“Optimizing mesoscopic two-band superconductors for observation of fractional vortex states”. Piña JC, de Souza Silva CC, Milošević, MV, Physica: C : superconductivity 503, 48 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.physc.2014.04.017
Abstract: Using the two-component Ginzburg-Landau model, we investigate the effect of sample size and magnitude and homogeneity of external magnetic field on the stability of fractional vortex states in a mesoscopic two-band superconducting disk. We found that each fractional state has a preferable sample size, for which the range of applied field in which the state is stable is pronouncedly large. Vice versa, there exists an optimal magnitude of applied field for which a large range of possible sample radii will support the considered fractional state. Finally, we show that the stability of fractional states can be enhanced even further by magnetic nanostructuring of the sample, i.e. by suitably chosen geometrical parameters and magnetic moment of a ferromagnetic dot placed on top of the superconducting disk. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.404
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1016/j.physc.2014.04.017
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“Optimizing Experimental Conditions for Accurate Quantitative Energy-Dispersive X-ray Analysis of Interfaces at the Atomic Scale”. MacArthur KE, Yankovich AB, Béché, A, Luysberg M, Brown HG, Findlay SD, Heggen M, Allen LJ, Microscopy And Microanalysis , 1 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1017/S1431927621000246
Abstract: The invention of silicon drift detectors has resulted in an unprecedented improvement in detection efficiency for energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy in the scanning transmission electron microscope. The result is numerous beautiful atomic-scale maps, which provide insights into the internal structure of a variety of materials. However, the task still remains to understand exactly where the X-ray signal comes from and how accurately it can be quantified. Unfortunately, when crystals are aligned with a low-order zone axis parallel to the incident beam direction, as is necessary for atomic-resolution imaging, the electron beam channels. When the beam becomes localized in this way, the relationship between the concentration of a particular element and its spectroscopic X-ray signal is generally nonlinear. Here, we discuss the combined effect of both spatial integration and sample tilt for ameliorating the effects of channeling and improving the accuracy of EDX quantification. Both simulations and experimental results will be presented for a perovskite-based oxide interface. We examine how the scattering and spreading of the electron beam can lead to erroneous interpretation of interface compositions, and what approaches can be made to improve our understanding of the underlying atomic structure.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.891
DOI: 10.1017/S1431927621000246
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“Optimizing Er/Yb ratio and content in Er-Yb co-doped glass-ceramics for enhancement of the up- and down-conversion luminescence”. Tikhomirov VK, Rodríguez VD, Méndez-Ramos J, del- Castillo J, Kirilenko D, Van Tendeloo G, Moshchalkov VV, Solar energy materials and solar cells 100, 209 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.solmat.2012.01.019
Abstract: Er3+Yb3+ co-doped transparent glass-ceramics with varying Er/Yb content and ratio have been prepared. High quantum yields for up- and down-conversion luminescence by energy transfer from Yb3+ to Er3+ and from Er3+ to Yb3+, respectively, have been detected and optimized with respect to the Er/Yb content and ratio, and proposed in particular for up- and down-conversion of solar spectrum for enhancement of the efficiency of solar cells. The rise and decay kinetics for the population of the excited levels of Er3+ and Yb3+ have been studied and fit. Based on these experimental data, the mechanisms for the energy transfers have been suggested with emphasis on the optimized Er/Yb content and ratio for enhancement of the efficiency of the Er3+↔Yb3+ energy transfers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.784
Times cited: 66
DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2012.01.019
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“Optimizing control strategies for urine nitrification : narrow pH control band enhances process stability and reduces nitrous oxide emissions”. Faust V, Boon N, Ganigué, R, Vlaeminck SE, Udert KM, Frontiers in environmental science 11, 1275152 (2023). http://doi.org/10.3389/FENVS.2023.1275152
