“Ferroelectric engineering : enhanced thermoelectric performance by local structural heterogeneity”. Meng X, Chen S, Peng H, Bai H, Zhang S, Su X, Tan G, Van Tendeloo G, Sun Z, Zhang Q, Tang X, Wu J, Science China : materials (2022). http://doi.org/10.1007/S40843-021-1927-9
Abstract: Although traditional ferroelectric materials are usually dielectric and nonconductive, GeTe is a typical ferroelectric semiconductor, possessing both ferroelectric and semiconducting properties. GeTe is also a widely studied thermoelectric material, whose performance has been optimized by doping with various elements. However, the impact of the ferroelectric domains on the thermoelectric properties remains unclear due to the difficulty to directly observe the ferroelectric domains and their evolutions under actual working conditions where the material is exposed to high temperatures and electric currents. Herein, based on in-situ investigations of the ferroelectric domains and domain walls in both pure and Sb-doped GeTe crystals, we have been able to analyze the dynamic evolution of the ferroelectric domains and domain walls, exposed to an electric field and temperature. Local structural heterogeneities and nano-sized ferroelectric domains are generated due to the interplay of the Sb3+ dopant and the Ge-vacancies, leading to the increased number of charged domain walls and a much improved thermoelectric performance. This work reveals the fundamental mechanism of ferroelectric thermoelectrics and provides insights into the decoupling of previously interdependent properties such as thermo-power and electrical conductivity.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.1
DOI: 10.1007/S40843-021-1927-9
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“In situ atomistic insight into magnetic metal diffusion across Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 quintuple layers”. Lu W, Cui W, Zhao W, Lin W, Liu C, Van Tendeloo G, Sang X, Zhao W, Zhang Q, Advanced Materials Interfaces , 2102161 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADMI.202102161
Abstract: Diffusion and occupancy of magnetic atoms in van der Waals (VDW) layered materials have significant impact on applications such as energy storage, thermoelectrics, catalysis, and topological phenomena. However, due to the weak VDW bonding, most research focus on in-plane diffusion within the VDW gap, while out-of-plane diffusion has rarely been reported. Here, to investigate out-of-plane diffusion in VDW-layered Bi2Te3-based alloys, a Ni/Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 heterointerface is synthesized by depositing magnetic Ni metal on a mechanically exfoliated Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 (0001) substrate. Diffusion of Ni atoms across the Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 quintuple layers is directly observed at elevated temperatures using spherical-aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the diffusion energy barrier of Ni atoms is only 0.31-0.45 eV when they diffuse through Te-3(Bi, Sb)(3) octahedron chains. Atomic-resolution in situ STEM reveals that the distortion of the Te-3(Bi, Sb)(3) octahedron, induced by the Ni occupancy, drives the formation of coherent NiM (M = Bi, Sb, Te) at the heterointerfaces. This work can lead to new strategies to design novel thermoelectric and topological materials by introducing magnetic dopants to VDW-layered materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.4
DOI: 10.1002/ADMI.202102161
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“Interfacial gliding-driven lattice oxygen release in layered cathodes”. Sun C, Liao X, Peng H, Zhang C, Van Tendeloo G, Zhao Y, Wu J, Cell reports physical science 3 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.XCRP.2021.100695
Abstract: The oxygen release of layered cathodes causes many battery failures, but the underlying mechanism in an actual working cathode is still elusive as it involves secondary agglomerates that introduce complicated boundary structures. Here, we report a general structure instability on the mismatch boundaries driven by interfacial gliding-it introduces a shear stress causing a distortion of the metal-oxygen octahedra framework that reduces its kinetic stability. The migration of cations and diffusion of oxygen vacancies continue to degrade the whole particle from the boundary to the interior, followed by the formation of nano-sized cracks on the fast-degrading interfaces. This work reveals a robust chemical and mechanical interplay on the oxygen release inherent to the intergranular boundaries of layered cathodes. It also suggests that radially patterned columnar grains with low-angle planar boundaries would be an efficient approach to mitigate the boundary oxygen release.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1016/J.XCRP.2021.100695
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“Boron structure evolution in magnetic Cr₂O₃, thin films”. Sun C, Street M, Zhang C, Van Tendeloo G, Zhao W, Zhang Q, Materials Today Physics 27, 100753 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MTPHYS.2022.100753
Abstract: B substituting O in antiferromagnetic Cr2O3 is known to increase the Ne ' el temperature, whereas the actual B dopant site and the corresponding functionality remains unclear due to the complicated local structure. Herein, A combination of electron energy loss spectroscopy and first-principles calculations were used to unveil B local structures in B doped Cr2O3 thin films. B was found to form either magnetic active BCr4 tetrahedra or various inactive BO3 triangles in the Cr2O3 lattice, with a* and z* bonds exhibiting unique spectral features. Identification of BO3 triangles was achieved by changing the electron momentum transfer to manipulate the differential cross section for the 1s-z* and 1s-a* transitions. Modeling the experimental spectra as a linear combination of simulated B K edges reproduces the experimental z* / a* ratios for 15-42% of the B occupying the active BCr4 structure. This result is further supported by first-principles based thermodynamic calculations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 11.5
