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Author Borah, R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Effect of size distribution, skewness and roughness on the optical properties of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Colloids and surfaces: A: physicochemical and engineering aspects Abbreviated Journal Colloid Surface A
Volume 640 Issue Pages 128521
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract It is a generally accepted idea that the particle size distribution strongly affects the optical spectra of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles. It is often quoted as one of the main reasons while explaining the mismatch between the theoretical and experimental optical spectra of such nanoparticles. In this work, these aspects are critically analyzed by means of a bottom up statistical approach that considers variables such as mean, standard deviation and skewness of the nanoparticle size distribution independently from one another. By assuming normal and log-normal distributions of the particle size, the effect of the statistical parameters on the Mie analytical optical spectra of colloidal nanoparticles was studied. The effect of morphology was also studied numerically in order to understand to what extent it can play a role. It is our finding that the particle polydispersity, skewness and surface morphology in fact only weakly impact the optical spectra. While, the selection of suitable optical constants with regard to the crystallinity of the nanoparticles is a far more influential factor for correctly predicting both the plasmon band position and the plasmon bandwidth in theoretical simulations of the optical spectra. It is shown that the mean particle size can be correctly estimated directly from the plasmon band position, as it is the mean that determines the resonance wavelength. The standard deviation can on the other hand be estimated from the intensity distribution data obtained from dynamic light scattering experiments. The results reported herein clear the ambiguity around particle size distribution and optical response of colloidal plasmonic nanoparticles.
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Publisher Elservier Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000765946900002 Publication Date 2022-02-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0927-7757 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.2 Times cited (up) Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 5.2
Call Number DuEL @ duel @c:irua:185704 Serial 6908
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Author Khan, S.U.; Trashin, S.A.; Korostei, Y.S.; Dubinina, T.V.; Tomilova, L.G.; Verbruggen, S.W.; De Wael, K.
Title Photoelectrochemistry for measuring the photocatalytic activity of soluble photosensitizers Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication ChemPhotoChem Abbreviated Journal
Volume 4 Issue 4 Pages 300-306
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract We introduce a rapid method to test the photocatalytic activity of singlet‐oxygen‐producing photosensitizers using a batch cell, a LED laser and a conventional potentiostat. The strategy is based on coupling of photo‐oxidation of hydroquinone and simultaneous electrochemical reduction of its oxidized form at a carbon electrode in an organic solvent (methanol). This scheme gives an immediate response and avoids complications related to long‐term experiments such as oxidative photo‐degradation of photosensitizers and singlet oxygen traps by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Among the tested compounds, a fluoro‐substituted subphthalocyanine showed the highest photocurrent and singlet oxygen quantum yield (ΦΔ) in comparison to phenoxy‐ and tert‐butyl‐substituted analogues, whereas the lowest photocurrents and yields were observed for aggregated and dimeric phthalocyanine complexes. The method is useful for fast screening of the photosensitizing activity and represents the first example of one‐pot coupling of electrochemical and photocatalytic reactions in organic media.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000520100400001 Publication Date 2020-01-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2367-0932 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.7 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; We gratefully acknowledge the financial support by ERA.Net RUS Plus Plasmon Electrolight project (No. 18-53-76006 ERA) and RSF 17-13-01197. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.7; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:165912 Serial 5771
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Author Van Hal, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Yang, X.-Y.; Lenaerts, S.; Tytgat, T.
Title Image analysis and in situ FTIR as complementary detection tools for photocatalytic soot oxidation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 367 Issue 367 Pages 269-277
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Air pollution, especially particulate matter (PM), is an increasingly urgent problem in urban environments, causing both short and long-term health problems, climate interference and aesthetical problems due to building fouling. Photocatalysis has been shown to be a possible solution to that end. In this work two complementary detection methods for photocatalytic soot oxidation are studied and their advantages and disadvantages are discussed. First, a colour-based digital image analysis method is drastically improved towards an accurate, detailed and straightforward detection tool, that enables simultaneous measurement of the degradation of different grades of soot fouling (for instance a shallow soot haze versus condensed soot deposits). In the next part, a second soot oxidation detection method is presented based on in situ FTIR spectroscopy. This method has the additional advantage of providing more insight into the photocatalytic soot degradation process by monitoring both gaseous and adsorbed intermediates as well as reaction products while the reactions are ongoing. As an illustration, the proposed detection strategies were applied on four different commercially available and synthesized photocatalytic materials. The digital image analysis showed that P25 (Evonik) is the fastest photocatalytic soot degrader of all studied materials for both a uniform soot haze as well as concentrated soot spots. Application of the in situ method showed that for all studied materials adsorbed formate-related surface species were formed and that commercially available ZnO nanopowder has the highest specificity towards complete mineralization into CO2. With this we aim to provide a set of complementary experimental tools for the convenient, reliable, realistic and standardised detection of photocatalytic soot degradation.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000461380400028 Publication Date 2019-02-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited (up) 1 Open Access
Notes ; M.V.H. acknowledges the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for a doctoral fellowship. M.V.H., S.W.V., S.L. and X-Y.Y. thank the FWO and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) for funding an international collaboration project. Mr. M. Minjauw is greatly thanked for his help in the AFM measurements. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:157789 Serial 5958
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Author Tytgat, T.; Smits, M.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Immobilization of TiO2 into self-supporting photocatalytic foam : influence of calcination temperature Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication International journal of applied ceramic technology Abbreviated Journal Int J Appl Ceram Tec
Volume 11 Issue 4 Pages 714-722
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Immobilization of photocatalytic powder is crucial to obtain industrially relevant purification processes. To achieve this goal, self-supporting TiO2 foams were manufactured by a polyacrylamide gel process. These gels were calcined at different temperatures to study the effect of the calcination temperature on foam characteristics (rigidity, crystallinity, and porosity) and its influence on photocatalytic activity. The results show that an optimal degradation is achieved for those foams calcined between 700 and 800°C. Calcination at higher temperatures results in a steep decrease in activity, explained by stability issues of the material due to formation of Na2SO4 phases and a larger rutile fraction.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000339051500012 Publication Date 2013-04-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1546-542x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.048 Times cited (up) 2 Open Access
Notes ; This work was supported by a PhD grant from the Institute of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT). ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.048; 2014 IF: 1.320
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:117295 Serial 5960
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Author Billet, J.; Vandewalle, S.; Meire, M.; Blommaerts, N.; Lommens, P.; Verbruggen, S.W.; De Buysser, K.; Du Prez, F.; Van Driesche, I.
