“Stable polyoxometalate insertion within the mesoporous metal organic framework MIL-100(Fe)”. Canioni R, Roch-Marchal C, Sécheresse F, Horcajada P, Serre C, Hardi-Dan M, Férey G, Grenèche J-M, Lefebvre F, Chang J-S, Hwang Y-K, Lebedev O, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of materials chemistry 21, 1226 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1039/c0jm02381g
Abstract: Successful encapsulation of polyoxometalate (POM) within the framework of a mesoporous iron trimesate MIL-100(Fe) sample has been achieved by direct hydrothermal synthesis in the absence of fluorine. XRPD, 31P MAS NMR, IR, EELS, TEM and 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry corroborate the insertion of POM within the cavities of the MOF. The experimental Mo/Fe ratio is 0.95, in agreement with the maximum theoretical amount of POM loaded within the pores of MIL-100(Fe), based on steric hindrance considerations. The POM-MIL-100(Fe) sample exhibits a pore volume of 0.373 cm3 g−1 and a BET surface area close to 1000 m2 g−1, indicating that small gas molecules can easily diffuse inside the cavities despite the presence of heavy phosphomolybdates. These latter contribute to the decrease in the overall surface area, due to the increase in molar weight, by 65%. Moreover, the resulting Keggin containing MIL-100(Fe) solid is stable in aqueous solution with no POM leaching even after more than 2 months. In addition, no exchange of the Keggin anions by tetrabutylammonium perchlorate in organic media has been observed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 158
DOI: 10.1039/c0jm02381g
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“ZnO@ZIF-8 : stabilization of quantum confined ZnO nanoparticles by a zinc methylimidazolate framework and their surface structural characterization probed by CO2 adsorption”. Esken D, Noei H, Wang Y, Wiktor C, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Fischer RA, Journal of materials chemistry 21, 5907 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1039/c1jm10091b
Abstract: The microporous and activated zeolitic imidazolate framework (Zn(MeIM)2; MeIM = imidazolate-2-methyl; ZIF-8) was loaded with the MOCVD precursor diethyl zinc [Zn(C2H5)2]. Exposure of ZIF-8 to the vapour of the volatile organometallic molecule resulted in the formation of the inclusion compound [Zn(C2H5)2]0.38@ZIF-8 revealing two precursor molecules per cavity. In a second step the obtained material was treated with oxygen (5 vol% in argon) at various temperatures (oxidative annealing) to achieve the composite material ZnO0.35@ZIF-8. The new material was characterized with powder XRD, FT-IR, UV-vis, solid state NMR, elemental analysis, N2 sorption measurements, and transmission electron microscopy. The data give evidence for the presence of nano-sized ZnO particles stabilized by ZIF-8 showing a blue-shift of the UV-vis absorption caused by quantum size effect (QSE). The surface structure and reactivity of embedded ZnO nanoparticles were characterized via carbon dioxide adsorption at different temperatures monitored by ultra-high vacuum FTIR techniques. It was found that the surface of ZnO nanoparticles is dominated by polar OZnO and ZnZnO facets as well as by defect sites, which all exhibit high reactivity towards CO2 activation forming various adsorbed carbonate and chemisorbed CO2δ− species.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 76
DOI: 10.1039/c1jm10091b
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“Direct imaging of loaded metal-organic framework materials (metal@MOF-5)”. Turner S, Lebedev OI, Schroeder F, Fischer RA, Van Tendeloo G, Chemistry of materials 20, 5622 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1021/cm801165s
Abstract: We illustrate the potential of advanced transmission electron microscopy for the characterization of a new class of soft porous materials: metal@Zn4O(bdc)3 (metal@MOF-5; bdc = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate). By combining several electron microscopy techniques (transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), electron diffraction (ED), high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), and electron tomography) and by carefully reducing the electron dose to avoid beam damage, it is possible to simultaneously characterize the MOF-5 framework material and the loaded metal nanoparticles. We also demonstrate that electron tomography can be used to accurately determine the position and distribution of the particles within the MOF-5 framework. To demonstrate the implementation of these microscopy techniques and what kind of results can be expected, measurements on gas-phase-loaded metal−organic framework materials Ru@MOF-5 and Pd@MOF-5 are presented.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.466
Times cited: 112
DOI: 10.1021/cm801165s
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“Producing photoluminescent species from Sp2 carbons”. Hens SC, Shenderova O, Turner S, Fullerenes, nanotubes, and carbon nanostructures 20, 502 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1080/1536383X.2012.655667
Abstract: The treatment of sp2 carbon materials, including micrographite, nanographite, HOPG, onion-like-carbon, and single-walled carbon nanotubes, in a 3:1 sulfuric to nitric acid mixture produced photoluminescent reaction solutions. These colloidal, aqueous solutions appeared photoluminescently stable under a UV lamp and ranged in color from red to blue. The photoluminescent wavelength shifted to shorter wavelength with increasing reaction time or increasing reaction temperature. Raman spectroscopy showed evidence of defect structures in graphitic residue, and transmission electron microscopy showed unusual structures present in the supernatant including graphitic balls.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.35
