“Weathering of Leinster granite under ambient atmospheric conditions”. Sweevers E, Peeters A, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 167, 73 (1995). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(95)04571-H
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(95)04571-H
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“The elemental chemistry of sediments in the Nainital lake, Kumaun Himalaya, India”. Das BK, Singh M, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 168, 85 (1995). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(95)04242-S
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(95)04242-S
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“Surface composition alteration of bare and treated limestones after ambient exposure”. Vleugels G, Fobe B, Dewolfs R, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 151, 59 (1994). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(94)90486-3
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(94)90486-3
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“Elemental concentrations and heavy metal pollution in sediments and suspended matter from the Belgian North Sea and the Scheldt estuary”. van Alsenoy V, Bernard P, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 133, 153 (1993). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(93)90119-Q
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(93)90119-Q
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“Composition and sources of atmospheric particulate matter at Kayseri, Central Turkey”. Kartal S, Dogan M, Rojas CM, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 133, 83 (1993). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(93)90114-L
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(93)90114-L
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“Size-differentiated composition of aerosols in Khartoum, Sudan”. Eltayeb MAH, van Espen PJ, Cafmeyer J, Van Grieken RE, Maenhaut W, The science of the total environment 120, 281 (1992). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(92)90062-W
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Chemometrics (Mitac 3)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(92)90062-W
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“The elemental composition of airborne particulate matter in the Atacama desert, Chile”. Rojas CM, Figueroa L, Janssens KH, Van Espen PE, Adams FC, Van Grieken RE, The science of the total environment 91, 251 (1990). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(90)90302-B
Abstract: Air particulate samples were collected at Chapiquiña near Arica (Chile) with a six-stage cascade impactor for about 17-day periods during a 31 month interval. Sixteen elements were determined by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis, and the elemental concentrations were subjected to principal factor analysis. The variability with time of the coarse particles was described by two factors both related to soil dispersion, whereas the fine particle variations could be explained by a third factor related to marine influence. Enrichment factors were compared with those obtained in other remote continental areas, in particular those of air particulate matter sampled at Chacaltaya, Bolivia. Results point to a negligible anthropogenic influence.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90302-B
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“Characterization of the weathering crust of various historical buildings in Belgium”. Leysen LA, Roekens EJ, Van Grieken RE, De Geyter G, The science of the total environment 90, 117 (1990). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(90)90190-6
Abstract: A variety of samples, collected from different historical buildings and monuments throughout Belgium, were thoroughly studied, using several trace- and micro-analysis techniques. Thin sections of stones and mortar joints were characterized by means of electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA). The morphological appearance of the surface weathering crust and the possible presence of non-innate particles in the crust were elucidated using petrographical and electron microscopy. Quantitative characterization of the total chemical composition of the crust surface layer and underlying layer was performed by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence, and by ion chromatography and atomic absorption spectrometry for the leachable components. Special attention was also paid to the chemical composition of rain and air at the particular sampling sites. The element distribution in the transition zone between the weathering crust and the original stone material was found to vary greatly amongst the different samples analyzed. Detailed EPXMA measurements on pieces of the weathering crust showed remarkable differences in morphology and composition between the surface and the underlying layer, and provided information about the presence of fly-ash and soil dust particles in the crust. Except for crusts from the city of Brussels, which were all very high in sulphate, the samples appeared to contain very variable sulphate contents; very local micro-climate and environmental conditions at a particular site are more important in determining the weathering condition of the building stones than the local air pollution situation. Bulk analytical characterization further showed, in all the crust samples studied, a very small contribution of nitrogen- and chlorine-containing weathering products, in contrast to sulphur-containing weathering salts.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90190-6
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“Lead particles in an urban atmosphere : an individual particle approach”. Van Borman W, Wouters L, Van Grieken R, Adams F, The science of the total environment 90, 55 (1990). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(90)90185-W
Abstract: In air particulate matter, sampled at a suburban site near the city of Antwerp, Belgium, more than 1500 individual Pb-containing aerosol particles with projected diameters between 0.2 and 15 μm were analyzed by automated electron probe X-ray micro analysis (EPXMA) for 26 elements and morphological features. Laser microprobe mass analysis (LAMMA) was used to detect elements with Z < 11, particularly ammonium compounds. The Pb-containing particles were classified into five main classes: Pb-sulfates, Pb-halides, soil related Pb, Pb associated with medium atomic number elements and Pb associated with high atomic number elements. Each class was divided into several distinct particle types, of which the abundance (in number and mass %), the mean projected particle diameter, and the chemical composition were determined. Auto exhaust products are responsible for Pb-sulfates and Pb-halides, making up respectively 66.7 and 27.8% by mass of the Pb-containing particles. Ammonium sulfate coatings were found to be present on nearly all Pb particles. The observations were correlated with daily concentrations of Pb and Br, obtained by particle induced X-ray emission analysis (PIXE).