DOI: 10.1016/J.MTPHYS.2022.100753
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“Photochemical production of hydrogen peroxide by digging pro-superoxide radical carbon vacancies in carbon nitride”. Ding Y, Maitra S, Arenas Esteban D, Bals S, Vrielinck H, Barakat T, Roy S, Van Tendeloo G, Liu J, Li Y, Vlad A, Su B-L, Cell reports physical science 3, 100874 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.XCRP.2022.100874
Abstract: Artificial photosynthesis of H2O2, an environmentally friendly oxidant and a clean fuel, holds great promise. However, improving its efficiency and stability for industrial implementation remains highly challenging. Here, we report the visible-light H2O2 artificial photosynthesis by digging pro-superoxide radical carbon vacancies in three-dimensional hierarchical porous g-C3N4 through a simple hydrolysis-freeze-drying-thermal treatment. A significant electronic structure change is revealed upon the implantation of carbon vacancies, broadening visible-light absorption and facilitating the photogenerated charge separation. The strong electron affinity of the carbon vacancies promotes superoxide radical (O-center dot(2)-) formation, significantly boosting the H2O2 photocatalytic production. The developed photocatalyst shows an H2O2 evolution rate of 6287.5 mM g(-1) h(-1) under visible-light irradiation with a long cycling stability being the best-performing photocatalyst among all reported g-C3N4-based systems. Our work provides fundamental insight into highly active and stable photocatalysts with great potential for safe industrial H2O2 production.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/J.XCRP.2022.100874
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“Resistive switching in Ag₂Te semiconductor modulated by Ag+-ion diffusion and phase transition”. Guo A, Bai H, Liang Q, Feng L, Su X, Van Tendeloo G, Wu J, Advanced Electronic Materials , 2200850 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1002/AELM.202200850
Abstract: Memristors are considered to be the fourth circuit element and have great potential in areas like logic operations, information storage, and neuromorphic computing. The functional material in a memristor, which has a nonlinear resistance, is the key component to be developed. Herein, resistive switching is demonstrated and the structural evolutions in Ag2Te are examined under an external electric field. It is shown that the electroresistance effect is originating from an electronically triggered phase transition together with directional Ag+-ion diffusion. Using in situ transmission electron microscopy, the phase transition from the monoclinic alpha-Ag2Te into the face-centered cubic beta-Ag2Te, accompanied by a change in resistance, is directly observed. Diffusion of Ag+-ions modulates the localized density of Ag+-ion vacancies, leading to a change in electrical conductivity and influences the threshold voltage to trigger the phase transition. During the electric field-driven phase transition, the spontaneous and localized multiple polarizations from the low-symmetry alpha-Ag2Te (referring to an antiferroelectric structure) are vanishing in the cubic beta-Ag2Te (referring to a paraelectric structure). The abrupt resistance change of thin Ag2Te caused by the phase transition and modulated by the applied electric field demonstrates its great potential as functional material in volatile memory and memristors with a low-energy consumption.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.2
DOI: 10.1002/AELM.202200850
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“Directly revealing the structure-property correlation in Na+-doped cathode materials”. Li C-F, Chen L-D, Wu L, Liu Y, Hu Z-Y, Cui W-J, Dong W-D, Liu X, Yu W-B, Li Y, Van Tendeloo G, Su B-L, Applied surface science 612, 155810 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APSUSC.2022.155810
Abstract: The introduction of Na+ is considered as an effective way to improve the performance of Ni-rich cathode materials. However, the direct structure-property correlation for Na+ doped NCM-based cathode materials remain unclear, due to the difficulty of local and accurate structural characterization for light elements such as Li and Na. Moreover, there is the complexity of the modeling for the whole Li ion battery (LIB) system. To tackle the above-mentioned issues, we prepared Na+-doped LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (Na-NCM622) material. The crystal structure change and the lattice distortion with picometers precision of the Na+-doped material is revealed by Cs-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Density functional theory (DFT) and the recently proposed electrochemical model, i.e., modified Planck-Nernst-Poisson coupled Frumkin-Butler-Volmer (MPNP-FBV), has been applied to reveal correlations between the activation energy and the charge transfer resistance at multiscale. It is shown that Na+ doping can reduce the activation energy barrier from. G = 1.10 eV to 1.05 eV, resulting in a reduction of the interfacial resistance from 297 O to 134 Omega. Consequently, the Na-NCM622 cathode delivers a superior capacity retention of 90.8 % (159 mAh.g(-1)) after 100 cycles compared to the pristine NCM622 (67.5 %, 108 mAh.g(-1)). Our results demonstrate that the kinetics of Li+ diffusion and the electrochemical reaction can be enhanced by Na+ doping the cathode material.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.7
