toggle visibility
Search within Results:
Display Options:

Select All    Deselect All
 |   | 
Details
   print
  Records Links (down)
Author Muys, M.; González Cámara, S.J.; Derese, S.; Spiller, M.; Verliefde, A.; Vlaeminck, S.E. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Dissolution rate and growth performance reveal struvite as a sustainable nutrient source to produce a diverse set of microbial protein Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 866 Issue Pages 161172-161179  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract To provide for the globally increasing demand for proteinaceous food, microbial protein (MP) has the potential to become an alternative food or feed source. Phosphorus (P), on the other hand, is a critical raw material whose global reserves are declining. Growing MP on recovered phosphorus, for instance, struvite obtained from wastewater treatment, is a promising MP production route that could supply protein-rich products while handling P scarcity. The aim of this study was to explore struvite dissolution kinetics in different MP media and characterize MP production with struvite as sole P-source. Different operational parameters, including pH, temperature, contact surface area, and ion concentrations were tested, and struvite dissolution rates were observed between 0.32 and 4.7 g P/L/d and a solubility between 0.23 and 2.22 g P-based struvite/L. Growth rates and protein production of the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris and Limnospira sp. (previously known as Arthrospira sp.), and the purple non‑sulfur bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris on struvite were equal to or higher than growth on conventional potassium phosphate. For aerobic heterotrophic bacteria, two slow-growing communities showed decreased growth on struvite, while the growth was increased for a third fast-growing one. Furthermore, MP protein content on struvite was always comparable to the one obtained when grown on standard media. Together with the low content in metals and micropollutants, these results demonstrate that struvite can be directly applied as an effective nutrient source to produce fast-growing MP, without any previous dissolution step. Combining a high purity recovered product with an efficient way of producing protein results in a strong environmental win-win.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000922040000001 Publication Date 2022-12-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697; 1879-1026 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 9.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.8; 2023 IF: 4.9  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:192943 Serial 7297  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Peng, L.; Lou, W.; Xu, Y.; Yu, S.; Liang, C.; Alloul, A.; Song, K.; Vlaeminck, S.E. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Regulating light, oxygen and volatile fatty acids to boost the productivity of purple bacteria biomass, protein and co-enzyme Q10 Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 822 Issue Pages 153489  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract Purple non‑sulfur bacteria (PNSB) possess significant potential for bioresource recovery from wastewater. Effective operational tools are needed to boost productivity and direct the PNSB biomass towards abundant value-added substances (e.g., protein and co-enzyme Q10, CoQ10). This study aimed to investigate the impact of light, oxygen and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) on PNSB growth (i.e., Rhodobacter sphaeroides) and productivity of protein and CoQ10. Overall, the biomass yields and specific growth rates of PNSB were in the ranges of 0.57–1.08 g biomass g−1 CODremoved and 0.48–0.71 d−1, respectively. VFAs did not influence the biomass yield, yet acetate and VFA mixtures enhanced the specific growth rate with a factor of 1.2–1.5 compared to propionate and butyrate. The most PNSB biomass (1.08 g biomass g−1 CODremoved and 0.71 d−1) and the highest biomass quality (protein content of 609 mg g−1 dry cell weight (DCW) and CoQ10 content of 13.21 mg g−1 DCW) were obtained in the presence of VFA mixtures under natural light and microaerobic (low light alternated with darkness; dissolved oxygen (DO) between 0.5 and 1 mg L−1) conditions (vs. light anaerobic and dark aerobic cultivations). Further investigation on VFAs dynamics revealed that acetate was most rapidly consumed by PNSB in the individual VFA feeding (specific uptake rate of 0.76 g COD g−1 DCW d−1), while acetate as a co-substrate in the mixed VFAs feeding might accelerate the consumption of propionate and butyrate through providing additional cell metabolism precursor. Enzymes activities of succinate dehydrogenase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase as well as the concentration of photo pigments confirmed that light, oxygen and VFAs regulated the key enzymes in the energy metabolism and biomass synthesis to boost PNSB growth. These results provide a promising prospect for utilization of fermented waste stream for the harvest of PNSB biomass, protein and CoQ10.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000766801800010 Publication Date 2022-02-02  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 9.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.8  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:185706 Serial 7202  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Zhu, W.; Van Tendeloo, M.; Xie, Y.; Timmer, M.J.; Peng, L.; Vlaeminck, S.E. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Storage without nitrite or nitrate enables the long-term preservation of full-scale partial nitritation/anammox sludge Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 806 Issue 3 Pages 151330  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract Bioaugmentation with summer harvested sludge during winter could compensate for bacterial activity loss but requires that sludge activity can be restored after storage. This study assesses the effect of temperature and redox adjustment during the storage over 180 days of partial nitritation/anammox (PN/A) granular resp. floccular sludge from potato processing resp. sludge reject water treatment. Anoxic storage conditions (in the presence of nitrite or nitrate and the absence of oxygen) resulted in a loss of 80-100% of the anammox bacteria (AnAOB) activity capacity at 20 degrees C and 4 degrees C, while anaerobic conditions (without oxygen, nitrite, and nitrate) lost only 45-63%. Storage at 20 degrees C was more cost-effective compared to 4 degrees C, and this was confirmed in the sludge reactivation experiment (20 CC). Furthermore, AnAOB activity correlated negatively with the electrical conductivity level (R-2 > 0.85, p < 0.05), so strong salinity increases should be avoided. No significant differences were found in the activity capacity of aerobic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AerAOB) under different storage conditions (p > 0.1). The relative abundance of dominant AnAOB (Candidatus Brocadia) and AerAOB genera (Nitrosomonas) remained constant in both sludges. In conclusion, preserving PN/A biomass without cooling and nitrite or nitrate addition proved to be a cost-effective strategy. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000740216300013 Publication Date 2021-10-28  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 9.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.8  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:185447 Serial 7213  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Xie, Y.; Spiller, M.; Vlaeminck, S.E. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title A bioreactor and nutrient balancing approach for the conversion of solid organic fertilizers to liquid nitrate-rich fertilizers : mineralization and nitrification performance complemented with economic aspects Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 806 Issue Pages 150415  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract Due to the high water- and nutrient-use efficiency, hydroponic cultivation is increasingly vital in progressing to environment-friendly food production. To further alleviate the environmental impacts of synthetic fertilizer production, the use of recovered nutrients should be encouraged in horticulture and agriculture at large. Solid organic fertilizers can largely contribute to this, yet their physical and chemical nature impedes application in hydroponics. This study proposes a bioreactor for mineralization and nitrification followed by a supplementation step for limiting macronutrients to produce nitrate-based solutions from solid fertilizers, here based on a novel microbial fertilizer. Batch tests showed that aerobic conversions at 35 °C could realize a nitrate (NO₃−-N) production efficiency above 90% and a maximum rate of 59 mg N L−1 d−1. In the subsequent bioreactor test, nitrate production efficiencies were lower (44–51%), yet rates were higher (175–212 mg N L−1 d−1). Calcium and magnesium hydroxide were compared to control the bioreactor pH at 6.0 ± 0.2, while also providing macronutrients for plant production. A mass balance estimation to mimic the Hoagland nutrient solution showed that 92.7% of the NO₃−-N in the Ca(OH)₂ scenario could be organically sourced, while this was only 37.4% in the Mg(OH)₂ scenario. Besides, carbon dioxide (CO₂) generated in the bioreactor can be used for greenhouse carbon fertilization to save operational expenditure (OPEX). An estimation of the total OPEX showed that the production of a nutrient solution from solid organic fertilizers can be cost competitive compared to using commercially available liquid inorganic fertilizer solutions.