Title Mesoporous TiO2 from poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide)-b-polystyrene block copolymers for long-term acetaldehyde photodegradation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Journal of materials science Abbreviated Journal J Mater Sci
Volume 55 Issue 55 Pages 1933-1945
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Although already some mesoporous (2–50 nm) sol–gel TiO2 synthesis strategies exist, no pore size control beyond the 12 nm range is possible without using specialized organic structure-directing agents synthetized via controlled anionic/radical polymerizations. Here, we present the use of reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization as a straightforward and industrial applicable alternative to the existing controlled polymerization methods for structure-directing agent synthesis. Poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide)-block-polystyrene (PDMA-b-PS) block copolymer, synthesized via RAFT, was chosen as structure-directing agent for the formation of the mesoporous TiO2. Crack-free thin layers TiO2 with tunable pores from 8 to 45 nm could be acquired. For the first time, in a detailed and systematic approach, the influence of the block size and dispersity of the block copolymer is experimentally screened for their influence on the final meso-TiO2 layers. As expected, the mesoporous TiO2 pore sizes showed a clear correlation to the polystyrene block size and the dispersity of the PDMA-b-PS block copolymer. Surprisingly, the dispersity of the polymer was shown not to be affecting the standard deviation of the pores. As a consequence, RAFT could be seen as a viable alternative to the aforementioned controlled polymerization reactions for the synthesis of structure-directing agents enabling the formation of mesoporous pore size-controlled TiO2. To examine the photocatalytic activity of the mesoporous TiO2 thin layers, the degradation of acetaldehyde, a known indoor pollutant, was studied. Even after 3 years of aging, the TiO2 thin layer retained most of its activity.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000494929300001 Publication Date 2019-11-05
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0022-2461 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.599 Times cited (up) 2 Open Access
Notes ; Ghent University is acknowledged for funding the research presented in this paper. M. Meire and S. W. Verbruggen acknowledge the FWO-Flanders (Fund for Scientific Research-Flanders) for financial support. The authors thank Bernhard De Meyer for the SEC analysis, Hannes Rijckaert for the cross-sectional analysis, Tom Planckaert for BET analysis of the meso-TiO<INF>2</INF> powders, Jeroen Kint for the porosiellipsometry tests and Frank Driessen for the MALDI-TOF analysis. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.599
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163842 Serial 5969
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Author Blommaerts, N.; Dingenen, F.; Middelkoop, V.; Savelkouls, J.; Goemans, M.; Tytgat, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Ultrafast screening of commercial sorbent materials for VOC adsorption using real-time FTIR spectroscopy Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Separation and purification technology Abbreviated Journal Sep Purif Technol
Volume 207 Issue 207 Pages 284-290
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Recovery of valuable volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from waste streams is of great industrial importance. Adsorption on zeolites offers an economically and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional activated carbon. When evaluating the suitability of a given zeolite for a particular adsorption application, its adsorption capacity has to be determined. This is traditionally achieved using gas chromatography as an analysis tool, yielding only a few discrete sampling points that constitute the adsorption profile. Meanwhile, only low flow rates and low concentrations of volatile organics can be used, rendering the procedure troublesome and time consuming. Herein, we propose a tool for the fast screening of a large amount of zeolites using on-line and quasi real-time Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The technique was used to determine the adsorption capacity of three different commercial zeolites and two silica gels, for five industrially relevant VOCs: acetone; methanol; isohexane; isopentane; and toluene. A series of rapid measurements of the individual adsorption capacities were carried out to obtain a detailed overview of the versatility of the proposed method for the characterization of multi-component and multi-sorption bed systems.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000445987500032 Publication Date 2018-06-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1383-5866 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.359 Times cited (up) 5 Open Access
Notes ; We would like to thank Vlaams Agenschap Innoveren & Ondernemen (VLAIO) for financial support. The authors would also like to thank Kureha GmbH, Germany for kindly supplying us with their BAC (R) (bead-shaped activated carbon) samples. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.359
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:154694 Serial 6000
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Van Hal, M.; Bosserez, T.; Rongé, J.; Hauchecorne, B.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Harvesting hydrogen gas from air pollutants with an un-biased gas phase photo-electrochemical cell Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Chemsuschem Abbreviated Journal Chemsuschem
Volume 10 Issue 7 Pages 1413-1418
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract The concept of an all-gas-phase photo-electrochemical cell (PEC) producing hydrogen gas from volatile organic contaminated gas and light is presented. Without applying any external bias, organic contaminants are degraded and hydrogen gas is produced in separate electrode compartments. The system works most efficiently with organic pollutants in inert carrier gas. In the presence of oxygen gas, the cell performs less efficiently but still significant photocurrents are generated, showing the cell can be run on organic contaminated air. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate new application opportunities of PEC technology and to encourage further advancement toward photo-electrochemical remediation of air pollution with the attractive feature of simultaneous energy recovery and pollution abatement.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000398838600017 Publication Date 2017-02-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1864-5631 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.226 Times cited (up) 6 Open Access
Notes ; S.W.V. and J.R. acknowledge the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for a postdoctoral fellowship. T.B. and J.A.M. acknowledge the Flemish government for long-term structural funding (Methusalem). Nicolaas Schewyck is greatly thanked for his experimental work during his master thesis. ; Approved Most recent IF: 7.226
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140922 Serial 5955
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Author Van Eynde, E.; Hu, Z.-Y.; Tytgat, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Watte, J.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Van Driessche, I.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Diatom silica-titania photocatalysts for air purification by bio-accumulation of different titanium sources Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Environmental science : nano Abbreviated Journal Environ Sci-Nano
Volume 3 Issue 5 Pages 1052-1061
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract We present a green, biological production route for silica-titania photocatalysts using diatom microalgae. Diatoms are single-celled, eukaryotic microalgae (2-2000 mu m) that self-assemble soluble silicon (Si(OH)(4)) into intricate silica cell walls, called frustules. These diatom frustules are formed under ambient conditions and consist of hydrated silica with specific 3D morphologies and micro-meso or macroporosity. A remarkable characteristic of diatoms is their ability to bioaccumulate soluble titanium from cell culture medium and incorporate them into their nanostructured silica cell wall. Controlled cultivation of the diatom Pinnularia sp. on soluble titanium in a batch process resulted in the biological immobilisation of titanium dioxide in the porous 3D architecture of the frustules. Six different titanium sources are tested. The silica-titania frustules were isolated by treating the harvested Pinnularia cells with nitric acid (65%) or by high temperature treatment. Thermal annealing converted the amorphous titania into crystalline titania. The produced silica-titania material is evaluated towards photocatalytic activity for acetaldehyde (C2H4O) abatement. Frustules cultivated with TiBaldH showed the highest photocatalytic performance. Comparison of the photocatalytic activity with P25 reveals that P25 has a 4 fold higher photocatalytic activity, but when photocatalytic activity is normalized for titania content, the frustules show double activity. Further material characterization (morphology, crystallinity, surface area and elemental distribution) of the TiBaldH silica-titania frustules provides additional insight into their structure-activity relationship. These natural biosilicatitania materials have excellent properties for photocatalytic purposes, including high surface area (108 m(2) g(-1)) and good porosity, and show reliable immobilization of TiO2 in the ordered structure of the diatom frustule.