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2022.155810
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“Morphotropic phase boundary in pure perovskite lead titanate at room temperature”. Zhang Z, Chen X, Shi X, Hu Y, Huang J, Liu S, Ren Z, Huang H, Han G, Van Tendeloo G, Tian H, Materials Today Nano 20, 100275 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MTNANO.2022.100275
Abstract: For many decades, great efforts have been devoted to pursue a large piezoelectric response by an intelligent design of morphotropic phase boundaries (MPB) in solid solutions, where tetragonal (T) and rhombohedral (R) structures coexist. For example, classical PbZrxTi1-xO3 and Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O-3-PbTiO3 single crystals demonstrate a giant piezoelectric response near MPB. However, as the end member of these solids, perovskite-structured PbTiO3 always adopts the T phase at room temperature. Here, we report a pathway to create room temperature MPB in a single-phase PbTiO3. The uniaxial stress along the c-axis drives a T-R phase transition bridged by a monoclinic (M) phase, which facilitates a polarization rotation in the monodomain PbTiO3. Meanwhile, we demonstrate that the coexistence of T and R phases at room temperature can be achieved via an extremely mismatched heterointerface system. The uniaxial pressure is proved as an efficient way to break the inherent symmetry and able to substantially tailor the phase transition temperature Tc. These findings provide new insights into MPB, offering the opportunity to explore the giant piezoelectric response in single-phase materials. (c) 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 10.3
DOI: 10.1016/J.MTNANO.2022.100275
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“Unveiling the intrinsic structure and intragrain defects of organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites by ultralow dose transmission electron microscopy”. Yang C-Q, Zhi R, Rothmann MU, Xu Y-Y, Li L-Q, Hu Z-Y, Pang S, Cheng Y-B, Van Tendeloo G, Li W, Advanced materials , 1 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADMA.202211207
Abstract: Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a powerful tool for unveiling the structural, compositional, and electronic properties of organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites (OIHPs) at the atomic to micrometer length scales. However, the structural and compositional instability of OIHPs under electron beam radiation results in misunderstandings of the microscopic structure-property-performance relationship in OIHP devices. Here, ultralow dose TEM is utilized to identify the mechanism of the electron-beam-induced changes in OHIPs and clarify the cumulative electron dose thresholds (critical dose) of different commercially interesting state-of-the-art OIHPs, including methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI(3)), formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI(3)), FA(0.83)Cs(0.17)PbI(3), FA(0.15)Cs(0.85)PbI(3), and MAPb(0.5)Sn(0.5)I(3). The critical dose is related to the composition of the OIHPs, with FA(0.15)Cs(0.85)PbI(3) having the highest critical dose of approximate to 84 e angstrom(-2) and FA(0.83)Cs(0.17)PbI(3) having the lowest critical dose of approximate to 4.2 e angstrom(-2). The electron beam irradiation results in the formation of a superstructure with ordered I and FA vacancies along (c), as identified from the three major crystal axes in cubic FAPbI(3), (c), (c), and (c). The intragrain planar defects in FAPbI(3) are stable, while an obvious modification is observed in FA(0.83)Cs(0.17)PbI(3) under continuous electron beam exposure. This information can serve as a guide for ensuring a reliable understanding of the microstructure of OIHP optoelectronic devices by TEM.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 29.4
DOI: 10.1002/ADMA.202211207
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“Bioinspired noncyclic transfer pathway electron donors for unprecedented hydrogen production”. Liu J, Wang C, Yu W, Zhao H, Hu Z-Y, Liu F, Hasan T, Li Y, Van Tendeloo G, Li C, Su B-L, CCS chemistry 5, 1470 (2023). http://doi.org/10.31635/CCSCHEM.022.202202071
Abstract: Electron donors are widely exploited in visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen production. As a typical electron donor pair and often the first choice for hydrogen production, the sodium sulfide-sodium sulfite pair has been extensively used. However, the resultant thiosulfate ions consume the photogenerated electrons to form an undesirable pseudocyclic electron transfer pathway during the photocatalytic process, strongly limiting the solar energy conversion efficiency. Here, we report novel and bioinspired electron donor pairs offering a noncyclic electron transfer pathway that provides more electrons without the consumption of the photogenerated electrons. Compared to the state-of-the-art electron donor pair Na2S-Na2SO3, these novel Na2S-NaH2PO2 and Na2S-NaNO2 electron donor pairs enable an unprecedented enhancement of up to 370% and 140% for average photocatalytic H-2 production over commercial CdS nanoparticles, and they are versatile for a large series of photocatalysts for visible-light water splitting. The discovery of these novel electron donor pairs can lead to a revolution in photocatalysis and is of great significance for industrial visible-light-driven H-2 production. [GRAPHICS] .
