“Electronic properties of graphene nano-flakes : energy gap, permanent dipole, termination effect, and Raman spectroscopy”. Singh SK, Neek-Amal M, Peeters FM, The journal of chemical physics 140, 074304 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4865414
Abstract: The electronic properties of graphene nano-flakes (GNFs) with different edge passivation are investigated by using density functional theory. Passivation with F and H atoms is considered: C-Nc X-Nx (X = F or H). We studied GNFs with 10 < N-c < 56 and limit ourselves to the lowest energy configurations. We found that: (i) the energy difference Delta between the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital decreases with N-c, (ii) topological defects (pentagon and heptagon) break the symmetry of the GNFs and enhance the electric polarization, (iii) the mutual interaction of bilayer GNFs can be understood by dipole-dipole interaction which were found sensitive to the relative orientation of the GNFs, (iv) the permanent dipoles depend on the edge terminated atom, while the energy gap is independent of it, and (v) the presence of heptagon and pentagon defects in the GNFs results in the largest difference between the energy of the spin-up and spin-down electrons which is larger for the H-passivated GNFs as compared to F-passivated GNFs. Our study shows clearly the effect of geometry, size, termination, and bilayer on the electronic properties of small GNFs. This study reveals important features of graphene nano-flakes which can be detected using Raman spectroscopy. (C) 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.965
Times cited: 30
DOI: 10.1063/1.4865414
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“A memory efficient method for fully three-dimensional object reconstruction with HAADF STEM”. Van den Broek W, Rosenauer A, Van Aert S, Sijbers J, van Dyck D, Ultramicroscopy 141, 22 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.03.008
Abstract: The conventional approach to object reconstruction through electron tomography is to reduce the three-dimensional problem to a series of independent two-dimensional slice-by-slice reconstructions. However, at atomic resolution the image of a single atom extends over many such slices and incorporating this image as prior knowledge in tomography or depth sectioning therefore requires a fully three-dimensional treatment. Unfortunately, the size of the three-dimensional projection operator scales highly unfavorably with object size and readily exceeds the available computer memory. In this paper, it is shown that for incoherent image formation the memory requirement can be reduced to the fundamental lower limit of the object size, both for tomography and depth sectioning. Furthermore, it is shown through multislice calculations that high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy can be sufficiently incoherent for the reconstruction of single element nanocrystals, but that dynamical diffraction effects can cause classification problems if more than one element is present. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.03.008
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“On the time scale associated with Monte Carlo simulations”. Bal KM, Neyts EC, The journal of chemical physics 141, 204104 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4902136
Abstract: Uniform-acceptance force-bias Monte Carlo (fbMC) methods have been shown to be a powerful technique to access longer timescales in atomistic simulations allowing, for example, phase transitions and growth. Recently, a new fbMC method, the time-stamped force-bias Monte Carlo (tfMC) method, was derived with inclusion of an estimated effective timescale; this timescale, however, does not seem able to explain some of the successes the method. In this contribution, we therefore explicitly quantify the effective timescale tfMC is able to access for a variety of systems, namely a simple single-particle, one-dimensional model system, the Lennard-Jones liquid, an adatom on the Cu(100) surface, a silicon crystal with point defects and a highly defected graphene sheet, in order to gain new insights into the mechanisms by which tfMC operates. It is found that considerable boosts, up to three orders of magnitude compared to molecular dynamics, can be achieved for solid state systems by lowering of the apparent activation barrier of occurring processes, while not requiring any system-specific input or modifications of the method. We furthermore address the pitfalls of using the method as a replacement or complement of molecular dynamics simulations, its ability to explicitly describe correct dynamics and reaction mechanisms, and the association of timescales to MC simulations in general.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.965
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1063/1.4902136
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“Atomic resolution mapping of phonon excitations in STEM-EELS experiments”. Egoavil R, Gauquelin N, Martinez GT, Van Aert S, Van Tendeloo G, Verbeeck J, Ultramicroscopy 147, 1 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.04.011
Abstract: Atomically resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy experiments are commonplace in modern aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopes. Energy resolution has also been increasing steadily with the continuous improvement of electron monochromators. Electronic excitations however are known to be delocalized due to the long range interaction of the charged accelerated electrons with the electrons in a sample. This has made several scientists question the value of combined high spatial and energy resolution for mapping interband transitions and possibly phonon excitation in crystals. In this paper we demonstrate experimentally that atomic resolution information is indeed available at very low energy losses around 100 meV expressed as a modulation of the broadening of the zero loss peak. Careful data analysis allows us to get a glimpse of what are likely phonon excitations with both an energy loss and gain part. These experiments confirm recent theoretical predictions on the strong localization of phonon excitations as opposed to electronic excitations and show that a combination of atomic resolution and recent developments in increased energy resolution will offer great benefit for mapping phonon modes in real space.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 22
