviated Journal Phys Rev B
Volume 106 Issue 3 Pages 035119-7
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract In a thin-film topological insulator (TI), the edge states on two surfaces may couple by quantum tunneling, opening a gap known as the hybridization gap. Controlling the hybridization gap and transport has a variety of potential uses in photodetection and energy-harvesting applications. In this paper, we report the effect of strain, and electric and magnetic field, on the hybridization gap and transport in a thin Bi2Se3 film, investigated within the tight-binding theoretical framework. We demonstrate that vertical compression decreases the hybridization gap, as does tensile in-plane strain. Applying an electric field breaks the inversion symmetry and leads to a Rashba-like spin splitting proportional to the electric field, hence closing and reopening the gap. The influence of a magnetic field on thin-film TI is also discussed, starting from the role of an out-of-plane magnetic field on quantum Hall states. We further demonstrate that the hybridization gap can be controlled by an in-plane magnetic field, and that by applying a sufficiently strong field a quantum phase transition from an insulator to a semimetal can be achieved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000832277500001 Publication Date 2022-07-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2469-9969; 2469-9950 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.7 Times cited 7 Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189515 Serial 7140
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Author Neven, L.; Barich, H.; Ching, H.Y.V.; Khan, S.U.; Colomier, C.; Patel, H.H.; Gorun, S.M.; Verbruggen, S.; Van Doorslaer, S.; De Wael, K.
Title Correlation between the fluorination degree of perfluorinated zinc phthalocyanines, their singlet oxygen generation ability, and their photoelectrochemical response for phenol sensing Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 94 Issue 13 Pages 5221-5230
Keywords A1 Journal article; Organic synthesis (ORSY); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Electron-withdrawing perfluoroalkyl peripheral groups grafted on phthalocyanine (Pc) macrocycles improve their single-site isolation, solubility, and resistance to self-oxidation, all beneficial features for catalytic applications. A high degree of fluorination also enhances the reducibility of Pcs and could alter their singlet oxygen (1O2) photoproduction. The ethanol/toluene 20:80 vol % solvent mixture was found to dissolve perfluorinated FnPcZn complexes, n = 16, 52, and 64, and minimize the aggregation of the sterically unencumbered F16PcZn. The 1O2 production ability of FnPcZn complexes was examined using 9,10-dimethylanthracene (DMA) and 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine (TEMP) in combination with UV–vis and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, respectively. While the photoreduction of F52PcZn and F64PcZn in the presence of redox-active TEMP lowered 1O2 production, DMA was a suitable 1O2 trap for ranking the complexes. The solution reactivity was complemented by solid-state studies via the construction of photoelectrochemical sensors based on TiO2-supported FnPcZn, FnPcZn|TiO2. Phenol photo-oxidation by 1O2, followed by its electrochemical reduction, defines a redox cycle, the 1O2 production having been found to depend on the value of n and structural features of the supported complexes. Consistent with solution studies, F52PcZn was found to be the most efficient 1O2 generator. The insights on reactivity testing and structural–activity relationships obtained may be useful for designing efficient and robust sensors and for other 1O2-related applications of FnPcZn.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000786254500002 Publication Date 2022-03-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187522 Serial 7141
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Author Monico, L.; Prati, S.; Sciutto, G.; Catelli, E.; Romani, A.; Balbas, D.Q.; Li, Z.; De Meyer, S.; Nuyts, G.; Janssens, K.; Cotte, M.; Garrevoet, J.; Falkenberg, G.; Tardillo Suarez, V.I.; Tucoulou, R.; Mazzeo, R.
