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Author Martinez-Villarreal, S.; Breitenstein, A.; Nimmegeers, P.; Perez Saura, P.; Hai, B.; Asomaning, J.; Eslami, A.A.; Billen, P.; Van Passel, S.; Bressler, D.C.; Debecker, D.P.; Remacle, C.; Richel, A.
Title Drop-in biofuels production from microalgae to hydrocarbons : microalgal cultivation and harvesting, conversion pathways, economics and prospects for aviation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Biomass & Bioenergy Abbreviated Journal Biomass Bioenerg
Volume 165 Issue Pages 106555-22
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Abstract In the last few years, governments all around the world have agreed upon migrating towards carbon-neutral economies as a strategy for restraining the effects of climate change. A major obstacle limiting this achievement is greenhouse gases emissions, for which the aviation sector is a key contributor because of its dependence on fossil fuels. As an alternative, biofuels with similar characteristics to current fossil-fuels and fully compatible with the existing petroleum infrastructure (i.e., drop-in biofuels) are being developed. In this regard, microalgae are a promising feedstock thanks to, among other aspects, their potential for lipid accumulation. This review outlines the development status, opportunities, and challenges of different technologies that are capable of or applicable to transform microalgae into aviation fuels. To this effect, a baseline of the existing jet fuels and the requirements for potential aviation biofuels is initially presented. Then, microalgae production and valorization techniques are discussed with an emphasis on the thermochemical pathways. Finally, an assessment of the present techno-economic feasibility of microalgae-derived aviation fuels is discussed, along with the authors’ point of view on the suitability of these techniques. Further developments are needed to reduce the costs of cultivation and harvesting of microalgae, and a biorefinery approach might improve the economics of the overall process. In addition, while each of the conversion routes described has its advantages and drawbacks, they converge upon the need of optimizing the deoxygenation techniques and the proportion of the suitable type of hydrocarbons that match fuel requirements.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000861095400001 Publication Date 2022-08-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0961-9534 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189953 Serial (down) 7354
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Author Yedukondalu, N.; Pandey, T.; Roshan, S.C.R.
Title Effect of hydrostatic pressure on lone pair activity and phonon transport in Bi₂O₂S Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication ACS applied energy materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 6 Issue 4 Pages 2401-2411
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Dibismuth dioxychalcogenides, Bi2O2Ch (Ch = S, Se, Te), are a promising class of materials for next-generation electronics and thermoelectrics due to their ultrahigh carrier mobility and excellent air stability. An interesting member of this family is Bi2O2S, which has a stereochemically active 6s2 lone pair of Bi3+ cations, heterogeneous bonding, and a high mass contrast between its constituent elements. In the present study, we have used first-principles calculations in combination with Boltzmann transport theory to systematically investigate the effect of hydrostatic pressure on lattice dynamics and phonon transport properties of Bi2O2S. We found that the ambient Pnmn phase has a low average lattice thermal conductivity (kappa l) of 1.71 W/(m K) at 300 K. We also predicted that Bi2O2S undergoes a structural phase transition from a low-symmetry (Pnmn) to a high-symmetry (I4/mmm) structure at around 4 GPa due to centering of Bi3+ cations with pressure. Upon compression, the lone pair activity of Bi3+ cations is suppressed, which increases kappa l by almost 3 times to 4.92 W/ (m K) at 5 GPa for the I4/mmm phase. The computed phonon lifetimes and Gru''neisen parameters show that anharmonicity decreases with increasing pressure due to further suppression of the lone pair activity and strengthening of intra-and intermolecular interactions, leading to an average room-temperature kappa l of 12.82 W/(m K) at 20 GPa. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the effect of hydrostatic pressure on the stereochemical activity of the lone pair of Bi3+ cations and its implications on the phonon transport properties of Bi2O2S.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000929103700001 Publication Date 2023-02-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2574-0962 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.4; 2023 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:195245 Serial (down) 7300
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Author Batuk, M.; Vandemeulebroucke, D.; Ceretti, M.; Paulus, W.; Hadermann, J.
Title Topotactic redox cycling in SrFeO2.5+δ explored by 3D electron diffraction in different gas atmospheres Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Journal of materials chemistry A : materials for energy and sustainability Abbreviated Journal J Mater Chem A
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract For oxygen conducting materials applied in solid oxide fuel cells and chemical-looping processes, the understanding of the oxygen diffusion mechanism and the materials’ crystal structure at different stages of the redox reactions is a key parameter to control their performance. In this paper we report the first ever in situ 3D ED experiment in a gas environment and with it uncover the structure evolution of SrFeO2.5 as notably different from that reported from in situ X-ray and in situ neutron powder diffraction studies in gas environments. Using in situ 3D ED on submicron sized single crystals obtained from a high quality monodomain SrFeO2.5 single crystal , we observe the transformation under O2 flow of SrFeO2.5 with an intra- and interlayer ordering of the left and right twisted (FeO4) tetrahedral chains (space group Pcmb) into consecutively SrFeO2.75 with space group Cmmm (at 350°C, 33% O2) and SrFeO3-δ with space group Pm3 ̅m (at 400°C, 100% O2). Upon reduction in H2 flow, the crystals return to the brownmillerite structure with intralayer order, but without regaining the interlayer order of the pristine crystals. Therefore, redox cycling of SrFeO2.5 crystals in O2 and H2 introduces stacking faults into the structure, resulting in an I2/m(0βγ)0s symmetry with variable β.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000891928400001 Publication Date 0000-00-00
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7488 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Financial support is acknowledged from the FWO-Hercules fund I003218N ‘Infrastructure for imaging nanoscale processes in gas/vapor or liquid environments’, from the University of Antwerp through grant BOF TOP 38689. This work was supported by the European Commission Horizon 2020 NanED grant number 956099. Financial support from the French National Research Agency (ANR) through the project “Structural induced Electronic Complexity controlled by low temperature Topotactic Reaction” (SECTOR No. ANR-14-CE36- 0006-01) is gratefully acknowledged. Approved Most recent IF: 11.9
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:192325 Serial (down) 7229
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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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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000865421200012 Publication Date 2022-08-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
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 (down) 7191
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Author Osorio-Tejada, J.; van't Veer, K.; Long, N.V.D.; Tran, N.N.; Fulcheri, L.; Patil, B.S.; Bogaerts, A.; Hessel, V.