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.31635/CCSCHEM.022.202202071
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“Chip-based in situ TEM investigation of structural thermal instability in aged layered cathode”. Wang Y, Yuan Y, Liao X, Van Tendeloo G, Zhao Y, Sun C, Nanoscale Advances 5, 4182 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1039/D3NA00201B
Abstract: Thermally induced oxygen release is an intrinsic structural instability in layered cathodes, which causes thermal runaway issues and becomes increasingly critical with the continuous improvement in energy density. Furthermore, thermal runaway events always occur in electrochemically aged cathodes, where the coupling of the thermal and electrochemical effect remains elusive. Herein, we report the anomalous segregation of cobalt metal in an aged LiCoO2 cathode, which is attributed to the local exposure of the high-energy (100) surface of LiCoO2 and weak interface Co-O dangling bonds significantly promoting the diffusion of Co. The presence of the LCO-Co interface severely aggregated the oxygen release in the form of dramatic Co growth. A unique particle-to-particle oxygen release pathway was also found, starting from the isolated high reduction areas induced by the cycling heterogeneity. This study provides atomistic insight into the robust coupling between the intrinsic structural instability and electrochemical cycling.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.7
DOI: 10.1039/D3NA00201B
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“Fractal design of hierarchical PtPd with enhanced exposed surface atoms for highly catalytic activity and stability”. Ying J, Xiao Y, Chen J, Hu Z-Y, Tian G, Van Tendeloo G, Zhang Y, Symes MDD, Janiak C, Yang X-Y, Nano letters 23, 7371 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.3C01190
Abstract: Hierarchicalassembly of arc-like fractal nanostructures not onlyhas its unique self-similarity feature for stability enhancement butalso possesses the structural advantages of highly exposed surface-activesites for activity enhancement, remaining a great challenge for high-performancemetallic nanocatalyst design. Herein, we report a facile strategyto synthesize a novel arc-like hierarchical fractal structure of PtPdbimetallic nanoparticles (h-PtPd) by using pyridinium-type ionic liquidsas the structure-directing agent. Growth mechanisms of the arc-likenanostructured PtPd nanoparticles have been fully studied, and precisecontrol of the particle sizes and pore sizes has been achieved. Dueto the structural features, such as size control by self-similaritygrowth of subunits, structural stability by nanofusion of subunits,and increased numbers of exposed active atoms by the curved homoepitaxialgrowth, h-PtPd displays outstanding electrocatalytic activity towardoxygen reduction reaction and excellent stability during hydrothermaltreatment and catalytic process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 10.8
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.3C01190
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“Hierarchical zeolites containing embedded Cd0.2Zn0.8S as a photocatalyst for hydrogen production from seawater”. Yuan Y, Wu F-J, Xiao S-T, Wang Y-T, Yin Z-W, Van Tendeloo G, Chang G-G, Tian G, Hu Z-Y, Wu S-M, Yang X-Y, Chemical communications 59, 7275 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1039/D3CC01409F
Abstract: Uncovering an efficient and stable photocatalytic system for seawater splitting is a highly desirable but challenging goal. Herein, Cd0.2Zn0.8S@Silicalite-1 (CZS@S-1) composites, in which CZS is embedded in the hierarchical zeolite S-1, were prepared and show remarkably high activity, stability and salt resistance in seawater.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1039/D3CC01409F
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“Layer-by-layer delithiation during lattice collapse as the origin of planar gliding and microcracking in Ni-rich cathodes”. Yu R, Zeng W, Zhou L, Van Tendeloo G, Mai L, Yao Z, Wu J, Cell reports physical science 4, 101480 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.XCRP.2023.101480
Abstract: High-energy-density nickel (Ni)-rich cathode materials are used in commercial lithium (Li)-ion batteries for electric vehicles, but they suffer from severe structural degradation upon cycling. Planar gliding and microcracking are seeds for fatal mechanical fracture, but their origin remains unclear. Herein, we show that “layer-by -layer delithiation”is activated at high voltages during the charge process when the “lattice collapse”(a characteristic high-voltage lattice evolution in Ni-rich cathodes) occurs. Layer-by-layer deli-thiation is evidenced by direct observation of the consecutive lattice collapse using in situ scanning transmission electron micro-scopy (STEM). The collapsing of the lattice initiates in the expanded planes and consecutively extends to the whole crystal. Localized strain will be induced at lattice-collapsing interface where planar gliding and intragranular microcracks are generated to release this strain. Our study reveals that layer-by-layer delithia-tion during lattice collapse is the fundamental origin of the mechanical instability in single-crystalline Ni-rich cathodes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1016/J.XCRP.2023.101480
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“Direct observation of cation diffusion driven surface reconstruction at van der Waals gaps”. Cui W, Lin W, Lu W, Liu C, Gao Z, Ma H, Zhao W, Van Tendeloo G, Zhao W, Zhang Q, Sang X, Nature communications 14, 554 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1038/S41467-023-35972-9