Title Development of a multi-method analytical approach based on the combination of synchrotron radiation X-ray micro-analytical techniques and vibrational micro-spectroscopy methods to unveil the causes and mechanism of darkening of “fake-gilded” decorations in a Cimabue painting Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry Abbreviated Journal J Anal Atom Spectrom
Volume 37 Issue 1 Pages 114-129
Keywords A1 Journal article; Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract Redox processes activated by environmental factors have been identified as the main cause of the chromatic alterations of a number of artists' pigments, including the yellow pigment orpiment (As2S3). Although a general comprehension of the mechanisms has been provided through characterization of degradation compounds of As2S3, experimental evidences to prove how other paint components and how different environmental agents influence the formation pathways of specific secondary compounds are still lacking. Thus, it becomes fundamental to develop a methodological strategy which enable achieving a discrimination among the causes affecting the chemical stability of more heterogenous As2S3-based paints and defining the mechanism through which the alteration establishes and evolves, with the ultimate goal of optimizing the preventive conservation measures of unique masterpieces. In this paper, we propose a comprehensive multi-material and multi-method approach based on the combination of synchrotron radiation X-ray micro-analytical techniques (i.e., X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy at S K-/Ag L-3-/As K-edges) and vibrational micro-spectroscopy methods to unveil the causes and mechanism of darkening of “fake-gilded” decorations in tempera paintings, originally consisting of an unusual mixture of As2S3 and metallic silver (Ag-0). Such degradation process is a not yet understood phenomenon threatening a series of Old Master paintings, including those by the Italian painters Cimabue and Pietro Lorenzetti. The high specificity, sensitivity and lateral resolution of the employed analytical methods allowed providing first-time evidence for the presence of black acanthite (alpha-Ag2S), mimetite [Pb-5(AsO4)(3)Cl] and syngenite [K2Ca(SO4)(2)center dot H2O] as degradation products of the “fake-gilded” decorations in the Maesta by Cimabue (Church of Santa Maria dei Servi, Bologna, Italy). Furthermore, the study of the painting combined with that of tempera paint mock-ups permitted to explore and define the environmental agents and internal factors causing the darkening, by proving that: (i) Ag-0 and moisture are key-factors for triggering the transformation of As2S3 to alpha-Ag2S and As-oxides; (ii) S2--ions arising from the degradation of As2S3 are the main responsible for the formation of alpha-Ag2S; (iii) light exposure strengthens the tendency of the paint components towards alteration. Based on our findings, we finally propose a degradation mechanism of As2S3/Ag-0-based tempera paints.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000722353400001 Publication Date 2021-11-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0267-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:184871 Serial 7142
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Author Pattyn, C.; Maira, N.; Buddhadasa, M.; Vervloessem, E.; Iseni, S.; Roy, N.C.; Remy, A.; Delplancke, M.-P.; De Geyter, N.; Reniers, F.
Title Disproportionation of nitrogen induced by DC plasma-driven electrolysis in a nitrogen atmosphere Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Green Chemistry Abbreviated Journal Green Chem
Volume 24 Issue 18 Pages 7100-7112
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Nitrogen disproportionation i.e. its simultaneous conversion to compounds of higher (NOx) and lower (NH3) oxidation states in a N-2 DC plasma-driven electrolysis process with a plasma cathode is investigated. This type of plasma-liquid interaction exhibits a growing interest for many applications, in particular nitrogen fixation where it represents a green alternative to the Haber-Bosch process. Optical emission spectroscopy, FTIR and electrochemical sensing systems are used to characterize the gas phase physico-chemistry while the liquid phase is analyzed via ionic chromatography and colorimetric assays. Experiments suggest that lowering the discharge current enhances nitrogen reduction and facilitates the transfer of nitrogen compounds to the liquid phase. Large amounts of water vapor appear to impact the gas discharge physico-chemistry and to favor the vibrational excitation of N-2, a key parameter for an energy-efficient nitrogen fixation.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000847733600001 Publication Date 2022-08-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1463-9262; 1463-9270 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.8
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190655 Serial 7145
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Author Berdiyorov, G.R.; Peeters, F.M.; Hamoudi, H.
Title Effect of edge groups on the electronic transport properties of tetrapodal diazatriptycene molecule Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Physica. E: Low-dimensional systems and nanostructures Abbreviated Journal Physica E
Volume 141 Issue Pages 115212-115216
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract We conduct ballistic transport calculations to study the electronic transport properties of diazatriptycene molecule which can be self-assembled on metallic surfaces with uniform coverage and upright orientation of the functional head group. Due to its structural asymmetry, the molecule shows a clear current rectification, where the level of the rectification depends on the nature of the head group. For example, current rectification can be increased by more than a factor of 2 by anchoring the molecules to the electrode by CN functional group or introducing insulating CH2 group between the thiol end group and the adjacent phenyl ring. Our findings show the possibility of creating self-assembled monolayer of DAT molecules with controlled electronic transport properties through functionalization of the head group.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000806548600006 Publication Date 2022-03-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1386-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.3 Times cited 2 Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.3
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189041 Serial 7147
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Author Berdiyorov, G.R.; Peeters, F.M.; Hamoudi, H.
Title Effect of halogenation on the electronic transport properties of aromatic and alkanethiolate molecules Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Physica. E: Low-dimensional systems and nanostructures Abbreviated Journal Physica E
Volume 144 Issue Pages 115428-6
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Quantum transport calculations are conducted using nonequilibrium Green's functional formalism to study the effect of halogenation on the electronic transport properties of aromatic S-(C6H5)(2)X and alkanethiolate S-(CH2)(11)X molecules (with X = H, F, Cl, Br, or I) sandwiched between gold electrodes. In terms of conductance, both molecules show the same dependence on the halogen terminal groups despite their different electronic nature. For example, fluorination results in a reduction of the current by almost an order of magnitude, whereas iodine substitution leads to larger current as compared to the reference system (i.e. hydrogen termination). Regarding the asymmetry in the current-voltage characteristics, halogenation reduces the rectification level for the aromatic molecule with the smallest asymmetry for iodine termination. However, in the case of alkanethiolate molecule, halogen substitution increases the current rectification except for fluorination. A physical explanation of these results is obtained from the analysis of the behavior of the density of states, transmission spectra and transmission eigenstates. These findings are of practical importance in exploring the potential of halogenation for creating functional molecular self-assemblies on metallic substrates.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000857051700007 Publication Date 2022-07-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1386-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.3 Times cited 1 Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.3
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191500 Serial 7148
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Author Li, Y.; Quinn, B.K.; Niinemets, Ü.; Schrader, J.; Gielis, J.; Liu, M.; Shi, P.
