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“Digitally reconstructing Van Gogh's Field with Irises near Arles. Part 2: Pigment concentration maps”. Kirchner E, van der Lans I, Ligterink F, Geldof M, Gaibor ANP, Hendriks E, Janssens K, Delaney J, Color research and application 43, 158 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1002/COL.22164
Abstract: Colors in many paintings of great art historical value have changed over time, due to the combined effects of natural ageing, accumulated surface grime, and materials added during later conservation treatments. The physical restoration of the colors in such paintings is not possible. This article describes one part of work done to digitally restore the colors of Van Gogh's painting Field with Irises near Arles, dating from May 1888. We have used multispectral reflectance data to estimate absorption K and backscattering S parameters of Kubelka-Munk 2-constant theory. This was done for all 13 pigments known to have been used by Van Gogh in this painting, and based on this the concentration maps for each of these pigments were calculated. We validated the calculated concentration maps in several ways. For some pigments, we were able to predict spots on the painting where the pigment is expected to occur in unmixed form based on visual examination. For several other pigments, the concentration maps could be shown to agree with XRF data. Finally, for some other pigments the concentration maps were supported by additional evidence from microscopic examinations, remarks in Van Gogh's letters and from early color reproductions. For the 1.7 million pixels for which multispectral data is available, the average color difference between the calculated and measured spectral reflectance curves is CIEDE2000 = 1.05. This further confirms that the Kubelka-Munk calculations are well suited to describe the variety of spectral reflectance on the painting.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 0.798
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1002/COL.22164
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“Disclosing the binding medium effects and the pigment solubility in the (photo)reduction process of chrome yellows (PbCrO4/PbCr1-xSxO4)”. Monico L, Sorace L, Cotte M, de Nolf W, Janssens K, Romani A, Miliani C, ACS Omega 4, 6607 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSOMEGA.8B03669
Abstract: The darkening due to chemical alteration of chrome yellows (PbCrO4/PbCr1-xSxO4) is a phenomenon threatening a large number of 19th-20th century paintings, including the Amsterdam Sunflowers by Vincent van Gogh. Our earlier studies have proven that the alteration is due to a Cr(VI) -> Cr(III) reduction with Cr(V)-species that are formed as long-lived intermediates and that bCr(1-x)S(x)O(4) (0 < x <= 0.8) types undergo reduction more readily than monoclinic, S-free, PbCrO4. In this context, there is still lack of knowledge about the effects of the chemical properties of the binding medium (i.e., chemical composition and drying process) and the solubility of chrome yellows on the overall reduction pathways. Here, we study a series of naturally and photochemically aged mock-up paints prepared by mixing chrome yellow powders (PbCrO4/PbCr0.2S0.8O4) with either linseed oil or a water-based acrylic emulsion as the binding medium. Equivalent paints made up of the highly soluble K2CrO4 were also investigated and used as benchmarks to provide a more in-depth understanding of the influence of the solubility on the chromate reduction pathways in the two different binders. A combination of synchrotron radiation-based Cr K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and UV-Visible spectroscopy measurements shows that: (1) the Cr(VI) reduction results from the interaction between the pigment and the binder; (2) the process is more significant in oil, giving rise to Cr(V)- and Cr(III)-species as well as oxidized organic compounds; (3) the lightfastness of the chrome yellow pigment is enhanced in the acrylic binder; and (4) the tendency toward chromium reduction increases with increasing solubility of the pigment. Based on our findings, we propose a scheme for the mechanism of the (photo)reduction process of chrome yellows in the oil and acrylic binder. Overall, our results provide new insights into the factors driving the degradation of lead chromate-based paints in artworks and contribute to the development of strategies for preserving them over time.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1021/ACSOMEGA.8B03669
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“Electrochemical reduction of nalidixic acid at glassy carbon electrodemodified with multi-walled carbon nanotubes”. Patiño Y, Pilehvar S, Díaz E, Ordóñez S, De Wael K, Journal of hazardous materials 323, 621 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2016.10.023
Abstract: The aqueous phase electrochemical degradation of nalidixic acid (NAL) is studied in this work, using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) as instrumental techniques. The promotional effect of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) on the the performance of glassy carbon electrodes is demonstrated, being observed that these materials catalyze the NAL reduction. The effect of surface functional groups on MWCNT −MWCNT-COOH and MWCNT-NH2was also studied. The modification of glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with MWCNT leads to an improved performance for NAL reduction following the order of MWCNT > MWCNT-NH2 > MWCNT-COOH. The best behavior at MWCNT-GCE is mainly due to both the increased electrode active area and the enhanced MWCNT adsorption properties. The NAL degradation was carried out under optimal conditions (pH = 5.0, deposition time = 20 s and volume of MWCNT = 10 μL) using MWCNT-GCE obtaining an irreversible reduction of NAL to less toxic products. Paramaters as the number of DPV cycles and the volume/area (V/A) ratio were optimized for maximize pollutant degradation. It was observed that after 15 DPV scans and V/A = 8, a complete reduction was obtained, obtaining two sub-products identified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS).