Abstract: Weak interlayer van der Waals (vdW) bonding has significant impact on the surface/interface structure, electronic properties, and transport properties of vdW layered materials. Unraveling the complex atomistic dynamics and structural evolution at vdW surfaces is therefore critical for the design and synthesis of the next-generation vdW layered materials. Here, we show that Ge/Bi cation diffusion along the vdW gap in layered GeBi2Te4 (GBT) can be directly observed using in situ heating scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). The cation concentration variation during diffusion was correlated with the local Te-6 octahedron distortion based on a quantitative analysis of the atomic column intensity and position in time-elapsed STEM images. The in-plane cation diffusion leads to out-of-plane surface etching through complex structural evolutions involving the formation and propagation of a non-centrosymmetric GeTe2 triple layer surface reconstruction on fresh vdW surfaces, and GBT subsurface reconstruction from a septuple layer to a quintuple layer. Our results provide atomistic insight into the cation diffusion and surface reconstruction in vdW layered materials. Weak interlayer van der Waals (vdW) bonding has significant impact on the structure and properties of vdW layered materials. Here authors use in-situ aberration-corrected ADF-STEM for an atomistic insight into the cation diffusion in the vdW gaps and the etching of vdW surfaces at high temperatures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 16.6
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-023-35972-9
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“Atomically deciphering the phase segregation in mixed halide perovskite”. Yang C-Q, Yin Z-W, Li W, Cui W-J, Zhou X-G, Wang L-D, Zhi R, Xu Y-Y, Tao Z-W, Sang X, Cheng Y-B, Van Tendeloo G, Hu Z-Y, Su B-L, Advanced functional materials , 1 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADFM.202400569
Abstract: Mixed-halide perovskites show promising applications in tandem solar cells owing to their adjustable bandgap. One major obstacle to their commercialization is halide phase segregation, which results in large open-circuit voltage deficiency and J-V hysteresis. However, the ambiguous interplay between structural origin and phase segregation often results in aimless and unspecific optimization strategies for the device's performance and stability. An atomic scale is directly figured out the abundant Ruddlesden-Popper anti-phase boundaries (RP-APBs) within a CsPbIBr2 polycrystalline film and revealed that phase segregation predominantly occurs at RP-APB-enriched interfaces due to the defect-mediated lattice strain. By compensating their structural lead halide, such RP-APBs are eliminated, and the decreasing of strain can be observed, resulting in the suppression of halide phase segregation. The present work provides the deciphering to precisely regulate the perovskite atomic structure for achieving photo-stable mixed halide wide-bandgap perovskites of high-efficiency tandem solar cell commercial applications. The phase segregation in mixed halide perovskite film predominantly occurs at Ruddlesden-Popper anti-phase boundaries (RP-APBs)-enriched interfaces due to the defect-mediated lattice strain. The RP-APBs defects can be eliminated by compensating for their structural lead halide deficiency, resulting in the suppression of halide phase segregation. image
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 19
DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.202400569
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“Enhanced electrical properties of Bi2-xSbxTe3 nanoflake thin films through interface engineering”. Wu X, Ding J, Cui W, Lin W, Xue Z, Yang Z, Liu J, Nie X, Zhu W, Van Tendeloo G, Sang X, Energy &, environment materials , e12755 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1002/EEM2.12755
Abstract: The structure-property relationship at interfaces is difficult to probe for thermoelectric materials with a complex interfacial microstructure. Designing thermoelectric materials with a simple, structurally-uniform interface provides a facile way to understand how these interfaces influence the transport properties. Here, we synthesized Bi2-xSbxTe3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4) nanoflakes using a hydrothermal method, and prepared Bi2-xSbxTe3 thin films with predominantly (0001) interfaces by stacking the nanoflakes through spin coating. The influence of the annealing temperature and Sb content on the (0001) interface structure was systematically investigated at atomic scale using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. Annealing and Sb doping facilitate atom diffusion and migration between adjacent nanoflakes along the (0001) interface. As such it enhances interfacial connectivity and improves the electrical transport properties. Interfac reactions create new interfaces that increase the scattering and the Seebeck coefficient. Due to the simultaneous optimization of electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient, the maximum power factor of the Bi1.8Sb0.2Te3 nanoflake films reaches 1.72 mW m(-1) K-2, which is 43% higher than that of a pure Bi2Te3 thin film.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1002/EEM2.12755
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“Mitigated oxygen loss in lithium-rich manganese-based cathode enabled by strong Zr-O affinity”. Wang G, Xie C, Wang H, Li Q, Xia F, Zeng W, Peng H, Van Tendeloo G, Tan G, Tian J, Wu J, Advanced functional materials , 2313672 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADFM.202313672