Title Ellipticalness index : a simple measure of the complexity of oval leaf shape Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Pakistan journal of botany : An official publication of pakistan botanical society Abbreviated Journal Pak J Bot
Volume 54 Issue 6 Pages 1-8
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Plants have diverse leaf shapes that have evolved to adapt to the environments they have experienced over their evolutionary history. Leaf shape and leaf size can greatly influence the growth rate, competitive ability, and productivity of plants. However, researchers have long struggled to decide how to properly quantify the complexity of leaf shape. Prior studies recommended the leaf roundness index (RI = 4πA/P2) or dissection index (DI = ), where P is leaf perimeter and A is leaf area. However, these two indices merely measure the extent of the deviation of leaf shape from a circle, which is usually invalid as leaves are seldom circular. In this study, we proposed a simple measure, named the ellipticalness index (EI), for quantifying the complexity of leaf shape based on the hypothesis that the shape of any oval leaf can be regarded as a variation from a standard ellipse. 2220 leaves from nine species of Magnoliaceae were sampled to check the validity of the EI. We also tested the validity of the Montgomery equation (ME), which assumes a proportional relationship between leaf area and the product of leaf length and width, because the EI actually comes from the proportionality coefficient of the ME. We also compared the ME with five other models of leaf area. The ME was found to be the best model for calculating leaf area based on consideration of the trade-off between model fit vs. complexity, which strongly supported the robustness of the EI for describing oval leaf shape. The new index can account for both leaf shape and size, and we conclude that it is a promising method for quantifying and comparing oval leaf shapes across species in future studies.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000814279700028 Publication Date 2022-05-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0556-3321 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 1.2
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188469 Serial 7153
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Author Bekaert, J.; Sevik, C.; Milošević, M.V.
Title Enhancing superconductivity in MXenes through hydrogenation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal Nanoscale
Volume 14 Issue 27 Pages 9918-9924
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Two-dimensional transition metal carbides and nitrides (MXenes) are an emerging class of atomically-thin superconductors, whose characteristics are highly prone to tailoring by surface functionalization. Here we explore the use of hydrogen adatoms to enhance phonon-mediated superconductivity in MXenes, based on first-principles calculations combined with Eliashberg theory. We first demonstrate the stability of three different structural models of hydrogenated Mo- and W-based MXenes. Particularly high critical temperatures of over 30 K are obtained for hydrogenated Mo2N and W2N. Several mechanisms responsible for the enhanced electron-phonon coupling are uncovered, namely (i) hydrogen-induced changes in the phonon spectrum of the host MXene, (ii) emerging hydrogen-based phonon modes, and (iii) charge transfer from hydrogen to the MXene layer, boosting the density of states at the Fermi level. Finally, we demonstrate that hydrogen adatoms are moreover able to induce superconductivity in MXenes that are not superconducting in pristine form, such as Nb2C.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000820350600001 Publication Date 2022-06-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2040-3364; 2040-3372 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.7 Times cited 2 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189580 Serial 7155
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Author Spiller, M.; Moretti, M.; De Paepe, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
Title Environmental and economic sustainability of the nitrogen recovery paradigm : evidence from a structured literature review Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy
Volume 184 Issue Pages 106406-106413
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Our economy drives on reactive nitrogen (Nr); while Nr emissions to the environment surpass the planetary boundary. Increasingly, it is advocated to recover Nr contained in waste streams and to reuse it ‘directly’ in the agri-food chain. Alternatively, Nr in waste streams may be removed as N2 and refixed via the Haber-Bosch process in an ‘indirect’ reuse loop. As a systematic sustainability analysis of ‘direct’ Nr reuse and its comparison to the ‘indirect’ reuse loop is lacking, this structured review aimed to analyze literature determining the environmental and economic sustainability of Nr recovery technologies. Bibliometric records were queried from 2000 to 2020 using Boolean search strings, and manual text coding. In total, 63 studies were selected for the review. Results suggest that ‘direct’ Nr reuse using Nr recovery technologies is the preferred paradigm as the majority of studies concluded that it is sustainable or that it can be sustainable depending on technological assumptions and other scenario variables. Only 17 studies compared the ‘direct’ with the ‘indirect’ Nr reuse route, therefore a system perspective in Nr recovery sustainability assessments should be more widely adopted. Furthermore, Nr reuse should also be analyzed in the context of a ‘new Nr economy’ that relies on decentralized Nr production from renewable energy. It is also recommended that on-par technology readiness level comparisons should be carried out, making use of technology development and technology learning methodologies. Finally, by-products of Nr recovery are important to be accounted for as they are reducing the environmental burdens through avoided impacts.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000804938100001 Publication Date 2022-05-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188873 Serial 7156
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Author Alloul, A.; Van Kampen, W.; Cerruti, M.; Wittouck, S.; Pabst, M.; Weissbrodt, D.G.