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.04.011
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“Dynamical effects in strain measurements by dark-field electron holography”. Javon E, Lubk, Cours R, Reboh S, Cherkashin N, Houdellier F, Gatel C, Hytch MJ, Ultramicroscopy 147, 70 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.06.005
Abstract: Here, we study the effect of dynamic scattering on the projected geometric phase and strain maps reconstructed using dark-field electron holography (DFEH) for non-uniformly strained crystals. The investigated structure consists of a {SiGe/Si} superlattice grown on a (001)-Si substrate. The three dimensional strain held within the thin TEM lamella is modelled by the finite element method. The observed projected strain is simulated in two ways by multiplying the strain at each depth in the crystal by a weighting function determined from a recently developed analytical two-beam dynamical theory, and by simply taking the average value. We demonstrate that the experimental results need to be understood in terms of the dynamical theory and good agreement is found between the experimental and simulated results. Discrepancies do remain for certain cases and are likely to be from an imprecision in the actual two-beam diffraction conditions, notably the deviation parameter, and points to limitations in the 2-beam approximation. Finally, a route towards a 3D reconstruction of strain fields is proposed. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.06.005
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“The properties of SIRT, TVM, and DART for 3D imaging of tubular domains in nanocomposite thin-films and sections”. Chen D, Goris B, Bleichrodt F, Heidari Mezerji H, Bals S, Batenburg KJ, de With G, Friedrich H, Ultramicroscopy 147, 137 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.08.005
Abstract: In electron tomography, the fidelity of the 3D reconstruction strongly depends on the employed reconstruction algorithm. In this paper, the properties of SIRT, TVM and DART reconstructions are studied with respect to having only a limited number of electrons available for imaging and applying different angular sampling schemes. A well-defined realistic model is generated, which consists of tubular domains within a matrix having slab-geometry. Subsequently, the electron tomography workflow is simulated from calculated tilt-series over experimental effects to reconstruction. In comparison with the model, the fidelity of each reconstruction method is evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively based on global and local edge profiles and resolvable distance between particles. Results show that the performance of all reconstruction methods declines with the total electron dose. Overall, SIRT algorithm is the most stable method and insensitive to changes in angular sampling. TVM algorithm yields significantly sharper edges in the reconstruction, but the edge positions are strongly influenced by the tilt scheme and the tubular objects become thinned. The DART algorithm markedly suppresses the elongation artifacts along the beam direction and moreover segments the reconstruction which can be considered a significant advantage for quantification. Finally, no advantage of TVM and DART to deal better with fewer projections was observed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 42
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2014.08.005
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“Interactions of plasma species on nickel catalysts : a reactive molecular dynamics study on the influence of temperature and surface structure”. Somers W, Bogaerts A, van Duin ACT, Neyts EC, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 154, 1 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apcatb.2014.01.061
Abstract: Methane reforming by plasma catalysis is a complex process that is far from understood. It requires a multidisciplinary approach which ideally takes into account all effects from the plasma on the catalyst, and vice versa. In this contribution, we focus on the interactions of CHx (x = {1,2,3}) radicals that are created in the plasma with several nickel catalyst surfaces. To this end, we perform reactive molecular dynamics simulations, based on the ReaxFF potential, in a wide temperature range of 4001600 K. First, we focus on the H2 formation as a function of temperature and surface structure. We observe that substantial H2 formation is obtained at 1400 K and above, while the role of the surface structure seems limited. Indeed, in the initial stage, the type of nickel surface influences the CH bond breaking efficiency of adsorbed radicals; however, the continuous carbon diffusion into the surface gradually diminishes the surface crystallinity and therefore reduces the effect of surface structure on the H2 formation probability. Furthermore, we have also investigated to what extent the species adsorbed on the catalyst surface can participate in surface reactions more in general, for the various surface structures and as a function of temperature. These results are part of the ongoing research on the methane reforming by plasma catalysis, a highly interesting yet complex alternative to conventional reforming processes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 23
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2014.01.061
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“Plasmonic goldsilver alloy on TiO2 photocatalysts with tunable visible light activity”. Verbruggen SW, Keulemans M, Filippousi M, Flahaut D, Van Tendeloo G, Lacombe S, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 156, 116 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apcatb.2014.03.027