Title Sustainability analysis of methane-to-hydrogen-to-ammonia conversion by integration of high-temperature plasma and non-thermal plasma processes Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Energy Conversion And Management Abbreviated Journal Energ Convers Manage
Volume 269 Issue Pages 116095
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract The Covid era has made us aware of the need for resilient, self-sufficient, and local production. We are likely willing to pay an extra price for that quality. Ammonia (NH3) synthesis accounts for 2 % of global energy production and is an important point of attention for the development of green energy technologies. Therefore, we propose a thermally integrated process for H2 production and NH3 synthesis using plasma technology, and we evaluate its techno-economic performance and CO2 footprint by life cycle assessment (LCA). The key is to integrate energy-wise a high-temperature plasma (HTP) process, with a (low-temperature) non-thermal plasma (NTP) process and to envision their joint economic potential. This particularly means raising the temperature of the NTP process, which is typically below 100 ◦ C, taking advantage of the heat released from the HTP process. For that purpose, we proposed the integrated process and conducted chemical kinetics simulations in the NTP section to determine the thermodynamically feasible operating window of this novel combined plasma process. The results suggest that an NH3 yield of 2.2 mol% can be attained at 302 ◦ C at an energy yield of 1.1 g NH3/kWh. Cost calculations show that the economic performance is far from commercial, mainly because of the too low energy yield of the NTP process. However, when we base our costs on the best literature value and plausible future scenarios for the NTP energy yield, we reach a cost prediction below 452 $/tonne NH3, which is competitive with conventional small-scale Haber-Bosch NH3 synthesis for distributed production. In addition, we demonstrate that biogas can be used as feed, thus allowing the proposed integrated reactor concept to be part of a biogas-to-ammonia circular concept. Moreover, by LCA we demonstrate the environmental benefits of the pro­posed plant, which could cut by half the carbon emissions when supplied by photovoltaic electricity, and even invert the carbon balance when supplied by wind power due to the avoided emissions of the carbon black credits.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000880662100007 Publication Date 0000-00-00
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0196-8904 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 10.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes European Research Council; European Commission, 810182 ; The authors acknowledge support from the ERC Synergy Grant “Surface-COnfined fast modulated Plasma for process and Energy intensification” (SCOPE), from the European Commission, with Grant No. 810182. Approved Most recent IF: 10.4
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:191785 Serial (down) 7103
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Author Vishwakarma, M.; Batra, Y.; Hadermann, J.; Singh, A.; Ghosh, A.; Mehta, B.R.
Title Exploring the role of graphene oxide as a co-catalyst in the CZTS photocathodes for improved photoelectrochemical properties Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication ACS applied energy materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue 6 Pages 7538-7549
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The hydrogen evolution properties of CZTS heterostructure photocathodes are reported with graphene oxide (GO) as a co-catalyst layer coated by a drop-cast method and an Al2O3 protection layer fabricated using atomic layer deposition. In the CZTS absorber, a minor deviation from stoichiometry across the cross section of the thin film results in nanoscale growth of spurious phases, but the kesterite phase remains the dominant phase. We have investigated the band alignment parameters such as the band gap, work function, and Fermi level position that are crucial for making kesterite-based heterostructure devices. The photocurrent density in the photocathode CZTS/CdS/ZnO is found to be improved to -4.71 mAmiddotcm(-2) at -0.40 V-RHE, which is 3 times that of the pure CZTS. This enhanced photoresponse can be attributed to faster carrier separation at p-n junction regions driven by upward band bending at CZTS grain boundaries and the ZnO layer. GO as a co-catalyst over the heterostructure photocathode significantly improves the photocurrent density to -6.14 mAmiddotcm(-2) at -0.40 V-RHE by effective charge migration in the CZTS/CdS/ZnO/GO configuration, but the onset potential shifts only after application of the Al2O3 protection layer. Significant photocurrents of -29 mAmiddotcm(-2) at -0.40 V-RHE and -8 mAmiddotcm(-2) at 0 V-RHE are observed, with an onset potential of 0.7 V-RHE in CZTS/CdS/ZnO/GO/Al2O3. The heterostructure configuration and the GO co-catalyst reduce the charge-transfer resistance, while the Al2O3 top layer provides a stable photocurrent for a prolonged time (similar to 16 h). The GO co-catalyst increases the flat band potential from 0.26 to 0.46 V-RHE in CZTS/CdS/ZnO/GO, which supports the bias-induced band bending at the electrolyte-electrode interface.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000820418400001 Publication Date 2022-05-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2574-0962 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.4 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 6.4
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189666 Serial (down) 7082
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Author Nabavi-Pelesaraei, A.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S.; Saber, Z.; Hosseini-Fashami, F.; Mostashari-Rad, F.; Ghasemi-Mobtaker, H.
Title Prospects of solar systems in production chain of sunflower oil using cold press method with concentrating energy and life cycle assessment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Energy Abbreviated Journal Energy
Volume 223 Issue Pages 120117
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract The aim of this study is determination of exergoenvironmental efficiency for using solar technologies in sunflower oil production in Iran. Accordingly, the applications of photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal systems were evaluated for both agricultural and industrial phases of sunflower oil production. Energy results reveal that 1 ton of sunflower oil consumes and produces about 180,354 and 39,400 MJ energy, respectively. About 86% of total energy consumption belongs to agricultural phase and electricity with 32%, has the highest share of total energy consumption. IMPACT 2002+ method and cumulative energy demand of life cycle assessment are applied to 3 defined scenarios including Present, photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal. Results indicate that total amounts of climate change in Present scenarios is 24537.53 kg CO2 eq.. The highest share of human health (90%), ecosystem quality (90%) and climate change (50%) in all scenarios belongs to direct emissions. Results also illustrates that total cumulative energy demand of Present, photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal scenarios are about 177,538, 99,054 and 132,158 MJ 1TSO(-1), respectively. Furthermore, the most contribution of non-renewable resources and fossil fuels belongs to electricity (37%), nitrogen (52%) and photovoltaic/thermal panels (39%) in Present, photovoltaic and photovoltaic/thermal scenarios, respectively. Finally the photovoltaic scenario is the best environmental-friendly scenario. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000637964000003 Publication Date 2021-02-17
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0360-5442 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.52 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.52
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178193 Serial (down) 6940
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Author Srivastava, A.; Van Passel, S.; Valkering, P.; Laes, E.J.W.
Title Power outages and bill savings : a choice experiment on residential demand response acceptability in Delhi Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 143 Issue Pages 110904
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper conducts a discrete choice experiment among 167 households in the Delhi region in India, to study the acceptability of demand response (DR) programs among upper-income households. Attributes include rate types, rate bands, reductions in power outages, and expected monthly savings. Results indicate a preference for time-of-use pricing over real-time pricing, and a preference for three rate slabs per day over two. Respondents prioritize reductions in power outages and minimizing potential expenses, reflecting the financial sensitivity and energy poverty relative to other countries. Respondents' ages and incomes further affect the value that they attach to reductions in power outages. The paper proposes various structures of DR programs that could achieve high predicted enrollment and concludes by estimating the potential benefits of implementing such programs. Overall, the analysis indicates that a DR program could be feasible in a developing country context, particularly if it is designed keeping in mind local socio-economic considerations. This may be supported through further confirmatory research.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000637710200016 Publication Date 2021-03-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178188 Serial (down) 6938
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Author Saviuc, I.; Milis, K.; Peremans, H.; Van Passel, S.