Title Exploring the role of antimicrobials in the selective growth of purple phototrophic bacteria through genome mining and agar spot assays Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Letters in applied microbiology Abbreviated Journal Lett Appl Microbiol
Volume 75 Issue 5 Pages 1275-1285
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Purple non-sulphur bacteria (PNSB) are an emerging group of microbes attractive for applied microbiology applications such as wastewater treatment, plant biostimulants, microbial protein, polyhydroxyalkanoates and H-2 production. These photoorganoheterotrophic microbes have the unique ability to grow selectively on organic carbon in anaerobic photobioreactors. This so-called selectivity implies that the microbial community will have a low diversity and a high abundance of a particular PNSB species. Recently, it has been shown that certain PNSB strains can produce antimicrobials, yet it remains unclear whether these contribute to competitive inhibition. This research aimed to understand which type of antimicrobial PNSB produce and identify whether these compounds contribute to their selective growth. Mining 166 publicly-available PNSB genomes using the computational tool BAGEL showed that 59% contained antimicrobial encoding regions, more specifically biosynthetic clusters of bacteriocins and non-ribosomal peptide synthetases. Inter- and intra-species inhibition was observed in agar spot assays for Rhodobacter blasticus EBR2 and Rhodopseudomonas palustris EBE1 with inhibition zones of, respectively, 5.1 and 1.5-5.7 mm. Peptidomic analysis detected a peptide fragment in the supernatant (SVLQLLR) that had a 100% percentage identity match with a known non-ribosomal peptide synthetase with antimicrobial activity.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000837055500001 Publication Date 2022-07-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0266-8254 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 2.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 2.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189519 Serial 7162
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Author Lang, X.; Ouyang, Y.; Vandewalle, L.A.; Goshayeshi, B.; Chen, S.; Madanikashani, S.; Perreault, P.; Van Geem, K.M.; van Geem, K.M.
Title Gas-solid hydrodynamics in a stator-rotor vortex chamber reactor Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 446 Issue 5 Pages 137323-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The gas-solid vortex reactor (GSVR) has enormous process intensification potential. However the huge gas consumption can be a serious disadvantage for the GSVR in some applications such as fast pyrolysis. In this work, we demonstrate a recent novel design, where a stator-rotor vortex chamber (STARVOC) is driven by the fluid's kinetic energy, to decouple the solids bed rotation and gas. Gas-solid fluidization by using air and monosized aluminum balls was performed to investigate the hydrodynamics. A constructed fluidization flow regime map for a fixed solids loading of 100 g shows that the bed can only be fluidized for a rotation speed between 200 and 400 RPM. Below 200 RPM, particles settle down on the bottom plate and cannot form a stable bed due to inertia and friction. Above 400 RPM, the bed cannot be fluidized with superficial velocities up to 1.8 m/s (air flow rate of 90 Nm(3)/h). The bed thickness shows some non-uniformities, being smaller at the top of the bed than at the bottom counterpart. However by increasing the air flow rate or rotation speed the axial nonuniformity can be resolved. The bed pressure drop first increases with increasing gas flow rate and then levels off, showing similar characteristics as conventional fluidized beds. Theoretical pressure drops calculated from mathematical models such as Kao et al. model agree well with experimental measurements. Particle velocity discrepancies between the top and bottom particles reveal that the impact of gravity cannot be completely neglected. Design guidelines and possible applications for further development of STARVOC concept are proposed based on fundamental data provided in this work.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000833418100006 Publication Date 2022-06-01
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15.1
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189283 Serial 7167
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Author Lopez-Garcia, C.; Canossa, S.; Hadermann, J.; Gorni, G.; Oropeza, F.E.; de la Pena O'Shea, V.A.; Iglesias, M.; Monge, M.A.; Gutierrez-Puebla, E.; Gandara, F.