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000707640400021 Publication Date 2021-09-20  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 9.8 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 9.8  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:181787 Serial 7132  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Muys, M.; Phukan, R.; Brader, G.; Samad, A.; Moretti, M.; Haiden, B.; Pluchon, S.; Roest, K.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Spiller, M. url  doi
openurl 
  Title A systematic comparison of commercially produced struvite : quantities, qualities and soil-maize phosphorus availability Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Science Of The Total Environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 756 Issue Pages 143726-12  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Production of struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O) from waste streams is increasingly implemented to recover phosphorus (P), which is listed as a critical raw material in the European Union (EU). To facilitate EU-wide trade of P-containing secondary raw materials such as struvite, the EU issued a revised fertilizer regulation in 2019. A comprehensive overview of the supply of struvite and its quality is presently missing. This study aimed: i) to determine the current EU struvite production volumes, ii) to evaluate all legislated physicochemical characteristics and pathogen content of European struvite against newly set regulatory limits, and iii) to compare not-regulated struvite characteristics. It is estimated that in 2020, between 990 and 1250 ton P are recovered as struvite in the EU. Struvite from 24 European production plants, accounting for 30% of the 80 struvite installations worldwide was sampled. Three samples failed the physicochemical legal limits; one had a P content of <7% and three exceeded the organic carbon content of 3% dry weight (DW). Mineralogical analysis revealed that six samples had a struvite content of 80–90% DW, and 13 samples a content of >90% DW. All samples showed a heavy metal content below the legal limits. Microbiological analyses indicated that struvite may exceed certain legal limits. Differences in morphology and particle size distribution were observed for struvite sourced from digestate (rod shaped; transparent; 82 mass% < 1 mm), dewatering liquor (spherical; opaque; 65 mass% 1–2 mm) and effluent from upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor processing potato wastewater (spherical; opaque; 51 mass% < 1 mm and 34 mass% > 2 mm). A uniform soil-plant P-availability pattern of 3.5–6.5 mg P/L soil/d over a 28 days sampling period was observed. No differences for plant biomass yield were observed. In conclusion, the results highlight the suitability of most struvite to enter the EU fertilizer market.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000603487500029 Publication Date 2020-11-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697; 1879-1026 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:173944 Serial 8638  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Sharafi, L.; Zarafshani, K.; Keshavarz, M.; Azadi, H.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Farmers' decision to use drought early warning system in developing countries Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Science Of The Total Environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 758 Issue Pages 142761  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Drought is a persistent, sluggish natural disaster in developing countries that has generated a financial burden and an unstable climate. Farmers should adopt early warning systems (EWS) in their strategies for monitoring drought to reduce its serious consequences. However, farmers in developing countries are reluctant to use EWS as their management strategies. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the decision of farmers to use climate knowledge through the model of farming activity in Kermanshah Township, Iran. A surveyor questionnaire was used to gather data from 370 wheat farmers using random sampling methods inmulti-stage clusters. Results revealed that the decision to use climate information is affected by personal factors, attitude towards climate information, objectives of using climate information, and external/physical farming factors. The result of this study has implications for drought management practitioners. To be specific, the results can aid policymakers to design early alert programs to minimize the risk of drought and thus move from conventional to climate smart agriculture. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000605623800001 Publication Date 2020-10-05  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:176030 Serial 6924  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Byrnes, I.; Lind, O.C.; Hansen, E.L.; Janssens, K.; Salbu, B. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Characterization of radioactive particles from the Dounreay nuclear reprocessing facility Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2020 Publication Science Of The Total Environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 727 Issue Pages 138488-12  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Radioactive particles originating from nuclear fuel reprocessing at the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority's Dounreay Facility were inadvertently released to the environment in the late 1950s to 1970s and have subsequently been found on site grounds and local beaches. Previous assessments of risk associated with encountering a particle have been based on conservative assumptions related to particle composition and speciation. To reduce uncertainties associated with environmental impact assessments from Dounreay particles, further characterization is relevant. Results of particles available for this study showed variation between Dounreay Fast Reactor (DFR) and Materials Test Reactor (MTR) particles, reflecting differences in fuel design, release scenarios, and subsequent environmental influence. Analyses of DFR particles showed they are small (100-300 mu m) and contain spatially correlated U and Nb. Molybdenum, part of the DFR fuel, was identified at atomic concentrations below 1%. Based on SR-based micrometer-scale X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure spectroscopy (mu-XANES), U may be present as U (IV), and, based on a measured Nb/U atom ratio of similar to 2, stoichiometric considerations are commensurable with the presence of UNb2O7. The MTR particles were larger (740-2000 mu m) and contained U and Al inhomogeneously distributed. Neodymium (Nd) was identified in atomic concentrations of around 1-2%, suggesting it was part of the fuel design. The presence of U(IV) in MTR particles, as indicated by mu-XANES analysis, may be related to oxidation of particle surfaces, as could be expected due to corrosion of UAlx fuel particles in air. High U-235/U-238 atom ratios in individual DFR (3.2 +/- 0.8) and MTR (2.6 +/- 0.4) particles reflected the presence of highly enriched uranium. The DFR particles featured lower Cs-137 activity levels (2.00-9.58 kBq/particle) than the MTR (43.2-641 kBq Cs-137/particle) particles. The activities of the dose contributing radionuclides Sr-90/Y-90 were proportional to Cs-137 (Sr-90/Cs-137 activity ratio approximate to 0.8) and particle activities were roughly proportional to the size. Based on direct beta measurements, gamma spectrometry, and the VARSKIN6 model, contact dose rates were calculated to be approximately 74 mGy/h for the highest activity MTR particle, in agreement with previously published estimates. (C) 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000537414400014 Publication Date 2020-04-07  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 9.8 Times cited 1 Open Access  