Abstract: Oxygen loss is a serious problem of lithium-rich layered oxide (LLO) cathodes, as the high capacity of LLO relies on reversible oxygen redox. Oxygen release can occur at the surface leading to the formation of spinel or rock salt structures. Also, the lattice oxygen will usually become unstable after long cycling, which remains a major roadblock in the application of LLO. Here, it is shown that Zr doping is an effective strategy to retain lattice oxygen in LLO due to the high affinity between Zr and O. A simple sol-gel method is used to dope Zr4+ into the LLOs to adjust the local electronic structure and inhibit the diffusion of oxygen anions to the surface during cycling. Compared with untreated LLOs, LLO-Zr cathodes exhibit a higher cycling stability, with 94% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.4 C, up to 223 mAh g-1 at 1 C, and 88% capacity retention after 300 cycles. Theoretical calculations show that due to the strong Zr-O covalent bonding, the formation energy of oxygen vacancies has effectively increased and the loss of lattice oxygen under high voltage can be suppressed. This study provides a simple method for developing high-capacity and cyclability Li-rich cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries. Oxygen release can occur at the cathode surface leading to the formation of spinel or rock salt structures. Here, it is shown that Zr doping is an effective strategy to retain lattice oxygen in lithium-rich layered oxides (LLO) due to the high affinity between Zr and O. LLO-Zr exhibit higher cycling stability, with 88% capacity retention after 300 cycles at 1 C. image
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 19
DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.202313672
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“Cut-off voltage influencing the voltage decay of single crystal lithium-rich manganese-based cathode materials in lithium-ion batteries”. Yuan M-M, Wang L-D, Zhang J, Ran M-J, Wang K, Hu Z-Y, Van Tendeloo G, Li Y, Su B-L, Journal of colloid and interface science 674, 238 (2024). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCIS.2024.06.131
Abstract: The voltage decay of Li -rich layered oxide cathode materials results in the deterioration of cycling performance and continuous energy loss, which seriously hinders their application in the high-energy – density lithium -ion battery (LIB) market. However, the origin of the voltage decay mechanism remains controversial due to the complex influences of transition metal (TM) migration, oxygen release, indistinguishable surface/bulk reactions and the easy intra/inter-crystalline cracking during cycling. We investigated the direct cause of voltage decay in micrometer -scale single -crystal Li 1.2 Mn 0.54 Ni 0.13 Co 0.13 O 2 (SC-LNCM) cathode materials by regulating the cut-off voltage. The redox of TM and O 2- ions can be precisely controlled by setting different voltage windows, while the cracking can be restrained, and surface/bulk structural evaluation can be monitored because of the large single crystal size. The results show that the voltage decay of SC-LNCM is related to the combined effect of cation rearrangement and oxygen release. Maintaining the discharge cutoff voltage at 3 V or the charging cutoff voltage at 4.5 V effectively mitigates the voltage decay, which provides a solution for suppressing the voltage decay of Lirich and Mn-based layered oxide cathode materials. Our work provides significant insights into the origin of the voltage decay mechanism and an easily achievable strategy to restrain the voltage decay for Li -rich and Mn-based cathode materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.9
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCIS.2024.06.131
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“0 and &pi, phase Josephson coupling through an insulating barrier with magnetic impurities”. Vávra O, Gaži S, Golubović, DS, Vávra I, Dérer J, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Moshchalkov VV, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 74, 020502 (2006). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.74.020502
Abstract: We have studied the temperature and field dependencies of the critical current I(C) in the Nb-Fe(0.1)Si(0.9)-Nb Josephson junction with a tunneling barrier formed by a paramagnetic insulator. We demonstrate that in these junctions coexistence of both the 0 and the pi states within one tunnel junction occurs, and leads to the appearance of a sharp cusp in the temperature dependence I(C)(T), similar to the I(C)(T) cusp found for the 0-pi transition in metallic pi junctions. This cusp is not related to the 0-pi temperature-induced transition itself, but is caused by the different temperature dependencies of the opposing 0 and pi supercurrents through the barrier.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.74.020502
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“Advanced electron microscopy for advanced materials”. Van Tendeloo G, Bals S, Van Aert S, Verbeeck J, van Dyck D, Advanced materials 24, 5655 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201202107
Abstract: The idea of this Review is to introduce newly developed possibilities of advanced electron microscopy to the materials science community. Over the last decade, electron microscopy has evolved into a full analytical tool, able to provide atomic scale information on the position, nature, and even the valency atoms. This information is classically obtained in two dimensions (2D), but can now also be obtained in 3D. We show examples of applications in the field of nanoparticles and interfaces.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 19.791
Times cited: 107
DOI: 10.1002/adma.201202107