Title Heterometallic molecular complexes act as messenger building units to encode desired metal-atom combinations to multivariate metal-organic frameworks Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Journal of the American Chemical Society Abbreviated Journal J Am Chem Soc
Volume 144 Issue 36 Pages 16262-16266
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract A novel synthetic approach is described for the targeted preparation of multivariate metal-organic frameworks (MTV-MOFs) with specific combinations of metal elements. This methodology is based on the use of molecular complexes that already comprise desired metal-atom combinations, as building units for the MTV-MOF synthesis. These units are transformed into the MOF structural constituents through a ligand/linker exchange process that involves structural modifications while preserving their origina l l y encoded atomic combination. Thus, through the use of heterometalli c ring-shaped molecules combining gallium and nickel or cobalt, we have obtained MOFs with identical combinations of the metal elements, now incorporated in the rod-shaped secondary building unit, as confirmed with a combination of X-ray and electron diffraction, electron microscopy, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy techniques.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000841435900001 Publication Date 2022-08-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0002-7863 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 15 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190023 Serial 7169
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Author Ying, J.; Lenaerts, S.; Symes, M.D.; Yang, X.-Y.
Title Hierarchical design in nanoporous metals Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Advanced Science Abbreviated Journal Adv Sci
Volume 9 Issue 27 Pages 2106117-2106120
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Hierarchically porous metals possess intriguing high accessibility of matter molecules and unique continuous metallic frameworks, as well as a high level of exposed active atoms. High rates of diffusion and fast energy transfer have been important and challenging goals of hierarchical design and porosity control with nanostructured metals. This review aims to summarize recent important progress toward the development of hierarchically porous metals, with special emphasis on synthetic strategies, hierarchical design in structure-function and corresponding applications. The current challenges and future prospects in this field are also discussed.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000831201000001 Publication Date 2022-07-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2198-3844 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 15.1 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 15.1
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189646 Serial 7170
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Author Faraji, F.; Neek-Amal, M.; Neyts, E.C.; Peeters, F.M.
Title Indentation of graphene nano-bubbles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal Nanoscale
Volume 14 Issue 15 Pages 5876-5883
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Molecular dynamics simulations are used to investigate the effect of an AFM tip when indenting graphene nano bubbles filled by a noble gas (i.e. He, Ne and Ar) up to the breaking point. The failure points resemble those of viral shells as described by the Foppl-von Karman (FvK) dimensionless number defined in the context of elasticity theory of thin shells. At room temperature, He gas inside the bubbles is found to be in the liquid state while Ne and Ar atoms are in the solid state although the pressure inside the nano bubble is below the melting pressure of the bulk. The trapped gases are under higher hydrostatic pressure at low temperatures than at room temperature.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000776763000001 Publication Date 2022-03-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2040-3364; 2040-3372 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.7 Times cited 2 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:187924 Serial 7171
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Author Oliveira, M.C.
Title Influence of phase-separated domains on the permeability of oxidized lipid membranes Type Doctoral thesis
Year 2022 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 151 p.
Keywords Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Biological membranes are under constant attack of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), which may lead to a complex mixture of nitro-oxidized lipids that are responsible for structural and dynamic changes on the membrane. Because of that, nitro-oxidized lipids are also associated with several tumors and inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, lipid oxidation may induce membrane phase-separated domains, which also drastically affect the membrane function. Evidence suggests that domain interfaces are “hot spots” for pore formation, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. There is an urgent need for an improved understanding of oxidation-induced phase separation on membrane properties. Likewise, the molecular structure at domain interfaces still needs to be elucidated. To evaluate the effect of lipid nitro-oxidation on the permeability of single-phase (homogeneous) and phase-separated (heterogeneous) phospholipid bilayers (PLBs), we performed atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations using: (1) single-phase PLBs composed of several isomers of nitrated and/or oxidized lipids; (2) phase-separated PLBs composed of coexisting liquid ordered (Lo) and liquid disordered (Ld) domains, where the Ld domain is composed of non-oxidized and/or oxidized lipids. Our results show that nitrated lipids increase the membrane permeability of single-phase PLBs by three-fold compared to oxidized lipids. In addition, we show that oxidized lipids in the presence of nitrated lipids decrease the membrane permeability, suggesting an interaction between nitrated and oxidized lipids. Overall, the permeability of single-phase and phase-separated PLBs was comparable, and the presence of oxidized lipids increases the membrane permeability only in single-phase PLBs. Despite the latter, the presence of only 1.5% of lipid aldehydes at the Lo/Ld domain interfaces of phase-separated PLBs was able to increase the membrane permeability. In consequence of this, we also performed coarse-grained MD simulations to evaluate whether lipid aldehydes have a preference to accumulate at the interface between Lo/Ld domains. Our results show that lipid aldehydes derived from mono-unsaturated lipids accumulate at the interface, but those derived from poly-unsaturated lipids remain in the Ld domain. This study is of interest for photodynamic therapy and plasma medicine for cancer treatment, to understand the effects caused by RONS in cell membranes.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191039 Serial 7173
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Mirzakhani, M.; da Costa, D.R.; Peeters, F.M.