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Publisher Royal Society of Chemistry Place of Publication Cambridge Editor
Language Wos 000385257900011 Publication Date 2016-07-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2051-8153; 2051-8161 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.047 Times cited (up) 7 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.047
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:144751 Serial 4644
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Author Dingenen, F.; Blommaerts, N.; Van Hal, M.; Borah, R.; Arenas-Esteban, D.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Layer-by-Layer-Stabilized Plasmonic Gold-Silver Nanoparticles on TiO2: Towards Stable Solar Active Photocatalysts Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Nanomaterials Abbreviated Journal Nanomaterials-Basel
Volume 11 Issue 10 Pages 2624
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract To broaden the activity window of TiO2, a broadband plasmonic photocatalyst has been designed and optimized. This plasmonic ‘rainbow’ photocatalyst consists of TiO2 modified with gold–silver composite nanoparticles of various sizes and compositions, thus inducing a broadband interaction with polychromatic solar light. However, these nanoparticles are inherently unstable, especially due to the use of silver. Hence, in this study the application of the layer-by-layer technique is introduced to create a protective polymer shell around the metal cores with a very high degree of control. Various TiO2 species (pure anatase, PC500, and P25) were loaded with different plasmonic metal loadings (0–2 wt %) in order to identify the most solar active composite materials. The prepared plasmonic photocatalysts were tested towards stearic acid degradation under simulated sunlight. From all materials tested, P25 + 2 wt % of plasmonic ‘rainbow’ nanoparticles proved to be the most promising (56% more efficient compared to pristine P25) and was also identified as the most cost-effective. Further, 2 wt % of layer-by-layer-stabilized ‘rainbow’ nanoparticles were loaded on P25. These layer-by-layer-stabilized metals showed superior stability under a heated oxidative atmosphere, as well as in a salt solution. Finally, the activity of the composite was almost completely retained after 1 month of aging, while the nonstabilized equivalent lost 34% of its initial activity. This work shows for the first time the synergetic application of a plasmonic ‘rainbow’ concept and the layer-by-layer stabilization technique, resulting in a promising solar active, and long-term stable photocatalyst.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000712759800001 Publication Date 2021-10-06
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2079-4991 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.553 Times cited (up) 7 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Research was funded by Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), FN 700300001— Aspirant F. Dingenen. Approved Most recent IF: 3.553
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:183281 Serial 6812
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Author Meire, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Lommens, P.; Van Der Voort, P.; Van Driessche, I.
Title Microwave-assisted synthesis of mesoporous titania with increased crystallinity, specific surface area, and photocatalytic activity Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Journal of materials science Abbreviated Journal J Mater Sci
Volume 51 Issue 21 Pages 9822-9829
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Mesoporous titanium dioxide is a material finding its use in a wide range of applications. For many of these, it is important to achieve a high degree of crystallinity in the material. It is generally accepted that the use of the soft templating approach to synthesize mesoporous titania, results in a compromise between crystallinity and specific surface area due to thermal instability of the used templates. In this paper, we explore how the use of microwave irradiation can influence the crystallinity, specific surface area, and the electronic properties of mesoporous titania. Therefore, we combined microwave radiation with an evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) synthesis. We show that additional microwave treatment at carefully chosen synthesis steps can enhance the crystallinity with 20 % without causing significant loss of surface area (>360 m2/g). Surface photovoltage measurements were used to investigate the electronic properties. The photocatalytic activity of the samples was evaluated in aqueous media by following the degradation of an industrial dye, methylene blue, and the herbicide isoproturon under UV irradiation and in gaseous media looking at the degradation of acetaldehyde, a common indoor pollutant under UVA irradiation. In all cases, the microwave treatment results in more active materials.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000381182200023 Publication Date 2016-07-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0022-2461 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.599 Times cited (up) 8 Open Access
Notes ; M. Meire and S. W. Verbruggen acknowledge the FWO-Flanders (Fund for Scientific Research-Flanders) for financial support. We want to thank T. Planckaert for the N<INF>2</INF> sorption measurements, J. Watte for the XRD measurements, and professor K. De Buysser for the quantitative Rietveld refinements. ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.599
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:140098 Serial 5970
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Dirckx, J.J.J.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Surface photovoltage measurements : a quick assessment of the photocatalytic activity? Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Catalysis today Abbreviated Journal Catal Today
Volume 209 Issue Pages 215-220
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Surface photovoltage (SPV) measurements can contribute to a better understanding of electronic properties of photocatalysts under illumination. Direct linking of SPV data to the actual photocatalytic activity remains troublesome. This work aims to discuss SPV measurements from a photocatalytic point of view. By means of several application-based scenarios we illustrate that the trend between SPV and photocatalysis strongly depends on parameters such as the crystal structure, surface modifications, morphology and humidity. This makes the interpretation far from straightforward.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000319498800035 Publication Date 2013-01-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0920-5861 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.636 Times cited (up) 8 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.636; 2013 IF: 3.309
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:106520 Serial 5995
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Author Kurttepeli, M.; Deng, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Guzzinati, G.; Cott, D.J.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbeeck, J.; Van Tendeloo, G.; Detavernier, C.; Bals, S.