Abstract: Nitrification is well-suited for urine stabilization. No base dosage is required if the pH is controlled within an appropriate operating range by urine feeding, producing an ammonium-nitrate fertilizer. However, the process is highly dependent on the selected pH set-points and is susceptible to process failures such as nitrite accumulation or the growth of acid-tolerant ammonia-oxidizing bacteria. To address the need for a robust and reliable process in decentralized applications, two different strategies were tested: operating a two-position pH controller (inflow on/off) with a narrow pH control band at 6.20/6.25 (∆pH = 0.05, narrow-pH) vs. a wider pH control band at 6.00/6.50 (∆pH = 0.50, wide-pH). These variations in pH also cause variations in the chemical speciation of ammonia and nitrite and, as shown, the microbial production of nitrite. It was hypothesized that the higher fluctuations would result in greater microbial diversity and, thus, a more robust process. The diversity of nitrifiers was higher in the wide-pH reactor, while the diversity of the entire microbiome was similar in both systems. However, the wide-pH reactor was more susceptible to tested process disturbances caused by increasing pH or temperature, decreasing dissolved oxygen, or an influent stop. In addition, with an emission factor of 0.47%, the nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from the wide-pH reactor were twice as high as the N2O emissions from the narrow-pH reactor, most likely due to the nitrite fluctuations. Based on these results, a narrow control band is recommended for pH control in urine nitrification.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.3389/FENVS.2023.1275152
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“Optimized transport setup for high repetition rate pulse-separated analysis in laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry”. Lindner H, Autrique D, Garcia CC, Niemax K, Bogaerts A, Analytical chemistry 81, 4241 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1021/ac802627x
Abstract: An optimized laser ablation setup, proposed for high repetition rate inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) analyses such as 2D imaging or depth profiling, is presented. For such applications, the particle washout time needs to be as short as possible to allow high laser pulse frequencies for reduced analysis time. Therefore, it is desirable to have an ablation setup that operates as a laminar flow reactor (LFR). A top-down strategy was applied that resulted in the present design. In the first step, a previously applied ablation setup was analyzed on the basis of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results presented by D. Autrique et al. (Spectrochim. Acta, B 2008, 63, 257−270). By means of CFD simulations, the design was modified in such a way that it operated in the LFR regime. Experimental results demonstrate that the current design can indeed be regarded as an LFR. Furthermore, the operation under LFR conditions allowed some insight into the initial radial concentration distribution if the experimental ICPMS signal and analytical expressions are taken into account. Recommendations for a modified setup for more resilient spatial distributions are given. With the present setup, a washout time of 140 ms has been achieved for a 3% signal area criterion. Therefore, 7 Hz repetition rates can be applied with the present setup. Using elementary formulas of the analytical model, an upper bound for the washout times for similar setups can be predicted. The authors believe that the presented setup geometry comes close to the achievable limit for reliable short washout times.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 6.32
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1021/ac802627x
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“Optimized photoelectrochemical detection of essential drugs bearing phenolic groups”. Neven L, Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam S, Rahemi V, Trashin S, Sleegers N, Carrion EN, Gorun SM, De Wael K, Analytical chemistry 91, 9962 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.9B01706
Abstract: The World Health Organization (WHO) model “List of Essential Medicines” includes among indispensable medicines antibacterials and pain and migraine relievers. Monitoring their concentration in the environment, while challenging, is important in the context of antibiotic resistance as well as their production of highly toxic compounds via hydrolysis. Traditional detection methods such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or LC combined with tandem mass spectrometry or UV-vis spectroscopy are time-consuming, have a high cost, require skilled operators and are difficult to adapt for field operations. In contrast, (electrochemical) sensors have elicited interest because of their rapid response, high selectivity, and sensitivity as well as potential for on-site detection. Previously, we reported a novel sensor system based on a type II photosensitizer, which combines the advantages of enzymatic sensors (high sensitivity) and photoelectrochemical sensors (easy baseline subtraction). Under red-light illumination, the photosensitizer produces singlet oxygen which oxidizes phenolic compounds present in the sample. The subsequent reduction of the oxidized phenolic compounds at the electrode surface gives rise to a quantifiable photocurrent and leads to the generation of a redox cycle. Herein we report the optimization in terms of pH and applied potential of the photoelectrochemical detection of the hydrolysis product of paracetamol, i.e., 4-aminophenol (4-AP), and two antibacterials, namely, cefadroxil (CFD, beta-lactam antibiotic) and doxycycline (DXC, tetracycline antibiotic). The optimized conditions resulted in a detection limit of 0.2 mu mol L-1 for DXC, but in a 10 times higher sensitivity, 20 nmol L-1, for CFD. An even higher sensitivity, 7 nmol L-1, was noted for 4-AP.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 6.32