Title Isolated and hybrid bilayer graphene quantum rings Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Physical review B Abbreviated Journal Phys Rev B
Volume 105 Issue 11 Pages 115430-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Using the continuum model, we investigate the electronic properties of two types of bilayer graphene (BLG) quantum ring (QR) geometries: (i) An isolated BLG QR and (ii) a monolayer graphene (MLG) with a QR put on top of an infinite graphene sheet (hybrid BLG QR). Solving the Dirac-Weyl equation in the presence of a perpendicular magnetic field and applying the infinite mass boundary condition at the ring boundaries, we obtain analytical results for the energy levels and corresponding wave spinors for both structures. In the case of isolated BLG QR, we observe a sizable and magnetically tunable band gap which agrees with the tight-binding transport simulations. Our analytical results also show the intervalley symmetry EeK (m) = ???EK??? h (m) between the electron (e) and the hole (h) states (m is the angular momentum quantum number) for the energy spectrum of the isolated BLG QR. The presence of interface boundary in a hybrid BLG QR modifies drastically the energy levels as compared with that of an isolated BLG QR. Its energy levels are tunable from MLG dot to isolated BLG QR and to MLG Landau energy levels as the magnetic field is varied. Our predictions can be verified experimentally using different techniques such as by magnetotransport measurements.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000801209300006 Publication Date 2022-03-28
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2469-9969; 2469-9950 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.7 Times cited 4 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188703 Serial 7175
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Author Moura, V.N.; Dantas, D.S.; Farias, G.A.; Chaves, A.; Milošević, M.V.
Title Latent superconductivity at parallel interfaces in a superlattice dominated by another collective quantum phase Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Physical review B Abbreviated Journal Phys Rev B
Volume 106 Issue 1 Pages 014516-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract We theoretically examine behavior of superconductivity at parallel interfaces separating the domains of another dominant collective excitation, such as charge density waves or spin density waves. Due to their competitive coupling in a two-component Ginzburg-Landau model, suppression of the dominant order parameter at the interfacial planes allows for nucleation of the (hidden) superconducting order parameter at those planes. In such a case, we demonstrate how the number of the parallel interfacial planes and the distance between them are linked to the number and the size of the emerging superconducting gaps in the system, as well as the versatility and temperature evolution of the possible superconducting phases. These findings bear relevance to a broad selection of known layered superconducting materials, as well as to further design of artificial (e.g., oxide) superlattices, where the interplay between competing order parameters paves the way towards otherwise unattainable superconducting states, some with enhanced superconducting critical temperature.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000834346000004 Publication Date 2022-07-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2469-9969; 2469-9950 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.7 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189520 Serial 7179
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Author Frolov, A.S.; Callaert, C.; Batuk, M.; Hadermann, J.; Volykhov, A.A.; Sirotina, A.P.; Amati, M.; Gregoratti, L.; Yashina, L.V.
Title Nanoscale phase separation in the oxide layer at GeTe (111) surfaces Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal Nanoscale
Volume 14 Issue 35 Pages 12918-12927
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract As a semiconductor ferroelectric, GeTe has become a focus of renewed attention due to the recent discovery of giant Rashba splitting. It already has a wide range of applications, from thermoelectricity to data storage. Its stability in ambient air, as well as the structure and properties of an oxide layer, define the processing media for device production and operation. Here, we studied a reaction between the GeTe (111) surface and molecular oxygen for crystals having solely inversion domains. We evaluated the reaction kinetics both ex situ and in situ using NAP XPS. The structure of the oxide layer is extensively discussed, where, according to HAADF-STEM and STEM-EDX, nanoscale phase separation of GeO2 and Te is observed, which is unusual for semiconductors. We believe that such behaviour is closely related to the ferroelectric properties and the domain structure of GeTe.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000847743300001 Publication Date 2022-08-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2040-3364; 2040-3372 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 6.7 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.7
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190665 Serial 7181
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Author Faust, V.; Gruber, W.; Ganigue, R.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Udert, K.M.