Abstract: Adaptation of the photoresponse of anatase TiO2 to match the solar spectrum is an important scientific challenge. Modification of TiO2 with noble metal nanoparticles displaying surface plasmon resonance effects is one of the promising approaches. Surface plasmon resonance typically depends on chemical composition, size, shape and spatial organization of the metal nanoparticles in contact with TiO2. AuxAg(1 − x) alloy nanoparticles display strong composition-dependent surface plasmon resonance in the visible light region of the spectrum. In this work, a general strategy is presented to prepare plasmonic TiO2-based photocatalysts with a visible light response that can be accurately tuned over a broad range of the spectrum. The application as self-cleaning material toward the degradation of stearic acid is demonstrated for a plasmonic TiO2 photocatalyst displaying visible light photoactivity at the intensity maximum of solar light around 490 nm.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 84
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2014.03.027
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“Kinetics of dechlorination by Dehalococcoides mccartyi using different carbon sources”. Schneidewind U, Haest PJ, Atashgahi S, Seuntjens P, et al, Journal of contaminant hydrology 157, 25 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCONHYD.2013.10.006
Abstract: Stimulated anaerobic dechlorination is generally considered a valuable step for the remediation of aquifers polluted with chlorinated ethenes (CEs). Correct simulation and prediction of this process in situ, however, require good knowledge of the associated biological reactions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the dechlorination reaction in an aquifer contaminated with trichloroethene (TCE) and its daughter products, discharging into the Zenne River. Different carbon sources were used in batch cultures and these were related to the dechlorination reaction, together with the monitored biomarkers. Appropriate kinetic formulations were assessed. Reductive dechlorination of TCE took place only when external carbon sources were added to microcosms, and occurred concomitant with a pronounced increase in the Dehalococcoides mccartyi cell count as determined by 16S rRNA gene-targeted qPCR. This indicates that native dechlorinating bacteria are present in the aquifer of the Zenne site and that the oligotrophic nature of the aquifer prevents a complete degradation to ethene. The type of carbon source, the cell number of D. mccartyi or the reductive dehalogenase genes, however, did not unequivocally explain the observed differences in degradation rates or the extent of dechlorination. Neither first-order, Michaelis-Menten nor Monod kinetics could perfectly simulate the dechlorination reactions in TCE spiked microcosms. A sensitivity analysis indicated that the inclusion of donor limitation would not significantly enhance the simulations without a clear process understanding. Results point to the role of the supporting microbial community but it remains to be verified how the complexity of the microbial (inter)actions should be represented in a model framework. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCONHYD.2013.10.006
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“Photocatalytic acetaldehyde oxidation in air using spacious TiO2 films prepared by atomic layer deposition on supported carbonaceous sacrificial templates”. Verbruggen SW, Deng S, Kurttepeli M, Cott DJ, Vereecken PM, Bals S, Martens JA, Detavernier C, Lenaerts S, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 160, 204 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apcatb.2014.05.029
Abstract: Supported carbon nanosheets and carbon nanotubes served as sacrificial templates for preparing spacious TiO2 photocatalytic thin films. Amorphous TiO2 was deposited conformally on the carbonaceous template material by atomic layer deposition (ALD). Upon calcination at 550 °C, the carbon template was oxidatively removed and the as-deposited continuous amorphous TiO2 layers transformed into interlinked anatase nanoparticles with an overall morphology commensurate to the original template structure. The effect of type of template, number of ALD cycles and gas residence time of pollutant on the photocatalytic activity, as well as the stability of the photocatalytic performance of these thin films was investigated. The TiO2 films exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity toward photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde in air as a model reaction for photocatalytic indoor air pollution abatement. Optimized films outperformed a reference film of commercial PC500.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 37
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcatb.2014.05.029
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“Zeolite \beta nanoparticles based bimodal structures : mechanism and tuning of the porosity and zeolitic properties”. van Oers CJ, Kurttepeli M, Mertens M, Bals S, Meynen V, Cool P, Microporous and mesoporous materials: zeolites, clays, carbons and related materials 185, 204 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.micromeso.2013.11.021