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1080/1536383X.2012.655667
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“Determination of size, morphology, and nitrogen impurity location in treated detonation nanodiamond by transmission electron microscopy”. Turner S, Lebedev OI, Shenderova O, Vlasov II, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Advanced functional materials 19, 2116 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.200801872
Abstract: Size, morphology, and nitrogen impurity location, all of which are all thought to be related to the luminescent properties of detonation nanodiamonds, are determined in several detonation nanodiamond samples using a combination of transmission electron microscopy techniques. Results obtained from annealed and cleaned detonation nanodiamond samples are compared to results from conventionally purified detonation nanodiamond. Detailed electron energy loss spectroscopy combined with model-based quantification provides direct evidence for the sp3 like embedding of nitrogen impurities into the diamond cores of all the studied nanodiamond samples. Simultaneously, the structure and morphology of the cleaned detonation nanodiamond particles are studied using high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The results show that the size and morphology of detonation nanodiamonds can be modified by temperature treatment and that by applying a special cleaning procedure after temperature treatment, nanodiamond particles with clean facets almost free from sp2 carbon can be prepared. These clean facets are clear evidence that nanodiamond cores are not necessarily in coexistence with a graphitic shell of non-diamond carbon.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.124
Times cited: 100
DOI: 10.1002/adfm.200801872
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“Metal@COFs : covalent organic frameworks as templates for Pd nanoparticles and hydrogen storage properties of Pd@COF-102 hybrid material”. Kalidindi SB, Hyunchul O, Hirscher M, Esken D, Wiktor C, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Fischer RA, Chemistry: a European journal 18, 10848 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1002/chem.201201340
Abstract: Three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been demonstrated as a new class of templates for nanoparticles. Photodecomposition of the [Pd(eta 3-C3H5)(eta 5-C5H5)]@COF-102 inclusion compound (synthesized by a gas-phase infiltration method) led to the formation of the Pd@COF-102 hybrid material. Advanced electron microscopy techniques (including high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron tomography) along with other conventional characterization techniques unambiguously showed that highly monodisperse Pd nanoparticles ((2.4 +/- 0.5) nm) were evenly distributed inside the COF-102 framework. The Pd@COF-102 hybrid material is a rare example of a metal-nanoparticle-loaded porous crystalline material with a very narrow size distribution without any larger agglomerates even at high loadings (30 wt %). Two samples with moderate Pd content (3.5 and 9.5 wt %) were used to study the hydrogen storage properties of the metal-decorated COF surface. The uptakes at room temperature from these samples were higher than those of similar systems such as Pd@metalorganic frameworks (MOFs). The studies show that the H2 capacities were enhanced by a factor of 2-3 through Pd impregnation on COF-102 at room temperature and 20 bar. This remarkable enhancement is not just due to Pd hydride formation and can be mainly ascribed to hydrogenation of residual organic compounds, such as bicyclopentadiene. The significantly higher reversible hydrogen storage capacity that comes from decomposed products of the employed organometallic Pd precursor suggests that this discovery may be relevant to the discussion of the spillover phenomenon in metal/MOFs and related systems.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.317
Times cited: 88
DOI: 10.1002/chem.201201340
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“The role of hydrogen during Pt-Ga nanocatalyst formation”. Filez M, Redekop EA, Galvita VV, Poelman H, Meledina M, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Bell AT, Marin GB, Physical chemistry, chemical physics 18, 3234 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5cp07344h
Abstract: Hydrogen plays an essential role during the in situ assembly of tailored catalytic materials, and serves as key ingredient in multifarious chemical reactions promoted by these catalysts. Despite intensive debate for several decades, the existence and nature of hydrogen-involved mechanisms – such as hydrogen-spillover, surface migration – have not been unambiguously proven and elucidated up to date. Here, Pt-Ga alloy formation is used as a probe reaction to study the behavior and atomic transport of H and Ga, starting from Pt nanoparticles on hydrotalcite-derived Mg(Ga)(Al)Ox supports. In situ XANES spectroscopy, time-resolved TAP kinetic experiments, HAADF-STEM imaging and EDX mapping are combined to probe Pt, Ga and H in a series of H2 reduction experiments up to 650 degrees C. Mg(Ga)(Al)Ox by itself dissociates hydrogen, but these dissociated hydrogen species do not induce significant reduction of Ga3+ cations in the support. Only in the presence of Pt, partial reduction of Ga3+ into Gadelta+ is observed, suggesting that different reaction mechanisms dominate for Pt- and Mg(Ga)(Al)Ox-dissociated hydrogen species. This partial reduction of Ga3+ is made possible by Pt-dissociated H species which spillover onto non-reducible Mg(Al)Ox or partially reducible Mg(Ga)(Al)Ox and undergo long-range transport over the support surface. Moderately mobile Gadelta+Ox migrates towards Pt clusters, where Gadelta+ is only fully reduced to Ga0 on condition of immediate stabilization inside Pt-Ga alloyed nanoparticles.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.123
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1039/c5cp07344h
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“Point defect clusters and dislocations in FIB irradiated nanocrystalline aluminum films : an electron tomography and aberration-corrected high-resolution ADF-STEM study”. Idrissi H, Turner S, Mitsuhara M, Wang B, Hata S, Coulombier M, Raskin J-P, Pardoen T, Van Tendeloo G, Schryvers D, Microscopy and microanalysis 17, 983 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1017/S143192761101213X
Abstract: Focused ion beam (FIB) induced damage in nanocrystalline Al thin films has been characterized using advanced transmission electron microscopy techniques. Electron tomography was used to analyze the three-dimensional distribution of point defect clusters induced by FIB milling, as well as their interaction with preexisting dislocations generated by internal stresses in the Al films. The atomic structure of interstitial Frank loops induced by irradiation, as well as the core structure of Frank dislocations, has been resolved with aberration-corrected high-resolution annular dark-field scanning TEM. The combination of both techniques constitutes a powerful tool for the study of the intrinsic structural properties of point defect clusters as well as the interaction of these defects with preexisting or deformation dislocations in irradiated bulk or nanostructured materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.891
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1017/S143192761101213X
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“Fe2O3-TiO2 nanosystems by a hybrid PE-CVD/ALD approach : controllable synthesis, growth mechanism, and photocatalytic properties”. Barreca D, Carraro G, Warwick MEA, Kaunisto K, Gasparotto A, Gombac V, Sada C, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Maccato C, Fornasiero P;, CrystEngComm 17, 6219 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5ce00883b
Abstract: Supported Fe2O3–TiO2 nanocomposites are fabricated by an original vapor phase synthetic strategy, consisting of the initial growth of Fe2O3 nanosystems on fluorine-doped tin oxide substrates by plasma enhanced-chemical vapor deposition, followed by atomic layer deposition of TiO2 overlayers with variable thickness, and final thermal treatment in air. A thorough characterization of the target systems is carried out by X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, field emission-scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. High purity nanomaterials characterized by the co-presence of Fe2O3 (hematite) and TiO2 (anatase), with an intimate Fe2O3–TiO2 contact, are successfully obtained. In addition, photocatalytic tests demonstrate that, whereas both single-phase oxides do not show appreciable activity, the composite systems are able to degrade methyl orange aqueous solutions under simulated solar light, and even visible light, with an efficiency directly dependent on TiO2 overlayer thickness. This finding opens attractive perspectives for eventual applications in wastewater treatment.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.474
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1039/c5ce00883b
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“On the Origin of Diamond Plates Deposited at Low Temperature”. Drijkoningen S, Pobedinskas P, Korneychuk S, Momot A, Balasubramaniam Y, Van Bael MK, Turner S, Verbeeck J, Nesladekt M, Haenen K, Crystal growth &, design 17, 4306 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.CGD.7B00623
Abstract: The crucial requirement for diamond growth at low temperatures, enabling a wide range of new applications, is a high plasma density at a low gas pressure, which leads to a low thermal load onto sensitive substrate materials. While these conditions are not within reach for resonance cavity plasma systems, linear antenna microwave delivery systems allow the deposition of high quality diamond films at temperatures around 400 degrees C and at pressures below 1 mbar. In this work the codeposition of high quality plates and octahedral diamond grains in nanocrystalline films is reported. In contrast to previous reports claiming the need for high temperatures (T >= 850 degrees C), low temperatures (320 degrees C <= T <= 410 degrees C) were sufficient to deposit diamond plate structures. Cross-sectional high resolution transmission electron microscopy studies show that these plates are faulty cubic diamond terminated by large {111} surface facets with very little sp(2) bonded carbon in the grain boundaries. Raman and electron energy loss spectroscopy studies confirm a high diamond quality, above 93% sp(3) carbon content. Three potential mechanisms, that can account for the initial development of the observed plates rich with stacking faults, and are based on the presence of impurities, are proposed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.055
Times cited: 23
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.CGD.7B00623
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“Cation exchange mediated elimination of the Fe-antisites in the hydrothermal synthesis of LiFePO4”. Paolella A, Bertoni G, Hovington P, Feng Z, Flacau R, Prato M, Colombo M, Marras S, Manna L, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Guerfi A, Demopoulos GP, Zaghib K;, Nano energy 16, 256 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.nanoen.2015.06.005
Abstract: In this work we elucidate the elimination of mechanism Fe-antisite defects in lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) during the hydrothermal synthesis. Compelling evidence of this effect is provided by combining Neutron Powder Diffraction (NPD), High Resolution (Scanning) Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-(S)TEM), Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS), X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and calculations. We found: i) the first intermediate vivianite inevitably creates Fe-antisite defects in LiFePO4; ii) the removal of these antisite defects by cation exchange is assisted by a nanometer-thick amorphous layer, rich in Li, that enwraps the LiFePO4 crystals.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.343
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2015.06.005
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“Accelerated removal of Fe-antisite defects while nanosizing hydrothermal LiFePO4 with Ca2+”. Paolella A, Turner S, Bertoni G, Hovington P, Flacau R, Boyer C, Feng Z, Colombo M, Marras S, Prato M, Manna L, Guerfi A, Demopoulos GP, Armand M, Zaghib K;, Nano letters 16, 2692 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.nanolett.6b00334
Abstract: Based on neutron powder diffraction (NPD) and high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), we show that calcium ions help eliminate the Fe-antisite defects by controlling the nucleation and evolution of the LiFePO4 particles during their hydrothermal synthesis. This Ca-regulated formation of LiFePO4 particles has an overwhelming impact on the removal of their iron antisite defects during the subsequent carbon coating step since (i) almost all the Fe-antisite defects aggregate at the surface of the LiFePO4 crystal when the crystals are small enough and (ii) the concomitant increase of the surface area, which further exposes the Fe-antisite defects. Our results not only justify a low-cost, efficient and reliable hydrothermal synthesis method for LiFePO4 but also provide a promising alternative viewpoint on the mechanism controlling the nanosizing of LiFePO4, which leads to improved electrochemical performances.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.712
Times cited: 30
DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.6b00334
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“Elucidation of the Growth Mechanism of Sputtered 2D Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanowalls”. Hoang D-Q, Pobedinskas P, Nicley SS, Turner S, Janssens SD, Van Bael MK, D'Haen J, Haenen K, Crystal growth &, design 16, 3699 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.CGD.6B00191
Abstract: Hexagonal boron nitride nanowall thin films were deposited on Si(100) substrates using a Ar(51%)/N-2(44%)/H-2(5%) gas mixture by unbalanced radio frequency sputtering. The effects of various target-to-substrate distances, substrate temperatures, and substrate tilting angles were investigated. When the substrate is close to the target, hydrogen etching plays a significant role in the film growth, while the effect is negligible for films deposited at a farther distance. The relative quantity of defects was measured by a non-destructive infrared spectroscopy technique that characterized the hydrogen incorporation at dangling nitrogen bonds at defect sites in the deposited films. Despite the films deposited at different substrate tilting angles, the nanowalls of those films were found to consistently grow vertical to the substrate surface, independent of the tilting angle. This implies that chemical processes, rather than physical ones, govern the growth of the nanowalls. The results also reveal that the degree of nanowall crystallization is tunable by varying the growth parameters. Finally, evidence of hydrogen desorption during vacuum annealing is given based on measurements of infrared stretching (E-1u) and bending (A(2u)) modes of the optical phonons, and the H-N vibration mode.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.055
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.CGD.6B00191
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“On the Origin of Damped Electrochemical Oscillations at Silicon Anodes (Revisited)”. Proost J, Blaffart F, Turner S, Idrissi H, ChemPhysChem : a European journal of chemical physics and physical chemistry 15, 3116 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1002/cphc.201402207
Abstract: Electrochemical oscillations accompanying the formation of anodic silica have been shown in the past to be correlated with rather abrupt changes in the mechanical stress state of the silica film, commonly associated with some kind of fracture or porosification of the oxide. To advance the understanding on the origin of such oscillations in fluoride-free electrolytes, we have revisited a seminal experiment reported by Lehmann almost two decades ago. We thereby demonstrate that the oscillations are not stress-induced, and do not originate from a morphological transformation of the oxide in the course of anodisation. Alternatively, the mechanical features accompanying the oscillations can be explained by a partial relaxation of the field-induced electrostrictive stress. Furthermore, our observations suggest that the oscillation mechanism more likely results from a periodic depolarisation of the anodic silica.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.075
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1002/cphc.201402207
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“Epitaxy-enabled vapor-liquid-solid growth of tin-doped indium oxide nanowires with controlled orientations”. Shen Y, Turner S, Yang P, Van Tendeloo G, Lebedev OI, Wu T, Nano letters 14, 4342 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nl501163n
Abstract: Controlling the morphology of nanowires in bottom-up synthesis and assembling them on planar substrates is of tremendous importance for device applications in electronics, photonics, sensing and energy conversion. To date, however, there remain challenges in reliably achieving these goals of orientation-controlled nanowire synthesis and assembly. Here we report that growth of planar, vertical and randomly oriented tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) nanowires can be realized on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrates via the epitaxy-assisted vaporliquidsolid (VLS) mechanism, by simply regulating the growth conditions, in particular the growth temperature. This robust control on nanowire orientation is facilitated by the small lattice mismatch of 1.6% between ITO and YSZ. Further control of the orientation, symmetry and shape of the nanowires can be achieved by using YSZ substrates with (110) and (111), in addition to (100) surfaces. Based on these insights, we succeed in growing regular arrays of planar ITO nanowires from patterned catalyst nanoparticles. Overall, our discovery of unprecedented orientation control in ITO nanowires advances the general VLS synthesis, providing a robust epitaxy-based approach toward rational synthesis of nanowires.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.712
Times cited: 33
DOI: 10.1021/nl501163n
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“Preparation, microstructure characterization and catalytic performance of Cu/ZnO and ZnO/Cu composite nanoparticles for liquid phase methanol synthesis”. Sliem MA, Turner S, Heeskens D, Kalidindi SB, Van Tendeloo G, Muhler M, Fischer RA, Physical chemistry, chemical physics 14, 8170 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1039/c2cp40482f
Abstract: Stearate@Cu/ZnO nanocomposite particles with molar ratios of ZnO ∶ Cu = 2 and 5 are synthesized by reduction of the metalorganic Cu precursor [Cu{(OCH(CH3)CH2N(CH3)2)}2] in the presence of stearate@ZnO nanoparticles. In the case of ZnO ∶ Cu = 5, high-angle annular dark field-scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) combined with electron-energy-loss-spectroscopy (EELS) as well as attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-IR) spectroscopy are used to localize the small amount of Cu deposited on the surface of 35 nm sized stearate@ZnO particles. For ZnO ∶ Cu = 2, the microstructure of the nanocomposites after catalytic activity testing is characterized by HAADF-STEM techniques. This reveals the construction of large Cu nanoparticles (2050 nm) decorated by small ZnO nanoparticles (35 nm). The catalytic activity of both composites for the synthesis of methanol from syn gas is evaluated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.123
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1039/c2cp40482f
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“Assisted spray pyrolysis production and characterisation of ZnO nanoparticles with narrow size distribution”. Turner S, Tavernier SMF, Huyberechts G, Bals S, Batenburg KJ, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of nanoparticle research 12, 615 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-009-9630-1
Abstract: Nano-sized ZnO particles with a narrow size distribution and high crystallinity were prepared from aqueous solutions with high concentrations of Zn2+ containing salts and citric acid in a conventional spray pyrolysis setup. Structure, morphology and size of the produced material were compared to ZnO material produced by simple spray pyrolysis of zinc nitrates in the same experimental setup. Using transmission electron microscopy and electron tomography it has been shown that citric acid-assisted spray pyrolysed material is made up of micron sized secondary particles comprising a shell of lightly agglomerated, monocrystalline primary ZnO nanoparticles with sizes in the 2030 nm range, separable by a simple ultrasonic treatment step.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 2.02
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1007/s11051-009-9630-1
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“Controlled vapor-phase synthesis of cobalt oxide nanomaterials with tuned composition and spatial organization”. Barreca D, Gasparotto A, Lebedev OI, Maccato C, Pozza A, Tondello E, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, CrystEngComm 12, 2185 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1039/b926368n
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.474
Times cited: 85
DOI: 10.1039/b926368n
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“Glycogen as a biodegradable construction nanomaterial for in vivo use”. Filippov SK, Sedlacek O, Bogomolova A, Vetrik M, Jirak D, Kovar J, Kucka J, Bals S, Turner S, Stepanek P, Hruby M;, Macromolecular bioscience 12, 1731 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1002/mabi.201200294
Abstract: It is demonstrated that glycogen as a biodegradable and inexpensive material coming from renewable resources can be used as a carrier for the construction of in vivo imaging nanoagents. The model system considered is composed of glycogen modified with gadolinium and fluorescent labels. Systematic studies of properties of these nanocarriers by a variety of physical methods and results of in vivo tests of biodegradability are reported. This represents, to the authors' best knowledge, the first such use of glycogen.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.238
Times cited: 22
DOI: 10.1002/mabi.201200294
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“Phase selection enabled formation of abrupt axial heterojunctions in branched oxide nanowires”. Gao J, Lebedev OI, Turner S, Li YF, Lu YH, Feng YP, Boullay P, Prellier W, Van Tendeloo G, Wu T, Nano letters 12, 275 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1021/nl2035089
Abstract: Rational synthesis of nanowires via the vaporliquidsolid (VLS) mechanism with compositional and structural controls is vitally important for fabricating functional nanodevices from bottom up. Here, we show that branched indium tin oxide nanowires can be in situ seeded in vapor transport growth using tailored AuCu alloys as catalyst. Furthermore, we demonstrate that VLS synthesis gives unprecedented freedom to navigate the ternary InSnO phase diagram, and a rare and bulk-unstable cubic phase can be selectively stabilized in nanowires. The stabilized cubic fluorite phase possesses an unusual almost equimolar concentration of In and Sn, forming a defect-free epitaxial interface with the conventional bixbyite phase of tin-doped indium oxide that is the most employed transparent conducting oxide. This rational methodology of selecting phases and making abrupt axial heterojunctions in nanowires presents advantages over the conventional synthesis routes, promising novel composition-modulated nanomaterials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.712
Times cited: 25
DOI: 10.1021/nl2035089
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“Fluorescent nanodiamonds embedded in biocompatible translucent shells”. Rehor I, Slegerova J, Kucka J, Proks V, Petrakova V, Adam MP, Treussart F, Turner S, Bals S, Sacha P, Ledvina M, Wen AM, Steinmetz NF, Cigler P;, Small 10, 1106 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1002/smll.201302336
Abstract: High pressure high temperature (HPHT) nanodiamonds (NDs) represent extremely promising materials for construction of fluorescent nanoprobes and nanosensors. However, some properties of bare NDs limit their direct use in these applications: they precipitate in biological solutions, only a limited set of bio-orthogonal conjugation techniques is available and the accessible material is greatly polydisperse in shape. In this work, we encapsulate bright 30-nm fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) in 1020-nm thick translucent (i.e., not altering FND fluorescence) silica shells, yielding monodisperse near-spherical particles of mean diameter 66 nm. High yield modification of the shells with PEG chains stabilizes the particles in ionic solutions, making them applicable in biological environments. We further modify the opposite ends of PEG chains with fluorescent dyes or vectoring peptide using click chemistry. High conversion of this bio-orthogonal coupling yielded circa 2000 dye or peptide molecules on a single FND. We demonstrate the superior properties of these particles by in vitro interaction with human prostate cancer cells: while bare nanodiamonds strongly aggregate in the buffer and adsorb onto the cell membrane, the shell encapsulated NDs do not adsorb nonspecifically and they penetrate inside the cells.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.643
Times cited: 79
DOI: 10.1002/smll.201302336
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“Rational design of Ag/TiO2 nanosystems by a combined RF-sputtering/sol-gel approach”. Armelao L, Barreca D, Bottaro G, Gasparotto A, Maccato C, Tondello E, Lebedev OI, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Štangar UL, ChemPhysChem : a European journal of chemical physics and physical chemistry 10, 3249 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1002/cphc.200900571
Abstract: The present work is devoted to the preparation of Ag/TiO2 nanosystems by an original synthetic strategy, based on the radio-frequency (RF) sputtering of silver particles on titania-based xerogels prepared by the sol-gel (SG) route. This approach takes advantage of the synergy between the microporous xerogel structure and the infiltration power characterizing RF-sputtering, whose combination enables the obtainment of a tailored dispersion of Ag-containing particles into the titania matrix. In addition, the systems chemico-physical features can be tuned further through proper ex situ thermal treatments in air at 400 and 600 °C. The synthesized composites are extensively characterized by the joint use of complementary techniques, that is, X-ray photoelectron and X-ray excited Auger electron spectroscopies (XPS, XE-AES), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), glancing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electron diffraction (ED), high-angle annular dark field scanning TEM (HAADF-STEM), energy-filtered TEM (EF-TEM) and optical absorption spectroscopy. Finally, the photocatalytic performances of selected samples in the decomposition of the azo-dye Plasmocorinth B are preliminarily investigated. The obtained results highlight the possibility of tailoring the system characteristics over a broad range, directly influencing their eventual functional properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.075
Times cited: 56
DOI: 10.1002/cphc.200900571
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“Fabrication and Characterization of Fe2O3-Based Nanostructures Functionalized with Metal Particles and Oxide Overlayers”. Barreca D, Carraro G, Gasparotto A, Maccato C, Warwick MEA, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of advanced microscopy research 10, 239 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1166/jamr.2015.1270
Abstract: We report on the design of nanosystems based on functionalized -Fe 2 O 3 nanostructures supported on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates. The target materials were developed by means of hybrid vapor phase approaches, combining plasma assisted-chemical vapor deposition (PA-CVD) for the production of iron(III) oxide systems and the subsequent radio frequency (RF)-sputtering or atomic layer deposition (ALD) for the functionalization with Au nanoparticles or TiO 2 overlayers, respectively. The interplay between material characteristics and the adopted processing parameters was investigated by complementary analytical techniques, encompassing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high angle annular dark field-scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS). The obtained results highlight the possibility of fabricating Au/ -Fe 2 O 3 nanocomposites, with a controlled dispersion and distribution of metal particles, and TiO 2 / -Fe 2 O 3 heterostructures, characterized by an intimate coupling between the constituent oxides.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1166/jamr.2015.1270
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“Dynamic motion of Ru-polyoxometalate ions (POMs) on functionalized few-layer graphene”. Ke X, Turner S, Quintana M, Hadad C, Montellano-López A, Carraro M, Sartorel A, Bonchio M, Prato M, Bittencourt C, Van Tendeloo G;, Small 9, 3922 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1002/smll.201300378
Abstract: The interaction and stability of Ru4POM on few layer graphene via functional groups is investigated by time-dependent imaging using aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy. The Ru4POM demonstrates dynamic motion on the graphene surface with its frequency and amplitude of rotation related to the nature of the functional group used. The stability of the Ru4POMgraphene hybrid corroborates its long-term robustness when applied to multielectronic catalytic processes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.643
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1002/smll.201300378
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“Pyramid-Shaped Wurtzite CdSe Nanocrystals with Inverted Polarity”. Ghosh S, Gaspari R, Bertoni G, Spadaro MC, Prato M, Turner S, Cavalli A, Manna L, Brescia R, ACS nano 9, 8537 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.5b03636
Abstract: We report on pyramid-shaped wurtzite cadmium selenide (CdSe) nanocrystals (NCs), synthesized by hot injection in the presence of chloride ions as shape-directing agents, exhibiting reversed crystal polarity compared to former reports. Advanced transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques (image-corrected high-resolution TEM with exit wave reconstruction and probe-corrected high-angle annular dark field-scanning TEM) unequivocally indicate that the triangular base of the pyramids is the polar (0001) facet and their apex points toward the [0001] direction. Density functional theory calculations, based on a simple model of binding of Cl(-) ions to surface Cd atoms, support the experimentally evident higher thermodynamic stability of the (0001) facet over the (0001) one conferred by Cl(-) ions. The relative stability of the two polar facets of wurtzite CdSe is reversed compared to previous experimental and computational studies on Cd chalcogenide NCs, in which no Cl-based chemicals were deliberately used in the synthesis or no Cl(-) ions were considered in the binding models. Self-assembly of these pyramids in a peculiar clover-like geometry, triggered by the addition of oleic acid, suggests that the basal (polar) facet has a density and perhaps type of ligands significantly different from the other three facets, since the pyramids interact with each other exclusively via their lateral facets. A superstructure, however with no long-range order, is observed for clovers with their (0001) facets roughly facing each other. The CdSe pyramids were also exploited as seeds for CdS pods growth, and the peculiar shape of the derived branched nanostructures clearly arises from the inverted polarity of the seeds.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b03636
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“Atomic-scale viscoplasticity mechanisms revealed in high ductility metallic glass films”. Idrissi H, Ghidelli M, Béché, A, Turner S, Gravier S, Blandin J-J, Raskin J-P, Schryvers D, Pardoen T, Scientific reports 9, 13426 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-49910-7
Abstract: The fundamental plasticity mechanisms in thin freestanding Zr65Ni35 metallic glass films are investigated in order to unravel the origin of an outstanding strength/ductility balance. The deformation process is homogenous until fracture with no evidence of catastrophic shear banding. The creep/relaxation behaviour of the films was characterized by on-chip tensile testing, revealing an activation volume in the range 100–200 Å3. Advanced high-resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging and spectroscopy exhibit a very fine glassy nanostructure with well-defined dense Ni-rich clusters embedded in Zr-rich clusters of lower atomic density and a ~2–3 nm characteristic length scale. Nanobeam electron diffraction analysis reveals that the accumulation of plastic deformation at roomtemperature
correlates with monotonously increasing disruption of the local atomic order. These results provide experimental evidences of the dynamics of shear transformation zones activation in metallic glasses. The impact of the nanoscale structural heterogeneities on the mechanical properties including the rate dependent behaviour is discussed, shedding new light on the governing plasticity mechanisms in metallic glasses with initially heterogeneous atomic arrangement.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.259
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49910-7
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“Atomic structure of quantum gold nanowires : quantification of the lattice strain”. Kundu P, Turner S, Van Aert S, Ravishankar N, Van Tendeloo G, ACS nano 8, 599 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn4052315
Abstract: Theoretical studies exist to compute the atomic arrangement in gold nanowires and the influence on their electronic behavior with decreasing diameter. Experimental studies, e.g., by transmission electron microscopy, on chemically synthesized ultrafine wires are however lacking owing to the unavailability of suitable protocols for sample preparation and the stability of the wires under electron beam irradiation. In this work, we present an atomic scale structural investigation on quantum single crystalline gold nanowires of 2 nm diameter, chemically prepared on a carbon film grid. Using low dose aberration-corrected high resolution (S)TEM, we observe an inhomogeneous strain distribution in the crystal, largely concentrated at the twin boundaries and the surface along with the presence of facets and surface steps leading to a noncircular cross section of the wires. These structural aspects are critical inputs needed to determine their unique electronic character and their potential as a suitable catalyst material. Furthermore, electron-beam-induced structural changes at the atomic scale, having implications on their mechanical behavior and their suitability as interconnects, are discussed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1021/nn4052315
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“Selective nickel-catalyzed conversion of model and lignin-derived phenolic compounds to cyclohexanone-based polymer building blocks”. Schutyser W, Van den Bosch S, Dijkmans J, Turner S, Meledina M, Van Tendeloo G, Debecker DP, Sels BF, Chemsuschem 8, 1805 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.201403375
Abstract: Valorization of lignin is essential for the economics of future lignocellulosic biorefineries. Lignin is converted into novel polymer building blocks through four steps: catalytic hydroprocessing of softwood to form 4-alkylguaiacols, their conversion into 4-alkylcyclohexanols, followed by dehydrogenation to form cyclohexanones, and Baeyer-Villiger oxidation to give caprolactones. The formation of alkylated cyclohexanols is one of the most difficult steps in the series. A liquid-phase process in the presence of nickel on CeO2 or ZrO2 catalysts is demonstrated herein to give the highest cyclohexanol yields. The catalytic reaction with 4-alkylguaiacols follows two parallel pathways with comparable rates: 1) ring hydrogenation with the formation of the corresponding alkylated 2-methoxycyclohexanol, and 2) demethoxylation to form 4-alkylphenol. Although subsequent phenol to cyclohexanol conversion is fast, the rate is limited for the removal of the methoxy group from 2-methoxycyclohexanol. Overall, this last reaction is the rate-limiting step and requires a sufficient temperature (> 250 degrees C) to overcome the energy barrier. Substrate reactivity (with respect to the type of alkyl chain) and details of the catalyst properties (nickel loading and nickel particle size) on the reaction rates are reported in detail for the Ni/CeO2 catalyst. The best Ni/CeO2 catalyst reaches 4-alkylcyclohexanol yields over 80 %, is even able to convert real softwood-derived guaiacol mixtures and can be reused in subsequent experiments. A proof of principle of the projected cascade conversion of lignocellulose feedstock entirely into caprolactone is demonstrated by using Cu/ZrO2 for the dehydrogenation step to produce the resultant cyclohexanones (approximate to 80%) and tin-containing beta zeolite to form 4-alkyl-e-caprolactones in high yields, according to a Baeyer-Villiger-type oxidation with H2O2.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.226
Times cited: 71
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201403375
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“Substitutional phosphorus incorporation in nanocrystalline CVD diamond thin films”. Janssen W, Turner S, Sakr G, Jomard F, Barjon J, Degutis G, Lu YG, D'Haen J, Hardy A, Bael MV, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Haenen K, Physica status solidi: rapid research letters 8, 705 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1002/pssr.201409235
Abstract: Nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) thin films were produced by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and doped by the addition of phosphine to the gas mixture. The characterization of the films focused on probing the incorporation and distribution of the phosphorus (P) dopants. Electron microscopy evaluated the overall film morphology and revealed the interior structure of the nanosized grains. The homogeneous films with distinct diamond grains featured a notably low sp(2):sp(3)-ratio as confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. High resolution spectroscopy methods demonstrated a homogeneous P-incorporation, both in-depth and in-plane. The P concentration in the films was determined to be in the order of 10(19) cm(-3) with a significant fraction integrated at substitutional donor sites. (C) 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.032
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1002/pssr.201409235
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“Three-dimensional valency mapping in ceria nanocrystals”. Goris B, Turner S, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, ACS nano 8, 10878 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/nn5047053
Abstract: Using electron tomography combined with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), we are able to map the valency of the Ce ions in CeO2-x nanocrystals in three dimensions. Our results show a clear facet-dependent reduction shell at the surface of ceria nanoparticles; {111} surface facets show a low surface reduction, whereas at {001} surface facets, the cerium ions are more likely to be reduced over a larger surface shell. Our generic tomographic technique allows a full 3D data cube to be reconstructed, containing an EELS spectrum in each voxel. This possibility enables a three-dimensional investigation of a plethora of material-specific physical properties such as valency, chemical composition, oxygen coordination, or bond lengths, triggering the synthesis of nanomaterials with improved properties.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 13.942
Times cited: 85
DOI: 10.1021/nn5047053
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