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90185-W
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“Endolithic cyanobacteria in Maastricht limestone”. Saiz-Jimenez C, Garcia-Rowe J, Garcia Del Cura MA, Ortega-Camvo JJ, Roekens E, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 94, 209 (1990). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(90)90171-P
Abstract: The Maastricht limestone used for the construction of the 14th century O.L. Basilica in Tongeren, Belgium, is a light yellowish, porous, soft rock of the Late Cretaceous age. The limestone has a high carbonate content (> 95%); quartz and glauconite occur rarely. On the north side of the building, there is extensive growth of epilithic algae. On the south side, an assemblage of organisms was observed beneath the abiotic surface. This community, developed as a green layer 1 mm below the surface, is dominated by cyanobacteria. A moss was also present. The organisms were studied by transmitted light, phase contrast and scanning electron microscopy, and isolated in cultures. The cyanobacteria belong to the genera Synechococcus and Chroococcidiopsis, and the moss was identified as Tortula muralis Hedw. The organic matter present in the green layer was characterized in terms of molecular components using analytical pyrolysis. Pyrolysis products from polysaccharides and proteins, and evaporation/pyrolysis products from lipids, comprise the vast majority of identified compounds. The identification of specific biomarkers such as 7-methylheptadecane is further evidence of the presence of cyanobacteria. Phytenes and phytadienes are indicative of phototrophic organisms, as they are pyrolysis products from chlorophylls.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90171-P
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“Iron, copper, zinc and lead in hair from Sudanese populations of different age groups”. Eltayeb MAH, Van Grieken RE, The science of the total environment 95, 157 (1990). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(90)90061-X
Abstract: Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence was used for the analysis of hair samples from three different age groups of the Sudanese population. Hair samples were digested in a mixture of nitric and perchloric acids and the metals were then precipitated with ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate. The variations of the Fe, Cu, Zn and Pb content of hair with age were investigated. The averages of the elemental concentrations in each age group were compared with the other age groups and with literature values. The correlation of each pair of elements in the hair samples was also investigated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90061-X
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“Heavy metals in sediments of the Yamura River (a tributary of the Ganges), India”. Jha PK, Subramanian V, Sitasawad R, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 95, 7 (1990). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(90)90049-Z
Abstract: Yamuna River sediments are more enriched in metals than those of the Ganges and average Indian river sediments. Variation of metals in suspended, bed and core sediment are due to the varying proportions of grain size and mineral content. Iron, Mn and Pb show a preference for the oxide fraction, whereas Cu and Zn are predominant in organic and carbonate fractions of sediments. Of the total elemental content, 80% Mn, 78% Fe, 69% Pb, 67% Cu and 55% Zn are available in chemically mobile phases of the sediments. The high partition coefficient of metals with respect to Mn suggests similar chemical mobility and preferences for solid phases. River sediments in the vicinity of Delhi show an increase in sorption of metals downstream, consequently metals are retained in sediments. The high correlation coefficient and significant regression relation among the metals indicate their similar behaviour during transport. At Allahabad, the contribution of the Yamuna to the Ganges is 3200 t Pb year−1, 12 100 t Zn year−1 and 8500 t Cu year−1 in particulate form.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90049-Z
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“Air-pollution-induced chemical decay of a sandy-limestone cathedral in Belgium”. Leysen L, Roekens E, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 78, 263 (1989). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(89)90038-7
Abstract: Different trace- and microanalytical techniques were used in an extensive study to elucidate the chemical deterioration process of the sandy-limestone St Rombouts Cathedral in Mechelen, Belgium. Samples of stones, mortar joints, slates, atmospheric aerosols and gases, total and wet deposition, and water that had run down the cathedral walls, were all thoroughly characterized. At the east side, usually not exposed to precipitation, a 3001000-μm thick outer crust of microcrystalline gypsum was observed, while at the west side, this surface layer was mostly eroded away due to precipitation. At the north and south sides, the crust contains varying amounts of gypsum and calcite. The gypsum is mostly present in a bar-shaped morphology and carbonaceous fly-ash particles were rarely found in the weathering crust. Local stone characteristics seem to be extremely important in relation to the gypsum content of the crust; black samples always have a much higher sulphate content than the corresponding white samples, irrespective of the predominant direction of orientation. The relative contribution of nitrogen- and chlorine-containing pollutants to the total decay process is much smaller than that of sulphur-containing pollutants. Deposition samples collected at the site of the cathedral mostly had a pH of > 5.6, due to the neutralization of the rainwater by alkaline atmospheric constituents. Runoff water and washdown water were enriched in all ions, especially Ca2+ and SO42−, indicating that, indeed, gypsum is the most important weathering product. The suspension in deposition samples and black-well leaching water was highly enriched in silicon-containing particles, while runoff water and white-wall leaching water contained a predominant calcium-rich suspension.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(89)90038-7
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“Selenium in environmental and drinking waters of Belgium”. Robberecht H, Van Grieken R, van Sprundel M, vanden Berghe D, Deelstra H, The science of the total environment 26, 163 (1983). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(83)90109-2
Abstract: The tetravalent and hexavalent selenium content of water samples can be determined by conventional energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence after different preconcentration steps. Selenium values of nearly three-hundred different environmental and drinking water samples in Belgium are reported. The results are quite low, ranging from the detection limits up to 1 μg l−1. The concentration levels are compared to literature data and the speciation is discussed. The contribution of drinking water to the daily intake of selenium in Belgium ranges from less than 0.2 to 5%.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(83)90109-2
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“Metal pollution and selenium distributions in soils and grass near a non-ferrous plant”. Robberecht H, Deelstra H, vanden Berghe D, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 29, 229 (1983). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(83)90093-1
Abstract: Multi-element analysis results of direct energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence of soil samples taken in the vicinity of a non-ferrous plant in Antwerp are reported. High concentrations of Pb, Cu, Zn, As and Se are found in nearby residential areas, especially in top-soil layers. Selenium pollution appears not to be leached significantly to lower soil horizons, but it is available for uptake by rye-grass, in which toxic levels are found. Results are compared to literature data. Hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry proved to be unsuitable for direct analysis of the heavily contaminated soils.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(83)90093-1
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“Selenium in the Belgian soils and its uptake by rye-grass”. Robberecht H, vanden Berghe D, Deelstra H, Van Grieken R, The science of the total environment 25, 61 (1982). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(82)90042-0
Abstract: Data obtained by atomic absorption spectroscopy showed a selenium concentration of only 0.11 ppm as an average value for the most representative agricultural soils in Belgium. The selenium content in rye-grass grown on different soil types was between 0.05 and 0.11 ppm, and positively correlated with the soil selenium level. Addition of selenium in the form of selenite to the different soil types resulted in an increased selenium uptake by the plant. The ultimate concentration in the plant depended on the structural and chemical composition of the soil. Twelve other elements were determined in the soils by energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence; none showed a strong correlation with the soil selenium content or with the selenium uptake by ryegrass.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Pharmacology. Therapy; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(82)90042-0
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“Chemical composition of sediments and suspended matter from the Cauvery and Brahmaputra rivers (India)”. Dekov VM, Araujo F, Van Grieken R, Subramanian V, The science of the total environment 203, 51 (1997)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
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“The environmental impact of household's water use: A case study in Flanders assessing various water sources, production methods and consumption patterns”. Thomassen G, Huysveld S, Boone L, Vilain C, Geysen D, Huysman K, Cools B, Dewulf J, Science Of The Total Environment 770, 145398 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145398
Abstract: Responsible water use and sustainable consumption and production are high on the agenda of multiple stakeholders. Different water supply sources are available, including tap water, bottled water, domestically harvested rainwater and domestically abstracted groundwater. The extent to which each of these water supply sources is used, differs over consumption patterns in various housing types, being detached houses, semi-detached houses, terraced houses and apartments. To identify the environmental impact of a household's water use and potential environmental impact reduction strategies, a holistic assessment is required. In this paper, the environmental impact of a household's water use in Flanders (Belgium) was assessed including four different water supply sources and four different consumption patterns by means of a life cycle assessment. The outcomes of this study reveal a large difference between the environmental impact of bottled water use, having a global warming impact of 259 kg CO2-eq.·m−3, compared to the other three supply sources. Tap water supply had the lowest global warming impact (0.17 kg CO2-eq.·m−3) and resource footprint (6.51 MJex·m−3) of all water supply sources. The most efficient strategy to reduce the environmental impact of household's water use is to shift the water consumption from bottled to tap water consumption. This would induce a reduction in global warming impact of the water use of an inhabitant in Flanders by on average 80%, saving 0.1 kg CO2-eq.·day−1 in case of groundwater-based tap water. These results provide insights into sustainable water use for multiple consumption patterns and can be used to better frame the environmental benefits of tap water use.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145398
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“The option to abandon : stimulating innovative groundwater remediation technologies characterized by technological uncertainty”. Compernolle T, Van Passel S, Huisman K, Kort P, Science Of The Total Environment 496, 63 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.07.019
Abstract: Many studies on technology adoption demonstrate that uncertainty leads to a postponement of investments by integrating a wait option in the economic analysis. The aim of this study however is to demonstrate how the investment in new technologies can be stimulated by integrating an option to abandon. Furthermore, this real option analysis not only considers the ex ante decision analysis of the investment in a new technology under uncertainty, but also allows for an ex post evaluation of the investment. Based on a case study regarding the adoption of an innovative groundwater remediation strategy, it is demonstrated that when the option to abandon the innovative technology is taken into account, the decision maker decides to invest in this technology, while at the same time it determines an optimal timing to abandon the technology if its operation proves to be inefficient. To reduce uncertainty about the effectiveness of groundwater remediation technologies, samples are taken. Our analysis shows that when the initial belief in an effective innovative technology is low, it is important that these samples provide correct information in order to justify the adoption of the innovative technology. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.07.019
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“Indoor particulate matter in four Belgian heritage sites : case studies on the deposition of dark-colored and hygroscopic particles”. Anaf W, Bencs L, Van Grieken R, Janssens K, De Wael K, The science of the total environment 506, 361 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.11.018
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.11.018
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“Magnetic- and particle-based techniques to investigate metal deposition on urban green”. Castanheiro A, Samson R, De Wael K, The science of the total environment 571, 594 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2016.07.026
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 4.9
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2016.07.026
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“Leaching of two fungicides in spent mushroom substrate amended soil : I influence of amendment rate, fungicide ageing and flow condition”. Álvarez-Martín A, Sanchez-Martin MJ, Ordax JM, Marin-Benito JM, Sonia Rodriguez-Cruz M, The science of the total environment 584, 828 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2017.01.126
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2017.01.126
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“Impact of urban street canyon architecture on local atmospheric pollutant levels and magneto-chemical PM10 composition : an experimental study in Antwerp, Belgium”. Hofman J, Castanheiro A, Nuyts G, Joosen S, Spassov S, Blust R, De Wael K, Lenaerts S, Samson R, The science of the total environment 712, 135534 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2019.135534
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2019.135534
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“Characterization of radioactive particles from the Dounreay nuclear reprocessing facility”. Byrnes I, Lind OC, Hansen EL, Janssens K, Salbu B, Science Of The Total Environment 727, 138488 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.138488
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 9.8
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.138488
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“Farmers' decision to use drought early warning system in developing countries”. Sharafi L, Zarafshani K, Keshavarz M, Azadi H, Van Passel S, Science Of The Total Environment 758, 142761 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.142761
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.142761
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“A systematic comparison of commercially produced struvite : quantities, qualities and soil-maize phosphorus availability”. Muys M, Phukan R, Brader G, Samad A, Moretti M, Haiden B, Pluchon S, Roest K, Vlaeminck SE, Spiller M, Science Of The Total Environment 756, 143726 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.143726
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2020.143726
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“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”. Xie Y, Spiller M, Vlaeminck SE, The science of the total environment 806, 150415 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.150415
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.150415
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“Storage without nitrite or nitrate enables the long-term preservation of full-scale partial nitritation/anammox sludge”. Zhu W, Van Tendeloo M, Xie Y, Timmer MJ, Peng L, Vlaeminck SE, The science of the total environment 806, 151330 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.151330
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2021.151330
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“Regulating light, oxygen and volatile fatty acids to boost the productivity of purple bacteria biomass, protein and co-enzyme Q10”. Peng L, Lou W, Xu Y, Yu S, Liang C, Alloul A, Song K, Vlaeminck SE, The science of the total environment 822, 153489 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.153489
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.153489
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“Dissolution rate and growth performance reveal struvite as a sustainable nutrient source to produce a diverse set of microbial protein”. Muys M, González Cámara SJ, Derese S, Spiller M, Verliefde A, Vlaeminck SE, The science of the total environment 866, 161172 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.161172
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.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.8
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2022.161172
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