Title A cross-European analysis of the impact of electricity pricing on battery uptake in residential microgrids with photovoltaic units Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Journal of Sustainable Development of Energy, Water and Environment Systems Abbreviated Journal
Volume 9 Issue 3 Pages 1080368
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract As decentralized electricity generation is supporting grid development into the prosumer era, this paper investigates the economic viability of adding batteries to residential microgrids powered by photovoltaic units, under various electricity pricing schemes. Batteries bring the benefits of grid-stabilization and congestion relief, and they are also becoming cheaper. The problem identified is that the main grid effectively acts as a lossless storage system, especially under the net-metering scheme, whereas using a battery involves investment costs and energy losses. This mismatch is addressed by analysing residential microgrid projects under seven tariff designs, each in seven countries of the European Union, and compare the economic viability of photovoltaic systems with and without batteries. The findings show that the conditions most favourable to batteries are given by a capacity tariff scheme allowing price arbitrage. Based on these findings, the paper discusses possibilities for further support in order to bring the economic viability of microgrids with batteries on par with that of microgrids without batteries.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000669453200005 Publication Date 2020-10-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1848-9257 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:179767 Serial (down) 6910
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Author Zheng, Y.-R.; Vernieres, J.; Wang, Z.; Zhang, K.; Hochfilzer, D.; Krempl, K.; Liao, T.-W.; Presel, F.; Altantzis, T.; Fatermans, J.; Scott, S.B.; Secher, N.M.; Moon, C.; Liu, P.; Bals, S.; Van Aert, S.; Cao, A.; Anand, M.; Nørskov, J.K.; Kibsgaard, J.; Chorkendorff, I.
Title Monitoring oxygen production on mass-selected iridium–tantalum oxide electrocatalysts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Nature Energy Abbreviated Journal Nat Energy
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Abstract Development of low-cost and high-performance oxygen evolution reaction catalysts is key to implementing polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzers for hydrogen production. Iridium-based oxides are the state-of-the-art acidic oxygen evolution reactio catalysts but still suffer from inadequate activity and stability, and iridium's scarcity motivates the discovery of catalysts with lower iridium loadings. Here we report a mass-selected iridium-tantalum oxide catalyst prepared by a magnetron-based cluster source with considerably reduced noble-metal loadings beyond a commercial IrO2 catalyst. A sensitive electrochemistry/mass-spectrometry instrument coupled with isotope labelling was employed to investigate the oxygen production rate under dynamic operating conditions to account for the occurrence of side reactions and quantify the number of surface active sites. Iridium-tantalum oxide nanoparticles smaller than 2 nm exhibit a mass activity of 1.2 ± 0.5 kA “g” _“Ir” ^“-1” and a turnover frequency of 2.3 ± 0.9 s-1 at 320 mV overpotential, which are two and four times higher than those of mass-selected IrO2, respectively. Density functional theory calculations reveal that special iridium coordinations and the lowered aqueous decomposition free energy might be responsible for the enhanced performance.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000728458000001 Publication Date 2021-12-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2058-7546 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 95 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Y.-R.Z. and Z.W acknowledge funding from the Toyota Research Institute. This project has received funding from VILLUM FONDEN (grant no. 9455) and the European Research Council under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grants no. 741860-CLUNATRA, no. 815128−REALNANO and no. 770887−PICOMETRICS). S.B. and S.V.A. acknowledge funding from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO, G026718N and G050218N). T.A. acknowledges the University of Antwerp Research Fund (BOF). STEM measurements were supported by the European Union's Horizon 2020 Research Infrastructure-Integrating Activities for Advanced Communities under grant agreement No 823717 – ESTEEM3.; sygmaSB Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:184794 Serial (down) 6903
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Author Biswas, A.N.; Winter, L.R.; Loenders, B.; Xie, Z.; Bogaerts, A.; Chen, J.G.
Title Oxygenate Production from Plasma-Activated Reaction of CO2and Ethane Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Acs Energy Letters Abbreviated Journal Acs Energy Lett
Volume Issue Pages 236-241
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Upgrading ethane with CO2 as a soft oxidant represents a desirable means of obtaining oxygenated hydrocarbons. This reaction is not thermodynamically feasible under mild conditions and has not been previously achieved as a one-step process. Nonthermal plasma was implemented as an alternative means of supplying energy to overcome activation barriers, leading to the production of alcohols, aldehydes, and acids as well as C1−C5+ hydrocarbons under ambient pressure, with a maximum total oxygenate selectivity of 12%. A plasma chemical kinetic computational model was developed and found to be in good agreement with the experimental trends. Results from this study illustrate the potential to use plasma for the direct synthesis of value-added alcohols, acids, and aldehydes from ethane and CO2 under mild conditions.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000732435700001 Publication Date 2021-12-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2380-8195 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Basic Energy Sciences, DE-SC0012704 ; Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, S001619N ; H2020 European Research Council, 810182 ; National Science Foundation, DGE 16-44869 ; This research was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Catalysis Science Program (grant no. DE-SC0012704). L.R.W. acknowledges the U.S. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program grant number DGE 16-44869. B.L. and A.B. acknowledge support from the FWO-SBO project PLASMA240 Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:184812 Serial (down) 6897
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Author Abakumov, A.M.; Li, C.; Boev, A.; Aksyonov, D.A.; Savina, A.A.; Abakumova, T.A.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Bals, S.
Title Grain boundaries as a diffusion-limiting factor in lithium-rich NMC cathodes for high-energy lithium-ion batteries Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication ACS applied energy materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue 7 Pages 6777-6786
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract High-energy lithium-rich layered transition metal oxides are capable of delivering record electrochemical capacity and energy density as positive electrodes for Li-ion batteries. Their electrochemical behavior is extremely complex due to sophisticated interplay between crystal structure, electronic structure, and defect structure. Here we unravel an extra level of this complexity by revealing that the most typical representative Li1.2Ni0.13Mn0.54Co0.13O2 material, prepared by a conventional coprecipitation technique with Na2CO3 as a precipitating agent, contains abundant coherent (001) grain boundaries with a Na-enriched P2-structured block due to segregation of the residual sodium traces. The trigonal prismatic oxygen coordination of Na triggers multiple nanoscale twinning, giving rise to incoherent (104) boundaries. The cationic layers at the (001) grain boundaries are filled with transition metal cations being Mn-depleted and Co-enriched; this makes them virtually not permeable for the Li+ cations, and therefore they negatively influence the Li diffusion in and out of the spherical agglomerates. These results demonstrate that besides the mechanisms intrinsic to the crystal and electronic structure of Li-rich cathodes, their rate capability might also be depreciated by peculiar microstructural aspects. Dedicated engineering of grain boundaries opens a way for improving inherently sluggish kinetics of these materials.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000678382900042 Publication Date 2021-07-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2574-0962 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 4 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes We thank Dr. M. V. Berekchiian (MSU) for assisting in ICPMS measurements. We acknowledge Russian Science Foundation (Grant 20-43-01012) and Research Foundation Flanders (FWO Vlaanderen, Project No. G0F1320N) for financial support. Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:180556 Serial (down) 6841
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Author Herzog, M.J.; Gauquelin, N.; Esken, D.; Verbeeck, J.; Janek, J.