Abstract: Despite great efforts in the research area of zeolite nanoparticles and their use in the synthesis of bimodal materials, still little is known about the impact of the synthesis conditions of the zeolite nanoparticles on its own characteristics, and on the properties and the formation mechanism of the final bimodal materials. A zeolite β nanoparticles solution is applied in a mesotemplate-free synthesis method, and the influence of the hydrothermal ageing temperature of the nanoparticles solution on both the zeolitic and porosity characteristics of the final bimodal material has been studied. Transmission electron microscopy in combination with 3-dimensional reconstructions obtained by electron tomography revealed that the zeolite β nanoparticles are connected by neck-like structures, thus creating a wormhole-like mesoporous material. Considering the zeolitic properties, a clear threshold is observed in the synthesis temperature series at 413 K. Below and at this threshold, the biporous materials show no apparent zeolitic characteristics, although these materials exhibit a more condensed and uniform SiOSi network in comparison to Al-MCF. Synthesis temperatures above the threshold lead to bimodal structures with defined zeolitic properties. Moreover, the dimensions of the nanoparticles are studied by TEM, revealing an increasing particle size with increasing temperature under the threshold of 413 K, which is in agreement with a sol-mechanism. This mechanism is disturbed after the threshold due to the start of the crystallisation process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA)
Impact Factor: 3.615
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1016/j.micromeso.2013.11.021
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“DFT study of the hyperfine parameters and magnetic properties of ZnO doped with 57Fe”. Abreu Y, Cruz CM, Pinera I, Leyva A, Cabal AE, van Espen P, Solid state communications 185, 25 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SSC.2014.01.010
Abstract: Magnetic state of Fe-57 implanted and doped ZnO samples have been reported and studied by Mossbauer spectroscopy at different temperatures. The Mossbauer spectra mainly showed four doublets and three sextets, but some ambiguous identification remains regarding the probe site location and influence of defects in the hyperfine and magnetic parameters. In the present work some possible implantation configurations are suggested and evaluated using Monte Carlo simulation and electronic structure calculations within the density functional theory. Various implantation environments were proposed and studied considering the presence of defects. The obtained Fe-57 hyperfine parameters show a good agreement with the reported experimental values for some of these configurations. The possibility of Fe pair formation, as well as a Zn site vacancy stabilization between he second and third neighborhood of the implantation site, is supported. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SSC.2014.01.010
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“Methods, fluxes and sources of gas phase alkyl nitrates in the coastal air”. Dirtu AC, Buczyńska AJ, Godoi AFL, Favoreto R, Bencs L, Potgieter-Vermaak SS, Godoi RHM, Van Grieken R, Van Vaeck L, Environmental monitoring and assessment 186, 6445 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10661-014-3866-7
Abstract: The daily and seasonal atmospheric concentrations, deposition fluxes and emission sources of a few C3C9 gaseous alkyl nitrates (ANs) at the Belgian coast (De Haan) on the Southern North Sea were determined. An adapted sampler design for low- and high-volume air-sampling, optimized sample extraction and clean-up, as well as identification and quantification of ANs in air samples by means of gas chromatography mass spectrometry, are reported. The total concentrations of ANs ranged from 0.03 to 85 pptv and consisted primarily of the nitro-butane and nitro-pentane isomers. Air mass backward trajectories were calculated by the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model to determine the influence of main air masses on AN levels in the air. The shorter chain ANs have been the most abundant in the Atlantic/Channel/UK air masses, while longer chain ANs prevailed in continental air. The overall mean N fluxes of the ANs were slightly higher for summer than those for winter-spring, although their contributions to the total nitrogen flux were low. High correlations between AN and HNO2 levels were observed during winter/spring. During summer, the shorter chain ANs correlated well with precipitation. Source apportionment by means of principal component analysis indicated that most of the gas phase ANs could be attributed to traffic/combustion, secondary photochemical formation and biomass burning, although marine sources may also have been present and a contributing factor.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Toxicological Centre
DOI: 10.1007/S10661-014-3866-7
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“A graphene oxide amplification platform tagged with tyrosinase-zinc oxide quantum dot hybrids for the electrochemical sensing of hydroxylated polychlorobiphenyls”. Rather JA, Pilehvar S, De Wael K, Sensors and actuators : B : chemical 190, 612 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SNB.2013.09.018
Abstract: Graphene oxide can act as an amplification platform for the immobilization of a hybrid structure composed of tyrosinase (Tyr) and zinc oxide quantum dots (ZnO QDs). This article describes how this platform increases the sensitivity for the detection of hydroxylated polychlorobiphenyls (OH-PCBs). The adsorption of Tyr (with low isoelectric point) on the positively charged surface of ZnO QDs is based on electrostatic interactions. The scanning electron microscopic images and UVvis spectroscopic analysis demonstrated the adsorption of Tyr on ZnO QDs. The stepwise assembly process of the fabricated biosensor was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The synthesized ZnO QDs and graphene oxide were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopic techniques. The determination of OH-PCBs was carried out by using square wave voltammetry over the concentration range of 2.827.65 μM with a detection limit of 0.15 μM with good reproducibility, selectivity and acceptable stability. The high value of surface coverage of ZnO QDs and small value of MichaelisMenten constant (View the MathML source) confirmed an excellent loading of the Tyr and a high affinity of the biosensor toward the detection of OH-PCBs. This biosensor and the described sensing platform offer a great potential for rapid, cost-effective and on-field analysis of OH-PCBs.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 5.401