Title Nitrous oxide emissions and carbon footprint of decentralized urine fertilizer production by nitrification and distillation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication ACS ES&T engineering Abbreviated Journal
Volume 2 Issue 9 Pages 1745-1755
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Combining partial nitrification, granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration, and distillation is a well-studied approach to convert urine into a fertilizer. To evaluate the environmental sustainability of a technology, the operational carbon footprint and therefore nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions should be known, but N2O emissions from urine nitrification have not been assessed yet. Therefore, N2O emissions of a decentralized urine nitrification reactor were monitored for 1 month. During nitrification, 0.4-1.2% of the total nitrogen load was emitted as N2O-N with an average N2O emission factor (EFN2O) of 0.7%. Additional N2O was produced during anoxic storage between nitrification and GAC filtration with an estimated EFN2O of 0.8%, resulting in an EFN2O of 1.5% for the treatment chain. N2O emissions during nitrification can be mitigated by 60% by avoiding low dissolved oxygen or anoxic conditions and nitrite concentrations above 5 mg-N L-1. Minimizing the hydraulic retention time between nitrification and GAC filtration can reduce N2O formation during intermediate storage by 100%. Overall, the N2O emissions accounted for 45% of the operational carbon footprint of 14 kg-CO2,equiv kg-N-1 for urine fertilizer production. Using electricity from renewable sources and applying the proposed N2O mitigation strategies could potentially lower the carbon footprint by 85%.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000835412700001 Publication Date 2022-07-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189599 Serial 7182
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Author Vanmeert, F.; De Meyer, S.; Gestels, A.; Clerici, E.A.; Deleu, N.; Legrand, S.; Van Espen, P.; Van der Snickt, G.; Alfeld, M.; Dik, J.; Monico, L.; De Nolf, W.; Cotte, M.; Gonzalez, V.; Saverwyns, S.; Depuydt-Elbaum, L.; Janssens, K.
Title Non-invasive and non-destructive examination of artists’ pigments, paints and paintings by means of X-ray imaging methods Type H1 Book chapter
Year 2022 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 317-357
Keywords H1 Book chapter; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract Recent studies in which X-ray beams of (sub)micrometre to millimetre dimensions have been used for non-destructive analysis and characterization of pigments, minute paint samples and/or entire paintings from fifteenth to twentieth century artists are discussed. The overview presented encompasses the use of laboratory and synchrotron radiation-based instrumentation and deals with the use of several variants of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) as a method of elemental analysis and imaging as well as with the combined use with X-ray diffraction (XRD). Microscopic XRF (μ-XRF) is a variant of the XRF method able to visualize the elemental distribution of key elements, mostly metals, on the scale from 1 μm to 100 μm present inside multi-layered micro samples taken from paintings. In the context of the characterization of artists’ pigments subjected to natural degradation, in many cases the use of methods limited to elemental analysis or imaging does not suffice to elucidate the chemical transformations that have taken place. However, at synchrotron facilities, combinations of μ-XRF with related methods such as μ-XAS (microscopic X-ray absorption spectroscopy) and μ-XRD have proven themselves to be very suitable for such studies. Since microscopic investigation of a relatively limited number of minute paint samples may not yield representative information about the complete artefact they were taken from, several methods for macroscopic, non-invasive imaging have recently been developed. Combined macroscopic XRF/XRD scanning is able to provide a fairly complete overview of the inorganic pigments employed to create a work of art, to answer questions about ongoing degradation phenomena and about its authenticity. As such these newly developed non-invasive and highly specific imaging methods are of interest for many cultural heritage stakeholders.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2022-09-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN 978-3-030-86864-2 Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190777 Serial 7183
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Author Marchetti, A.; Beltran, V.; Nuyts, G.; Borondics, F.; De Meyer, S.; Van Bos, M.; Jaroszewicz, J.; Otten, E.; Debulpaep, M.; De Wael, K.
Title Novel optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy for the noninvasive characterization of heritage glass-metal objects Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Science Advances Abbreviated Journal
Volume 8 Issue 9 Pages eabl6769-9
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract Optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) is a recently developed molecular spectroscopy technique that allows to noninvasively obtain chemical information on organic and inorganic samples at a submicrometric scale. The high spatial resolution (approximate to 450 nm), lack of sample preparation, and comparability of the spectral results to traditional Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy make it a promising candidate for the analysis of cultural heritage. In this work, the potential of O-PTIR for the noninvasive characterization of small heritage objects (few cubic centimeters) is demonstrated on a series of degraded 16th century brass and glass decorative elements. These small and challenging samples, typically encountering limitations with existing noninvasive methods such as macroscopic x-ray powder diffraction and mu Raman, were successfully characterized by O-PTIR, ultimately identifying the markers of glass-induced metal corrosion processes. The results clearly demonstrate how O-PTIR can be easily implemented in a noninvasive multianalytical strategy for the study of heritage materials, making it a fundamental tool for cultural heritage analyses.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000790020300013 Publication Date 2022-03-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2375-2548 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.6 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.6
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188642 Serial 7184
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Author Van Hal, M.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Photocatalytic soot degradation under UV and visible light Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Environmental Science and Pollution Research Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci Pollut R
Volume Issue Pages 1-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Abstract Particulate matter is one of the most persistent global air pollutants that is causing health problems, climate disturbance and building deterioration. A sustainable technique that is able to degrade soot using (sun)light is photocatalysis. Currently, research on photocatalytic soot oxidation focusses on large band gap TiO2-based photocatalysts and thus requires the use of UV light. It would prove useful if visible light, and thus a larger fraction of the (freely available) solar spectrum, could additionally be utilised to drive this process. In this work, a visible light-active photocatalyst, WO3, is benchmarked to TiO2 under both UV and visible light. At the same time, the versatility and drastic improvement of a recently introduced digital image-based soot degradation detection method are demonstrated. An additional step correcting for non-soot related catalyst colour changes is applied, resulting in accurate detection and quantification of soot degradation for all studied photocatalysts, even for materials such as WO3 that are inherently coloured. With this study, we aim to broaden the scope of photocatalytic soot oxidation technology to visible light-active photocatalyst. Along with this study, we provide a versatile soot degradation detection methodology based on digital image analysis that is made widely applicable.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000871854600010 Publication Date 2022-10-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0944-1344; 1614-7499 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.8
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191275 Serial 7189
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Khan, S.U.; Trashin, S.; Beltran, V.; Korostei, Y.S.; Pelmus, M.; Gorun, S.M.; Dubinina, T., V.; Verbruggen, S.W.; De Wael, K.