Title Synthesis and characterization of photoreactive TiO2carbon nanosheet composites Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces Abbreviated Journal J Phys Chem C
Volume 118 Issue 36 Pages 21031-21037
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract We report the atomic layer deposition of titanium dioxide on carbon nanosheet templates and investigate the effects of postdeposition annealing in a helium environment using different characterization techniques. The crystallization of the titanium dioxide coating upon annealing is observed using in situ X-ray diffraction. The (micro)structural characterization of the films is carried out by scanning electron microscopy and advanced transmission electron microscopy techniques. Our study shows that the annealing of the atomic layer deposition processed and carbon nanosheets templated titanium dioxide layers in helium environment resulting in the formation of a porous, nanocrystalline and photocatalytically active titanium dioxide-carbon nanosheet composite film. Such composites are suitable for photocatalysis and dye-sensitized solar cells applications.
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Publisher Place of Publication Washington, D.C. Editor
Language Wos 000341619500034 Publication Date 2014-08-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1932-7447;1932-7455; ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.536 Times cited (up) 9 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes This research was funded by the Flemish research foundation FWO-Vlaanderen, by the European Research Council (Starting Grant No. 239865) and by the Special Research Fund BOF of Ghent University (GOA-01G01513). G.G, M.K., J.V., S.B., and G.V.T. acknowledge funding from the European Research Council under the seventh Framework Program (FP7), ERC Starting Grant No. 278510 VORTEX and No. 335078 COLOURATOMS. ECASJO;; ECASSara; (ROMEO:white; preprint:; postprint:restricted 12 months embargo; pdfversion:cannot); Approved Most recent IF: 4.536; 2014 IF: 4.772
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:119085 Serial 3416
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Author Minjauw, M.M.; Solano, E.; Sree, S.P.; Asapu, R.; Van Daele, M.; Ramachandran, R.K.; Heremans, G.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Martens, J.A.; Detavernier, C.; Dendooven, J.
Title Plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition of silver using Ag(fod)(PEt3) and NH3-plasma Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Chemistry of materials Abbreviated Journal Chem Mater
Volume 29 Issue 17 Pages 7114-7121
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract A plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (ALD) process using the Ag(fod)(PEt3) precursor [(triethylphosphine)(6,6,7,7,8,8,8-heptafluoro-2,2-dimethy1-3,5-octanedionate)silver(I)] in combination with NH3-plasma is reported. The steady growth rate of the reported process (0.24 +/- 0.03 nm/cycle) was found to be 6 times larger than that of the previously reported Ag ALD process based on the same precursor in combination with H-2-plasma (0.04 +/- 0.02 nm/cycle). The ALD characteristics of the H-2-plasma and NH3-plasma processes were verified. The deposited Ag films were polycrystalline face-centered cubic Ag for both processes. The film morphology was investigated by ex situ scanning electron microscopy and grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering, and it was found that films grown with the NH3-plasma process exhibit a much higher particle areal density and smaller particle sizes on oxide substrates compared to those deposited using the H-2-plasma process. This control over morphology of the deposited Ag is important for applications in catalysis and plasmonics. While films grown with the H-2-plasma process had oxygen impurities (similar to 9 atom %) in the bulk, the main impurity for the NH3-plasma process was nitrogen (similar to 7 atom %). In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy experiments suggest that these nitrogen impurities are derived from NH surface groups generated during the NH3-plasma, which interact with the precursor molecules during the precursor pulse. We propose that the reaction of these surface groups with the precursor leads to additional deposition of Ag atoms during the precursor pulse compared to the H-2-plasma process, which explains the enhanced growth rate of the NH3-plasma process.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000410868600012 Publication Date 2017-08-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0897-4756 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.466 Times cited (up) 9 Open Access
Notes ; M.M.M. and J.D. acknowledge the Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek Vlaanderen (FWO Vlaanderen) for financial support through a personal research grant. We also acknowledge FWO Vlaanderen for providing project funding for this work. We are grateful to the ESRF staff for smoothly running the synchrotron and beamline facilities. We also thank Olivier Janssens for performing the SEM measurements and Stefaan Broekaert for mechanical assistance. J.A.M. acknowledges the Flemish Government for long-term structural funding (Methusalem). ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.466
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:146757 Serial 5983
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Author Keulemans, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Hauchecorne, B.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Activity versus selectivity in photocatalysis : morphological or electronic properties tipping the scale Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Journal of catalysis Abbreviated Journal J Catal
Volume 344 Issue Pages 221-228
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this paper a structure-activity and structure-selectivity relation is established for three commercial TiO2 sources (P25, P90, and PC500). Morphological and electronic parameters of the photocatalysts are determined using widely applicable and inexpensive characterization procedures. More specifically, the electronic properties are rigorously characterized using an electron titration method yielding quantitative information on the amount of defect sites present in the catalyst. Surface photovoltage measurements on the other hand provide complementary information on the charge carrier recombination process. As model reaction, the degradation of a solid layer of stearic acid is studied using an in situ FTIR reaction cell that enables to investigate the catalyst surface and possible formation of reaction intermediates while the reactions are ongoing. We show that the order of photocatalytic conversion is PC500 > P90 > P25, matching the order of favorable morphological properties. In terms of selectivity to CO2 formation (complete mineralization), however, this trend is reversed: P25 > P90 > PC500, now matching the order of advantageous electronic properties, i.e. low charge carrier recombination and high charge carrier generation. With this we intend to provide new mechanistic insights using a wide variety of physical, (wet) chemical and operando analysis methods that aid the development of performant (self-cleaning) photocatalytic materials.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000390182800022 Publication Date 2016-10-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0021-9517 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.844 Times cited (up) 10 Open Access
Notes ; M.K. acknowledges Flemish Agency for Innovation & Entrepreneurship for the doctoral scholarship. S.W.V. acknowledges the Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (FWO) for a post-doctoral fellowship. J.A.M. acknowledges the Flemish government for long-term structural funding (Methusalem). ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.844
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:136339 Serial 5926
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Author van Walsem, J.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Modde, B.; Lenaerts, S.; Denys, S.