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 6.065
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2016.10.023
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“Electrodeposition of gold nanoparticles on boron doped diamond electrodes for the enhanced reduction of small organic molecules”. Bottari F, De Wael K, Journal of electroanalytical chemistry : an international journal devoted to all aspects of electrode kynetics, interfacial structure, properties of electrolytes, colloid and biological electrochemistry. 801, 521 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JELECHEM.2017.07.053
Abstract: The performance of gold nanoparticles electrodeposited on boron doped diamond (BDD) electrodes was investigated in respect to the reduction of chloramphenicol (CAP), an antibiotic of the phenicols family. The chosen deposition protocol, three nucleation-growing pulses, shows a remarkable surface coverage, with an even distribution of average-sized gold particles (~ 50 nm), and it was proven capable of generating a three-fold increase in the CAP reduction current. A calibration plot for CAP detection was obtained in the micromolar range (535 μM) with good correlation coefficient (0.9959) and an improved sensitivity of 0.053 μA μM− 1 mm− 2 compared to the electrochemistry of CAP at a bare BDD electrode.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.012
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.JELECHEM.2017.07.053
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“Influence of the deposition method, temperature and deposition time on the corrosion inhibition of lead dodecanoate coatings deposited on lead surfaces”. De Keersmaecker M, De Wael K, Adriaens A, Journal of solid state electrochemistry 17, 1259 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10008-012-1964-4
Abstract: Electrochemical impedance measurements have been used to investigate the influence of the deposition method, including time and temperature, upon the corrosion inhibition characteristics of lead dodecanoate coatings on lead electrodes. The results were analysed using multivariate statistics and show that, in general, these easily prepared coatings are very protective against corrosion. The temperature proves to be an important parameter for the quality and the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the coating. A comparison between two different electrochemically assisted deposition methods, immersion using a reduction pretreatment and cyclic voltammetry, does not show significant differences. Using the immersion technique at room temperature, the deposition time was tested as the third influencing parameter for the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the deposited lead dodecanoate coatings. A longer deposition time of the lead into the sodium dodecanoate solution provides a layer with a somewhat higher corrosion resistance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 2.316
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1007/S10008-012-1964-4
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“IR reflectography and active thermography on artworks : the added value of the 1.53 µm band”. Peeters J, Steenackers G, Sfarra S, Legrand S, Ibarra-Castanedo C, Janssens K, van der Snickt G, Applied Sciences 8, 50 (2018). http://doi.org/10.3390/APP8010050
Abstract: Infrared Radiation (IR) artwork inspection is typically performed through active thermography and reflectography with different setups and cameras. While Infrared Radiation Reflectography (IRR) is an established technique in the museum field, exploiting mainly the IR-A (0.71.4 µm) band to probe for hidden layers and modifications within the paint stratigraphy system, active thermography operating in the IR-C range (35 μ m) is less frequently employed with the aim to visualize structural defects and features deeper inside the build-up. In this work, we assess to which extent the less investigated IR-B band (1.53 μ m) can combine the information obtained from both setups. The application of IR-B systems is relatively rare as there are only a limited amount of commercial systems available due to the technical complexity of the lens coating. This is mainly added as a so-called broadband option on regular Mid-wave infrared radiation (MWIR) (IR-C/35 μ m) cameras to increase sensitivity for high temperature applications in industry. In particular, four objects were studied in both reflectographic and thermographic mode in the IR-B spectral range and their results benchmarked with IR-A and IR-C images. For multispectral application, a single benchmark is made with macroscopic reflection mode Fourier transform infrared (MA-rFTIR) results. IR-B proved valuable for visualisation of underdrawings, pencil marks, canvas fibres and wooden grain structures and potential pathways for additional applications such as pigment identification in multispectral mode or characterization of the support (panels, canvas) are indicated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 1.679
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.3390/APP8010050
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“Optical readout of controlled monomer-dimer self-assembly”. Tarakanov PA, Tarakanova EN, Dorovatovskii PV, Zubavichus YV, Khrustalev VN, Trashin SA, De Wael K, Neganova ME, Mischenko DV, Sessler JL, Stuzhin PA, Pushkarev VE, Tomilova LG, Journal of the Chemical Society : Dalton transactions 47, 14169 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1039/C8DT00384J
Abstract: 5,7-Substituted 1,4-diazepinoporphyrazine magnesium(II) complexes were synthesized via Mg(II)-alkoxide templated macrocyclization. A single crystal growth synchrotron diffraction analysis permitted what is to our knowledge the first structural characterization of a 1,4-diazepinoporphyrazine. It exists as a dimer in the solid state. In silico calculations supported by solution phase spectral studies involving a series of representative derivatives, provided insights into the factors governing dimerization of 1,4-diazepinoporphyrazines. The present 1,4-diazepinoporphyrazines serve as useful probes for understanding the determinants that guide dimermonomer equilibria and the self-assembly of phthalocyanine derivatives.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1039/C8DT00384J
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“Study of the early stages of Mn intrusion in corroded glass by means of combined SR FTIR/\muXRF imaging and XANES spectroscopy”. Nuyts G, Cagno S, Hellemans K, Veronesi G, Cotte M, Janssens K, Procedia Chemistry
T2 –, Youth in Conservation of Cultural Heritage Conference (YOCOCU), June 18-20, 2012, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium , 239 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.PROCHE.2013.03.030