  Notes ; This study has been funded by the Research Council of Norway through its Centre of Excellence (CoE) funding scheme (Project No. 223268/F50). The authors are grateful to the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency for providing the samples examined in this study and Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) for granting beamtime at HASYLAB BL. The authors would like to thank Prof. D.H. Oughton for fruitful discussions on dosimetry, Dr. K. Proost for assistance with micro-XANES measurements, Dr. T. Gavfert for assistance with calibration of the Canberra SPAB15 instrument, and Dr. E. Reinoso-Maset for support on the Bruker M4 Tornado mu-XRF. The authors also thank Karl Andreas Jensen for guidance and support on ICP-MS. Finally, the authors express gratitude to Dr. D. Hamby and the RAMP organization for providing access to the VARSKIN6 code. ; Approved Most recent IF: 9.8; 2020 IF: 4.9  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:170154 Serial 6467  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Hofman, J.; Castanheiro, A.; Nuyts, G.; Joosen, S.; Spassov, S.; Blust, R.; De Wael, K.; Lenaerts, S.; Samson, R. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Impact of urban street canyon architecture on local atmospheric pollutant levels and magneto-chemical PM10 composition : an experimental study in Antwerp, Belgium Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2019 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 712 Issue 712 Pages 135534  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract As real-life experimental data on natural ventilation of atmospheric pollution levels in urban street canyons is still scarce and has proven to be complex, this study, experimentally evaluated the impact of an urban street canyon opening on local atmospheric pollution levels, during a 2-week field campaign in a typical urban street canyon in Antwerp, Belgium. Besides following up on atmospheric particulate matter (PM), ultrafine particles (UFPs) and black carbon (BC) levels, the magneto-chemical PM10 composition was quantified to identify contributions of specific elements in enclosed versus open street canyon sections. Results indicated no higher overall PM, UFP and BC concentrations at the enclosed site compared to the open site, but significant day-to-day variability between both monitoring locations, depending on the experienced wind conditions. On days with oblique wind regimes (4 out of 14), natural ventilation was observed at the open location while higher element contributions of Ca, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn and Sr were exhibited at the enclosed location. Magnetic properties correlated with the PM10 filter loading, and elemental content of Fe, Cr, Mn and Ti. Magnetic bivariate ratios identified finel-grained magnetite carriers with grain sizes below 0.1 μm, indicating similar magnetic source contributions at both monitoring locations. Our holistic approach, combining atmospheric monitoring with magneto-chemical PM characterization has shown the complex impact of real-life wind flow regimes, different source contributions and local traffic dynamics on the resulting pollutant concentrations and contribute to a better understanding on the urban ventilation processes of atmospheric pollution.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000512369600078 Publication Date 2019-11-25  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.9  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:165459 Serial 5654  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Álvarez-Martín, A.; Sanchez-Martin, M.J.; Ordax, J.M.; Marin-Benito, J.M.; Sonia Rodriguez-Cruz, M. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Leaching of two fungicides in spent mushroom substrate amended soil : I influence of amendment rate, fungicide ageing and flow condition Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2017 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 584 Issue Pages 828-837  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract A study has been conducted on the leaching of two fungicides, tebuconazole and cymoxanil, in a soil amended with spent mushroom substrate (SMS), with an evaluation of how different factors influence this process.The objective was based on the potential use of SMS as a biosorbent for immobilizing pesticides in vulnerable soils, and the need to know how it could affect the subsequent transport of these retained compounds. Breakthrough curves (BTCs) for C-14-fungicides, non-incubated and incubated over 30 days, were obtained in columns packed with an unamended soil (S), and this soil amended with SMS at rates of 5% (S + SMS5) and 50% (S + SMS50) under saturated and saturated-unsaturated flows. The highest leaching of tebuconazole (> 50% of the total C-14 added) was found in S when a saturated water flow was applied to the column, but the percentage of leached fungidde decreased when a saturated-unsaturated flow was applied in both SMS-amended soils. Also a significant decrease in teaching was observed for tebuconazole after incubation in the column, especially in S + SMS50 when both flows were applied. Furthermore, cymoxanil leaching was complete in S and S + SMS when a saturated flow was applied, and maximum peak concentrations were reached at 1 pore volume (PV), although BTCs showed peaks with lower concentrations in S + SMS. The amounts of cymoxanil retained only increased in S + SMS when a saturated-unsaturated flow was applied. A more relevant effect of SMS for reducing the leaching of fungidde was observed when cymoxanil was previously incubated in the column, although mineralization was enhanced in this case. These results are of interest for extending SMS application on the control of the leaching of fungicides with different physicochemical characteristics after different ageing times in the soil and water flow conditions applied. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000399358500080 Publication Date 2017-01-26  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697; 1879-1026 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Approved no  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:160643 Serial 8168  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Castanheiro, A.; Samson, R.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Magnetic- and particle-based techniques to investigate metal deposition on urban green Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2016 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 571 Issue Pages 594-602  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Urban green works as a recorder of atmospheric PM. This paper reports on the utility of combining magnetic- and particle-based techniques to investigate PM leaf deposition as a bio-indicator of metal pollution. Ivy (Hedera helix) leaves were collected from five different land use classes, i.e. forest, rural, roadside, industrial, train. Leaf magnetic measurements were done in terms of saturation isothermal remanent magnetization (leaf SIRM), while ca. 40,000 leaf-deposited particles were analyzed through SEM/EDX to estimate the elemental composition. The influence of the different land use classes was registered both magnetically and in terms of metal content. Leaf area-normalized SIRM values ranged from 19.9 to 444.0 μA, in the following order forest < rural < roadside < industrial < train. Leaf SIRM showed to be significantly correlated (p < 0.01) with the content in Fe, Zn, and Pb, followed by Mn and Cd (p < 0.05), while no significant correlation was found with the metals Cr and Cu. Although presenting a similar metal content, roadside and train were magnetically very distinct. By exhibiting a very high content in Pb, and with an Fe content being comparable to the one observed at the forest and rural land uses, the industrial leaf-deposited particles showed to be mainly due to industrial activity. While SEM/EDX is a suitable approach for detailed particle analysis, leaf SIRM of ivy can be used as a rapid discriminatory tool for metal pollution. Their complementary use delivers further knowledge on land use classes reflecting different PM conditions and/or sources.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000383930400059 Publication Date 2016-07-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited 17 Open Access  
  Notes ; This research was supported by a PhD grant of the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO). The authors thank W. Dorrine for his help and supervision on operating the SEM, and G. Nuyts and K Wuyts for their valuable comments on data treatment The authors also acknowledge the three anonymous reviewers for their constructive comments, which helped to improve the manuscript. ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.9  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:134845 Serial 5703  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Anaf, W.; Bencs, L.; Van Grieken, R.; Janssens, K.; De Wael, K. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Indoor particulate matter in four Belgian heritage sites : case studies on the deposition of dark-colored and hygroscopic particles Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2015 Publication The science of the total environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 506 Issue Pages 361-368  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)  