Title Photoelectrochemical behavior of phthalocyanine-sensitized TiO₂ in the presence of electron-shuttling mediators Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 94 Issue 37 Pages 12723-12731
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Dye-sensitized TiO(2 )has found many applications for dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC), solar-to-chemical energy conversion, water/air purification systems, and (electro)chemical sensors. We report an electrochemical system for testing dye-sensitized materials that can be utilized in photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors and energy conversion. Unlike related systems, the reported system does not require a direct electron transfer from semiconductors to electrodes. Rather, it relies on electron shuttling by redox mediators. A range of model photocatalytic materials were prepared using three different TiO2 materials (P25, P90, and PC500) and three sterically hindered phthalocyanines (Pcs) with electron-rich tert-butyl substituents (t-Bu4PcZn, t-Bu4PcAlCl, and t-Bu4PcH2). The materials were compared with previously developed TiO(2 )modified by electron-deficient, also sterically hindered fluorinated phthalocyanine F64PcZn, a singlet oxygen (O-1(2)) producer, as well as its metal-free derivative, F64PcH2. The PEC activity depended on the redox mediator, as well as the type of TiO2 and Pc. By comparing the responses of one-electron shuttles, such as K4Fe(CN)(4), and O-1(2)-reactive electron shuttles, such as phenol, it is possible to reveal the action mechanism of the supported photosensitizers, while the overall activity can be assessed using hydroquinone. t-Bu4PcAlCl showed significantly lower blank responses and higher specific responses toward chlorophenols compared to t-Bu4PcZn due to the electron-withdrawing effect of the Al3+ metal center. The combination of reactivity insights and the need for only microgram amounts of sensing materials renders the reported system advantageous for practical applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher (up) Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000855284300001 Publication Date 2022-09-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190602 Serial 7190
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Andersen, J.A.; Christensen, J.M.; Østberg, M.; Bogaerts, A.; Jensen, A.D.
Title Plasma-catalytic ammonia decomposition using a packed-bed dielectric barrier discharge reactor Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication International Journal Of Hydrogen Energy Abbreviated Journal Int J Hydrogen Energ
Volume 47 Issue 75 Pages 32081-32091
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Plasma-catalytic ammonia decomposition as a method for producing hydrogen was studied in a packed-bed dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor at ambient pressure and a fixed plasma power. The influence of packing the plasma zone with various dielectric materials, typically used as catalyst supports, was examined. At conditions (21 W, 75 Nml/min NH3) where an NH3 conversion of 5% was achieved with plasma alone, an improved decomposition was found when introducing dielectric materials with dielectric constants between 4 and 30. Of the tested materials, MgAl2O4 yielded the highest conversion (15.1%). The particle size (0.3-1.4 mm) of the MgAl2O4 packing was found to have a modest influence on the conversion, which dropped from 15.1% to 12.6% with increasing particle size. Impregnation of MgAl2O4 with different metals was found to decrease the NH3 conversion, with the Ni impregnation still showing an improved conversion (7%) compared to plasma-only. The plasma-assisted ammonia decomposition occurs in the gas phase due to micro-discharges, as evident from a linear correlation between the conversion and the frequency of micro-discharges for both plasma alone and with the various solid packing materials. The primary function of the solid is thus to facilitate the gas phase reaction by assisting the creation of micro-discharges. Lastly, insulation of the reactor to raise the temperature to 230 degrees C in the plasma zone was found to have a negative effect on the conversion, as a change from volume discharges to surface discharges occurred. The study shows that NH3 can be decomposed to provide hydrogen by exposure to a non-thermal plasma, but further developments are needed for it to become an energy efficient technology. (C)2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC.
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Language Wos 000865421200012 Publication Date 2022-08-17
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Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0360-3199 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 7.2
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191512 Serial 7191
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