Abstract: Historical glass, especially medieval glass, can undergo weathering under the influence of time and environmental conditions. The aim of this investigation was to better understand the processes involved in this natural degradation process by studying artificially altered glass samples prepared for the use of evaluation of conservation methods. Non-durable glass sensors produced by the Fraunhofer Institute (type M1.0) were used as a starting material for artificial alteration. These were immersed in acidic (pH = 0, 2, 4) and neutral solutions (1 h – 8 h). In a second stage the glass samples were immersed in a 0.5 M MnCl2 solution (24 h, 48 h and 72 h), allowing intrusion of Mn from the solution into the gel layer. The samples were characterized at different stages with reflectance FTIR spectroscopy, mu XRF mapping and mu XANES. All measurements were carried out at ESRF, beamline ID21. Reflectance FTIR spectroscopy measurements were performed in the 800 4000 cm(-1) range. Cluster analysis of the resulting maps evidenced the rapid growth of the gel layer in strong acidic conditions. The average spectra for each cluster feature show for the original glass a strong Si-O- stretching band between 900 and 1000 cm(-1), whereas the gel layer could be identified by the increasing Si-O-Si bands around 1100 and 1250 cm(-1). mu XRF maps were recorded at different stages of the experiment at energies around the Mn-K edge (6.539 keV) and with a step size of 2 by 2 m. These confirm the leaching of K+ and Ca+2 from the glass and the intrusion of Mn from the solution. Mn was found throughout the entire gel layer, but with a concentration gradient peaking at the surface. XANES point measurements were recorded at various points where Mn was present. No spatial variation was found, but linear combination fitting of the spectra with various Mn reference compounds indicated that Mn2+Mn23+O4 is the main Mn compound in the gel layer, as was hypothesised by Watkinson et al. The standard corroded glass samples studied here can be used for the evaluation of conservation treatments in follow-up experiments. (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the IA-CS (Italian Association of Conservation Scientists) and University of Antwerp
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.PROCHE.2013.03.030
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“Study of the uniformity of aerosol filters by scanning MA-XRF”. Cabal A, Legrand S, Van den Bril B, Tote K, Janssens K, van Espen P, X-ray spectrometry
T2 –, 17th European Conference on X-Ray Spectrometry (EXRS), JUN 19-24, 2016, Univ Gothenburg, Univ Gothenburg, Gothenburg, SWEDEN 46, 461 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1002/XRS.2767
Abstract: Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is an attractive analytical method to determine the level of air pollution by heavy metals. The concentration of the filter in ng/cm(2) is obtained by direct comparison of the net characteristic line intensity of an element with that of a thin film standard. As the sampled area on the filter and the area of the standard are larger than the area analysed by the instrument, the distribution of the elements on the surface of both samples and standards have to be sufficiently uniform. If this is not the case, biased concentration estimates are obtained. Two scanning macro-XRF setups with a beam diameter of similar to 0.5 mm were used to investigate the distribution of elements in (1) commercially available (Micromatter) standards, (2) in-house quartz filter standards obtained with an aerosol generator and (3) particulatematter (PM10) collected on quartz filters by a Leckel SEQ 47/50 sampler. The uniformity of the Micromatter standards was better than 2%. At least some in-house standards showed a concave distribution with less material at the edges. The maximum bias introduced by this is less than 5%. Because of the limited sensitivity of scanning XRF compared with conventional XRF, the distribution of only a few common elements like Ca and Fe could be determined reliably in aerosol filters. The distribution of some heavy elements could only be measured in filters sampled in polluted regions. In general, the loading of particulate matter over the filters was uniform. Copyright (C) 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 1.298
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1002/XRS.2767
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“A survey of occupational exposure to inhalable wood dust among workers in small- and medium-scale wood-processing enterprises in Ethiopia”. Ayalew E, Gebre Y, De Wael K, The annals of occupational hygiene 59, 253 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1093/ANNHYG/MEU086
Abstract: A study of wood dust exposure in 20 small- and medium-scale wood-processing enterprises was performed in Ethiopia. Sampling was conducted daily from January to June, 2013 and a total of 360 samples from 113 workers were collected with Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM) personal samplers. Eight-hour time-weighted average exposure to wood dust ranged from 0.24 to 23.3mg m−3 with a geometric mean (GM) of 6.82mg m−3 and a geometric standard deviation of 1.82. Although Ethiopia did not have any defined standard of Occupational Exposure Limit for wood dust exposure, 71% of the measurements exceeded the limit of 5mg m−3 set by the European Union (EU). Higher than the EU exposure limit was measured while workers perform sanding and sawing activities with a GM of 9.72 and 7.60mg m−3, respectively. In conclusion, wood workers in the small- and medium-scale enterprises are at a higher risk of developing different respiratory health problems with continuous exposure trends.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 1.71
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1093/ANNHYG/MEU086
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“Tailoring the functional properties of polyurethane foam with dispersions of carbon nanofiber for power generator applications”. Sathiyamoorthy S, Girijakumari G, Kannan P, Venugopal K, Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam S, Veluswamy P, De Wael K, Ikeda H, Applied surface science 449, 507 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APSUSC.2018.01.088
Abstract: To produce effective thermoelectric nanocomposites, carbon nanofibers (CNF) incorporated polyurethane (PU) foams with nanocomposites are prepared via in-situ polymerization method to create a synergy that would produce a high thermopower. The formation mechanism of foams, the reaction kinetics, and the physical properties such as density and water absorption studied before and after CNF incorporation. The microscopy images showed a uniform dispersion of CNF in the PU matrix of the prepared foams. Spectroscopic studies such as X-ray photoelectron and laser Raman spectroscopy suggested the existence of a tight intermolecular binding interaction between the carbon nanofibers and the PU matrix in the prepared composite foams. It found that the thermopower is directly dependent on the concentration of carbon nanofiber since, with rising concentration of 1%3%, the coefficient values increased from 1.2 μV/K to 11.9 μV/K respectively, a value higher than that of earlier report. This unique nanocomposite offers a new opportunity to recycle waste heat in portable/wearable electronics and other applications, which will broaden the development of low weight and mechanical flexibility.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.387
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2018.01.088
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“Modeling of the performance of BSCF capillary membranes in four-end and three-end integration mode”. Buysse C, Michielsen B, Middelkoop V, Snijkers F, Buekenhondt A, Kretzschmar J, Lenaerts S, Ceramics international 39, 4113 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CERAMINT.2012.10.266
Abstract: Owing to their high surface-to-volume ratio, there has been an increasing research interest in mixed ionic electronic conducting (MIEC) capillary membranes for large-scale high temperature oxygen separation applications. They offer an energy-efficient solution for high temperature combustion processes in oxy-fuel and pre-combustion CO2 capture technologies used in fossil fuel power plants. In order to assess the effectiveness of these membranes in power plant applications, the impact of the geometry of Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-delta (BSCF) capillaries on their performance in the three-end and four-end integration modes has been investigated and thoroughly discussed. The model's parameters were derived from four-end mode lab-scale experiments using gas-tight, macrovoid free and sulfur-free BSCF capillary membranes that were prepared by a phase-inversion spinning technique. The results of this modeling study revealed that in the four-end mode higher average oxygen fluxes and smaller total membrane areas can be obtained than in the three-end mode. This is due to the higher pO(2) gradient across the membrane wall. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd and Techna Group S.r.l. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 2.986
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.CERAMINT.2012.10.266
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“Titania-functionalized diatom frustules as photocatalyst for indoor air purification”. Ouwehand J, Van Eynde E, De Canck E, Lenaerts S, Verberckmoes A, Van der Voort P, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 226, 303 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APCATB.2017.12.063
Abstract: Diatom frustules were extracted from the species Thalassiosira pseudonana and functionalized with titania to be used as photocatalysts in the abatement of acetaldehyde. The synthetic procedure is water-based and environmentally friendly. The synthesis parameters were optimized to give the highest possible photocatalytic activity. The optimized material, visualized with TEM and STEM-EDX, shows the TiO2 nanoparticles grafted inside the frustule pores, as well as on the silica surface. The titania particles, stabilized by the frustules, are 2.5 times more active than the P25 benchmark material. The photocatalyst is then tested in conditions of elevated relative humidity, to simulate indoor air. The catalytic activity only shows a minor decrease at 50% relative humidity, which is a better result than for the P25 benchmark. When tested over an extended period of time, the photocatalyst only shows a minor decrease in activity.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.APCATB.2017.12.063
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“The option to abandon : stimulating innovative groundwater remediation technologies characterized by technological uncertainty”. Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Huisman K, Kort P, Science Of The Total Environment 496, 63 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.07.019
Abstract: Many studies on technology adoption demonstrate that uncertainty leads to a postponement of investments by integrating a wait option in the economic analysis. The aim of this study however is to demonstrate how the investment in new technologies can be stimulated by integrating an option to abandon. Furthermore, this real option analysis not only considers the ex ante decision analysis of the investment in a new technology under uncertainty, but also allows for an ex post evaluation of the investment. Based on a case study regarding the adoption of an innovative groundwater remediation strategy, it is demonstrated that when the option to abandon the innovative technology is taken into account, the decision maker decides to invest in this technology, while at the same time it determines an optimal timing to abandon the technology if its operation proves to be inefficient. To reduce uncertainty about the effectiveness of groundwater remediation technologies, samples are taken. Our analysis shows that when the initial belief in an effective innovative technology is low, it is important that these samples provide correct information in order to justify the adoption of the innovative technology. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.07.019
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“Sustainability indicators for biobased chemicals : a Delphi study using multi-criteria decision analysis”. Van Schoubroeck S, Springael J, Van Dael M, Malina R, Van Passel S, Resources Conservation And Recycling 144, 198 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2018.12.024
Abstract: Biobased chemistry has gained interest and has the potential to tackle some of the sustainability challenges the chemical industry must endure. Sustainability impacts need to be evaluated and monitored to highlight the advantages and pitfalls of different biobased routes over the entire product life cycle. This study aims for expert consensus concerning indicators needed and preferred for sustainability analysis of biobased chemicals in Europe. Experts are consulted by means of a Delphi method with stakeholders selected from three core groups: the private, public and academic sector. Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) is performed to gather data on the prioritization of the sustainability indicators per respondent. Afterwards, Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) is used to develop a consensus ranking among the experts. The results show that GHG emissions, market potential and acceptance of biobased materials are deemed the most crucial indicators for respectively environmental, economic and social sustainability. Expert consensus is positive in all three sustainability domains, with the strongest consensus measured for environmental sustainability showing a median Kendalls τ of 0.63 (τ ranging from -1 to 1) and the weakest consensus found within social sustainability showing a median Kendalls τ of 0.50. Further research can apply the ranked indicators on specific case studies to evaluate the practicability of the defined indicator set.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 3.313