  Abstract Atmospheric total suspended particulate (TSP) was passively sampled by means of deployed horizontal and vertical filters in various rooms of four Belgian cultural heritage buildings, installed with various heating/ventilation systems. Soiling/blackening and deposition of inorganic, water-soluble aerosol components were considered. The extent of soiling was determined by means of two independent methods: (1) in terms of the covering rate of the samplers by optical reflection microscopy and (2) the reduction in lightness of the samplers using the CIE L*a*b* color space by spectrophotometry. A fairly good correlation was found between both methods. The inorganic composition of the deposited water-soluble TSP was quantified by means of ion chromatography. Compared to controlled environments, uncontrolled environments showed increased water-soluble aerosol content of the total deposited mass. Higher chloride deposition was observed on horizontal surfaces, compared to vertical surfaces.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000347576800039 Publication Date 2014-11-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited 12 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.9; 2015 IF: 4.099  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:120640 Serial 5662  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.; Huisman, K.; Kort, P. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title The option to abandon : stimulating innovative groundwater remediation technologies characterized by technological uncertainty Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2014 Publication Science Of The Total Environment Abbreviated Journal Sci Total Environ  
  Volume 496 Issue Pages 63-74  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics  
  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.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000342245600009 Publication Date 2014-07-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0048-9697 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.9 Times cited 4 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 4.9; 2014 IF: 4.099  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:119931 Serial 6269  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Vanraes, P.; Bogaerts, A. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Laser-induced excitation mechanisms and phase transitions in spectrochemical analysis – Review of the fundamentals Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Spectrochimica Acta Part B-Atomic Spectroscopy Abbreviated Journal Spectrochim Acta B  
  Volume 179 Issue Pages 106091  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)  
  Abstract Nowadays, lasers are commonly applied in spectrochemical analysis methods, for sampling, plasma formation or a combination of both. Despite the numerous investigations that have been performed on these applications, the underlying processes are still insufficiently understood. In order to fasten progress in the field and in honor of the lifework of professor Rick Russo, we here provide a brief overview of the fundamental mechanisms in lasermatter interaction as proposed in literature, and throw the spotlight on some aspects that have not received much attention yet. For an organized discussion, we choose laser ablation, laser desorption and the associated gaseous plasma formation as the central processes in this perspective article, based on a classification of the laserbased spectrochemical analysis techniques and the corresponding laser-matter interaction regimes. First, we put the looking glass over the excitation and thermalization mechanisms in the laser-irradiated condensed phase, for which we propose the so-called multi-plasma model. This novel model can be understood as an extension of the well-known two-temperature model, featuring multiple thermodynamic dimensions, each of which corresponds to a quasi-particle type. Next, the focus is placed on the mass transfer and ionization mechanisms, after which we shortly highlight the possible role of anisotropic and magnetic effects in the laser-excited material. We hope this perspective article motivates more fundamental research on laser-matter interaction, as a continuation of the lifework of Rick Russo.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000631868700005 Publication Date 2021-03-23  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0584-8547 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.241 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes University of Antwerp; We acknowledge funding by a University of Antwerp BOF grant and by a University of Antwerp Methusalem grant. Approved Most recent IF: 3.241  
  Call Number PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:176876 Serial 6710  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Wittner, N.; Slezsák, J.; Broos, W.; Geerts, J.; Gergely, S.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Cornet, I. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Rapid lignin quantification for fungal wood pretreatment by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Spectrochimica acta: part A: molecular and biomolecular spectroscopy Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume Issue Pages 121912  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)  
  Abstract Lignin determination in lignocellulose with the conventional two-step acid hydrolysis method is highly laborious and time-consuming. However, its quantification is crucial to monitor fungal pretreatment of wood, as the increase of acid-insoluble lignin (AIL) degradation linearly correlates with the achievable enzymatic saccharification yield. Therefore, in this study, a new attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy method was developed to track fungal delignification in an easy and rapid manner. Partial least square regression (PLSR) with cross-validation (CV) was applied to correlate the ATR-FTIR spectra with the AIL content (19.9%–27.1%). After variable selection and normalization, a PLSR model with a high coefficient of determination (  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000985309100010 Publication Date 2022-09-22  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1386-1425 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 4.4 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 4.4; 2023 IF: 2.536  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190328 Serial 7201  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Srivastava, A.; Van Passel, S.; Valkering, P.; Laes, E.J.W. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Power outages and bill savings : a choice experiment on residential demand response acceptability in Delhi Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 143 Issue Pages 110904  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This paper conducts a discrete choice experiment among 167 households in the Delhi region in India, to study the acceptability of demand response (DR) programs among upper-income households. Attributes include rate types, rate bands, reductions in power outages, and expected monthly savings. Results indicate a preference for time-of-use pricing over real-time pricing, and a preference for three rate slabs per day over two. Respondents prioritize reductions in power outages and minimizing potential expenses, reflecting the financial sensitivity and energy poverty relative to other countries. Respondents' ages and incomes further affect the value that they attach to reductions in power outages. The paper proposes various structures of DR programs that could achieve high predicted enrollment and concludes by estimating the potential benefits of implementing such programs. Overall, the analysis indicates that a DR program could be feasible in a developing country context, particularly if it is designed keeping in mind local socio-economic considerations. This may be supported through further confirmatory research.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000637710200016 Publication Date 2021-03-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:178188 Serial 6938  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Dingenen, F.; Verbruggen, S.W. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Tapping hydrogen fuel from the ocean : a review on photocatalytic, photoelectrochemical and electrolytic splitting of seawater Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 142 Issue Pages 110866  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract Direct splitting of earth-abundant seawater provides an eco-friendly route for the production of clean H2, but is hampered by selectivity and stability issues. Direct seawater electrolysis is the most established technology, attaining high current densities in the order of 1–2 A cm−2. Alternatively, light-driven processes such as photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical seawater splitting are particularly promising as well, as they rely on renewable solar power. Solar-to-Hydrogen efficiencies have increased over the past decade from negligible values to about 2%. Especially the absence of large local pH changes (in the order of several tenths of a pH unit compared to up to 9 pH units for electrolysis) is a strong asset for pure photocatalysis. This may lead to less adverse side-reactions such as Cl2 and ClO− formation, (acid or base induced) corrosion and scaling. Besides, additional requirements for electrolytic cells, e.g. membranes and electricity input, are not needed in pure photocatalysis systems. In this review, the state-of-the-art technologies in light-driven seawater splitting are compared to electrochemical approaches with a focus on sustainability and stability. Promising advances are identified at the level of the catalyst as well as the process, and insight is provided in solutions crossing different fields.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000632316600003 Publication Date 2021-03-03  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:175701 Serial 8642  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.; Dewulf, J. url  doi
openurl 
  Title A review on learning effects in prospective technology assessment Type A1 journal article
  Year 2020 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 130 Issue Pages 109937  
  Keywords A1 journal article; Learning effects; Life cycle assessment; Techno-economic assessment; Prospective technology assessment; Learning-by-doing; Learning curve; Progress rate; Experience curve; Engineering Management (ENM) ;  
  Abstract Global environmental problems have urged the need for developing sustainable technologies. However, new technologies that enter the market have often higher economic costs and potentially higher environmental impacts than conventional technologies. This can be explained by learning effects: a production process that is performed for the first time runs less smooth than a production process that has been in operation for years. To obtain a fair estimation of the potential of a new technology, learning effects need to be included. A review on the current literature on learning effects was conducted in order to provide guidelines on how to include learning effects in prospective technology assessment. Based on the results of this review, five recommendations have been formulated and an integration of learning effects in the structure of prospective technology assessment has been proposed. These five recommendations include the combined use of learning effects on the component level and on the end product level; the combined use of learning effects on the technical, economic and environmental level; the combined use of extrapolated values and expert estimates; the combined use of learning-by-doing and learning-by-searching effects and; a tier-based method, including quality criteria, to calculate the learning effect. These five complementary strategies could lead to a clearer perspective on the environmental impact and cost structure of the new technology and a fairer comparison base with conventional technologies, potentially resulting in a faster adoption and a shorter time-to-market for sustainable technologies.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000548790900008 Publication Date 2020-06-10  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 15.9 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes The authors acknowledge the full financial support received from the Flemish administration via the Steunpunt Circulaire Economie (Policy Research Centre Circular Economy). We would also like to thank the SDEWES conference for the best paper award which was granted to the current paper. The authors declare no competing financial interests. This publication contains the opinions of the authors, not that of the Flemish administration. The Flemish administration will not carry any liability with respect to the use that can be made of the produced data or conclusions. Approved Most recent IF: 15.9; 2020 IF: 8.05  
  Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:170076 Serial 6389  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Milis, K.; Peremans, H.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Steering the adoption of battery storage through electricity tariff design Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2018 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 98 Issue 98 Pages 125-139  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The economic viability of electricity storage using batteries, under different tariff structures and system configurations, is investigated. The economic outcomes of the different combinations of tariff design and system configuration are evaluated. Based on a discussion of the relevant literature, the following tariff designs are used in the study: (i) fixed energy prices, (ii) real-time energy pricing, (iii) fixed rate capacity tariffs, and (iv) capacity dependent capacity tariffs. Next, the different simulated system configurations are outlined: (i) no battery storage, (ii) battery storage only, and (iii) battery storage and decentralized renewable energy production with PV. Our study provides insights for policy makers, showing that capacity block pricing only incentivises storage as part of an (existing) PV installation, while the combination of real time energy pricing and capacity block pricing promotes a wider adoption of battery storage.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000450559100010 Publication Date 2018-09-17  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 7 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153327 Serial 6252  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Milis, K.; Peremans, H.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title The impact of policy on microgrid economics : a review Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2018 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 81 Issue 2 Pages 3111-3119  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This paper investigates the impact of government policy on the optimal design of microgrid systems from an economic cost minimisation perspective, and provides both an overview of the current state of the art of the field, as well as highlighting possible avenues of future research. Integer programming, to select microgrid components and to economically dispatch these components, is the optimisation method of choice in the literature. Using this methodology, a broad range of policy topics is investigated: impact of carbon taxation, economic incentives and mandatory emissions reduction or mandatory minimum percentage participation of renewables in local generation. However, the impact of alternative tariff systems, such as capacity tariffs are still unexplored. Additionally, the investigated possible benefits of microgrids are confined to emissions reduction and a possible decrease in total energy procurement costs. Possible benefits such as increased security of supply, increased power quality or energy independence are not investigated yet. Under the expected policy measures the optimal design of a microgrid will be based on a CHP-unit to provide both heat and electricity, owning to the lower capital costs associated with CHP-units when compared to those associated with renewable technologies. This means that current economic analyses indicate that the adoption of renewable energy sources within microgrids is not economically rational.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000417078200117 Publication Date 2017-09-12  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 11 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:145397 Serial 6213  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Rafiaani, P.; Kuppens, T.; Van Dael, M.; Azadi, H.; Lebailly, P.