Title Increased Performance Improvement of Lithium-Ion Batteries by Dry Powder Coating of High-Nickel NMC with Nanostructured Fumed Ternary Lithium Metal Oxides Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication ACS applied energy materials Abbreviated Journal ACS Appl. Energy Mater.
Volume 4 Issue 9 Pages 8832-8848
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Dry powder coating is an effective approach to protect the surfaces of layered cathode active materials (CAMs) in lithium-ion batteries. Previous investigations indicate an incorporation of lithium ions in fumed Al2O3, ZrO2, and TiO2 coatings on LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2 during cycling, improving the cycling performance. Here, this coating approach is transferred for the first time to fumed ternary LiAlO2, Li4Zr3O8, and Li4Ti5O12 and directly compared with their lithium-free equivalents. All materials could be processed equally and their nanostructured small aggregates accumulate on the CAM surfaces to quite homogeneous coating layers with a certain porosity. The LiNixMnyCozO2 (NMC) coated with lithium-containing materials shows an enhanced improvement in overall capacity, capacity retention, rate performance, and polarization behavior during cycling, compared to their lithium-free analogues. The highest rate performance was achieved with the fumed ZrO2 coating, while the best long-term cycling stability with the highest absolute capacity was obtained for the fumed LiAlO2-coated NMC. The optimal coating agent for NMC to achieve a balanced system is fumed Li4Ti5O12, providing a good compromise between high rate capability and good capacity retention. The coating agents prevent CAM particle cracking and degradation in the order LiAlO2 ≈ Al2O3 > Li4Ti5O12 > Li4Zr3O8 > ZrO2 > TiO2. A schematic model for the protection and electrochemical performance enhancement of high-nickel NMC with fumed metal oxide coatings is sketched. It becomes apparent that physical and chemical characteristics of the coating significantly influence the performance of NMC. A high degree of coating-layer porosity is favorable for the rate capability, while a high coverage of the surface, especially in vulnerable grain boundaries, enhances the long-term cycling stability and improves the cracking behavior of NMCs. While zirconium-containing coatings possess the best chemical properties for high rate performances, aluminum-containing coatings feature a superior chemical nature to protect high-nickel NMCs.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000703338600018 Publication Date 2021-09-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2574-0962 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 15 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes For his support in scanning electron microscopy analysis, the authors thank Erik Peldszus. N. G. and J. V. acknowledge funding from GOA project “Solarpaint” of the University of Antwerp and from the Flemish Research Fund (FWO) project G0F1320N. The Qu-Ant-EM microscope and the direct electron detector were partly funded by the Hercules fund from the Flemish Government Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:183949 Serial (down) 6823
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Author Rouwenhorst, K.H.R.; Jardali, F.; Bogaerts, A.; Lefferts, L.
Title From the Birkeland–Eyde process towards energy-efficient plasma-based NOXsynthesis: a techno-economic analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Energy & Environmental Science Abbreviated Journal Energ Environ Sci
Volume 14 Issue 5 Pages 2520-2534
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Plasma-based NO<sub>X</sub>synthesis<italic>via</italic>the Birkeland–Eyde process was one of the first industrial nitrogen fixation methods. However, this technology never played a dominant role for nitrogen fixation, due to the invention of the Haber–Bosch process. Recently, nitrogen fixation by plasma technology has gained significant interest again, due to the emergence of low cost, renewable electricity. We first present a short historical background of plasma-based NO<sub>X</sub>synthesis. Thereafter, we discuss the reported performance for plasma-based NO<sub>X</sub>synthesis in various types of plasma reactors, along with the current understanding regarding the reaction mechanisms in the plasma phase, as well as on a catalytic surface. Finally, we benchmark the plasma-based NO<sub>X</sub>synthesis process with the electrolysis-based Haber–Bosch process combined with the Ostwald process, in terms of the investment cost and energy consumption. This analysis shows that the energy consumption for NO<sub>X</sub>synthesis with plasma technology is almost competitive with the commercial process with its current best value of 2.4 MJ mol N<sup>−1</sup>, which is required to decrease further to about 0.7 MJ mol N<sup>−1</sup>in order to become fully competitive. This may be accomplished through further plasma reactor optimization and effective plasma–catalyst coupling.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000639255800001 Publication Date 2021-03-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1754-5692 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 29.518 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes H2020 European Research Council; Horizon 2020, 810182 ; Ministerie van Economische Zaken en Klimaat; This research was supported by the TKI-Energie from Toeslag voor Topconsortia voor Kennis en Innovatie (TKI) from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, the Excellence of Science FWO-FNRS project (FWO grant ID GoF9618n, EOS ID 30505023), and the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No 810182 – SCOPE ERC Synergy project). Approved Most recent IF: 29.518
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:178173 Serial (down) 6763
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Author Van Alphen, S.; Jardali, F.; Creel, J.; Trenchev, G.; Snyders, R.; Bogaerts, A.
Title Sustainable gas conversion by gliding arc plasmas: a new modelling approach for reactor design improvement Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Sustainable energy & fuels Abbreviated Journal Sustainable Energy Fuels
Volume 5 Issue 6 Pages 1786-1800
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract Research in plasma reactor designs is developing rapidly as plasma technology is gaining increasing interest for sustainable gas conversion applications, like the conversion of greenhouse gases into value-added chemicals and renewable fuels, and fixation of N<sub>2</sub>from air into precursors of mineral fertilizer. As plasma is generated by electric power and can easily be switched on/off, these applications allows for efficient conversion and energy storage of intermittent renewable electricity. In this paper, we present a new comprehensive modelling approach for the design and development of gliding arc plasma reactors, which reveals the fluid dynamics, the arc behaviour and the plasma chemistry by solving a unique combination of five complementary models. This results in a complete description of the plasma process, which allows one to efficiently evaluate the performance of a reactor and indicate possible design improvements before actually building it. We demonstrate the capabilities of this method for an experimentally validated study of plasma-based NO<sub>x</sub>formation in a rotating gliding arc reactor, which is gaining increasing interest as a flexible, electricity-driven alternative for the Haber–Bosch process. The model demonstrates the importance of the vortex flow and the presence of a recirculation zone in the reactor, as well as the formation of hot spots in the plasma near the cathode pin and the anode wall that are responsible for most of the NO<sub>x</sub>formation. The model also reveals the underlying plasma chemistry and the vibrational non-equilibrium that exists due to the fast cooling during each arc rotation. Good agreement with experimental measurements on the studied reactor design proves the predictive capabilities of our modelling approach.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000631643300013 Publication Date 2021-02-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2398-4902 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, GoF9618n ; Vlaamse regering, HBC.2019.0107 ; European Research Council, 810182 ; This research was supported by the Excellence of Science FWOFNRS project (FWO grant ID GoF9618n, EOS ID 30505023), the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement no. 810182 – SCOPE ERC Synergy project), the 1798 | Sustainable Energy Fuels, 2021, 5, 1786–1800 Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:177540 Serial (down) 6745
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Author Li, C.-F.; Zhao, K.; Liao, X.; Hu, Z.-Y.; Zhang, L.; Zhao, Y.; Mu, S.; Li, Y.; Li, Y.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Sun, C.