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2013.09.018
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“The uptake of ZnO and CuO nanoparticles in the water-flea Daphnia magna under acute exposure scenarios”. Adam N, Leroux F, Knapen D, Bals S, Blust R, Environmental pollution 194, 130 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2014.06.037
Abstract: In this study the uptake of ZnO and CuO nanoparticles by Daphnia magna was tested. Daphnids were exposed during 48 h to acute concentrations of the nanoparticles and corresponding metal salts. The Daphnia zinc and copper concentration was measured and the nanoparticles were localized using electron microscopy. The aggregation and dissolution in the medium was characterized. A fast dissolution of ZnO in the medium was observed, while most CuO formed large aggregates and only a small fraction dissolved. The Daphnia zinc concentration was comparable for the nanoparticles and salts. Contrarily, a much higher Daphnia copper concentration was observed in the CuO exposure, compared to the copper salt. CuO nanoparticles adsorbed onto the carapace and occurred in the gut but did not internalize in the tissues. The combined dissolution and uptake results indicate that the toxicity of both nanoparticle types was caused by metal ions dissolved from the particles in the medium.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Veterinary physiology and biochemistry
Impact Factor: 5.099
Times cited: 45
DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2014.06.037
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“Visible light activated room temperature gas sensors based on nanocrystalline ZnO sensitized with CdSe quantum dots”. Chizhov AS, Rumyantseva MN, Vasiliev RB, Filatova DG, Drozdov KA, Krylov IV, Abakumov AM, Gaskov AM, Sensors and actuators : B : chemical 205, 305 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.snb.2014.08.091
Abstract: This work reports the study of photoconductivity and visible light activated room temperature gas sensors properties of nanocrystalline ZnO thick films sensitized with colloidal CdSe quantum dots (QDs). Nanocrystalline zinc oxide (ZnO) was synthesized by the precipitation method. Colloidal CdSe quantum dots were obtained by high temperature colloidal synthesis. Sensitization was effectuated by three different procedures including direct adsorption of CdSe QDs stabilized with oleic acid on ZnO surface, anchoring to the ZnO surface through a bifunctional molecule of mercaptopropionic acid (MPA), and coating of CdSe QDs with a monolayer of MPA with subsequent adsorption on ZnO surface. Sensor measurements demonstrated that obtained QD CdSe/ZnO nanocomposites can be used for NO2 detection under visible (green) light illumination at room temperature without any thermal heating. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.401
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1016/j.snb.2014.08.091
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“Pb5Fe3TiO11Cl : a rare example of Ti(IV) in a square pyramidal oxygen coordination”. Batuk M, Batuk D, Abakumov AM, Hadermann J, Journal of solid state chemistry 215, 245 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2014.04.002
Abstract: A new oxychloride Pb5Fe3TiO11Cl has been synthesized using the solid state method. Its crystal and magnetic structure was investigated in the 1.5550 K temperature range using electron diffraction, high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy, atomic resolution energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, neutron and X-ray powder diffraction. At room temperature Pb5Fe3TiO11Cl crystallizes in the P4/mmm space group with the unit cell parameters a=3.91803(3) Å and c=19.3345(2) Å. Pb5Fe3TiO11Cl is a new n=4 member of the oxychloride perovskite-based homologous series An+1BnO3n−1Cl. The structure is built of truncated Pb3Fe3TiO11 quadruple perovskite blocks separated by CsCl-type Pb2Cl slabs. The perovskite blocks consist of two layers of (Fe,Ti)O6 octahedra sandwiched between two layers of (Fe,Ti)O5 square pyramids. The Ti4+ cations are preferentially located in the octahedral layers, however, the presence of a noticeable amount of Ti4+ in a five-fold coordination environment has been undoubtedly proven using neutron powder diffraction and atomic resolution compositional mapping. Pb5Fe3TiO11Cl is antiferromagnetically ordered below 450(10) K. The ordered Fe magnetic moments at 1.5 K are 4.06(4) μB and 3.86(5) μB on the octahedral and square-pyramidal sites, respectively.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.299
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2014.04.002
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“The interplay of microstructure and magnetism in La3Ni2SbO9”. Battle PD, Avdeev M, Hadermann J, Journal of solid state chemistry 220, 163 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2014.08.024
Abstract: La3Ni2SbO9 adopts a perovskite-related structure in which the six-coordinate cation sites are occupied alternately by Ni2+ and a disordered arrangement of Ni2+/Sb5+. A polycrystalline sample has been studied by neutron diffraction in applied magnetic fields of 0 <= H/kOe <= 50 at 5 K. In 0 kOe, weak magnetic Bragg scattering consistent with the adoption of a G-type ferrimagnetic structure is observed; the ordered component of the magnetic moment was found to be 0.89(7) mu(B) per Ni2+ cation. This increased to 1.60(3) mu(B) in a field of 50 kOe. Transmission electron microscopy revealed variations in the Ni:Sb ratio across crystallites of the sample. It is proposed that these composition variations disrupt the magnetic superexchange interactions within the compound, leading to domain formation and a reduced average moment. The application of a magnetic field aligns the magnetisation vectors across the crystal and the average moment measured by neutron diffraction increases accordingly. The role played by variations in the local chemical composition in determining the magnetic properties invites comparison with the behaviour of relaxor ferroelectrics. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.299