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.9B01706
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“Optimized loss function in deep learning profilometry for improved prediction performance”. van der Jeught S, Muyshondt PGG, Lobato I, JPhys Photonics 3, 024014 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1088/2515-7647/ABF030
Abstract: Single-shot structured light profilometry (SLP) aims at reconstructing the 3D height map of an object from a single deformed fringe pattern and has long been the ultimate goal in fringe projection profilometry. Recently, deep learning was introduced into SLP setups to replace the task-specific algorithm of fringe demodulation with a dedicated neural network. Research on deep learning-based profilometry has made considerable progress in a short amount of time due to the rapid development of general neural network strategies and to the transferrable nature of deep learning techniques to a wide array of application fields. The selection of the employed loss function has received very little to no attention in the recently reported deep learning-based SLP setups. In this paper, we demonstrate the significant impact of loss function selection on height map prediction accuracy, we evaluate the performance of a range of commonly used loss functions and we propose a new mixed gradient loss function that yields a higher 3D surface reconstruction accuracy than any previously used loss functions.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1088/2515-7647/ABF030
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“Optimized fabrication of high-quality La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 thin films considering all essential characteristics”. Boschker H, Huijben M, Vailinois A, Verbeeck J, Van Aert S, Luysberg M, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Houwman EP, Koster G, Blank DHA, Rijnders G, Journal of physics: D: applied physics 44, 205001 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0022-3727/44/20/205001
Abstract: In this paper, an overview of the fabrication and properties of high-quality La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 (LSMO) thin films is given. A high-quality LSMO film combines a smooth surface morphology with a large magnetization and a small residual resistivity, while avoiding precipitates and surface segregation. In the literature, typically only a few of these issues are adressed. We therefore present a thorough characterization of our films, which were grown by pulsed laser deposition. The films were characterized with reflection high energy electron diffraction, atomic force microscopy, x-ray diffraction, magnetization and transport measurements, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy. The films have a saturation magnetization of 4.0 µB/Mn, a Curie temperature of 350 K and a residual resistivity of 60 µΩ cm. These results indicate that high-quality films, combining both large magnetization and small residual resistivity, were realized. A comparison between different samples presented in the literature shows that focussing on a single property is insufficient for the optimization of the deposition process. For high-quality films, all properties have to be adressed. For LSMO devices, the thin-film quality is crucial for the device performance. Therefore, this research is important for the application of LSMO in devices.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.588
Times cited: 99
DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/44/20/205001
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“Optimized energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis of atmospheric aerosols collected at pristine and perturbed Amazon Basin sites”. Arana A, Loureiro AL, Barbosa HMJ, Van Grieken R, Artaxo P, X-ray spectrometry 43, 228 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1002/XRS.2544
Abstract: Elemental composition of aerosols is important to source apportionment studies and to understand atmospheric processes that influence aerosol composition. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy was applied for measuring the elemental composition of Amazonian atmospheric aerosols. The instrument used was a spectrometer Epsilon 5, PANalytical B. V., with tridimensional geometry that reduces the background signal with a polarized X-ray detection. The measurement conditions were optimized for low-Z elements, e. g. Mg, Al, Si, that are present at very low concentrations in the Amazon. From Na to K, our detection limits are about 50% to 75% lower than previously published results for similar instrument. Calibration was performed using Micromatter standards, except for P whose standard was produced by nebulization of an aqueous solution of KH2PO4 at our laboratory. The multi-element reference material National Institute of Standards and Technology-2783 (air particulate filter) was used for evaluating the accuracy of the calibration procedure of the 22 elements in our standard analysis routine, and the uncertainty associated with calibration procedures was evaluated. The overall performance of the instrument and validation of our measurements were assessed by comparison with results obtained from parallel analysis using particle-induced X-ray emission and another Epsilon 5 spectrometer. The elemental composition in 660 samples collected at a pristine site in the Amazon Basin and of 1416 samples collected at a site perturbed by land use change was determined. Our measurements show trace elements associated with biogenic aerosols, soil dust, biomass burning, and sea-salt, even for the very low concentrations as observed in Amazonia. Copyright (C) 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1002/XRS.2544
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“Optimized 3D Reconstruction of Large, Compact Assemblies of Metallic Nanoparticles”. Altantzis T, Wang D, Kadu A, van Blaaderen A, Bals S, Journal Of Physical Chemistry C 125, 26240 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.1c08478
Abstract: 3D characterization of assemblies of nanoparticles is of great importance to determine their structure-property connection. Such investigations become increasingly more challenging when the assemblies become larger and more compact. In this paper, we propose an optimized approach for electron tomography to minimize artefacts related to beam broadening in High Angle Annular Dark-Field Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy mode. These artefacts are typically present at one side of the reconstructed 3D data set for thick nanoparticle assemblies. To overcome this problem, we propose a procedure in which two tomographic tilt series of the same sample are acquired. After acquiring the first series, the sample is flipped over 180o, and a second tilt series is acquired. By merging the two reconstructions, blurring in the reconstructed volume is minimized. Next, this approach is combined with an advanced three-dimensional reconstruction algorithm yielding quantitative structural information. Here, the approach is applied to a thick and compact assembly of spherical Au nanoparticles, but the methodology can we used to investigate a broad range of samples.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis (ELCAT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.1c08478
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“Optimization of tungsten beta-phase window for spin-orbit-torque magnetic random-access memory”. Sethu KKV, Ghosh S, Couet S, Swerts J, Sorée B, De Boeck J, Kar GS, Garello K, Physical Review Applied 16, 064009 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVAPPLIED.16.064009
Abstract: Switching induced by spin-orbit torque (SOT) is being vigorously explored, as it allows the control of magnetization using an in-plane current, which enables a three-terminal magnetic-tunnel-junction geometry with isolated read and write paths. This significantly improves the device endurance and the read stability, and allows reliable subnanosecond switching. Tungsten in the beta phase, beta-W, has the largest reported antidamping SOT charge-to-spin conversion ratio (theta(AD) approximate to -60%) for heavy metals. However, beta-W has a limitation when one is aiming for reliable technology integration: the beta phase is limited to a thickness of a few nanometers and enters the alpha phase above 4 nm in our samples when industry-relevant deposition tools are used. Here, we report our approach to extending the range of beta-W, while simultaneously improving the SOT efficiency by introducing N and O doping of W. Resistivity and XRD measurements confirm the extension of the beta phase from 4 nm to more than 10 nm, and transport characterization shows an effective SOT efficiency larger than -44.4% (reaching approximately -60% for the bulk contribution). In addition, we demonstrate the possibility of controlling and enhancing the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of a storage layer (Co-Fe-B). Further, we integrate the optimized W(O, N) into SOT magnetic random-access memory (SOT-MRAM) devices and project that, for the same thickness of SOT material, the switching current decreases by 25% in optimized W(O, N) compared with our standard W. Our results open the path to using and further optimizing W for integration of SOT-MRAM technology.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.808
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVAPPLIED.16.064009
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“Optimization of the ion chromatographic quantification of airborne fluoride, acetate and formate in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York”. Kontozova-Deutsch V, Deutsch F, Bencs L, Krata A, Van Grieken R, De Wael K, Talanta : the international journal of pure and applied analytical chemistry 86, 372 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.TALANTA.2011.09.030