Title CFD investigation of a multi-tube photocatalytic reactor in non-steady-state conditions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 304 Issue Pages 808-816
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract A novel multi-tube photoreactor is presented with a high efficiency (over 90% conversion) toward the degradation of acetaldehyde in air under UV conditions with an incident intensity of 2.1 mW cm−2. A CFD model was developed to simulate the transient adsorption and photocatalytic degradation processes of acetaldehyde in this reactor design and to estimate the corresponding kinetic parameters through an optimization routine using the experimentally determined outlet concentration profiles. The CFD model takes into account the entire reactor geometry and all relevant flow parameters, in contrast to analytical methods that often oversimplify the physical and chemical process characteristics. Using CFD, we show that both adsorption and desorption rate constants increase by respectively one and two orders of magnitude when the UV light is switched on, which clearly affects the transient behavior. The agreement of the experimental and modelled concentration profiles is excellent as evidenced by a coefficient of determination of at least 0.965. To demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of all parameters obtained from the modelling approach, an ultimate validation test was performed using other conditions than the ones used for estimating the kinetic parameters. The model was able to accurately simulate simultaneous adsorption, desorption and photocatalytic degradation.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000384777200089 Publication Date 2016-07-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited (up) 10 Open Access
Notes ; J.V.W. acknowledges the Agentschap Innoveren & Ondernemen for a PhD fellowship. S.W.V. acknowledges the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) for a postdoctoral fellowship. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139620 Serial 5933
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Author Deng, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Martens, J.A.; Van den Berghe, S.; Devloo-Casier, K.; Devulder, W.; Dendoover, J.; Deduytsche, D.; Detavernier, C.
Title Controllable nitrogen doping in as deposited TiO2 film and its effect on post deposition annealing Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Journal of vacuum science and technology: A: vacuum surfaces and films Abbreviated Journal J Vac Sci Technol A
Volume 32 Issue 1 Pages 01a123
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In order to narrow the band gap of TiO2, nitrogen doping by combining thermal atomic layer deposition (TALD) of TiO2 and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) of TiN has been implemented. By altering the ratio between TALD TiO2 and PEALD TiN, the as synthesized TiOxNy films showed different band gaps (from 1.91 eV to 3.14 eV). In situ x-ray diffraction characterization showed that the crystallization behavior of these films changed after nitrogen doping. After annealing in helium, nitrogen doped TiO2 films crystallized into rutile phase while for the samples annealed in air a preferential growth of the anatase TiO2 along (001) orientation was observed. Photocatalytic tests of the degradation of stearic acid were done to evaluate the effect of N doping on the photocatalytic activity.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000335847600023 Publication Date 2013-12-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0734-2101 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.374 Times cited (up) 10 Open Access
Notes ; The authors wish to thank the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for financial support. The authors acknowledge the European Research Council for funding under the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013)/ERC grant agreement Nos. 239865-COCOON and 246791-COUNTATO. The authors also acknowledge the support from UGENT-GOA-01G01513 and IWT-SBO SOSLion. J.A.M. acknowledges the Flemish government for long-term structural funding (Methusalem). J.D. acknowledges the Flemisch FWO for a postdoctoral fellowship. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.374; 2014 IF: 2.322
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:117296 Serial 5936
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Author Van Eynde, E.; Lenaerts, B.; Tytgat, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Hauchecorne, B.; Blust, R.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Effect of pretreatment and temperature on the properties of Pinnularia biosilica frustules Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication RSC advances Abbreviated Journal Rsc Adv
Volume 4 Issue Pages 56200-56206
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Diatoms are unicellular microalgae that self-assemble an intricate porous silica cell wall, called frustule. Diatom frustules possess a unique combination of physical and chemical properties (chemical inertness, high mechanical strength, large surface area, low density, good porosity and highly ordered features on the nano-to-micro scale) making diatom frustules suited for many nanotechnological applications. For most proposed applications the organic material covering the frustules needs to be removed. In this paper we investigate the effect of different frustule cleaning methods (drying, autoclavation, SDS/EDTA treatment, H2O2 treatment and HNO3 treatment) and subsequent heat treatment at different temperatures (105 °C, 350 °C, 550 °C and 750 °C) on the material characteristics of the diatom Pinnularia sp. Material characteristics under study are morphology, surface area, pore size, elemental composition and organic content. The cleaned Pinnularia frustules are subsequently investigated as adsorbents to remove methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solution.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000344997800060 Publication Date 2014-10-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2046-2069 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.108 Times cited (up) 10 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.108; 2014 IF: 3.840
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:121377 Serial 5945
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Tytgat, T.; Van Passel, S.; Martens, J.A.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Cost-effectiveness analysis to assess commercial TiO2 photocatalysts for acetaldehyde degradation in air Type A1 Journal article
Year 2014 Publication Chemicke zvesti Abbreviated Journal Chem Pap
Volume 68 Issue 9 Pages 1273-1278
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In the commercialisation of photocatalytic air purifiers, the performance as well as the cost of the catalytic material plays an important role. Where most comparative studies only regard the photocatalytic activity as a decisive parameter, in this study both activity and cost are taken into account. Using a cost-effectiveness analysis, six different commercially available TiO2-based catalysts are evaluated in terms of their activities in photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde as a model reaction for indoor air purification.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000336443400015 Publication Date 2014-02-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0366-6352 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.258 Times cited (up) 10 Open Access
Notes ; S. W. V. wishes to thank the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for the financial support received. The authors are grateful to the University of Antwerp for supporting and funding this research. Evonik is sincerely thanked for providing catalyst samples for our experiments free of charge. All companies are thanked for providing specific pricing data. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.258; 2014 IF: 1.468
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:117297 Serial 6174
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Author Claes, N.; Asapu, R.; Blommaerts, N.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.
Title Characterization of silver-polymer core–shell nanoparticles using electron microscopy Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Nanoscale Abbreviated Journal Nanoscale
Volume 10 Issue 10 Pages 9186-9191
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Silver-polymer core–shell nanoparticles show interesting optical properties, making them widely applicable in the field of plasmonics. The uniformity, thickness and homogeneity of the polymer shell will affect the properties of the system which makes a thorough structural characterization of these core–shell silver-polymer nanoparticles of great importance. However, visualizing the shell and the particle simultaneously is far from straightforward due to the sensitivity of the polymer shell towards the electron beam. In this study, we use different 2D and 3D electron microscopy techniques to investigate different structural aspects of the polymer coating.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000437007700028 Publication Date 2018-04-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2040-3364 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.367 Times cited (up) 11 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes N. C. and S. B. acknowledge financial support from European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant #335078-COLOURATOMS) and from the FWO through project funding (G038116N). R. A. and S. L. acknowledge the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) for financial support. (ROMEO:yellow; preprint:; postprint:restricted ; pdfversion:cannot); ECAS_Sara Approved Most recent IF: 7.367
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:151290UA @ admin @ c:irua:151290 Serial 4959
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Author Borah, R.; Smets, J.; Ninakanti, R.; Tietze, M.L.; Ameloot, R.; Chigrin, D.N.; Bals, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Self-assembled ligand-capped plasmonic Au nanoparticle films in the Kretschmann configuration for sensing of volatile organic compounds Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication ACS applied nano materials Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue 8 Pages acsanm.2c02524-12
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Films of close-packed Au nanoparticles are coupled electrodynamically through their collective plasmon resonances. This collective optical response results in enhanced light–matter interactions, which can be exploited in various applications. Here, we demonstrate their application in sensing volatile organic compounds, using methanol as a test case. Ordered films over several cm2 were obtained by interfacial self-assembly of colloidal Au nanoparticles (∼10 nm diameter) through controlled evaporation of the solvent. Even though isolated nanoparticles of this size are inherently nonscattering, when arranged in a close-packed film the plasmonic coupling results in a strong reflectance and absorbance. The in situ tracking of vapor phase methanol concentration through UV–vis transmission measurements of the nanoparticle film is first demonstrated. Next, in situ ellipsometry of the self-assembled films in the Kretschmann (also known as ATR) configuration is shown to yield enhanced sensitivity, especially with phase difference measurements, Δ. Our study shows the excellent agreement between theoretical models of the spectral response of self-assembled films with experimental in situ sensing experiments. At the same time, the theoretical framework provides the basis for the interpretation of the various observed experimental trends. Combining periodic nanoparticle films with ellipsometry in the Kretschmann configuration is a promising strategy toward highly sensitive and selective plasmonic thin-film devices based on colloidal fabrication methods for volatile organic compound (VOC) sensing applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000834348300001 Publication Date 2022-07-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2574-0970 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 5.9 Times cited (up) 11 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes R.B. acknowledges financial support from the University of Antwerp Special Research Fund (BOF) for a DOCPRO4 doctoral scholarship. J.S. acknowledges financial support from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) by a Ph.D. fellowship (11H8121N) . M.L.T. acknowledges financial support from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) by a senior postdoctoral fellowship (12ZK720N) . Approved Most recent IF: 5.9
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:189295 Serial 7095
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Author Borah, R.; Ninakanti, R.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Plasmon resonance of gold and silver nanoparticle arrays in the Kretschmann (attenuated total reflectance) vs. direct incidence configuration Type A1 Journal article
Year 2022 Publication Scientific reports Abbreviated Journal Sci Rep-Uk
Volume 12 Issue 1 Pages 15738-19
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract While the behaviour of plasmonic solid thin films in the Kretschmann (also known as Attenuated Total Reflection, ATR) configuration is well-understood, the use of discrete nanoparticle arrays in this optical configuration is not thoroughly explored. It is important to do so, since close packed plasmonic nanoparticle arrays exhibit exceptionally strong light-matter interactions by plasmonic coupling. The present work elucidates the optical properties of plasmonic Au and Ag nanoparticle arrays in both the direct normal incidence and Kretschmann configuration by numerical models, that are validated experimentally. First, hexagonal close packed Au and Ag nanoparticle films/arrays are obtained by air–liquid interfacial assembly. The numerical models for the rigorous solution of the Maxwell’s equations are validated using experimental optical spectra of these films before systematically investigating various parameters. The individual far-field/near-field optical properties, as well as the plasmon relaxation mechanism of the nanoparticles, vary strongly as the packing density of the array increases. In the Kretschmann configuration, the evanescent fields arising from p – and s -polarized (or TM and TE polarized) incidence have different directional components. The local evanescent field intensity and direction depends on the polarization, angle of incidence and the wavelength of incidence. These factors in the Kretschmann configuration give rise to interesting far-field as well as near-field optical properties. Overall, it is shown that plasmonic nanoparticle arrays in the Kretschmann configuration facilitate strong broadband absorptance without transmission losses, and strong near-field enhancement. The results reported herein elucidate the optical properties of self-assembled nanoparticle films, pinpointing the ideal conditions under which the normal and the Kretschmann configuration can be exploited in multiple light-driven applications.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000858344700048 Publication Date 2022-09-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2045-2322 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 4.6 Times cited (up) 11 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes R.B. acknowledges financial support from the University of Antwerp Special Research Fund (BOF) for a DOCPRO4 doctoral scholarship (Grant FN541100001). Approved Most recent IF: 4.6
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190864 Serial 7194
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Author Tytgat, T.; Hauchecorne, B.; Abakumov, A.M.; Smits, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Photocatalytic process optimisation for ethylene oxidation Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 209 Issue Pages 494-500
Keywords A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract When studying photocatalysis it is important to consider, beside the chemical approach, the engineering part related to process optimisation. To achieve this a fixed bed photocatalytic set-up consisting of different catalyst placings, in order to vary catalyst distribution, is studied. The use of a fixed quantity of catalyst placed packed or randomly distributed in the reactor, results in an almost double degradation for the distributed catalyst. Applying this knowledge leads to an improved performance with limited use of catalyst. A reactor only half filled with catalyst leads to higher degradation performance compared to a completely filled reactor. Taking into account this simple process optimisation by better distributing the catalyst a more sustainable photocatalytic air purification process is achieved. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Lausanne Editor
Language Wos 000311190500058 Publication Date 2012-08-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited (up) 12 Open Access
Notes ; We are grateful for the delivered photocatalyst by Evonik as well as for the PhD grant (T. Tytgat) given by the Institute of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT). ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216; 2012 IF: 3.473
Call Number UA @ lucian @ c:irua:105185 Serial 2609
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Author Verbruggen, S.W.; Keulemans, M.; van Walsem, J.; Tytgat, T.; Lenaerts, S.; Denys, S.
Title CFD modeling of transient adsorption/desorption behavior in a gas phase photocatalytic fiber reactor Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Chemical engineering journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 292 Issue Pages 42-50
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract We present the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for accurately determining the adsorption parameters of acetaldehyde on photocatalytic fiber filter material, integrated in a continuous flow system. Unlike the traditional analytical analysis based on Langmuir adsorption, not only steady-state situations but also transient phenomena can be accounted for. Air displacement effects in the reactor and gas detection cell are investigated and inherently made part of the model. Incorporation of a surface aldol condensation reaction in the CFD analysis further improves the accuracy of the model which enables to extract precise, intrinsic adsorption parameters for situations in which analytical analysis would otherwise fail.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000373648000005 Publication Date 2016-02-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947; 1873-3212 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited (up) 12 Open Access
Notes ; S.W.V. acknowledges the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) for a postdoctoral fellowship. M.K. acknowledges the IWT for a Ph.D. fellowship. Konstantina Kalafata and Ioanna Fasaki are greatly thanked for providing the NanoPhos suspension. Bioscience Engineering bachelor students M. Gerritsma, J. Helsen and Y. Riahi Drif are thanked for their assistance in performing the adsorption experiments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.216
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:130876 Serial 5934
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Author Jammaer, J.; Aprile, C.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Pescarmona, P.P.; Martens, J.A.
Title A non-aqueous synthesis of TiO2SiO2 composites in supercritical CO2 for the photodegradation of pollutants Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Chemsuschem Abbreviated Journal Chemsuschem
Volume 4 Issue 10 Pages 1457-1463
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Titania/silica composites with different Ti/Si ratios are synthesized via a nonconventional synthesis route. The synthesis involves non-aqueous reaction of metal alkoxides and formic acid at 75 °C in supercritical carbon dioxide. The as-prepared composite materials contain nanometer-sized anatase crystallites and amorphous silica. Large specific surface areas are obtained. The composites are evaluated in the photocatalytic degradation of phenol in aqueous medium, and in the elimination of acetaldehyde from air. The highest photocatalytic activity in both processes is achieved with a composite containing 40 wt % TiO2.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000296497400010 Publication Date 2011-05-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1864-5631 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.226 Times cited (up) 15 Open Access
Notes ; The authors acknowledge sponsorship from CECAT and Methusalem (long-term financing of the Flemish government). We thank Dr. E. Gobechiya for assistance with XRD measurements and A. Lemaire for assistance with mercury porosimetry measurements. ; Approved Most recent IF: 7.226; 2011 IF: 6.827
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:93363 Serial 5973
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Author Blommaerts, N.; Hoeven, N.; Arenas Esteban, D.; Campos, R.; Mertens, M.; Borah, R.; Glisenti, A.; De Wael, K.; Bals, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Cool, P.
Title Tuning the turnover frequency and selectivity of photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO and methane using platinum and palladium nanoparticles on Ti-Beta zeolites Type A1 Journal article
Year 2021 Publication Chemical Engineering Journal Abbreviated Journal Chem Eng J
Volume 410 Issue Pages 128234
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract A Ti-Beta zeolite was used in gas phase photocatalytic CO2 reduction to reduce the charge recombination rate and increase the surface area compared to P25 as commercial benchmark, reaching 607 m2 g-1. By adding Pt nanoparticles, the selectivity can be tuned toward CO, reaching a value of 92% and a turnover frequency (TOF) of 96 µmol.gcat-1.h-1, nearly an order of magnitude higher in comparison with P25. By adding Pd nanoparticles the selectivity can be shifted from CO (70% for a bare Ti-Beta zeolite), toward CH4 as the prevalent species (60%). In this way, the selectivity toward CO or CH4 can be tuned by either using Pt or Pd. The TOF values obtained in this work outperform reported state-of-the-art values in similar research. The improved activity by adding the nanoparticles was attributed to an improved charge separation efficiency, together with a plasmonic contribution of the metal nanoparticles under the applied experimental conditions.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000623394200004 Publication Date 2021-01-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1385-8947 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.216 Times cited (up) 15 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes N.B., S.L., S.W.V. and P.C. wish to thank the Flemish government and Catalisti for financial support and coordination in terms of a sprint SBO in the context of the moonshot project D2M. N.H. thanks the Flanders Innovation and Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) for the financial support. The Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research (SPHERE) group, R. Blust, University of Antwerp is acknowledged for the ICP-MS measurements. Approved Most recent IF: 6.216
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:174591 Serial 6662
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Author Van Eynde, E.; Tytgat, T.; Smits, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Hauchecorne, B.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Biotemplated diatom silica-titania materials for air purification Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Photochemical & photobiological sciences Abbreviated Journal Photoch Photobio Sci
Volume 12 Issue 4 Pages 690-695
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract We present a novel manufacture route for silicatitania photocatalysts using the diatom microalga Pinnularia sp. Diatoms self-assemble into porous silica cell walls, called frustules, with periodic micro-, meso- and macroscale features. This unique hierarchical porous structure of the diatom frustule is used as a biotemplate to incorporate titania by a solgel methodology. Important material characteristics of the modified diatom frustules under study are morphology, crystallinity, surface area, pore size and optical properties. The produced biosilicatitania material is evaluated towards photocatalytic activity for NOx abatement under UV radiation. This research is the first step to obtain sustainable, well-immobilised silicatitania photocatalysts using diatoms.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000316572500016 Publication Date 2012-10-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1474-905x; 1474-9092 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.344 Times cited (up) 18 Open Access
Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.344; 2013 IF: 2.939
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:106625 Serial 5930
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Author Caretti, I.; Keulemans, M.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Lenaerts, S.; Van Doorslaer, S.