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.RESCONREC.2018.12.024
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“Monetary valuation of natural predators for biological pest control in pear production”. Daniels S, Witters N, Beliën T, Vrancken K, Vangronsveld J, Van Passel S, Ecological Economics 134, 160 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2016.12.029
Abstract: In spite of global actions, biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate. Despite the need for objectively comparable monetary standards to include biodiversity arguments in policymaking, research on the relationship between species diversity and its valuation from a societal perspective is still scarce. In this paper, a methodological framework for the valuation of natural predators based on their ecological role in the agroecosystem is introduced. The framework integrates a dynamic ecological model simulating interactions between species with an economic model, thereby quantifying the effect of reduced numbers of natural predators on the net farm income. The model attributes an objective monetary value to increased species diversity through the changes in the provisioning of a marketable good. Results indicate that the loss of three predators could decrease net farm income with 88.86 ha− 1 to 2186.5 ha− 1. For the pear production sector in Flanders in 2011, this constitutes to an indirect use value of 0,68 million for one predator and 16.63 million for the presence of three predators. The aim is to provide a justification for the argument for biodiversity conservation, based on the ecological function of species, through the delivery of comparable monetary standards.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.965
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2016.12.029
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“Modelling environmental impacts of treated municipal wastewater reuse for tree crops irrigation in the Mediterranean coastal region”. Moretti M, Van Passel S, Camposeo S, Pedrero F, Dogot T, Lebailly P, Vivaldi GA, Science Of The Total Environment 660, 1513 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2019.01.043
Abstract: Wastewater reuse provides valuable solutions to solve the societal challenges of decreasing availability and limiting access to secure water resources. The present study quantifies the environmental performance of nectarine orchards irrigation using treated municipal wastewater (TMW) and surface water using a unique dataset based on field experimental data. Climate change, toxicity (for human and freshwater), eutrophication (marine and freshwater) and acidification impacts were analysed using the impact assessment method suggested by the International Reference Life Cycle Data System (ILCD). The water footprint associated to the life cycles of each system has been estimated using the Available WAter REmaining (AWARE) method. Monte Carlo simulation was used to assess data uncertainty. The irrigation of nectarine orchards using TMW performs better than the irrigation using surface water for eutrophication impact categories. Compared with surface water resources, the potential impacts of TMW reuse in agriculture on climate change and toxicity are affected by the wastewater treatment phase (WWT). Only eutrophication and acidification burdens are generated by in-field substitution of surface water with TMW. Considering human and ecosystem water demand, the irrigation with TMW increases water consumption of 19.12 m3 per kg of nectarine produced. Whereas, it shows a positive contribution to water stress (−0.19 m3) if only human water demand is considered. This study provides important results that allow for a better understanding of the potential environmental consequences of TMW reuse in agriculture. It suggests that embracing the type of WWTs, the replacement of fertilizers, the effects on water scarcity and ecosystem quality might be useful to redefine water reuse regulations and increase public acceptance for the reuse of TMW in agriculture. Moreover, this study reveals the need for developing consensus and standardized guidance for life cycle analysis of water reuse applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2019.01.043
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“Interference of regional support policies on the economic and environmental performance of a hybrid cogeneration-solar panel energy system”. Maes D, Van Passel S, Energy Policy 42, 670 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ENPOL.2011.12.044
Abstract: This paper assesses unintentional interference between different public policies promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy. The paper develops a methodology to study the interference by analysing the economic and technical behaviour of a hybrid energy system. The hybrid energy system in this case consists of an existing cogeneration unit extended with a new installation of thermal solar panels. This puts two complementary heating technologies in juxtaposition. The two technologies are supported with distinct regional support instruments in each region. The design and operation of the energy system is optimised from the point of view of the investor according to the different support instruments. The optimal configuration is analysed as well as its effect on reduced CO2-emissions during the lifetime of the project. The methodology is applied to a case-study for two neighbouring regions, the Netherlands and Flanders. The policies in the Netherlands show a beneficial synergy. In Flanders, the hybrid energy system is not interesting, indicating unbalanced high support for cogeneration in this case. From the point of view of the authorities, a more balanced regional policy as in the Netherlands provides a larger CO2-emission reduction for a smaller cost. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.14
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENPOL.2011.12.044
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“Heterogeneous impact of soil contamination on farmland prices in the Belgian Campine region : evidence from unconditional quantile regressions”. Peeters L, Schreurs E, Van Passel S, Environmental &, Resource Economics 66, 135 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10640-015-9945-6