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Social sustainability assessments in the biobased economy : towards a systemic approach Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2018 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 82 Issue 2 Pages 1839-1853  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The majority of impact assessments for the biobased economy are primarily focused on the environmental and (techno-)economic aspects, while social aspects are rarely considered. This study proposes a modified systemic approach for a social sustainability impact assessment of the biobased economy, based on a review on the common methodologies for assessing social impacts. Accordingly, the proposed approach follows the four general iterative steps of social life cycle analysis (SLCA) as it considers all life cycle phases of the biobased economy. The systemic approach considers the potential social impacts on local communities, workers, and consumers as the main three groups of the stakeholders. The review showed that the most common social indicators for inventory analysis within the biobased economy include health and safety, food security, income, employment, land- and worker-related concerns, energy security, profitability, and gender issues. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was also highlighted as the broadly utilized methodology for aggregating the results of impact assessments within the biobased economy. Taking a life cycle perspective, this study provides a holistic view of the full sustainability of research, design, and innovation in the biobased economy by suggesting the integration of the social aspects with techno-economic and an environmental life cycle assessment. Our proposed systemic approach makes possible to integrate the social impacts that are highly valued by the affected stakeholders into the existing sustainability models that focus only on environmental and techno-economic aspects. We discuss the steps of the proposed systemic approach in order to identify the challenges of applying them within the biobased economy. These challenges refer mainly to the definition of the functional unit and system boundaries, the selection and the analysis of social indicators (inventory analysis), the aggregation of the inventory to impact categories, and the uncertainties associated with the social sustainability evaluation. The result of this review and the proposed systemic approach serve as a foundation for industry and policy makers to gain a better insight into the importance of social sustainability impacts assessment within the biobased economy.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000423371300014 Publication Date 2017-08-01  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 28 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149031 Serial 6250  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Moretti, M.; Njakou Djomo, S.; Azadi, H.; May, K.; De Vos, K.; Van Passel, S.; Witters, N. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title A systematic review of environmental and economic impacts of smart grids Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 888-898  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Smart grids (SGs) have a central role in the development of the global power sector. Cost-benefit analyses and environmental impact assessments are used to support policy on the deployment of SG systems and technologies. However, the conflicting and widely varying estimates of costs, benefits, greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction, and energy savings in literature leave policy makers struggling with how to advise regarding SG deployment. Identifying the causes for the wide variation of individual estimates in the literature is crucial if evaluations are to be used in decision-making. This paper (i) summarizes and compares the methodologies used for economic and environmental evaluation of SGs (ii) identifies the sources of variation in estimates across studies, and (iii) point to gap in research on economic and environmental analyses of SG systems. Seventeen studies (nine articles and eight reports published between 2000 and 2015) addressing the economic costs versus benefits, energy efficiency, and GHG emissions of SGs were systematically searched, located, selected, and reviewed. Their methods and data were subsequently extracted and analysed. The results show that no standardized method currently exists for assessing the economic and environmental impacts of SG systems. The costs varied between 0.03 and 1143 M/yr, while the benefits ranged from 0.04 to 804 M/yr, suggesting that SG systems do not result in cost savings The primary energy savings ranged from 0.03 to 0.95 MJ/kWh, whereas the GHG emission reduction ranged from 10 to 180 gCO2/kWh, depending on the country grid mix and the system boundary of the SG system considered. The findings demonstrate that although SG systems are energy efficient and reduce GHG emissions, investments in SG systems may not yield any benefits. Standardizing some methodologies and assumptions such as discount rates, time horizon and scrutinizing some key input data will result in more consistent estimates of costs and benefits, GHG emission reduction, and energy savings.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000391899400006 Publication Date 2016-03-24  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 27 Open Access  
  Notes ; We would like to thank the editor and the anonymous referees for their helpful suggestions and insightful comments that have significantly improved the paper. This research paper has been implemented within the GREAT (Growing Renewable Energy Applications and Technologies) project funded by the European INTERREG IVB North-Western Europe Programme. Nele Witters was financed by FWO (Research Foundation Flanders). ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139036 Serial 6260  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Thomassen, G.; Van Dael, M.; Lemmens, B.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title A review of the sustainability of algal-based biorefineries : towards an integrated assessment framework Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2017 Publication Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews Abbreviated Journal Renew Sust Energ Rev  
  Volume 68 Issue 2 Pages 876-887  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract Algal-based bioenergy products have faced multiple economic and environmental problems. To counter these problems, algal-based biorefineries have been proposed as a promising solution. Multiple environmental and economic assessments have analyzed this concept. However, a wide variation in results was reported. This study performs a review to evaluate the methodological reasons behind this variation. Based on this review, four main challenges for a sustainability assessment were identified: 1) the use of a clear framework; 2) the adaptation of the methodology to all stages of technological maturity; 3) the use of harmonized assumptions; 4) the integration of the technological process. A generic methodology, based on the integration of a techno-economic assessment methodology and a streamlined life cycle assessment was proposed. This environmental techno-economic assessment can be performed following an iterative approach during each stage of technology development. In this way, crucial technological parameters can be directly identified and evaluated during the maturation of the technology. The use of this assessment methodology can therefore act as guidance to decrease the time-to-market for innovative and sustainable technologies.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000391899400005 Publication Date 2016-03-16  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 1364-0321; 1879-0690 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 8.05 Times cited 23 Open Access  
  Notes ; ; Approved Most recent IF: 8.05  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:139038 Serial 6245  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Van Schoubroeck, S.; Chacon, L.; Reynolds, A.M.; Lavoine, N.; Hakovirta, M.; Gonzalez, R.; Van Passel, S.; Venditti, R.A. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Environmental sustainability perception toward obvious recovered waste content in paper-based packaging : an online and in-person survey best-worst scaling experiment Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 188 Issue Pages 106682-13  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract This study explores consumers' visual sustainability impressions of paper-based packaging that has incorporated obvious waste content. Two research questions were addressed concerning (i) the environmental sustainability perception of noticeable waste content in packaging and (ii) the impact of the presentation format (i.e., online versus in-person surveys) when studying these perceptions. Best-worst scaling experiments were conducted, which made respondents choose the 'most' and 'least' environmentally friendly package. Packages were designed using paperboard substrates blending either brown linerboard or white hardwood pulp with different recovered waste materials. The results showed that consumers perceive obvious waste-containing packaging as more environmentally friendly than classical packaging (with no visual waste). Samples with a brown base and agricultural waste were perceived as more sustainable compared to white packaging and the use of paper waste. In addition, the presentation format changed respondents' perception, and should therefore be carefully considered when designing surveys.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000867675200002 Publication Date 2022-09-30  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2023 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191509 Serial 7357  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Borms, L.; Brusselaers, J.; Vrancken, K.C.M.; Deckmyn, S.; Marynissen, P. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Toward resilient organizations after COVID-19 : an analysis of circular and less circular companies Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2023 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal  