Title Light-induced processes in plasmonic Gold/TiO2 photocatalysts studied by electron paramagnetic resonance Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Topics in catalysis Abbreviated Journal Top Catal
Volume 58 Issue 12 Pages 776-782
Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract X-band and W-band continuous-wave (CW) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) was used to study in situ light-induced (LI) mechanisms in commercial P90 titania (90 % anatase/10 % rutile) compared to plasmon-enhanced Au-P90 photocatalyst. These materials were excited using UV and 532 nm visible light to generate different excitation states and distinguish pure charge separation from plasmon-assisted resonance processes. Up to nine different photoinduced species of trapped electrons and holes were identified. LI CW EPR of P90 is presented for the first time, showing a UV excitation response similar to the well-known mixed-phase P25 titania. It is shown that incorporation of Au nanoparticles in Au-P90 and formation of a Schottky junction affects the charge separation state of the catalyst under UV light. Moreover, Au impregnation activated P90 through plasmon hot electron injection under visible light excitation (plasmonic sensitization effect). In general, EPR proved to be crucial to determine the different photoexciation paths and reactions that regulate plasmonic photocatalysis.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000360011200008 Publication Date 2015-08-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1022-5528 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.486 Times cited (up) 22 Open Access
Notes ; IC and SVD acknowledge the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for financial support (Grant G.0687.13). SV thanks FWO for financial support through a postdoctoral fellowship and MK acknowledges the agency for Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (IWT) for financial support (Ph.D. Grant). ; Approved Most recent IF: 2.486; 2015 IF: 2.365
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:127413 Serial 5968
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Author Blommaerts, N.; Vanrompay, H.; Nuti, S.; Lenaerts, S.; Bals, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Unraveling Structural Information of Turkevich Synthesized Plasmonic Gold-Silver Bimetallic Nanoparticles Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Small Abbreviated Journal Small
Volume 15 Issue 15 Pages 1902791
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract For the synthesis of gold-silver bimetallic nanoparticles, the Turkevich method has been the state-of-the-art method for several decades. It has been presumed that this procedure results in a homogeneous alloy, although this has been debatable for many years. In this work, it is shown that neither a full alloy, nor a perfect core-shell particle is formed but rather a core-shell-like particle with altering metal composition along the radial direction. In-depth wet-chemical experiments are performed in combination with advanced transmission electron microscopy, including EDX tomography, and Finite Element Method modeling to support the observations. From the electron tomography results, the core-shell structure could be clearly visualized and the spatial distribution of gold and silver atoms could be quantified. Theoretical simulations are performed to demonstrate that even though UV-Vis spectra show only one plasmon band, this still originates from core-shell type structures. The simulations also indicate that the core-shell morphology does not so much affect the location of the plasmon band, but mainly results in significant band broadening. Wet-chemistry experiments provide the evidence that the synthesis pathway starts with gold enriched alloy cores, and later on in the synthesis mainly silver is incorporated to end up with a silver enriched alloy shell.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000482637100001 Publication Date 2019-08-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1613-6810 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 8.643 Times cited (up) 26 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes Universiteit Antwerpen; Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, 1S32617N G.0369.15N G.0381.16N ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.643
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:161636 Serial 5290
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Author Asapu, R.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Claes, N.; Blommaerts, N.; Minjauw, M.; Ahmad, T.; Dendooven, J.; Cool, P.; Bals, S.; Denys, S.; Detavernier, C.; Lenaerts, S.; Verbruggen, S.W.
Title Plasmonic Near-Field Localization of Silver Core–Shell Nanoparticle Assemblies via Wet Chemistry Nanogap Engineering Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication ACS applied materials and interfaces Abbreviated Journal Acs Appl Mater Inter
Volume 9 Issue 9 Pages 41577-41585
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract Silver nanoparticles are widely used in the field of plasmonics because of their unique optical properties. The wavelength-dependent surface plasmon resonance gives rise to a strongly enhanced electromagnetic field, especially at so-called hot spots located in the nanogap in-between metal nanoparticle assemblies. Therefore, the interparticle distance is a decisive factor in plasmonic applications, such as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). In this study, the aim is to engineer this interparticle distance for silver nanospheres using a convenient wet-chemical approach and to predict and quantify the corresponding enhancement factor using both theoretical and experimental tools. This was done by building a tunable ultrathin polymer shell around the nanoparticles using the layer-by-layer method, in which the polymer shell acts as the separating interparticle spacer layer. Comparison of different theoretical approaches and corroborating the results with SERS analytical experiments using silver and silver−polymer core−shell nanoparticle clusters as SERS substrates was also done. Herewith, an approach is provided to estimate the extent of plasmonic near-field enhancement both theoretically as well as experimentally.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000417005900057 Publication Date 2017-11-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1944-8244 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 7.504 Times cited (up) 29 Open Access OpenAccess
Notes financial support through a research fellowship. C.D. wishes to thank the Hercules foundation for the financial support (SPINAL). P.C. and R.-G.C. acknowledge financial support by FWO Vlaanderen (project no. G038215N). N.C. and S.B. acknowledge the financial support from the European Research Council (ERC starting grant #335078-COLOURATOM). (ROMEO:white; preprint:; postprint:restricted 12 months embargo; pdfversion:cannot); saraecas; ECAS_Sara; Approved Most recent IF: 7.504
Call Number EMAT @ emat @c:irua:147243 Serial 4804
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Author Hauchecorne, B.; Tytgat, T.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Hauchecorne, D.; Terrens, D.; Smits, M.; Vinken, K.; Lenaerts, S.
Title Photocatalytic degradation of ethylene : an FTIR in situ study under atmospheric conditions Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Applied catalysis : B : environmental Abbreviated Journal Appl Catal B-Environ
Volume 105 Issue 1/2 Pages 111-116
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Molecular Spectroscopy (MolSpec); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Abstract In this paper, the reaction mechanism of the photocatalytic oxidation of ethylene is elucidated by means of an in-house developed FTIR in situ reactor. This reactor allowed us to look at the catalytic surface at the moment the reactions actually occur. This new approach gave some exciting new insights in how ethylene is photocatalytically oxidised. It was found that there is a change in dipole moment of the ethylene molecule when it is brought in the neighbourhood of the catalyst. From this finding, a hypothesis was formulated on how the CC-bond from ethylene will break. It was found that the aforementioned interaction between the catalyst and the molecule, allows the excited electrons from the UV irradiated catalyst to occupy the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the ethylene molecule through a process known as backdonation. Following this hypothesis, it was found that the degradation occurs through the formation of two intermediates: formaldehyde and formic acid, for which formaldehyde is bound in two different ways (coordinatively and as bidentate). Finally CO2 and H2O are found as end products, resulting in the complete mineralisation of the pollutant.
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Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000291907400013 Publication Date 2011-04-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0926-3373 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 9.446 Times cited (up) 29 Open Access
Notes ; The authors wish to thank the University of Antwerp for the funding of this research; Evonik, who delivered the photocatalyst and the 3rd grade bachelor students of the bio-science engineering department, who accompanied us in this work: Britt Berghmans, Margot Goossens, Ozlem Kocak and Laurent Van Linden. ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.446; 2011 IF: 5.625
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:89256 Serial 5978
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