Abstract: We estimate a hedonic-pricing model using geo-coded farmland-transaction data from the Campine region, situated in the north-east of Belgium. Unlike previous hedonic studies, we use the method of unconditional quantile regression (Firpo et al., in Econometrica 77(3):953973, 2009). An important advantage of this new method over the traditional conditional quantile regression (Koenker and Bassett, in Econometrica 46(1):3350, 1978) is that it allows for the estimation of potentially heterogeneous effects of cadmium pollution along the entire (unconditional) distribution of farmland prices. Using a threshold specification of the hedonic-pricing model, we find evidence of a U-shaped valuation pattern, where cadmium pollution of the soil has a negative and significant impact on prices only in the middle range of the distribution, insofar as cadmium concentrations are above the regulatory standard of 2 parts per million for agricultural land. Results obtained from a probit model to classify land plots into different price segments further suggest that the heterogeneous impact of soil pollution on price can be directly related to the variety of amenities that farmland provides.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.582
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1007/S10640-015-9945-6
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“The future of Ex-Ante LCA? Lessons learned and practical recommendations”. Buyle M, Audenaert A, Billen P, Boonen K, Van Passel S, Sustainability 11, 5456 (2019). http://doi.org/10.3390/SU11195456
Abstract: Every decision-oriented life cycle assessment (LCAs) entails, at least to some extent, a future-oriented feature. However, apart from the ex-ante LCAs, the majority of LCA studies are retrospective in nature and do not explicitly account for possible future effects. In this review a generic theoretical framework is proposed as a guideline for ex-ante LCA. This framework includes the entire technology life cycle, from the early design phase up to continuous improvements of mature technologies, including their market penetration. The compatibility with commonly applied system models yields an additional aspect of the framework. Practical methods and procedures are categorised, based on how they incorporate future-oriented features in LCA. The results indicate that most of the ex-ante LCAs focus on emerging technologies that have already gone through some research cycles within narrowly defined system boundaries. There is a lack of attention given to technologies that are at a very early development stage, when all options are still open and can be explored at a low cost. It is also acknowledged that technological learning impacts the financial and environmental performance of mature production systems. Once technologies are entering the market, shifts in market composition can lead to substantial changes in environmental performance.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE); Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings (EMIB)
Impact Factor: 1.789
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.3390/SU11195456
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“Estimating human health impacts and costs due to Iranian fossil fuel power plant emissions through the impact pathway approach”. Jorli M, Van Passel S, Sadeghi H, Nasseri A, Agheli L, Energies 10, 2136 (2017). http://doi.org/10.3390/EN10122136
Abstract: Air pollutants from fossil fuel fired power plants harm the environment and human health. More than 91% of Irans electricity production is from thermal power plants that use natural gas, diesel, and fuel oil. We apply the impact pathway approach to estimate the health impacts arising from Iranian fossil-based electricity generation emission, and in a next step, we calculate monetary costs of the estimated damages, for a one-year period starting from 20 March 2016 through 2017. We use the new version of SIMPACTS (International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria) to investigate the health effects from 61 major Iran fossil-based power plants separately. The selected plants represent 95.6% of total Iran fossil-based power generation. Using the individual and different power plant estimates, we avoid extrapolation and our results can be considered more reliable, taking into account spatial differences. The total damage cost is 723.42 million USD (2000). The damage cost per generated electricity varies from 0.06 to 22.41 USD/MWh and average plant damage cost is 2.85 USD/MWh. Accounting for these external costs indicates the actual costs of fossil energy. The results are useful for policy makers to compare the health costs from these plants and to decide on cleaner energy sources and to take measures to increase benefits for society.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.262
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.3390/EN10122136
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“Assessing the sustainability of community forest management : a case study from Iran”. Jafari A, Kaji HS, Azadi H, Gebrehiwot K, Aghamir F, Van Passel S, Forest Policy And Economics 96, 1 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.FORPOL.2018.08.001
Abstract: The development of sustainability criteria and indicators is necessary to assess the current management and to recognize appropriate management approaches towards sustainable forest management (SFM). The aim of this study is to assess the sustainability of current management in the Dopolan community forest and assess alternative management scenarios towards SFM. To this end, we applied multi criteria analysis which consists of three steps: a) developing a primary set of criteria and indicators (C&Is) on focus groups discussions, b) finalizing and weighing the set of C&Is, applying a pair wise comparison as well as ranking method, and c) assessing the current forest management regimes and alternative scenarios against a set of C&Is. As a result, 8 criteria and 40 indicators were selected. Our results indicated that to achieve SFM, the criteria including forest protection against natural and human factors, the establishment of appropriate legal and institutional requirements and socioeconomic functions of forests, are the most important criteria (weighted 14.60%, 14.28% and 13.96%, respectively). Assessing the current management regimes revealed that the criteria consisting of biodiversity conservation and local communities' awareness have the maximum distance to SFM (weighted 7.75% and 9.18%, respectively). Among the alternative forest management scenarios, the sixth scenario namely conservation and rehabilitation, local investment attraction in forest conservation and rehabilitation, enabling and capacity building of forest inhabitants were realized as the best scenarios (weighted 26.20%) to achieve SFM. A joint effort of the concerned government forestry officials and local people is needed to enhance the sustainability of all community based forestry models.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.982
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORPOL.2018.08.001
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“Applications of plasma-liquid systems : a review”. Rezaei F, Vanraes P, Nikiforov A, Morent R, De Geyter N, Materials 12, 2751 (2019). http://doi.org/10.3390/MA12172751
Abstract: Plasma-liquid systems have attracted increasing attention in recent years, owing to their high potential in material processing and nanoscience, environmental remediation, sterilization, biomedicine, and food applications. Due to the multidisciplinary character of this scientific field and due to its broad range of established and promising applications, an updated overview is required, addressing the various applications of plasma-liquid systems till now. In the present review, after a brief historical introduction on this important research field, the authors aimed to bring together a wide range of applications of plasma-liquid systems, including nanomaterial processing, water analytical chemistry, water purification, plasma sterilization, plasma medicine, food preservation and agricultural processing, power transformers for high voltage switching, and polymer solution treatment. Although the general understanding of plasma-liquid interactions and their applications has grown significantly in recent decades, it is aimed here to give an updated overview on the possible applications of plasma-liquid systems. This review can be used as a guide for researchers from different fields to gain insight in the history and state-of-the-art of plasma-liquid interactions and to obtain an overview on the acquired knowledge in this field up to now.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.654
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.3390/MA12172751
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“Scanning transmission electron microscopy under controlled low-pressure atmospheres”. Leuthner GT, Hummel S, Mangler C, Pennycook TJ, Susi T, Meyer JC, Kotakoski J, Ultramicroscopy 203, 76 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2019.02.002
Abstract: Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is carried out in vacuum to minimize the interaction of the imaging electrons with gas molecules while passing through the microscope column. Nevertheless, in typical devices, the pressure remains at 10(-7) mbar or above, providing a large number of gas molecules for the electron beam to crack, which can lead to structural changes in the sample. Here, we describe experiments carried out in a modified scanning TEM (STEM) instrument, based on the Nion UltraSTEM 100. In this instrument, the base pressure at the sample is around 2 x 10(-10 )mbar, and can be varied up to 10(-6) mbar through introduction of gases directly into the objective area while maintaining atomic resolution imaging conditions. We show that air leaked into the microscope column during the experiment is efficient in cleaning graphene samples from contamination, but ineffective in damaging the pristine lattice. Our experiments also show that exposure to O(2 )and H2O lead to a similar result, oxygen providing an etching effect nearly twice as efficient as water, presumably due to the two 0 atoms per molecule. H(2 )and N-2 environments have no influence on etching. These results show that the residual gas environment in typical TEM instruments can have a large influence on the observations, and show that chemical etching of carbon-based structures can be effectively carried out with oxygen.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2019.02.002
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“HAADF-STEM block-scanning strategy for local measurement of strain at the nanoscale”. Prabhakara V, Jannis D, Guzzinati G, Béché, A, Bender H, Verbeeck J, Ultramicroscopy 219, 113099 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2020.113099
Abstract: Lattice strain measurement of nanoscale semiconductor devices is crucial for the semiconductor industry as strain substantially improves the electrical performance of transistors. High resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (HR-STEM) imaging is an excellent tool that provides spatial resolution at the atomic scale and strain information by applying Geometric Phase Analysis or image fitting procedures. However, HR-STEM images regularly suffer from scanning distortions and sample drift during image acquisition. In this paper, we propose a new scanning strategy that drastically reduces artefacts due to drift and scanning distortion, along with extending the field of view. It consists of the acquisition of a series of independent small subimages containing an atomic resolution image of the local lattice. All subimages are then analysed individually for strain by fitting a nonlinear model to the lattice images. The method allows flexible tuning of spatial resolution and the field of view within the limits of the dynamic range of the scan engine while maintaining atomic resolution sampling within the subimages. The obtained experimental strain maps are quantitatively benchmarked against the Bessel diffraction technique. We demonstrate that the proposed scanning strategy approaches the performance of the diffraction technique while having the advantage that it does not require specialized diffraction cameras.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.2
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2020.113099
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“Plasma-driven catalysis: green ammonia synthesis with intermittent electricity”. Rouwenhorst KHR, Engelmann Y, van ‘t Veer K, Postma RS, Bogaerts A, Lefferts L, Green Chemistry 22, 6258 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1039/D0GC02058C
Abstract: Ammonia is one of the most produced chemicals, mainly synthesized from fossil fuels for fertilizer applications. Furthermore, ammonia may be one of the energy carriers of the future, when it is produced from renewable electricity. This has spurred research on alternative technologies for green ammonia production. Research on plasma-driven ammonia synthesis has recently gained traction in academic literature. In the current review, we summarize the literature on plasma-driven ammonia synthesis. We distinguish between mechanisms for ammonia synthesis in the presence of a plasma, with and without a catalyst, for different plasma conditions. Strategies for catalyst design are discussed, as well as the current understanding regarding the potential plasma-catalyst synergies as function of the plasma conditions and their implications on energy efficiency. Finally, we discuss the limitations in currently reported models and experiments, as an outlook for research opportunities for further unravelling the complexities of plasma-catalytic ammonia synthesis, in order to bridge the gap between the currently reported models and experimental results.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Movement Antwerp (MOVANT)