Abstract: Ion chromatographic (IC) methods have been compared in order to achieve an optimal separation of fluoride, acetate and formate under various elution conditions on two formerly introduced analytical columns (i and ii) and a novel one (iii): (i) an IonPac AS14 (250 mm × 4 mm I.D.), (ii) Allsep A-2 (150 mm × 4.6 mm I.D.), and (iii) an IC SI-50 4E (250 mm (length) × 4 mm (internal diameter – I.D.)). The IC conditions for the separation of the anions concerned were optimized on the IC SI-50 4E column. A near baseline separation of these anions was attained on the IonPac AS14, whereas the peaks of fluoride and acetate could not be resolved on the Allsep A-2. A baseline separation for the three anions was achieved on the IC SI-50 4E column, when applying an eluent mixture of 3.2 mmol/L Na2CO3 and 1.0 mmol/L NaHCO3 with a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The highest precision of 1.7, 3.0 and 2.8% and the best limits of detection (LODs) of 0.014, 0.22 and 0.17 mg/L for fluoride, acetate and formate, respectively, were obtained with the IC SI-50 4E column. Hence, this column was applied for the determination of the acetic and formic acid contents of air samples taken by means of passive gaseous sampling at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, USA. Atmospheric concentrations of acetic and formic acid up to 1050 and 450 μg/m3, respectively, were found in non-aerated showcases of the museum. In galleries and outdoors, rather low levels of acetic and formic acid were detected with average concentrations of 50 and 10 μg/m3, respectively. The LOD data of acetate and formate on the IC SI-50 4E column correspond to around 0.5 μg/m3 for both acetic and formic acid in air samples.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 4.162
Times cited: 19
DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2011.09.030
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“Optimization of the amount of catalyst and reaction time in single wall nanotube production”. Horvath ZE, Biro LP, Van Tendeloo G, Tondeur C, Bister G, Pierard N, Fonseca A, Nagy JB, Diffusion and defect data : solid state data : part B : solid state phenomena 94, 271 (2003)
Abstract: The influence of the amount of catalyst and the reaction time on the quantity and quality of catalytically grown single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT) was investigated. The aim was to optimize some of the SWNT growth parameters using TEM and HRTEM. The thickness of catalyst layer influences the synthesis of the nanotube because the gas composition can differ between top and bottom. Microscopic investigation of the grown SWNT samples showed that the thicker the catalyst layer the lower relative nanotube content, so the deeper parts of the catalyst layer are less effective: The optimum time for the reaction was found to be 10 minutes. This may be understood assuming that nanotube growth needs an initial incubation time while the activity of the catalyst decreases steadily until the nariotube growth stops.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
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“Optimization of superconducting critical parameters by tuning the size and magnetization of arrays of magnetic dots”. Silhanek AV, Gillijns W, Milošević, MV, Volodin A, Moshchalkov VV, Peeters F, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 76, 100502 (2007). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.76.100502
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.76.100502
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“Optimization of secondary cathode thickness for direct current glow discharge mass spectrometric analysis of glass”. Schelles W, de Gendt S, Van Grieken RE, Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry 11, 937 (1996). http://doi.org/10.1039/JA9961100937
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1039/JA9961100937
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“Optimization of sample preparation for grazing emission X-ray fluorescence in micro- and trace analysis applications”. Claes M, de Bokx P, Willard N, Veny P, Van Grieken R, Spectrochimica acta: part B : atomic spectroscopy 52, 1063 (1997). http://doi.org/10.1016/S0584-8547(96)01654-0
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/S0584-8547(96)01654-0
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“Optimization of sample clean-up for the GC-C-IRMS and GC-IT-MS analysis of PAHs from air particulate matter”. Buczyńska AJ, Geypens B, Van Grieken R, De Wael K, Microchemical journal 119, 83 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2014.10.009
Abstract: The optimization of sample clean-up for the analysis of air particulate matter PAHs stable carbon isotope ratio using Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) cartridges is described in this paper. Various adsorbents, such as silica gel, alumina, florisil, commercially available for sample purification were compared. Best performance for the clean-up of 24-h air particulate matter samples was obtained with activated silica-gel columns in terms of selectivity and reproducibility. One step clean-up was optimized for concentration determination and in case of co-elutions, a second step was additionally used for carbon isotope ratio analysis. The method was subsequently validated with standard reference material and was checked for carbon isotope fractionation artefacts. No significant differences in δ13C values were found for unprocessed solutions of PAHs and solution subjected to the extraction and purification procedure. The procedure was tested on air particulate matter samples collected in three different locations in Belgium. Statistically significant differences in carbon isotope ratio of PAHs between Borgerhout location and Zelzate or Gent were noticed, confirming the differences in distribution and diagnostic ratios found during the concentration analyses and different PAH sources in these locations. The results, therefore, seem very promising for the use of δ13C of PAHs as an additional information helpful in source identification of these pollutants
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.034
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2014.10.009
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“Optimization of operating parameters for inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry : a computational study”. Aghaei M, Lindner H, Bogaerts A, Spectrochimica acta: part B : atomic spectroscopy 76, 56 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.sab.2012.06.006
Abstract: An inductively coupled plasma, connected to a mass spectrometer interface, is computationally investigated. The effect of pressure behind the sampler, injector gas flow rate, auxiliary gas flow rate, and applied power is studied. There seems to be an optimum range of injector gas flow rate for each setup which guaranties the presence and also a proper length of the central channel in the torch. Moreover, our modeling results show that for any specific purpose, it is possible to control that either only the central gas flow passes through the sampler orifice or that it is accompanied by the auxiliary gas flow. It was also found that depending on geometry, the variation of outgoing gas flow rate is much less than the variation of the injector gas flow rate and this causes a slightly higher pressure inside the torch. The general effect of increasing the applied power is a rise in the plasma temperature, which results in a higher ionization in the coil region. However, the negative effect is reducing the length of the cool central channel which is important to transfer the sample substances to the sampler. Using a proper applied power can enhance the efficiency of the system. Indeed, by changing the gas path lines, the power can control which flow (i.e., only from injector gas or also from the auxiliary gas) goes to the sampler orifice. Finally, as also reported from experiments in literature, the pressure behind the sampler has no dramatic effect on the plasma characteristics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.241
Times cited: 18
DOI: 10.1016/j.sab.2012.06.006
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“Optimization of NBED simulations for disc-detection measurements”. Grieb T, Krause FF, Mahr C, Zillmann D, Müller-Caspary K, Schowalter M, Rosenauer A, Ultramicroscopy 181, 50 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2017.04.015
Abstract: Nano-beam electron diffraction (NBED) is a method which can be applied to measure lattice strain and polarisation fields in strained layer heterostructures and transistors. To investigate precision, accuracy and spatial resolution of such measurements in dependence of properties of the specimen as well as electron optical parameters, simulations of NBED patterns are required which allow to predict the result of common disc-detection algorithms. In this paper we demonstrate by focusing on the detection of the central disc in crystalline silicon that such simulations require to take several experimental characteristics into account in order to obtain results which are comparable to those from experimental NBED patterns. These experimental characteristics are the background intensity, the presence of Poisson noise caused by electron statistics and blurring caused by inelastic scattering and by the transfer quality of the microscope camera. By means of these optimized simulations, different effects of specimen properties on disc detection – such as strain, surface morphology and compositional changes on the nanometer scale – are investigated and discussed in the context of misinterpretation in experimental NBED evaluations. It is shown that changes in surface morphology and chemical composition lead to measured shifts of the central disc in the NBED pattern of tens to hundreds of grad. These shifts are of the same order of magnitude or even larger than shifts that could be caused by an electric polarisation field in the range of MV/cm. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2017.04.015
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“Optimization of mobile scanning macro-XRF systems for the in situ investigation of historical paintings”. Alfeld M, Janssens K, Dik J, de Nolf W, van der Snickt G, Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry 26, 899 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1039/C0JA00257G
Abstract: Elemental distribution maps are of great interest in the study of historical paintings, as they allow to investigate the pigment use of the artist, to image changes made in the painting during or after its creation and in some cases to reveal discarded paintings that were later over painted. Yet a method that allows to record such maps of a broad range of elements in a fast, non-destructive and in situ manner is not yet commonly available; a dedicated mobile scanning XRF instrument might fill this gap. In this paper we present three self-built scanning macro-XRF instruments, each based on the experience gained with its precursor. These instruments are compared in terms of sensitivity and limits of detection, which includes a discussion of the use of polycapillary optics and pinhole collimators as beam defining devices. Furthermore, the imaging capabilities of the instruments are demonstrated in three exemplary cases: (parts of) historical paintings from the 15th to the 19th century are examined. These cases illustrate the value of element specific distribution maps in the study of historical paintings and allow in the case of Vincent van Gogh's Patch of Grass a direct comparison between in situ and synchrotron based scanning macro-XRF.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.379
Times cited: 107
DOI: 10.1039/C0JA00257G
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“Optimization of measurement conditions of an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer with high-energy polarized beam excitation for analysis of aerosol filters”. Spolnik Z, Belikov K, van Meel K, Adriaenssens E, de Roeck F, Van Grieken R, Applied spectroscopy 59, 1465 (2005). http://doi.org/10.1366/000370205775142647
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1366/000370205775142647
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“Optimization of gate-on-source-only tunnel FETs with counter-doped pockets”. Kao K-H, Verhulst AS, Vandenberghe WG, Sorée B, Magnus W, Leonelli D, Groeseneken G, De Meyer K, IEEE transactions on electron devices 59, 2070 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1109/TED.2012.2200489
Abstract: We investigate a promising tunnel FET configuration having a gate on the source only, which is simultaneously exhibiting a steeper subthreshold slope and a higher ON-current than the lateral tunneling configuration with a gate on the channel. Our analysis is performed based on a recently developed 2-D quantum-mechanical simulator calculating band-to-band tunneling and including quantum confinement (QC). It is shown that the two disadvantages of the structure, namely, the sensitivity to gate alignment and the physical oxide thickness, are mitigated by placing a counter-doped parallel pocket underneath the gate-source overlap. The pocket also significantly reduces the field-induced QC. The findings are illustrated with all-Si and all-Ge gate-on-source-only tunnel field-effect transistor simulations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.605
Times cited: 72
DOI: 10.1109/TED.2012.2200489
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“Optimization of experimental conditions of thin-window EPMA for ligh-element analysis of individual environmental particles”. Szalóki I, Osán J, Worobiec A, de Hoog J, Van Grieken R, X-ray spectrometry 30, 143 (2001). http://doi.org/10.1002/XRS.473.ABS
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1002/XRS.473.ABS
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“Optimization of Automated Crystal Orientation Mapping in a TEM for Ni4Ti3 Precipitation in All-Round SMA”. Yao X, Amin-Ahmadi B, Li Y, Cao S, Ma X, Zhang X-P, Schryvers D, Shape memory and superelasticity 2, 286 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1007/s40830-016-0082-z
Abstract: Automated crystal orientation and phase mapping in TEM are applied to the quantification of Ni4Ti3 precipitates in Ni–Ti shape memory alloys which will be used for the implantation of artificial sphincters operating using the all-round shape memory effect. This paper focuses on the optimization process of the technique to obtain best values for all major parameters in the acquisition of electron diffraction patterns as well as template generation. With the obtained settings, vast statistical data on nano- and microstructures essential to the operation of these shape memory devices become available.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1007/s40830-016-0082-z
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“Optimization of a simple spotting procedure for x-ray fluorescence analysis of waters”. Smits J, Van Grieken R, Analytica chimica acta 88, 97 (1977). http://doi.org/10.1016/S0003-2670(01)96053-2
Abstract: Several sample preparation methods for waters for energy-dispersive x.r.f. were examined, as well as the influence of sample size on the analytical characteristics. The most satisfactory simple, rapid method proved to be spotting of 1.5 ml of water sample on a Whatman-41 cellulose filter paper provided with a wax ring of 29-mm diameter and evaporating the water with an unheated air stream from underneath. Sensitivities are below 100 p.p.b. for most elements and often below 50 p.p.b. when the optimal secondary fluorescer is used. Accuracy and precision are usually in the 1520 % range. The method is applicable to many dilute aqueous solutions as is illustrated by analysis of industrial water samples and ashed biological material.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/S0003-2670(01)96053-2
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“Optimization of a FIB/SEM slice-and-view study of the 3D distribution of Ni4Ti3 precipitates in NiTi”. Cao S, Tirry W, van den Broek W, Schryvers D, Journal of microscopy 233, 61 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2818.2008.03095.x
Abstract: The 3D morphology and distribution of lenticular Ni4Ti3 precipitates in the austenitic B2 matrix of a binary Ni51Ti49 alloy has been investigated by a slice-and-view procedure in a dual-beam focused ion beam/scanning electron microscope system. Due to the weak contrast of the precipitates, proper imaging conditions need to be selected first to allow for semi-automated image treatment. Knowledgeable imaging is further needed to ensure that all variants of the precipitates are observed with equal probability, regardless of sample orientation. Finally, a volume ratio of 10.2% for the Ni4Ti3 precipitates could be calculated, summed over all variants, which yields a net composition of Ni50.27Ti49.73 for the matrix, leading to an increase of 125 degrees for the martensitic start temperature. Also, the expected relative orientation of the different variants of the precipitates could be confirmed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 1.692
Times cited: 22
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2818.2008.03095.x
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“Optimisation of superconducting thin films by TEM”. Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Rijnders G, Blank DHA, Leca V, Salluzzo M, Physica: C : superconductivity 372/376, 711 (2002). http://doi.org/10.1016/S0921-4534(02)00838-9
Abstract: High-resolution electron microscopy is used to study the initial growth of different REBa2CU3O7-5 thin films. In DyBa2CU3O7-5 ultra-thin films, deposited on TiO2 terminated SrTiO3, two different types of interface arrangements occur: bulk-SrO-TiO2-BaO-CuO-BaO-CuO2-Dy-CuO2-BaO-bulk and bulk-SrO-TiO2-BaO-CuO2-Dy-CuO2-BaO-CuO-BaO-bulk. This variable growth sequence is the origin of the presence of antiphase boundaries. In Nd1+xBa2-xCu3O7-5 thin films, antiphase boundaries tend to annihilate by the insertion of extra Nd-layers. This annihilation is correlated with the flat morphology of the film and the absence of growth spirals at the surface of the Nd-rich films. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.404
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/S0921-4534(02)00838-9
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“Optimisation of light element analysis of individual particles using UTW-EPMA”. de Hoog J, Osán J, Worobiec A, Ro C-U, Szalóki I, Joos P, Van Grieken R, Journal of aerosol science 31, 388 (2000)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“Optimal timing of multiple investment decisions in a wood value chain : a real options approach”. Tschulkow M, Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Journal Of Environmental Management 290, 112590 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2021.112590
Abstract: A new reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery process (RCF) is currently being developed transforming wood into high-value end-products. RCF is considered to be in the pilot stage with a technology readiness level of 5–6. Apart from the RCF-process characteristics, the economic feasibility also depends on the investment decisions that are made upstream and downstream within the wood value chain, increasing the level of uncertainty. Two investment options within the value chain are considered: an option to invest in harvesting equipment and an option to invest in the RCF. To understand the impact of multiple sources of uncertainty on the decision to invest in an innovative RCF-driven wood value chain, an analytical two-factor real options model is presented, accounting for correlated cost and price uncertainties. Two different scenarios, separated and united investments in harvesting equipment and RCF, are analyzed. In both scenarios, market uncertainty postpones investment in comparison to the traditional NPV approach. When both investments are considered separately, the investment in RCF is expected to be earlier than the investment in harvesting equipment. When both investment decisions are united, the probability of investment increases. The study reveals that RCF has the potential to stimulate investments from different investors, –upstream and midstream–, within the wood value chain. Besides, the introduced real options model proofs its ability to assess the economic feasibility of innovative technologies (e.g RCF) individually or within the value chain, taking into account multiple sources of uncertainty.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.01
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2021.112590
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“Optimal sample preparation to characterize corrosion in historical photographs with analytical TEM”. Grieten E, Caen J, Schryvers D, Microscopy and microanalysis 20, 1585 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1017/S1431927614012860
Abstract: An alternative focused ion beam preparation method is used for sampling historical photographs containing metallic nanoparticles in a polymer matrix. We use the preparation steps of classical ultra-microtomy with an alternative final sectioning with a focused ion beam. Transmission electron microscopy techniques show that the lamella has a uniform thickness, which is an important factor for analytical transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, the method maintains the spatial distribution of nanoparticles in the soft matrix. The results are compared with traditional preparation techniques such as ultra-microtomy and classical focused ion beam milling.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Impact Factor: 1.891
DOI: 10.1017/S1431927614012860
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