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“Air- and water-resistant noble metal coated ferromagnetic cobalt nanorods”. Lentijo-Mozo S, Tan RP, Garcia-Marcelot C, Altantzis T, Fazzini PF, Hungria T, Cormary B, Gallagher JR, Miller JT, Martinez H, Schrittwieser S, Schotter J, Respaud M, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Gatel C, Soulantica K, ACS nano 9, 2792 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn506709k
Abstract: Cobalt nanorods possess ideal magnetic properties for applications requiring magnetically hard nanoparticles. However, their exploitation is undermined by their sensitivity toward oxygen and water, which deteriorates their magnetic properties. The development of a continuous metal shell inert to oxidation could render them stable, opening perspectives not only for already identified applications but also for uses in which contact with air and/or aqueous media is inevitable. However, the direct growth of a conformal noble metal shell on magnetic metals is a challenge. Here, we show that prior treatment of Co nanorods with a tin coordination compound is the crucial step that enables the subsequent growth of a continuous noble metal shell on their surface, rendering them air- and water-resistant, while conserving the monocrystallity, metallicity and the magnetic properties of the Co core. Thus, the as-synthesized coreshell ferromagnetic nanorods combine high magnetization and strong uniaxial magnetic anisotropy, even after exposure to air and water, and hold promise for successful implementation in in vitro biodiagnostics requiring probes of high magnetization and anisotropic shape.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1021/nn506709k
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“Atomic layer epitaxy of Ruddlesden-Popper SrO(SrTiO3)n films by means of metalorganic aerosol deposition”. Jungbauer M, Huehn S, Egoavil R, Tan H, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Moshnyaga V, Applied physics letters 105, 251603 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4905055
Abstract: We report an atomic layer epitaxial growth of Ruddlesden-Popper (RP) thin films of SrO(SrTiO3)(n) (n = infinity, 2, 3, 4) by means of metalorganic aerosol deposition (MAD). The films are grown on SrTiO3(001) substrates by means of a sequential deposition of Sr-O/Ti-O-2 atomic monolayers, monitored in-situ by optical ellipsometry. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveal the RP structure with n = 2-4 in accordance with the growth recipe. RP defects, observed by TEM in a good correlation with the in-situ ellipsometry, mainly result from the excess of SrO. Being maximal at the film/substrate interface, the SrO excess rapidly decreases and saturates after 5-6 repetitions of the SrO(SrTiO3)(4) block at the level of 2.4%. This identifies the SrTiO3 substrate surface as a source of RP defects under oxidizing conditions within MAD. Advantages and limitations of MAD as a solution-based and vacuum-free chemical deposition route were discussed in comparison with molecular beam epitaxy. (C) 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 32
DOI: 10.1063/1.4905055
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“Atomic resolution coordination mapping in Ca2FeCoO5 brownmillerite by spatially resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy”. Turner S, Verbeeck J, Ramezanipour F, Greedan JE, Van Tendeloo G, Botton GA, Chemistry of materials 24, 1904 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1021/cm300640g
Abstract: Using a combination of high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy and atomically resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy at high energy resolution in an aberration-corrected electron microscope, we demonstrate the capability of coordination mapping in complex oxides. Brownmillerite compound Ca2FeCoO5, consisting of repetitive octahedral and tetrahedral coordination layers with Fe and Co in a fixed 3+ valency, is selected to demonstrate the principle of atomic resolution coordination mapping. Analysis of the Co-L2,3 and the Fe-L2,3 edges shows small variations in the fine structure that can be specifically attributed to Co/Fe in tetrahedral or in octahedral coordination. Using internal reference spectra, we show that the coordination of the Fe and Co atoms in the compound can be mapped at atomic resolution.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.466
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1021/cm300640g
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“Atomic resolution mapping of phonon excitations in STEM-EELS experiments”. Egoavil R, Gauquelin N, Martinez GT, Van Aert S, Van Tendeloo G, Verbeeck J, Ultramicroscopy 147, 1 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.04.011
Abstract: Atomically resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy experiments are commonplace in modern aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopes. Energy resolution has also been increasing steadily with the continuous improvement of electron monochromators. Electronic excitations however are known to be delocalized due to the long range interaction of the charged accelerated electrons with the electrons in a sample. This has made several scientists question the value of combined high spatial and energy resolution for mapping interband transitions and possibly phonon excitation in crystals. In this paper we demonstrate experimentally that atomic resolution information is indeed available at very low energy losses around 100 meV expressed as a modulation of the broadening of the zero loss peak. Careful data analysis allows us to get a glimpse of what are likely phonon excitations with both an energy loss and gain part. These experiments confirm recent theoretical predictions on the strong localization of phonon excitations as opposed to electronic excitations and show that a combination of atomic resolution and recent developments in increased energy resolution will offer great benefit for mapping phonon modes in real space.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 22