Impact Factor: 9.8
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1039/D0GC02058C
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“Asymmetric versus symmetric HgTe/CdxHg1-x Te double quantum wells: Bandgap tuning without electric field”. Topalovic DB, Arsoski VV, Tadic MZ, Peeters FM, Journal Of Applied Physics 128, 064301 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0016069
Abstract: We investigate the electron states in double asymmetric HgTe / Cd x Hg 1 – x Te quantum wells grown along the [ 001 ] direction. The subbands are computed by means of the envelope function approximation applied to the eight-band Kane k . mml:mspace width=“.1em”mml:mspace p model. The asymmetry of the confining potential of the double quantum wells results in a gap opening, which is absent in the symmetric system where it can only be induced by an applied electric field. The bandgap and the subbands are affected by spin-orbit coupling, which is a consequence of the asymmetry of the confining potential. The electron-like and hole-like states are mainly confined in different quantum wells, and the enhanced hybridization between them opens a spin-dependent hybridization gap at a finite in-plane wavevector. We show that both the ratio of the widths of the two quantum wells and the mole fraction of the C d x H g 1 – x Te barrier control both the energy gap between the hole-like states and the hybridization gap. The energy subbands are shown to exhibit inverted ordering, and therefore, a nontrivial topological phase could emerge in the system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.2
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1063/5.0016069
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“Au-manganese oxide nanostructures by a plasma-assisted process as electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution : a chemico-physical investigation”. Bigiani L, Gasparotto A, Andreu T, Verbeeck J, Sada C, Modin E, Lebedev OI, Morante JR, Barreca D, Maccato C, Advanced sustainable systems , 2000177 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADSU.202000177
Abstract: Earth-abundant and eco-friendly manganese oxides are promising platforms for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water electrolysis. Herein, a versatile and potentially scalable route to gold-decorated manganese oxide-based OER electrocatalysts is reported. In particular, MnxOy(MnO2, Mn2O3) host matrices are grown on conductive glasses by plasma assisted-chemical vapor deposition (PA-CVD), and subsequently functionalized with gold nanoparticles (guest) as OER activators by radio frequency (RF)-sputtering. The final selective obtainment of MnO2- or Mn2O3-based systems is then enabled by annealing under oxidizing or inert atmosphere, respectively. A detailed material characterization evidences the formation of high-purity Mn(x)O(y)dendritic nanostructures with an open morphology and an efficient guest dispersion into the host matrices. The tailoring of Mn(x)O(y)phase composition and host-guest interactions has a remarkable influence on OER activity yielding, for the best performing Au/Mn(2)O(3)system, a current density of approximate to 5 mA cm(-2)at 1.65 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and an overpotential close to 300 mV at 1 mA cm(-2). Such results, comparing favorably with literature data on manganese oxide-based materials, highlight the importance of compositional control, as well as of surface and interface engineering, to develop low-cost and efficient anode nanocatalysts for water splitting applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.1
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1002/ADSU.202000177
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“Combining medium recirculation with alternating the microalga production strain : a laboratory and pilot scale cultivation test”. Fret J, Roef L, Diels L, Tavernier S, Vyverman W, Michiels M, Algal Research-Biomass Biofuels And Bioproducts 46, 101763 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ALGAL.2019.101763
Abstract: Reuse of growth medium after biomass harvesting is a cost-saving approach to improve the economic feasibility of algae mass cultivation. Algal exudates, cell debris and varying amounts of residual nutrients, impose challenges to the recycling of spent medium. In this study, the potential of combining reused medium from different algae species for growing monocultures of other algal strains was evaluated by making use of three successive cultivation setups with increasing volume; 400 mL in turbidostat mode, 2.6 L and 220 L in semi-continuous mode. Cultivation on replenished medium derived from Nannochloropsis sp. and Tisochrysis lutea, had no adverse effect on the productivity of either of the strains, regardless of whether they were grown in their own recycled medium or that of the other alga. Microfiltration of the reused medium proved to be sufficient to avoid cross-contamination. Moreover, a substantial average reduction in water footprint (77%) and nutrient cost (68% or 9 (sic).kg(-1) dry biomass) was achieved. Extension and validation of the medium recycling approach to other economically interesting algae species can contribute to improving the economic feasibility of large scale microalgae production systems.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
Impact Factor: 5.1
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.ALGAL.2019.101763
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“Electronically tunable quantum phase slips in voltage-biased superconducting rings as a base for phase-slip flux qubits”. Kenawy A, Magnus W, Milošević, MV, Sorée B, Superconductor Science &, Technology 33, 125002 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6668/ABB8EB
Abstract: Quantum phase slips represent a coherent mechanism to couple flux states of a superconducting loop. Since their first direct observation, there have been substantial developments in building charge-insensitive quantum phase-slip circuits. At the heart of these devices is a weak link, often a nanowire, interrupting a superconducting loop. Owing to the very small cross-sectional area of such a nanowire, quantum phase slip rates in the gigahertz range can be achieved. Instead, here we present the use of a bias voltage across a superconducting loop to electrostatically induce a weak link, thereby amplifying the rate of quantum phase slips without physically interrupting the loop. Our simulations reveal that the bias voltage modulates the free energy barrier between subsequent flux states in a very controllable fashion, providing a route towards a phase-slip flux qubit with a broadly tunable transition frequency.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.6
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1088/1361-6668/ABB8EB
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