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2014.08.024
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“Adsorption and desorption in confined geometries : a discrete hopping model”. Becker T, Nelissen K, Cleuren B, Partoens B, Van den Broeck C, The European physical journal. Special topics 223, 3243 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1140/epjst/e2014-02330-8
Abstract: We study the adsorption and desorption kinetics of interacting particles moving on a one-dimensional lattice. Confinement is introduced by limiting the number of particles on a lattice site. Adsorption and desorption are found to proceed at different rates, and are strongly influenced by the concentration-dependent transport diffusion. Analytical solutions for the transport and self-diffusion are given for systems of length 1 and 2 and for a zero-range process. In the last situation the self- and transport diffusion can be calculated analytically for any length.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.862
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1140/epjst/e2014-02330-8
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“Effect of process parameters on the photocatalytic soot degradation on self-cleaning cementitious materials”. Smits M, Huygh D, Craeye B, Lenaerts S, Catalysis today 230, 250 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CATTOD.2013.10.001
Abstract: Soot deposition has the negative ability to devalue the aesthetic appearance of buildings. Titanium dioxide applied on the building material is one way to counteract this problem as it provides air-purifying and self-cleaning properties due to its photocatalytic activity. In literature, photocatalytic soot oxidation was described, but until now, little information was available about the influence of process parameters on the photocatalytic degradation efficiency. The influence of three process parameters was tested in this study, namely TiO2 concentration, soot concentration and water-to-cement ratio (WIC-ratio) of the mortar substrates. The results revealed 50 mu gTiO(2) cm(-2) is better to use on the cementitious materials than 250 mu gTiO(2) cm(-2). The soot concentrations occurring in real-world situations will not inhibit the photocatalyst to be activated by light. Furthermore, the photonic efficiency increases slightly for lower WIC-ratios. This can be of interest for structural building applications, since a lower WIC-ratio results in a lower porosity of the samples and consequently in an increase in mortar strength. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings (EMIB)
Impact Factor: 4.636
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1016/J.CATTOD.2013.10.001
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“Using the macroscopic scale to predict the nano-scale behavior of YSZ thin films”. Lamas JS, Leroy WP, Lu Y-G, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Depla D, Surface and coatings technology 238, 45 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.surfcoat.2013.10.034
Abstract: In this work, Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) thin films were deposited using dual reactive magnetron sputtering. By varying the deposition conditions, the film morphology and texture of the thin films are tuned and biaxial alignment is obtained. Studying the crystallographic and microstructural properties of the YSZ thin films, a tilted columnar growth was identified. This tilt is shown to be dependent on the compositional gradient of the sample. The variation of composition within a single YSZ column measured via STEM-EDX is demonstrated to be equal to the macroscopic variation on a full YSZ sample when deposited under the same deposition parameters. A simple stress model was developed to predict the tilt of the growing columns. The results indicate that this model not only determines the column bending of the growing film but also confirms that a macroscopic approach is sufficient to determine the compositional gradient in a single column of the YSZ thin films. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.589
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2013.10.034
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“Lattice deformations in quasi-dynamic strain glass visualised and quantified by aberration corrected electron microscopy”. Lu J, Martinez GT, Van Aert S, Schryvers D, Physica status solidi: B: basic research 251, 2034 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1002/pssb.201350351
Abstract: Advanced transmission electron microscopy and statistical parameter estimated quantification procedures were applied to study the room temperature quasi-dynamical strain glass state in NiTi alloys. Nanosized strain pockets are visualised and the displacements of the atom columns are quantified. A comparison is made with conventional high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images of point defect induced strains in NiAl alloys.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.674
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1002/pssb.201350351
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“Review on TEM analysis of growth twins in nanocrystalline palladium thin films : toward better understanding of twin-related mechanisms in high stacking fault energy metals”. Idrissi H, Amin-Ahmadi B, Wang B, Schryvers D, Physica status solidi: B: basic research 251, 1111 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1002/pssb.201350161
Abstract: Various modes of transmission electron microscopy including aberration corrected imaging were used in order to unravel the fundamental mechanisms controlling the formation of growth twins and the evolution of twin boundaries under mechanical and hydrogen loading modes in nanocrystalline (nc) palladium thin films. The latter were produced by electron-beam evaporation and sputter deposition and subjected to uniaxial tensile deformation as well as hydriding/dehydriding cycles. The results show that the twins form by dissociation of grain boundaries. The coherency of Σ3{111} coherent twin boundaries considerably decreases with deformation due to dislocation/twin boundary interactions while Σ3{112} incoherent twin boundaries dissociate under hydrogen cycling into two-phase boundaries bounding a new and unstable 9R phase. The effect of these elementary mechanisms on the macroscopic behavior of the palladium films is discussed and compared to recent experimental and simulation works in the literature. The results provide insightful information to guide the production of well-controlled population of growth twins in high stacking fault energy nc metallic thin films. The results also indicate directions for further enhancement of the mechanical properties of palladium films as needed for instance in palladium-based membranes in hydrogen applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.674
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1002/pssb.201350161
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“Corrosion rate estimations of microscale zerovalent iron particles via direct hydrogen production measurements”. Velimirovic M, Carniato L, Simons Q, Schoups G, Seuntjens P, Bastiaens L, Journal of hazardous materials 270, 18 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2014.01.034
Abstract: In this study, the aging behavior of microscale zerovalent iron (mZVI) particles was investigated by quantifying the hydrogen gas generated by anaerobic mZVI corrosion in batch degradation experiments. Granular iron and nanoscale zerovalent iron (nZVI) particles were included in this study as controls. Firstly, experiments in liquid medium (without aquifer material) were performed and revealed that mZV1 particles have approximately a 10-30 times lower corrosion rate than nZVI particles. A good correlation was found between surface area normalized corrosion rate (R-SA) and reaction rate constants (K-SA) of PCE, TCE, cDCE and 1,1,1-TCA. Generally, particles with higher degradation rates also have faster corrosion rates, but exceptions do exists. In a second phase, the hydrogen evolution was also monitored during batch tests in the presence of aquifer material and real groundwater. A 4-9 times higher corrosion rate of mZV1 particles was observed under the natural environment in comparison with the aquifer free artificial condition, which can be attributed to the low pH of the aquifer and its buffer capacity. A corrosion model was calibrated on the batch experiments to take into account the inhibitory effects of the corrosion products (dissolved iron, hydrogen and OH-) on the iron corrosion rate. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2014.01.034
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“First-principles electronic functionalization of silicene and germanene by adatom chemisorption”. van den Broek B, Houssa M, Scalise E, Pourtois G, Afanas'ev VV, Stesmans A, Applied surface science 291, 104 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.09.032
Abstract: This study presents first-principles results on the electronic functionalization of silicene and germanene monolayers by means of chemisorption of adatom species H, Li, F, Sc, Ti, V. Three general adatom-monolayer configurations are considered, each having its distinct effect on the electronic structure, yielding metallic or semiconducting dispersions depending on the adatom species and configuration. The induced bandgap is a (in)direct F gap ranging from 0.2 to 2.3 eV for both silicene and germanene. In general the alternating configuration was found to be the most energetically stable. The boatlike and chairlike conformers are degenerate with the former having anisotropic effective carrier masses. The top configuration leads to the planar monolayer and predominately to a gapped dispersion. The hollow configuration with V adatoms retains the Dirac cone, but with strong orbital planar hybridization at the Fermi level. We also observe a planar surface state the Fermi level for the latter systems. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.387
Times cited: 32
DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.09.032
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“Theoretical aspects of graphene-like group IV semiconductors”. Houssa M, van den Broek B, Scalise E, Ealet B, Pourtois G, Chiappe D, Cinquanta E, Grazianetti C, Fanciulli M, Molle A, Afanas’ev VV, Stesmans A;, Applied surface science 291, 98 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.09.062
Abstract: Silicene and germanene are the silicon and germanium counterparts of graphene, respectively. Recent experimental works have reported the growth of silicene on (1 1 1)Ag surfaces with different atomic configurations, depending on the growth temperature and surface coverage. We first theoretically study the structural and electronic properties of silicene on (1 1 1) Ag surfaces, focusing on the (4 x 4) silicene/Ag structure. Due to symmetry breaking in the silicene layer (nonequivalent number of top and bottom Si atoms), the corrugated silicene layer, with the Ag substrate removed, is predicted to be semiconducting, with a computed energy bandgap of about 0.3 eV. However, the hybridization between the Si 3p orbitals and the Ag 5s orbital in the silicene/(1 1 1)Ag slab model leads to an overall metallic system, with a distribution of local electronic density of states, which is related to the slightly disordered structure of the silicene layer on the (1 1 1)Ag surface. We next study the interaction of silicene and germanene with different hexagonal non-metallic substrates, namely ZnS and ZnSe. On reconstructed (0 0 0 1)ZnS or ZnSe surfaces, which should be more energetically stable for very thin layers, silicene and germanene are found to be semiconducting. Remarkably, the nature and magnitude of their energy bandgap can be controlled by an out-of-plane electric field, an important finding for the potential use of these materials in nanoelectronic devices. (C) 2013 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.387