  Volume 188 Issue Pages 106681-15  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic had large repercussions for our economy and organizations. Improved resilience can give organizations the ability to withstand crises and build back better and faster. This article assesses resilience of organizations and sole proprietorships in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic with eight circular strategies as explanatory variables. Furthermore, these eight circular strategies are also used to assess the organizations' and sole proprietorships' resilience outside of the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis is conducted to explain how circular strategies can help companies and sole proprietorships maintain stability. The analysis was performed by means of a survey conducted between May and June 2020 in Flanders (Belgium), using a sample of 542 respondents. After performing a regression analysis combined with expert opinions collected through interviews, we find that companies and sole proprietorships with a higher circularity score have a significantly higher resilience score during crises and during normal times, compared to less circular companies. Furthermore, we find that the size of the company does not matter during a crisis to adapt and react flexibly, while it is important when there is no crisis. Finally, we argue that it is the combination of different circular strategies which yields to the highest results for the organizations' resilience and we provide policy recommendations based on the most asked support measures.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000867675200008 Publication Date 2022-09-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2023 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:191513 Serial 7344  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Spiller, M.; Moretti, M.; De Paepe, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Environmental and economic sustainability of the nitrogen recovery paradigm : evidence from a structured literature review Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 184 Issue Pages 106406-106413  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract Our economy drives on reactive nitrogen (Nr); while Nr emissions to the environment surpass the planetary boundary. Increasingly, it is advocated to recover Nr contained in waste streams and to reuse it ‘directly’ in the agri-food chain. Alternatively, Nr in waste streams may be removed as N2 and refixed via the Haber-Bosch process in an ‘indirect’ reuse loop. As a systematic sustainability analysis of ‘direct’ Nr reuse and its comparison to the ‘indirect’ reuse loop is lacking, this structured review aimed to analyze literature determining the environmental and economic sustainability of Nr recovery technologies. Bibliometric records were queried from 2000 to 2020 using Boolean search strings, and manual text coding. In total, 63 studies were selected for the review. Results suggest that ‘direct’ Nr reuse using Nr recovery technologies is the preferred paradigm as the majority of studies concluded that it is sustainable or that it can be sustainable depending on technological assumptions and other scenario variables. Only 17 studies compared the ‘direct’ with the ‘indirect’ Nr reuse route, therefore a system perspective in Nr recovery sustainability assessments should be more widely adopted. Furthermore, Nr reuse should also be analyzed in the context of a ‘new Nr economy’ that relies on decentralized Nr production from renewable energy. It is also recommended that on-par technology readiness level comparisons should be carried out, making use of technology development and technology learning methodologies. Finally, by-products of Nr recovery are important to be accounted for as they are reducing the environmental burdens through avoided impacts.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000804938100001 Publication Date 2022-05-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:188873 Serial 7156  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Thomassen, G.; Dewulf, J.; Van Passel, S. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Prospective material and substance flow analysis of the end-of-life phase of crystalline silicon-based PV modules Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2022 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 176 Issue Pages 105917  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)  
  Abstract The approaching end-of life phase of early installed PV modules gave rise to a variety of potential end-of-life strategies, ranging from basic generic waste management strategies to advanced case-specific recycling options. However, no comprehensive assessment on the full range of technological possibilities is available and only limited attention was given to the material recovery rates of these different technologies in light of circular economy. In addition, current material recovery rates are indifferent towards the material value and the value of their secondary applications. Based on an extensive literature review, ten end-of-life scenarios with potential learning effects are identified and their material flows are quantified using a combined material and substance flow analysis. Subsequently, material recovery rates from a mass, economic value and embodied energy perspective are calculated, incorporating the differences in secondary applications. The differences in the mass-based recovery rates of the seven end-of-life scenarios that did not have landfill or municipal waste incineration as the main destination were minimal, as 73-79% of the mass was recovered for the best-case learning scenario. For the economic value recovery rate (9-66%) and the embodied energy recovery rate (18-45%), more profound differences were found. The collection rate was identified as most crucial parameter for all end-of-life scenarios, learning scenarios and recycling indicators. The mass-based recovery rate might favor end-of-life scenarios that lead to dissipation of valuable materials in non-functional secondary applications. Additional targets are required to avoid cascading of valuable materials and to avoid the economic cost and environmental burden of virgin materials.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000708339400003 Publication Date 2021-10-08  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 13.2  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:182462 Serial 6939  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Larraín, M.; Van Passel, S.; Thomassen, G.; Van Gorp, B.; Nhu, T.T.; Huysveld, S.; Van Geem, K.M.; De Meester, S.; Billen, P. pdf  url
doi  openurl
  Title Techno-economic assessment of mechanical recycling of challenging post-consumer plastic packaging waste Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 170 Issue Pages 105607  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)  