Title Interface cation migration kinetics induced oxygen release heterogeneity in layered lithium cathodes Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Energy Storage Materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 36 Issue Pages 115-122
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract The irreversible release of the lattice oxygen in layered cathodes is one of the major degradation mechanisms of lithium ion batteries, which accounts for a number of battery failures including the voltage/capacity fade, loss of cation ions and detachment of the primary particles, etc. Oxygen release is generally attributed to the stepwise thermodynamic controlled phase transitions from the layered to spinel and rock salt phases. Here, we report a strong kinetic effect from the mobility of cation ions, whose migration barrier can be significantly modulated by the phase epitaxy at the degrading interface. It ends up with a clear oxygen release heterogeneity and completely different reaction pathways between the thin and thick areas, as well as the interparticle valence boundaries, both of which widely exist in the mainstream cathode design with the secondary agglomerates. This work unveils the origin of the heterogenous oxygen release in the layered cathodes. It also sheds light on the rational design of cathode materials with enhanced oxygen stability by suppressing the cation migration.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000620584300009 Publication Date 2020-12-24
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:176654 Serial (down) 6730
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Author Herzog, M.J.; Gauquelin, N.; Esken, D.; Verbeeck, J.; Janek, J.
Title Facile dry coating method of high-nickel cathode material by nanostructured fumed alumina (Al2O3) improving the performance of lithium-ion batteries Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Energy technology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 9 Issue 4 Pages 2100028
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Surface coating is a crucial method to mitigate the aging problem of high-Ni cathode active materials (CAMs). By avoiding the direct contact of the CAM and the electrolyte, side reactions are hindered. Commonly used techniques like wet or ALD coating are time consuming and costly. Therefore, a more cost-effective coating technique is desirable. Herein, a facile and fast dry powder coating process for CAMs with nanostructured fumed metal oxides are reported. As the model case, the coating of high-Ni NMC (LiNi0.7Mn0.15Co0.15O2) by nanostructured fumed Al2O3 is investigated. A high coverage of the CAM surface with an almost continuous coating layer is achieved, still showing some porosity. Electrochemical evaluation shows a significant increase in capacity retention, cycle life and rate performance of the coated NMC material. The coating layer protects the surface of the CAM successfully and prevents side reactions, resulting in reduced solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation and charge transfer impedance during cycling. A mechanism on how the coating layer enhances the cycling performance is hypothesized. The stable coating layer effectively prevents crack formation and particle disintegration of the NMC. In depth analysis indicates partial formation of LixAl2O3/LiAlO2 in the coating layer during cycling, enhancing lithium ion diffusivity and thus, also the rate performance.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000621000700001 Publication Date 2021-01-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2194-4296; 2194-4288 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 25 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes The authors would like to thank Erik Peldszus and Steve Rienecker for the support with scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The Qu-Ant-EM microscope and the direct electron detector were partly funded by the Hercules fund from the Flemish Government. N.G. and J.V. acknowledge funding from GOA project “Solarpaint” of the University of Antwerp. Funding from the Flemish Research Fund (FWO) project G0F1320N is acknowledged.; Open access funding enabled and organized by Projekt DEAL. Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176670 Serial (down) 6724
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Author Khelifi, S.; Brammertz, G.; Choubrac, L.; Batuk, M.; Yang, S.; Meuris, M.; Barreau, N.; Hadermann, J.; Vrielinck, H.; Poelman, D.; Neyts, K.; Vermang, B.; Lauwaert, J.
Title The path towards efficient wide band gap thin-film kesterite solar cells with transparent back contact for viable tandem application Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 219 Issue Pages 110824
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Wide band gap thin-film kesterite solar cell based on non-toxic and earth-abundant materials might be a suitable candidate as a top cell for tandem configuration in combination with crystalline silicon as a bottom solar cell. For this purpose and based on parameters we have extracted from electrical and optical characterization techniques of Cu2ZnGeSe4 absorbers and solar cells, a model has been developed to describe the kesterite top cell efficiency limitations and to investigate the different possible configurations with transparent back contact for fourterminal tandem solar cell application. Furthermore, we have studied the tandem solar cell performance in view of the band gap and the transparency of the kesterite top cell and back contact engineering. Our detailed analysis shows that a kesterite top cell with efficiency > 14%, a band gap in the range of 1.5-1.7 eV and transparency above 80% at the sub-band gaps photons energies are required to achieve a tandem cell with higher efficiency than with a single silicon solar cell.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000591683500002 Publication Date 2020-10-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.784 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes The authors would like to acknowledge the SWInG project financed by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 640868 and the Research Foundation Flanders-Hercules Foundation (FWO-Vlaanderen, project No AUGE/13/16:FT-IMAGER). Approved Most recent IF: 4.784
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:174337 Serial (down) 6706
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Author Buchmayr, A.; Verhofstadt, E.; Van Ootegem, L.; Sanjuan Delmás, D.; Thomassen, G.; Dewulf, J.
Title The path to sustainable energy supply systems: Proposal of an integrative sustainability assessment framework Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2021 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 138 Issue Pages 110666
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Energy supply is essential for the functioning and well-being of a society. Decision-makers are faced with the challenge to balance burdens and benefits of energy supply practices with the aim to achieve environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Literature exhibits a broad variety of sustainability assessment frameworks for energy supply technologies. However, there is no consensus on which aspects need to be covered for a comprehensive assessment of sustainability. While some aspects, such as environmental emission damage, receive predominant attention, there is a lack of coverage and adequate quantification for others. This led in the past to an unbalanced basis for decision-making.

Based on an analysis of literature, 12 impact categories were identified for the assessment of energy technologies. The analysis included the judgement of quantification approaches regarding their significance for describing the impact categories and their maturity resulting in the proposal of 12 concrete indicators. A framework is proposed to manage and integrate the assessment of single impact categories. The framework produces normalized and weighted output indicators to use in the form of a dashboard or alternatively a single sustainability index for informed decision-making.

Finally, the proposed sustainability assessment framework relies on life cycle, local impact, and supply chain risks assessment. It consists of both well-established assessment methods as well as suggestions for new indicators in order to allow a full assessment of all impact categories. It thereby goes beyond the isolated assessment of impacts and offers the basis for comparison of complete energy supply mixes.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date 2020-12-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321 ISBN Additional Links
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited Open Access Not_Open_Access
Notes The authors acknowledge the financial support received from the Special Research Fund (Bijzonder Onderzoeksfonds – BOF) of Ghent University under grant agreement number BOF.24Y.2018.003. Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number ENM @ enm @ Serial (down) 6680
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Author Van Hoecke, L.; Laffineur, L.; Campe, R.; Perreault, P.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Challenges in the use of hydrogen for maritime applications Type A1 Journal Article;Review article, Hydrogen Production, Hydrogen Storage, Maritime Applications
Year 2021 Publication Energy & Environmental Science Abbreviated Journal Energ Environ Sci
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal Article;Review article, Hydrogen Production, Hydrogen Storage, Maritime Applications; Sustainable energy, air and water technology (DuEL)
Abstract Maritime shipping is a key factor that enables the global economy, however the pressure it exerts on the environment is increasing rapidly. In order to reduce the emissions of harmful greenhouse gasses, the search is on for alternative fuels for the maritime shipping industry. In this work the usefulness of hydrogen and hydrogen carriers is being investigated as a fuel for sea going ships. Due to the low volumetric energy density of hydrogen under standard conditions, the need for efficient storage of this fuel is high. Key processes in the use of hydrogen are discussed, starting with the production of hydrogen from fossil and renewable sources. The focus of this review is different storage methods, and in this work we discuss the storage of hydrogen at high pressure, in liquefied form at cryogenic temperatures and bound to liquid or solid-state carriers. In this work a theoretical introduction to different hydrogen storage methods precedes an analysis of the energy-efficiency and practical storage density of the carriers. In the final section the major challenges and hurdles for the development of hydrogen storage for the maritime industry are discussed. The most likely challenges will be the development of a new bunkering infrastructure and suitable monitoring of the safety to ensure safe operation of these hydrogen carriers on board the ship.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000621101100009 Publication Date 2021-01-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1754-5692 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 29.518 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes For the completion of this work we would like to thank, Compagnie Maritime Belge for initial funding 9 of the research into maritime hydrogen storage and the University of Antwerp for funding of the 10 Doctoral Project that allowed for the completion of this work. Approved Most recent IF: 29.518
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:174754 Serial (down) 6668
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Author Mortazavi, B.; Bafekry, A.; Shahrokhi, M.; Rabczuk, T.; Zhuang, X.
Title ZnN and ZnP as novel graphene-like materials with high Li-ion storage capacities Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Materials today energy Abbreviated Journal
Volume 16 Issue Pages Unsp 100392-8
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract In this work, we employed first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations to investigate the dynamical and thermal stability of graphene-like ZnX (X = N, P, As) nanosheets. We moreover analyzed the electronic, mechanical and optical properties of these novel two-dimensional (2D) systems. Acquired phonon dispersion relations reveal the absence of imaginary frequencies and thus confirming the dynamical stability of predicted monolayers. According to ab-initio molecular dynamics results however only ZnN and ZnP exhibit the required thermally stability. The elastic modulus of ZnN, ZnP and ZnAs are estimated to be 31, 21 and 17 N/m, respectively, and the corresponding tensile strengths values are 6.0, 4.9 and 4.0 N/m, respectively. Electronic band structure analysis confirms the metallic electronic character for the predicted monolayers. Results for the optical characteristics also indicate a reflectivity of 100% at extremely low energy levels, which is desirable for photonic and optoelectronic applications. According to our results, graphene-like ZnN and ZnP nanosheets can yield high capacities of 675 and 556 mAh/g for Li-ion storage, respectively. Acquired results confirm the stability and acceptable strength of ZnN and ZnP nanosheets and highlight their attractive application prospects in optical and energy storage systems.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000539083500049 Publication Date 2020-02-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2468-6069 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.3 Times cited 13 Open Access
Notes ; B. M. and X. Z. appreciate the funding by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) under Germany's Excellence Strategy within the Cluster of Excellence PhoenixD (EXC 2122, Project ID 390833453). ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.3; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:169752 Serial (down) 6655
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Author Erfurt, D.; Koida, T.; Heinemann, M.D.; Li, C.; Bertram, T.; Nishinaga, J.; Szyszka, B.; Shibata, H.; Klenk, R.; Schlatmann, R.
Title Impact of rough substrates on hydrogen-doped indium oxides for the application in CIGS devices Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 206 Issue Pages 110300
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Abstract Indium oxide based transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) are promising contact layers in solar cells due to their outstanding electrical and optical properties. However, when applied in Cu(In,Ga)Se-2 or Si-hetero-junction solar cells the specific roughness of the material beneath can affect the growth and the properties of the TCO. We investigated the electrical properties of hydrogen doped and hydrogen-tungsten co-doped indium oxides grown on rough Cu(In,Ga)Se-2 samples as well as on textured and planar glass. At sharp ridges and V-shaped valleys crack-shaped voids form inside the indium oxide films, which limit the effective electron mobility of the In2O3:H and In2O3:H,W thin films. This was found for films deposited by magnetron sputtering and reactive plasma deposition at several deposition parameters, before as well as after annealing and solid phase crystallization. This suggests universal behavior that will have a wide impact on solar cell devices.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000519653800038 Publication Date 2019-11-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.9 Times cited 5 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes ; This work was supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy under contract number 0325762G (TCO4CIGS). The authors thank M. Hartig, K. Mayer-Stillrich, I. Dorbandt, B. Bunn, M. Kirsch for technical support. C. Li is grateful for financial support from Max Planck Society, Germany and technical support from the MPI FKF StEM group members. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.9; 2020 IF: 4.784
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:168668 Serial (down) 6544
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Author Yan, X.F.; Chen, Q.; Li, L.L.; Guo, H.Z.; Peng, J.Z.; Peeters, F.M.