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.09.062
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“Vibrational properties of epitaxial silicene layers on (111) Ag”. Scalise E, Cinquanta E, Houssa M, van den Broek B, Chiappe D, Grazianetti C, Pourtois G, Ealet B, Molle A, Fanciulli M, Afanas’ev VV, Stesmans A;, Applied surface science 291, 113 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.08.113
Abstract: The electronic and vibrational properties of three different reconstructions of silicene on Ag(1 1 1) are calculated and compared to experimental results. The 2D epitaxial silicon layers, namely the (4 x 4), (root 13 x root 13) and (2 root 3 x 2 root 3) phases, exhibit different electronic and vibrational properties. Few peaks in the experimental Raman spectrum are identified and attributed to the vibrational modes of the silicene layers. The position and behavior of the Raman peaks with respect to the excitation energy are shown to be a fundamental tool to investigate and discern different phases of silicene on Ag( 1 1 1). (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.387
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2013.08.113
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“A MoVI grafted metal organic framework : synthesis, characterization and catalytic investigations”. Leus K, Liu Y-Y, Meledina M, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, van der Voort P, Journal of catalysis 316, 201 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcat.2014.05.019
Abstract: We present the post-modification of a gallium based Metal Organic Framework, COMOC-4, with a Mo-complex. The resulting Mo@COMOC-4 was characterized by means of N2 sorption, XRPD, DRIFT, TGA, XRF, XPS and TEM analysis. The results demonstrate that even at high Mo-complex loadings on the framework, no aggregation or any Mo or Mo oxide species are formed. Moreover, the Mo@COMOC-4 was evaluated as a catalyst in the epoxidation of cyclohexene, cyclooctene and cyclododecene employing TBHP in decane as oxidant. The post-modified COMOC-4 exhibits a very high selectivity toward the epoxide (up to 100%). Regenerability and stability tests have been carried out demonstrating that the catalyst can be recycled without leaching of Mo or loss of crystallinity.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.844
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1016/j.jcat.2014.05.019
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“Infrared to terahertz absorption window in mono- and multi-layer graphene systems”. Xiao YM, Xu W, Peeters FM, Optics communications 328, 135 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.optcom.2014.04.079
Abstract: We present a theoretical study on optical properties such as optical conductance and light transmission coefficient for mono- and multi-layer graphene systems with AB- and ABC-stacking. Considering an air/graphene/dielectric-water structure, the optical coefficients for those graphene systems are examined and compared. The universal optical conductance sigma(N)(0)=N pi e(2)/(2h) for N layer graphene systems in the visible region is verified. For N 3 layer graphene, the mini-gap induced absorption edges can be observed in odd layers AB-stacked multilayer graphene, where the number and position of the absorption edges are decided by the layers number N. Meanwhile, we can observe the optical absorption windows for those graphene systems in the infrared to terahertz bandwidth (0.2-150 THz). The absorption window is induced by different transition energies required for inter- and intra-band optical absorption channels. We find that the depth and width of the absorption window can be tuned not only via varying temperature and electron density but also by changing the number of graphene layers and the stacking order. These theoretical findings demonstrate that mono- and multi-layer graphene systems can be applied as frequency tunable optoelectronic devices working in infrared to terahertz bandwidth. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.588
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/j.optcom.2014.04.079
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“Improved calculation of displacements per atom cross section in solids by gamma and electron irradiation”. Pinera I, Cruz CM, Leyva A, Abreu Y, Cabal AE, van Espen P, Van Remortel N, Interactions With Materials And Atoms 339, 1 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.NIMB.2014.08.020
Abstract: Several authors had estimated the displacements per atom cross sections under different approximations and models, including most of the main gamma- and electron-material interaction processes. These previous works used numerical approximation formulas which are applicable for limited energy ranges. We proposed the Monte Carlo assisted Classical Method (MCCM), which relates the established theories about atom displacements to the electron and positron secondary fluence distributions calculated from the Monte Carlo simulation. In this study the MCCM procedure is adapted in order to estimate the displacements per atom cross sections for gamma and electron irradiation. The results obtained through this procedure are compared with previous theoretical calculations. An improvement in about 10-90% for the gamma irradiation induced dpa cross section is observed in our results on regard to the previous evaluations for the studied incident energies. On the other hand, the dpa cross section values produced by irradiation with electrons are improved by our calculations in about 5-50% when compared with the theoretical approximations. When thin samples are irradiated with electrons, more precise results are obtained through the MCCM (in about 20-70%) with respect to the previous studies. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Particle Physics Group; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.NIMB.2014.08.020
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