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.04.011
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“Atomic resolution mapping using quantitative high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy”. Van Aert S, Verbeeck J, Bals S, Erni R, van Dyck D, Van Tendeloo G, Microscopy and microanalysis 15, 464 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1017/S1431927609093957
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 1.891
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1017/S1431927609093957
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“Atomic resolution monitoring of cation exchange in CdSe-PbSe heteronanocrystals during epitaxial solid-solid-vapor growth”. Yalcin AO, Fan Z, Goris B, Li WF, Koster RS, Fang CM, van Blaaderen A, Casavola M, Tichelaar FD, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Vlugt TJH, Vanmaekelbergh D, Zandbergen HW, van Huis MA;, Nano letters 14, 3661 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nl501441w
Abstract: Here, we show a novel solidsolidvapor (SSV) growth mechanism whereby epitaxial growth of heterogeneous semiconductor nanowires takes place by evaporation-induced cation exchange. During heating of PbSe-CdSe nanodumbbells inside a transmission electron microscope (TEM), we observed that PbSe nanocrystals grew epitaxially at the expense of CdSe nanodomains driven by evaporation of Cd. Analysis of atomic-resolution TEM observations and detailed atomistic simulations reveals that the growth process is mediated by vacancies.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.712
Times cited: 42
DOI: 10.1021/nl501441w
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“Atomic scale electron vortices for nanoresearch”. Verbeeck J, Schattschneider P, Lazar S, Stöger-Pollach M, Löffler S, Steiger-Thirsfeld A, Van Tendeloo G, Applied physics letters 99, 203109 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3662012
Abstract: Electron vortex beams were only recently discovered and their potential as a probe for magnetism in materials was shown. Here we demonstrate a method to produce electron vortex beams with a diameter of less than 1.2 Å. This unique way to prepare free electrons to a state resembling atomic orbitals is fascinating from a fundamental physics point of view and opens the road for magnetic mapping with atomic resolution in an electron microscope.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 90
DOI: 10.1063/1.3662012
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“Atomic scale investigation of a PbTiO3/SrRuO3/DyScO3 heterostructure”. Egoavil R, Tan H, Verbeeck J, Bals S, Smith B, Kuiper B, Rijnders G, Koster G, Van Tendeloo G, Applied physics letters 102, 223106 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4809597
Abstract: An epitaxial PbTiO3 thin film grown on self-organized crystalline SrRuO3 nanowires deposited on a DyScO3 substrate with ordered DyO and ScO2 chemical terminations is investigated by transmission electron microscopy. In this PbTiO3/SrRuO3/DyScO3 heterostructure, the SrRuO3 nanowires are assumed to grow on only one type of substrate termination. Here, we report on the structure, morphology, and chemical composition analysis of this heterostructure. Electron energy loss spectroscopy reveals the exact termination sequence in this complex structure. The energy loss near-edge structure of the Ti-L-2,L-3, Sc-L-2,L-3, and O K edges shows intrinsic interfacial electronic reconstruction. Furthermore, PbTiO3 domain walls are observed to start at the end of the nanowires resulting in atomic steps on the film surface. (C) 2013 AIP Publishing LLC.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1063/1.4809597
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“Chabazite : stable cation-exchanger in hyper alkaline concrete pore water”. Van Tendeloo L, Wangermez W, Kurttepeli M, de Blochouse B, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Martens JA, Maes A, Kirschhock CEA, Breynaert E, Environmental science and technology 49, 2358 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/es505346j
Abstract: To avoid impact on the environment, facilities for permanent disposal of hazardous waste adopt multibarrier design schemes. As the primary barrier very often consists of cement-based materials, two distinct aspects are essential for the selection of suitable complementary barriers: (1) selective sorption of the contaminants in the repository and (2) long-term chemical stability in hyperalkaline concrete-derived media. A multidisciplinary approach combining experimental strategies from environmental chemistry and materials science is therefore essential to provide a reliable assessment of potential candidate materials. Chabazite is typically synthesized in 1 M KOH solutions but also crystallizes in simulated young cement pore water, a pH 13 aqueous solution mainly containing K+ and Na+ cations. Its formation and stability in this medium was evaluated as a function of temperature (60 and 85 °C) over a timeframe of more than 2 years and was also asessed from a mechanistic point of view. Chabazite demonstrates excellent cation-exchange properties in simulated young cement pore water. Comparison of its Cs+ cation exchange properties at pH 8 and pH 13 unexpectedly demonstrated an increase of the KD with increasing pH. The combined results identify chabazite as a valid candidate for inclusion in engineered barriers for concrete-based waste disposal.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.198
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1021/es505346j
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