Title High performance piezotronic spin transistors using molybdenum disulfide nanoribbon Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Nano Energy Abbreviated Journal Nano Energy
Volume 75 Issue Pages 104953
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Abstract Two-dimensional (2D) materials are promising candidates for atomic-scale piezotronics and piezophototronics. Quantum edge states show fascinating fundamental physics such as nontrivial topological behavior and hold promising practical applications for low-power electronic devices. Here, using the tight-binding approach and quantum transport simulations, we investigate the piezotronic effect on the spin polarization of edge states in a zigzag-terminated monolayer MoS2 nanoribbon. We find that the strain-induced piezoelectric potential induces a phase transition of edge states from metal to semiconductor. However, in the presence of exchange field, edge states become semi-metallic with significant spin splitting and polarization that can be tuned by external strain. We show that quantum transport conductance exhibits a 100% spin polarization over a wide range of strain magnitudes. This effect is used in a propose prototype of piezotronic spin transistor. Our results provide a fundamental understanding of the piezotronic effect on edge states in zigzag monolayer MoS2 nanoribbons and are relevant for designing high-performance piezotronic spin devices.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000560729200011 Publication Date 2020-05-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2211-2855 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 17.6 Times cited 17 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 2015JJ2040, 2018JJ2078), Scientific Research Fund of Hunan Provincial Education Department (19A106), and the Funeral Service Foundation (FWO-VI). ; Approved Most recent IF: 17.6; 2020 IF: 12.343
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:171123 Serial (down) 6535
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Author Bogaerts, A.; Centi, G.
Title Plasma Technology for CO2 Conversion: A Personal Perspective on Prospects and Gaps Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Frontiers in energy research Abbreviated Journal Front. Energy Res.
Volume 8 Issue Pages
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Abstract There is increasing interest in plasma technology for CO2 conversion because it can operate at mild conditions and it can store fluctuating renewable electricity into

value-added compounds and renewable fuels. This perspective paper aims to provide a view on the future for non-specialists who want to understand the role of plasma

technology in the new scenario for sustainable and low-carbon energy and chemistry. Thus, it is prepared to give a personal view on future opportunities and challenges. First, we introduce the current state-of-the-art and the potential of plasma-based CO2 conversion. Subsequently, we discuss the challenges to overcome the current limitations and to apply plasma technology on a large scale. The final section discusses the general context and the potential benefits of plasma-based CO2 conversion for our life and the impact on climate change. It also includes a brief analysis on the future scenario for energy and chemical production, and how plasma technology may realize new paths for CO2 utilization.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000553392300001 Publication Date 2020-07-07
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2296-598X ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes We acknowledge financial support from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (grant agreement no. 810182 – SCOPE ERC Synergy project). We thank A. Berthelot, M. Ramakers, R. Snoeckx, G. Trenchev, and V. Vermeiren for providing the figures used in this article. Approved Most recent IF: 3.4; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:170136 Serial (down) 6390
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Author Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.; Dewulf, J.
Title A review on learning effects in prospective technology assessment Type A1 journal article
Year 2020 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 130 Issue Pages 109937
Keywords A1 journal article; Learning effects; Life cycle assessment; Techno-economic assessment; Prospective technology assessment; Learning-by-doing; Learning curve; Progress rate; Experience curve; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Global environmental problems have urged the need for developing sustainable technologies. However, new technologies that enter the market have often higher economic costs and potentially higher environmental impacts than conventional technologies. This can be explained by learning effects: a production process that is performed for the first time runs less smooth than a production process that has been in operation for years. To obtain a fair estimation of the potential of a new technology, learning effects need to be included. A review on the current literature on learning effects was conducted in order to provide guidelines on how to include learning effects in prospective technology assessment. Based on the results of this review, five recommendations have been formulated and an integration of learning effects in the structure of prospective technology assessment has been proposed. These five recommendations include the combined use of learning effects on the component level and on the end product level; the combined use of learning effects on the technical, economic and environmental level; the combined use of extrapolated values and expert estimates; the combined use of learning-by-doing and learning-by-searching effects and; a tier-based method, including quality criteria, to calculate the learning effect. These five complementary strategies could lead to a clearer perspective on the environmental impact and cost structure of the new technology and a fairer comparison base with conventional technologies, potentially resulting in a faster adoption and a shorter time-to-market for sustainable technologies.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000548790900008 Publication Date 2020-06-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1364-0321 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 15.9 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors acknowledge the full financial support received from the Flemish administration via the Steunpunt Circulaire Economie (Policy Research Centre Circular Economy). We would also like to thank the SDEWES conference for the best paper award which was granted to the current paper. The authors declare no competing financial interests. This publication contains the opinions of the authors, not that of the Flemish administration. The Flemish administration will not carry any liability with respect to the use that can be made of the produced data or conclusions. Approved Most recent IF: 15.9; 2020 IF: 8.05
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:170076 Serial (down) 6389
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Author Srivastava, A.; Van Passel, S.; Kessels, R.; Valkering, P.; Laes, E.
Title Reducing winter peaks in electricity consumption: A choice experiment to structure demand response programs Type A1 Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Energy Policy Abbreviated Journal Energ Policy
Volume 137 Issue Pages 111183
Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Abstract Winter peaks in Belgian electricity demand are significantly higher than the summer peaks, creating a greater potential for imbalances between demand and supply. This potential is exacerbated because of the risk of outages in its ageing nuclear power plants, which are being phased out in the medium term. This paper conducts a choice experiment to investigate the acceptability of a load control-based demand response program in the winter months. It surveys 186 respondents on their willingness to accept limits on the use of home appliances in return for a compensation. Results indicate that respondents are most affected by the days of the week that their appliance usage would be curtailed, and by the compensation they would receive. The willingness to enroll in a program increases with age, environmental consciousness, home ownership, and lower privacy concerns. The analysis predicts that 95% of the sample surveyed could enroll in a daily load control program for a compen- sation of €41 per household per year. Thus while an initial rollout among older and more pro-environment homeowners could be successful, a wider implementation would require an explanation of its environmental and financial benefits to the population, and a greater consideration of their data privacy concerns.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000515439900040 Publication Date 2019-12-13
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0301-4215 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9 Times cited Open Access
Notes The authors gratefully acknowledge the guidance offered by the Flemish Electricity Regulatory Agency (VREG), the Flemish Department for Environment, Nature, and Energy (LNE), and Guido Pepermans in designing the experiment. We are also grateful for the translations provided by Loic De Weerdt, and the support extended by Macarena MacLean Larrain in pre-testing the experiment. Finally, Roselinde Kes- sels thanks the Flemish Research Foundation (FWO) for her postdoctoral fellowship and the JMP Division of SAS Institute for further financial support. Approved Most recent IF: 9; 2020 IF: 4.14
Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:167253 Serial (down) 6348
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Author Daems, N.; De Mot, B.; Choukroun, D.; Van Daele, K.; Li, C.; Hubin, A.; Bals, S.; Hereijgers, J.; Breugelmans, T.
Title Nickel-containing N-doped carbon as effective electrocatalysts for the reduction of CO2 to CO in a continuous-flow electrolyzer Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Sustainable energy & fuels Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue 4 Pages 1296-1311
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Abstract Nickel-containing N-doped carbons were synthesized for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CO, which is a promising approach to reduce the atmospheric CO2 levels and its negative impact on the environment. Unfortunately, poor performance (activity, selectivity and/or stability) is still a major hurdle for the economical implementation of this type of materials. The electrocatalysts were prepared through an easily up-scalable and easily tunable method based on the pyrolysis of Ni-containing N-doped carbons. Ni–N–AC–B1 synthesized with a high relative amount of nitrogen and nickel with respect to carbon, was identified as the most promising candidate for this reaction based on its partial CO current density (4.2 mA cm−2), its overpotential (0.57 V) and its faradaic efficiency to CO (>99%). This results in unprecedented values for the current density per g active sites (690 A g−1 active sites). Combined with its decent stability and its high performance in an actual electrolyzer setup, this makes it a promising candidate for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CO on a larger scale. Finally, the evaluation of this kind of material in a flow-cell setup has been limited and to the best of our knowledge never included an evaluation of several crucial parameters (e.g. electrolyte type, anode composition and membrane type) and is an essential investigation in the move towards up-scaling and ultimately industrial application of this technique. This study resulted in an optimal cell configuration, consisting of Pt as an anode, Fumatech® as the membrane and 1 M KHCO3 and 2 M KOH as catholyte and anolyte, respectively. In conclusion, this research offers a unique combination of electrocatalyst development and reactor optimization.
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Language Wos 000518690900030 Publication Date 2019-12-20
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ISSN ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 14 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes ; The authors acknowledge sponsoring from the research foundation of Flanders (FWO) in the frame of a post-doctoral grant (12Y3919N – ND). J. Hereijgers was supported through a postdoctoral fellowship (28761) of the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO). This project was co-funded by the Interreg 2 Seas-Program 2014-2020, co-.nanced by the European Fund for Regional Development in the frame of subsidiary contract nr 2S03-019. This work was further performed in the framework of the Catalisti cluster SBO project CO2PERATE (“All renewable CCU based on formic acid integrated in an industrial microgrid”), with the.nancial support of VLAIO (Flemish Agency for Innovation and Entrepreneurship). This project.nally received funding from the European Research Council (ERC Consolidator Grant 815128, REALNANO). We thank Karen Leyssens for helping with the N<INF>2</INF> physisorption measurements and Kitty Baert (VUB) for analyzing the samples with XPS and Raman. ; sygma Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:165482 Serial (down) 6311
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Author Van Dael, M.; Lizin, S.; Swinnen, G.; Van Passel, S.
Title Young people's acceptance of bioenergy and the influence of attitude strength on information provision Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Renewable Energy Abbreviated Journal Renew Energ
Volume 107 Issue Pages 417-430
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This study investigated the effects of using a standardized PowerPoint lecture to provide young people with nuanced information about bioenergy. The studys aim was to understand the relationship between knowledge and participants perception of bioenergy, and the relationship of the latter to participants attitude strength and intention to use and learn about bioenergy. Data were collected from 715 participants using a survey instrument that contained mainly Likert-scale questions. Data were then processed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. Results show that providing such information increases knowledge about bioenergy, but does relatively little to create a more positive perception of bioenergy. In turn, having a more positive view about bioenergy would lead to a higher intention to use bioenergy. Attitude strength was found to mediate the previous relationship and decreases the strength of the relationship between perception and intention to use. Results also show that the lecture weakly contributed to building attitude strength, rendering opinion change less likely in the future. We conclude that listening to a lecture on bioenergy slightly improves peoples perception of bioenergy, makes it more likely that people maintain such a disposition, and translates into a slightly higher intention to use bioenergy.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000396946900036 Publication Date 2017-02-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0960-1481 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.357 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO; grant number 12G5415N). The authors gratefully acknowledge Sara Leroi-Werelds (Hasselt University) for her valuable comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.357
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140683 Serial (down) 6280
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Author Milis, K.; Peremans, H.; Springael, J.; Van Passel, S.
Title Win-win possibilities through capacity tariffs and battery storage in microgrids Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev
Volume 113 Issue 113 Pages 109238
Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract This paper investigates the impact of capacity tariff design on microgrids. While the possible benefits for utilities of capacity tariffs are well researched, comparatively little work has been done investigating the effects of capacity pricing on prosumers. Through simulating a grid connected microgrid and solving the day-ahead dispatch problem for a calendar year, we show that a well-designed capacity tariff will not only smooth out demand profiles, but could also lead to less erratic charge/discharge cycles in a real-time pricing scenario, lessening battery degradation. These results show that a properly designed capacity tariff has the potential to be beneficial for both the utilities as well as the battery-owning prosumer. Furthermore, we propose a new, heuristic approach to solve the day-ahead economic dispatch problem, which we prove to be effective and efficient. Additionally, we demonstrate that our novel approach does not impose mathematical restrictions such as continuous differentiability of the objective function. We show that the proposed capacity tariff achieves the stated aim of promoting battery storage uptake and that our novel method allows for compression and shorter run times.
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Language Wos 000483422600019 Publication Date 2019-07-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
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ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:160566 Serial (down) 6279
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Author Lizin, S.; Van Passel, S.; De Schepper, E.; Vranken, L.
Title The future of organic photovoltaic solar cells as a direct power source for consumer electronics Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Solar Energy Materials And Solar Cells Abbreviated Journal Sol Energ Mat Sol C
Volume 103 Issue Pages 1-10
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Abstract As the search for marketable photovoltaic solar cells continues, organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells have been identified as a technology with many attractive features for commercialization. Most photovoltaic technologies on the market today were improved in the consumer electronics market segment. A similar evolution has been envisioned for OPV. Hence this paper investigates consumer preferences for solar cells directly powering consumer electronics. Choice experiments were designed and responses were collected using a random sample of 300 individuals from the Flemish region (northern part of Belgium). Results allow for computation of attribute importance, willingness to pay (WTP), and simulation of theoretical market share. These measures point towards OPV being able to reach considerable market share in the long run, bearing in mind that efforts are first needed in elevating OPV's efficiency and lifetime as they most determine consumers' preferences. Price is found to be the least important product characteristic for OPV solar cells to be incorporated in consumer electronics devices. We therefore warn against generalizing attributes' importance across the boundaries of market segments. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Language Wos 000306044300001 Publication Date 2012-05-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
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ISSN 0927-0248 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.784 Times cited 25 Open Access
Notes ; The authors would kindly want to express their gratitude towards every survey respondent and participant for their preliminary work. Also the authors are much obliged to INTERREG and the ORGANEXT project for their financial support, without which it would have been impossible to conduct this research. Last but not least, we would like to thank the reviewers for their insightful comments which allowed for fine tuning our work. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.784; 2012 IF: 4.630
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127556 Serial (down) 6267
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