  Abstract Increasing plastic recycling rates is crucial to tackle plastic pollution and reduce consumption of fossil resources. Recycling routes for post-consumer plastic fractions that are technologically and economically feasible remain a challenge. Profitable value chains for recycling mixed film and tray-like plastics have hardly been implemented today, in sharp contrast to recycling of relatively pure fractions such as polyethylene terephthalate and high-density polyethylene bottles. This study examines the economic feasibility of implementing mechanical recycling for plastic waste such as polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene films and mixed polyolefins. In most European countries these plastic fractions are usually incinerated or landfilled whilst in fact technologies exist to mechanically recycle them into regranulates or regrinds. Results show that the economic incentives for the recycling of plastic packaging depend predominantly on the product price and product yield. At current price levels, the most profitable plastic fraction to be recycled is PS rigids, with an internal rate of return of 14%, whereas the least profitable feed is a mixed polyolefin fraction with a negative internal rate of return in a scenario with steadily rising oil prices. Moreover, these values would be substantially reduced if oil prices, and therefore plastic product prices decrease. Considering a discount rate of 15% for a 15-year period, mechanical recycling is not profitable if no policy changes would be imposed by governments. Clearly low oil prices may jeopardize the mechanical recycling industry, inducing the need for policies that would increase the demand of recycled products such as imposing minimal recycled content targets.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000667309200042 Publication Date 2021-04-20  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:177325 Serial 6946  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Parchomenko, A.; Nelen, D.; Gillabel, J.; Vrancken, K.C.M.; Rechberger, H. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Resource effectiveness of the European automotive sector : a statistical entropy analysis over time Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2021 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 169 Issue Pages 105558  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract The European automotive sector is faced with potentially disruptive challenges. In particular, the projected increase in the share of electric vehicles (EVs) and calls to prepare for the implementation of more circular economy (CE) strategies are increasingly demanding systemic adaptations. Given the goals of the CE, the adaptations should enable a maximal preservation of the function and value of products (e.g. extension of lifetime), components (e.g. reuse of parts) and materials (e.g., material recycling), thus saving on the energy, materials and effort that would be required to restore the lost functionalities. In this context, statistical entropy analysis (SEA) is proposed as a methodology to assess the effort needed for preserving and restoring functionality at different product, component and material life cycle stages. Effort is measured as changes in statistical entropy that are caused by concentration and dilution activities in the production – consumption – End-of-Life (EoL) system. SEA was applied to a generic model of the European automotive system, in combination with a stock-driven model and a material flow analysis (MFA), allowing statistical entropy changes to be projected over time. The paper demonstrates how SEA can facilitate decision making on the transition towards a more circular economy by quantifying the effects of particular CE strategies and their combinations. The results show that without any additional system adaptations, an increasing share of EVs towards the year 2050 will lead to substantially increased effort in production as well as end-of-life vehicle treatment.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000657320800074 Publication Date 2021-03-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess  
  Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:179770 Serial 8475  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author De Weerdt, L.; Sasao, T.; Compernolle, T.; Van Passel, S.; De Jaeger, S. url  doi
openurl 
  Title The effect of waste incineration taxation on industrial plastic waste generation: A panel analysis Type A1 Journal Article
  Year 2020 Publication Resources Conservation And Recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 157 Issue Pages 104717  
  Keywords A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;  
  Abstract Waste treatment taxation is a popular policy instrument in many European countries and regions. Its impact on household waste has extensively been researched. However, only little research exists which looks into the impact of waste treatment taxation on industrial waste generation. Nevertheless, industrial waste constitutes more than ninety percent of waste generated in the European Union. This study assesses the impact of an incineration tax on the generation of industrial plastic waste in Flanders, Belgium. We conduct different types of econometrical panel analyzes and provide statistical evidence that firms show lagged behavior, which means that the previous year’s waste generation partly determines the current year’s. The dynamic panel estimations show robust results, indicating that a growth of incineration taxes exert significant negative effects on the growth of industrial plastic waste generation. This result offers no argument to iteratively raise incineration taxes. We conclude that incineration taxation is meaningful if tax rates are set according to the prevailing market conditions, i.e. taking into account the marginal costs of alternatives for incineration. In the short run, the effectiveness of taxation will quickly diminish due to the rapidly rising marginal costs of waste reduction. In the long run, extra recycling capacity is needed to recycle the minimized waste fraction. The role of taxation in the long run is to maintain an equilibrium in which recycling is preferred by the market.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000540606400023 Publication Date 2020-02-18  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 13.2 Times cited Open Access  
  Notes Flemish Circular Economy Policy Research Centre; Research Foundation Flanders, 12M7417N ; Approved Most recent IF: 13.2; 2020 IF: 3.313  
  Call Number ENM @ enm @c:irua:167590 Serial 6352  
Permanent link to this record
 

 
Author Alaerts, L.; Van Acker, K.; Rousseau, S.; De Jaeger, S.; Moraga, G.; Dewulf, J.; De Meester, S.; Van Passel, S.; Compernolle, T.; Bachus, K.; Vrancken, K.; Eyckmans, J. url  doi
openurl 
  Title Towards a more direct policy feedback in circular economy monitoring via a societal needs perspective Type A1 Journal article
  Year 2019 Publication Resources, conservation and recycling Abbreviated Journal Resour Conserv Recy  
  Volume 149 Issue 149 Pages 363-371  
  Keywords A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)  
  Abstract The increasing focus on circular economy at the level of governments and policy requires the development of appropriate indicators to effectively monitor the progress towards the circular economy. Currently two very different types of indicator areas are under development: (i) monitoring frameworks based on macro indicators that summarize the progress at (supra)national level, and (ii) micro indicators tailored towards assessing circularity at the level of products. It is not possible to obtain sufficiently direct feedback about the impact of policy interventions by either macro or micro indicators alone. In this paper, a conceptual approach is developed that aims to bridge the gap between the micro and macro level with meso level indicators, and thus ultimately deliver more direct feedback for policymakers, via the insertion of an extra level of meso indicators in between the macro and the micro level. These indicators have been extracted from a dedicated workshop that involved policy, sector and societal stakeholders. The aim of these indicators is to report on progress towards circular economy objectives based on the fulfillment of societal needs. In this way the consumption perspective is given a central position, and the role of circular business models is acknowledged. Following the development of the concept, the next steps towards tailored, flexible and agile monitoring frameworks for circular economy at (supra)national and regional level are outlined. The paper concludes with an illustrative example of the framework applied to the mobility system.  
  Address  
  Corporate Author Thesis  
  Publisher Place of Publication Editor  
  Language Wos 000483414300034 Publication Date 2019-06-21  
  Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title  
  Series Volume Series Issue Edition  
  ISSN 0921-3449 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles  
  Impact Factor 3.313 Times cited 1 Open Access  
  Notes ; The authors are very grateful for financial support received from the Flemish administration via the Steunpunt Circulaire Economie (Policy Research Centre Circular Economy). This publication contains the opinions of the authors, not that of the Flemish administration. The Flemish administration will not carry any liability with respect to the use that can be made of the produced data or conclusions. The authors are also grateful to the numerous stakeholders for extended discussions and comments. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.313  
  Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162774 Serial 6271  
Permanent link to this record
Select All    Deselect All
 |   | 
Details
   print

Save Citations:
Export Records: