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	Author	Faust, V.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Ganigué, R.; Udert, K.M.
	Title	Influence of pH on urine nitrification : community shifts of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and inhibition of nitrite-oxidizing bacteria			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	ACS ES&T engineering	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	4	Issue	2	Pages	342-353
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
	Abstract	Urine nitrification is pH-sensitive due to limited alkalinity and high residual ammonium concentrations. This study aimed to investigate how the pH affects nitrogen conversion and the microbial community of urine nitrification with a pH-based feeding strategy. First, kinetic parameters for NH3, HNO2, and NO2– limitation and inhibition were determined for nitrifiers from a urine nitrification reactor. The turning point for ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB), i.e., the substrate concentration at which a further increase would lead to a decrease in activity due to inhibitory effects, was at an NH3 concentration of 12 mg-N L–1, which was reached only at pH values above 7. The total nitrite turning point for nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) was pH-dependent, e.g., 18 mg-N L–1 at pH 6.3. Second, four years of data from two 120 L reactors were analyzed, showing that stable nitrification with low nitrite was most likely between pH 5.8 and 6.7. And third, six 12 L urine nitrification reactors were operated at total nitrogen concentrations of 1300 and 3600 mg-N L–1 and pH values between 2.5 and 8.5. At pH 6, the AOB Nitrosomonas europaea was found, and the NOB belonged to the genus Nitrobacter. At pH 7, nitrite accumulated, and Nitrosomonas halophila was the dominant AOB. NOB were inhibited by HNO2 accumulation. At pH 8.5, the AOB Nitrosomonas stercoris became dominant, and NH3 inhibited NOB. Without influent, the pH dropped to 2.5 due to the growth of the acid-tolerant AOB “Candidatus Nitrosacidococcus urinae”. In conclusion, pH is a decisive process control parameter for urine nitrification by influencing the selection and kinetics of nitrifiers.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2023-11-02
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access	Not_Open_Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:203306			Serial	9048
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Derks, K.; Youchaeva, M.; Van der Snickt, G.; Van der Stighelen, K.; Janssens, K.
	Title	Reconstructing Sweerts : practical insights into the historical dark halo technique based on paint reconstructions			Type	P1 Proceeding
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	259-271 T2 - Alla maniera : technical art history
	Keywords	P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
	Abstract
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	978-90-429-5216-4	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:203062			Serial	9082
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Van Tendeloo, M.; Baptista, M.C.; Van Winckel, T.; Vlaeminck, S.E.
	Title	Recurrent multi-stressor floc treatments with sulphide and free ammonia enabled mainstream partial nitritation/anammox			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	The science of the total environment	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	912	Issue		Pages	169449-12
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
	Abstract	Selective suppression of nitrite-oxidising bacteria (NOB) over aerobic and anoxic ammonium-oxidising bacteria (AerAOB and AnAOB) remains a major challenge for mainstream partial nitritation/anammox implementation, a resource-efficient nitrogen removal pathway. A unique multi-stressor floc treatment was therefore designed and validated for the first time under lab-scale conditions while staying true to full-scale design principles. Two hybrid (suspended + biofilm growth) reactors were operated continuously at 20.2 ± 0.6 °C. Recurrent multi-stressor floc treatments were applied, consisting of a sulphide-spiked deoxygenated starvation followed by a free ammonia shock. A good microbial activity balance with high AnAOB (71 ± 21 mg N L−1 d−1) and low NOB (4 ± 17 % of AerAOB) activity was achieved by combining multiple operational strategies: recurrent multi-stressor floc treatments, hybrid sludge (flocs & biofilm), short floc age control, intermittent aeration, and residual ammonium control. The multi-stressor treatment was shown to be the most important control tool and should be continuously applied to maintain this balance. Excessive NOB growth on the biofilm was avoided despite only treating the flocs to safeguard the AnAOB activity on the biofilm. Additionally, no signs of NOB adaptation were observed over 142 days. Elevated effluent ammonium concentrations (25 ± 6 mg N L−1) limited the TN removal efficiency to 39 ± 9 %, complicating a future full-scale implementation. Operating at higher sludge concentrations or reducing the volumetric loading rate could overcome this issue. The obtained results ease the implementation of mainstream PN/A by providing and additional control tool to steer the microbial activity with the multi-stressor treatment, thus advancing the concept of energy neutrality in sewage treatment plants.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2023-12-18
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0048-9697; 1879-1026	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	9.8	Times cited		Open Access	Not_Open_Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 9.8; 2024 IF: 4.9
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:202286			Serial	9083
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	Author	Broos, W.; Wittner, N.; Dries, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Gunde-Cimerman, N.; Cornet, I.
	Title	Rhodotorula kratochvilovae outperforms Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum in the valorisation of lignocellulosic wastewater to microbial oil			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Process biochemistry (1991)	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	137	Issue		Pages	229-238
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
	Abstract	Rhodotorula kratochvilovae has shown to be a promising species for microbial oil production from lignin-derived compounds. Yet, information on R. kratochvilovae’s detoxification and microbial oil production is scarce. This study investigated the growth and microbial oil production on the phenolic-containing effluent from poplar steam explosion and its detoxification with five R. kratochvilovae strains (EXF11626, EXF9590, EXF7516, EXF3697, EXF3471) and compared them with Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum. The R. kratochvilovae strains reached a maximum growth rate up to four times higher than C. oleaginosum. Furthermore, all R. kratochvilovae strains generally degraded phenolics more rapidly and to a larger extent than C. oleaginosum. However, the diluted substrate limited the lipid production by all strains as the maximum lipid content and titre were 10.5% CDW and 0.40 g/L, respectively. Therefore, future work should focus on increasing lipid production by using advanced fermentation strategies and stimulating the enzyme excretion by the yeasts for complex substrate breakdown.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-01-13
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1359-5113	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	4.4	Times cited		Open Access	Not_Open_Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 4.4; 2024 IF: 2.497
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:202365			Serial	9087
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	Author	De Meyer, R.; Gorbanev, Y.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Cool, P.; Bals, S.; Bogaerts, A.
	Title	Importance of plasma discharge characteristics in plasma catalysis: Dry reforming of methane vs. ammonia synthesis			Type	A1 Journal Article
	Year	2024	Publication	Chemical Engineering Journal	Abbreviated Journal	Chemical Engineering Journal
	Volume	488	Issue		Pages	150838
	Keywords	A1 Journal Article; Gas conversion Dry reforming of methane Ammonia Microdischarges Dielectric barrier discharge; Plasma, laser ablation and surface modeling Antwerp (PLASMANT) ;
	Abstract	Plasma catalysis is a rapidly growing field, often employing a packed-bed dielectric barrier discharge plasma reactor. Such dielectric barrier discharges are complex, especially when a packing material (e.g., a catalyst) is introduced in the discharge volume. Catalysts are known to affect the plasma discharge, though the underlying mechanisms influencing the plasma physics are not fully understood. Moreover, the effect of the catalysts on the plasma discharge and its subsequent effect on the overall performance is often overlooked. In this work, we deliberately design and synthesize catalysts to affect the plasma discharge in different ways. These Ni or Co alumina-based catalysts are used in plasma-catalytic dry reforming of methane and ammonia synthesis. Our work shows that introducing a metal to the dielectric packing can affect the plasma discharge, and that the distribution of the metal is crucial in this regard. Further, the altered discharge can greatly influence the overall performance. In an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge reactor, this apparently more uniform plasma yields a significantly better performance for ammonia synthesis compared to the more conventional filamentary discharge, while it underperforms in dry reforming of methane. This study stresses the importance of analyzing the plasma discharge in plasma catalysis experiments. We hope this work encourages a more critical view on the plasma discharge characteristics when studying various catalysts in a plasma reactor.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-03-30
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1385-8947	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	15.1	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes	This research was supported through long-term structural funding (Methusalem FFB15001C) and by the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme with grant agreement No 810182 (SCOPE ERC Synergy project) and with grant agreement No 815128 (REALNANO). We acknowledge the practical contribution of Senne Van Doorslaer.			Approved	Most recent IF: 15.1; 2024 IF: 6.216
	Call Number	PLASMANT @ plasmant @c:irua:205154			Serial	9115
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	Author	Ahmadi Eshtehardi, H.
	Title	Combined computational-experimental study on plasma and plasma catalysis for N2 fixation			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	160 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
	Abstract	Humanity feels the urge of shifting to a sustainable society more than at any other time in its history. Electrification of chemical industry plays a key role in this transition. The possibility of producing fertilizers from air using renewable electricity, and simultaneously, no greenhouse gas emission, resulted in an increasing interest toward plasma technology as a solution for electrification of a part of the chemical industry in the past few years. Additionally, the activation of nitrogen molecules by vibrational and electronic excitation reactions in plasma can lead to an energy-efficient process. Last but not least, the modularity (fast on/off characteristic) of plasma technology makes it capable of using intermittent renewable electricity on site for the production of fertilizers using air. All these advantages offered by plasma technology make it a potential solution for the on-site production of fertilizers in small and decentralized plants using air and renewable electricity, which leads to a considerable reduction in fertilizer production and transportation costs. However, industrialization of plasma-based NF suffers from several challenges, including challenges of plasma catalysis for the selective production of desired species, the high energy cost of plasma-based NF compared to current industrial processes, and the design and development of scaled up and energy-efficient plasma reactors for industrial purposes. In the framework of this thesis we have tried to add to the state-of-the-art (SOTA) in plasma-based NOx production and deal with its limitations using a combination of experimental and modelling work.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-06-14
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205246			Serial	9139
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Cioni, M.; Delle Piane, M.; Polino, D.; Rapetti, D.; Crippa, M.; Arslan Irmak, E.; Pavan, G.M.; Van Aert, S.; Bals, S.
	Title	Data for Sampling Real‐Time Atomic Dynamics in Metal Nanoparticles by Combining Experiments, Simulations, and Machine Learning			Type	Dataset
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages
	Keywords	Dataset; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
	Abstract	Even at low temperatures, metal nanoparticles (NPs) possess atomic dynamics that are key for their properties but challenging to elucidate. Recent experimental advances allow obtaining atomic‐resolution snapshots of the NPs in realistic regimes, but data acquisition limitations hinder the experimental reconstruction of the atomic dynamics present within them. Molecular simulations have the advantage that these allow directly tracking the motion of atoms over time. However, these typically start from ideal/perfect NP structures and, suffering from sampling limits, provide results that are often dependent on the initial/putative structure and remain purely indicative. Here, by combining state‐of‐the‐art experimental and computational approaches, how it is possible to tackle the limitations of both approaches and resolve the atomistic dynamics present in metal NPs in realistic conditions is demonstrated. Annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy enables the acquisition of ten high‐resolution images of an Au NP at intervals of 0.6 s. These are used to reconstruct atomistic 3D models of the real NP used to run ten independent molecular dynamics simulations. Machine learning analyses of the simulation trajectories allows resolving the real‐time atomic dynamics present within the NP. This provides a robust combined experimental/computational approach to characterize the structural dynamics of metal NPs in realistic conditions.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205843			Serial	9143
Permanent link to this record



	Author	De Luca, F.; Abate, S.; Bogaerts, A.; Centi, G.
	Title	Electrified CO2 conversion : integrating experimental, computational, and process simulation methods for sustainable chemical synthesis			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	xv, 152 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
	Abstract	Nowadays, the burning of fossil fuels, particularly petroleum, natural gas, and coal, meets the rising need for power and fuels for automobiles and industries. This has given rise to ecological and climate challenges. This thesis explores these issues from three distinct perspectives: (i) experimental, (ii) computational, and (iii) process simulation, with a focus on studying CO2 as an alternative and economically viable raw material. Firstly, the experimental study is focused on the synthesis, characterization, and testing of novel catalysts for electroreduction of CO2 and oxalic acid, an intermediate product of CO2. Electrocatalysts based on Cu supported by citrus (orange and lemon) peel biomass are prepared. These catalysts exhibit activity in the electrochemical reduction of CO2, emphasizing the effectiveness of biomasses, particularly orange peels, as environmentally friendly precursors for sustainable and efficient electrocatalysts. In addition, graphitic carbon nitrides/TiO2 nanotubes (g-C3N4/TiNT) composites are prepared for the electrocatalytic reduction of oxalic acid to glycolic acid, revealing superior electrocatalytic properties compared to pristine TiNT. Characterization by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electronic microscopy were performed for all the prepared electrocatalysts. Delving into the reduction of CO2 on Cu catalysts, a computational study about the synthesis of methanol on Cu(111) surface is performed by using the Vienna Ab initio Simulation Package. A systematic study is carried out to define the activation energies of the elementary reactions by using mGGA DF. Consequently, it is shown that the rate-controlling step is CH3O* hydrogenation and the formate pathway on Cu(111) proceeds through the HCOOH* intermediate. Finally, the process simulation, performed by using the software Aspen Plus 11 from AspenTech Inc., is based on the comparison of a catalytic (oxidation of ethylene glycol) and an electrocatalytic process (CO2 electroreduction chain) to synthesize glycolic acid. An economic analysis of the operational and investment costs reveals that the catalytic process is more cost-effective due to the current instability of electrocatalysts and proton exchange membranes, resulting in increased maintenance costs and, consequently, higher prices for the product.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205262			Serial	9147
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Vlasov, E.
	Title	Exploiting secondary electrons in transmission electron microscopy for 3D characterization of nanoparticle morphologies			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	x, 118 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
	Abstract	Electron tomography (ET) is an indispensable tool for determining the three-dimensional (3D) structure of nanomaterials in (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM). ET enables 3D characterization of a variety of nanomaterials across different fields, including life sciences, chemistry, solid-state physics, and materials science down to atomic resolution. However, the acquisition of a conventional tilt series for ET is a time-consuming process and thus cannot capture fast transformations of materials in realistic conditions. Moreover, only a limited number of nanoparticles (NPs) can be investigated, hampering a general understanding of the average properties of the material. Therefore, alternative characterization techniques that allow for high-resolution characterization of the surface structure without the need to acquire a full tilt series in ET are required which would enable a more time-efficient investigation with better statistical value. In the first part of this work, an alternative technique for the characterization of the morphology of NPs to improve the throughput and temporal resolution of ET is presented. The proposed technique exploits surface-sensitive secondary electron (SE) imaging in STEM employed using a modification of electron beam-induced current (EBIC) setup. The time- and dose efficiency of SEEBIC are tested in comparison with ET and superior spatial resolution is shown compared to conventional scanning electron microscopy. Finally, contrast artefacts arising in SEEBIC images are described, and their origin is discussed. The second part of my thesis focuses on real applications of the proposed technique and introduces a high-throughput methodology that combines images acquired by SEEBIC with quantitative image analysis to retrieve information about the helicity of gold nanorods. It shows that SEEBIC imaging overcomes the limitation of ET providing a general understanding of the connection between structure and chiroptical properties.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-06-17
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:204905			Serial	9149
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Kummamuru, N.B.
	Title	Methane and hydrogen storage in clathrate hydrates			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	XXV, 260 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp engineering, PhotoElectroChemistry & Sensing (A-PECS)
	Abstract	In a world increasingly reliant on alternative energy sources, the quest for efficient and secure storage solutions is paramount. This doctoral thesis explores the exciting potential of a familiar material – water – to act as a vault for next-generation energy sources like hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4). Nature offers a solution in the form of clathrate hydrates, fascinating cage-like structures formed from water molecules that can trap these gas molecules within their framework. This research investigates on improving the formation kinetics and gas storage capabilities of clathrate hydrates utilizing porous materials and the interstitial space between non-porous materials to augment the contact between gas and water thereby catalysing the growth of hydrates and unlocking their full potential as efficient and secure energy storage reservoirs. A key outcome of this research is the formulation of an empirical correlation, offering predictive insights into CH4 hydrate phase equilibrium conditions. Innovative approaches utilizing thermally conductive beads have yielded substantial enhancements in CH4 uptake. Furthermore, the identification of optimal water content within porous materials showcases a pathway to maximize CH4 storage capacity and hydrate growth kinetics. In the domain of hydrogen storage, attention is also directed towards unstirred systems, where the integration of functionalized porous materials has demonstrated a significant improvement in the rate of hydrate formation and the overall H2 storage capacity. A noteworthy achievement of this research lies in the successful storage of H2 within confined CH4 hydrates through a gas exchange process and the preliminary results show the potential for safer and more sustainable method for H2 storage at mild thermodynamic conditions, offering promising prospects for future energy systems.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:206258			Serial	9160
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Lu, Q.
	Title	Precipitation behavior and heat resistance properties of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-(Si) alloy			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	VIII, 212 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
	Abstract	With the rapid increase in the speed of new-generation aerospace vehicles, conventional heat-resistant aluminum alloys cannot meet the long-term service of the equipment. Therefore, the development of new high-strength heat-resistant aluminum alloys is of great strategic for the sustainable and high-quality development of industries. Al-Cu-Mg-Ag alloy is an age-hardenable heat-resistant aluminum alloy and has high strength and heat resistance. The addition of alloying elements such as Si and Sc to Al-Cu-Mg-Ag alloy introduces a competitive relationship among the σ-Al5Cu6Mg2, θ′-Al2Cu, and Ω phases. Therefore, a systematic investigation of precipitation behavior and heat resistance of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-(Si) is essential for guiding the design of high-strength heat-resistant aluminum alloys. Combined characterization testing methods such as scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atom probe tomography, microhardness testing, and tensile testing with simulation calculation methods such as calculation of phase diagram, first-principles calculations, and Ab initio molecular dynamics, the effects of heat treatment processes and element content on the precipitation behavior, mechanical properties, and heat resistance of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-(Si) alloys were systematically investigated. Furthermore, a multiple interface segregation structure was constructed at the θ′/Al interface, and a new Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-Si-Sc alloy with synergistically improved strength and heat resistance was developed. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) Based on the Kampmann-Wagner-Numerical theory, the relationship between the coarsening rate of the Ω phase and the aging process was analyzed, revealing for the first time that the critical size of Ω phase ( ) under thermal exposure temperature was the key factor determining the coarsening rate of Ω phase during long time thermal exposure heat treatment. After artificial ageing, when the size of Ω phase was smaller than the critical size , the dissolution of smaller Ω phase leaded to a rapid decrease in the number density of Ω phases, thereby reducing the heat resistance of the alloy. When the size of Ω phase was greater than or equal to the critical size , the coarsening rate of Ω phase was consistent, but a larger initial size would result in a larger final size after long-term thermal exposure. Therefore, the closer the size of Ω phase in the alloy is to the critical size under heat exposure temperature, the better the heat resistance of the alloy. (2) A concept of constructing a multiple interface segregation structure at the precipitate/matrix interface was proposed, and based on this concept, a multiple interface segregation structure containing the C/L-AlMgSiCu interfacial phase, newly discovered χ-AgMg interfacial phase, and Sc segregation layer was successfully constructed at the θ′/Al interface. The existence of the multiple interface segregation structure ensured that the designed Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-Si-Sc alloy maintains a yield strength of 400 MPa after thermal exposure at 200 C for 100 h, with a strength retention rate of 97%, creating a new record for the synergistic improvement of strength and heat resistance in aluminum alloys. In addition, combining transmission electron microscopy ex-situ/in-situ characterization with first-principles calculations, it is shown that the χ-AgMg interface phase will be destroyed due to the diffusion of the outer Ag layer during thermal exposure, and gradually dissolve into the matrix, but it can still delay the coarsening behavior of θ′-Al2Cu phase. (3) The criteria for determining whether Ω phase can precipitate are updated in Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-Si alloys with low Mg/Si ratio based on phase diagram thermodynamic calculations and multi-scale structural characterization. When W(Mg)/W(Si) > 1.4 and X(Ag)/X(Mgexcess) > 1, Ω phase can precipitate in Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-Si alloys, where X(Mgexcess) represents the atomic percentage of residual Mg elements after the formation of the AlMgSiCu quaternary precipitate phase C/L phase in the supersaturated solid solution, and the W(Mg) is the mass fraction of Mg in the supersaturated solid solution before artificial ageing. (4) The effects of alloy element content on precipitation behavior and heat resistance of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-Si alloys were systematically analyzed. Critical conditions for the precipitation of σ-Al5Cu6Mg2 and Ω phase in Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-Si alloys are revealed. Based on calculation of phase diagram results, the conditions for precipitating σ-Al5Cu6Mg2 phase in the alloy are: ① W(Mg)/W(Si) > 1.8; ② W(Cu) > 2.7W(Mg) – 5W(Si). When W(Mg)/W(Si) < 1.8, the alloy is mainly precipitated with C/L/Q′-AlMgSiCu. When W(Cu) < 2.7W(Mg) – 5W(Si), the alloy will generate GPB zone. In addition, W(Ag)/W(Si) > 4 is the critical condition which the Ω phase can the main precipitates in Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-Si alloys. Furthermore, the correlation between precipitate types and heat resistance was summarized, showing that Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-(Si) alloys with Ω phase as the main strengthening phase are more suitable for the preparation of structures with short service time but high temperature, while Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-(Si) alloys with low Mg content and multiple segregation structures are more suitable for structures requiring long-term service at medium to high temperatures. This study, for the first time, combines calculation of phase diagram with multi-scale microstructure characterization, systematically unraveling the effects of element content on precipitation behavior, strength, and heat resistance of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-(Si) alloys. In addition, a concept of constructing a multiple interface segregation structure at the precipitate/matrix interface was proposed to synergistically improve alloy strength and heat resistance. This work provides theoretical guidance for optimizing the composition and processing of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag-(Si) alloy and regulating the microstructure. Furthermore, it also offers new ideas and theoretical guidance for the development of novel high-strength heat-resistant alloys in other systems.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:206180			Serial	9167
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Manaigo, F.
	Title	Study of a gliding arc discharge for sustainable nitrogen fixation into NOx			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	xxiv, 114 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
	Abstract	With the growth of the world population, the agricultural sector is required to meet an increasing demand for nutrients and currently relies on industrially produced fertilizers. Among them, nitrogen-based fertilizers are the most common choice and require N2 to be converted into more reactive molecules in a process called “nitrogen fixation”. This is mainly performed through the Haber-Bosch process, which, is not ideal since it requires large-scale facilities to be economical and is associated with a high energy cost and high CO2 emissions, resulting in an environmental impact that is pushing for the study of greener alternatives. Among these, plasma-based nitrogen fixation into NOx is promising, and gliding arc plasma, specifically, proved to be suitable for nitrogen fixation. This thesis aims to study plasma-based nitrogen fixation focusing on an atmospheric pressure gliding arc plasma on three different levels. On a fundamental level, an approach dealing with laser-based excitation of separate rotational lines was successfully developed. This method can be implemented on atmospheric discharges that produce rather high NOx densities and, thus, can impose essential restrictions for the use of “classical” laser-induced fluorescence methods. The approach is then implemented, providing a discussion on the two-dimensional distributions of both the gas temperature and the NO ground state density. A clear correlation between these quantities is found and the effects of both the gas temperature and the plasma power on NO and NO2 concentrations are discussed, revealing how the NO oxidation is already significant in the plasma afterglow region and how the gas flow rate is a crucial parameter affecting the temperature gradients. >From a technological level, the conventional approach of introducing external resistors to stabilize the arc is challenged by studying both its performance and its stability replacing the external resistor with an inductor. We conclude that similar stabilization results can be obtained while significantly lowering the overall energy cost, which decreased from up to a maximum of 7.9 MJ/mol N to 3 MJ/mol N. Finally, we study whether a small-scale fertilizer production facility based on a gliding arc plasma can be a local competitive alternative. This is done by proposing a comparative model to understand how capital, operative expenditures and transport costs affect the production costs. The model highlights how, with the current best available technology, plasma-based nitrogen fixation, while being an interesting alternative for NOx synthesis, still requires a more efficient use of H2 for direct NH3 production.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205259			Serial	9175
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	Author	Brognara, A.; Kashiwar, A.; Jung, C.; Zhang, X.; Ahmadian, A.; Gauquelin, N.; Verbeeck, J.; Djemia, P.; Faurie, D.; Dehm, G.; Idrissi, H.; Best, J.P.; Ghidelli, M.
	Title	Tailoring mechanical properties and shear band propagation in ZrCu metallic glass nanolaminates through chemical heterogeneities and interface density			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Small Structures	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	2400011-11
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
	Abstract	The design of high‐performance structural thin films consistently seeks to achieve a delicate equilibrium by balancing outstanding mechanical properties like yield strength, ductility, and substrate adhesion, which are often mutually exclusive. Metallic glasses (MGs) with their amorphous structure have superior strength, but usually poor ductility with catastrophic failure induced by shear bands (SBs) formation. Herein, we introduce an innovative approach by synthesizing MGs characterized by large and tunable mechanical properties, pioneering a nanoengineering design based on the control of nanoscale chemical/structural heterogeneities. This is realized through a simplified model Zr 24 Cu 76 /Zr 61 Cu 39 , fully amorphous nanocomposite with controlled nanoscale periodicity ( Λ , from 400 down to 5 nm), local chemistry, and glass–glass interfaces, while focusing in‐depth on the SB nucleation/propagation processes. The nanolaminates enable a fine control of the mechanical properties, and an onset of crack formation/percolation (>1.9 and 3.3%, respectively) far above the monolithic counterparts. Moreover, we show that SB propagation induces large chemical intermixing, enabling a brittle‐to‐ductile transition when Λ ≤ 50 nm, reaching remarkably large plastic deformation of 16% in compression and yield strength ≈2 GPa. Overall, the nanoengineered control of local heterogeneities leads to ultimate and tunable mechanical properties opening up a new approach for strong and ductile materials.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-05-20
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	2688-4062	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205798			Serial	9176
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	Author	Van Hoecke, L.
	Title	CFD-Assisted design of fluidized reactors for H2 release from LOHC			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	XXXIII, 181 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology
	Abstract	Hydrogen (H2) is expected to become a key molecule in the transition towards a society running on renewable energy. It can be used to store excess renewable energy at peak production moments and release this energy at a later stage when renewable energy production is less. However, storing H2 is challenging due to the low density of this gas. As a solution, Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers or LOHC molecules have been proposed in the passed to increase volumetric energy density of H2. LOHC are a class of molecules that have storage sites available, to which the H2 gas can be chemically bounded. The LOHC molecule under investigation was dibenzyltoluene (DBT), which is an oil like liquid, that is easy to transport and poses little fire or explosion risks. To release the H2 from the DBT carrier, via a so-called dehydrogenation reaction, efficient mass and heat transfer is required during the process, since a large volume increase is expected from H2 release and the reaction is endothermic, i.e., a self – cooling process that takes place at temperatures around 300 C. The heat has to be supplied specifically to the active sites of catalyst particles that are present inside the reactor and which enable the dehydrogenation to proceed. For heat transfer limited processes fluidized bed reactors are often used, which is a type of reactor where the particle phase is being agitated by the fluid flow. The research proposed in this work, was to explore via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations the possibilities and challenges of using fluidized bed reactors for the dehydrogenation of LOHC. The model selection required for CFD simulations of a three-phase system was investigated in this work, with a main emphasis on the drag model selection. The CFD modelling study was focused on the use of swirling fluidized bed reactors, since it was hypothesised that the swirling effect could also aid in increased removal of the gas phase from the reaction medium to increase the efficiency of the process. Ultimately, it was shown that the main challenges in the design of fluidized bed reactors will be to create uniform particle distribution inside the reactor. A new design for a dehydrogenation reactor is proposed based on the insights gained in this thesis.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-06-14
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205645			Serial	9192
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	Author	Lembrechts, J.; Clavel, J.; Lenoir, J.; Haider, S.; McDougall, K.; Nunez, M.; Alexander, J.; Barros, A.; Milbau, A.; Seipel, T.; Verbruggen, E.; Nijs, I.
	Title	Dataset: Roadside disturbance promotes plant communities with arbuscular mycorrhizal associations in mountain regions worldwide			Type	Dataset
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages
	Keywords	Dataset; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
	Abstract	Aim: We aimed to assess the impact of road disturbances on the dominant mycorrhizal types in ecosystems at the global level and how this mechanism can potentially lead to lasting plant community changes. Location: Globally distributed mountain regions Time Period: 2007-2018 Taxa studied: Plants (linked to their associated mycorrhizal fungi) Methods: We used a database of coordinated plant community surveys following mountain roads from 894 plots in 11 mountain regions across the globe in combination with an existing database of mycorrhizal-plant associations in order to approximate the relative abundance of mycorrhizal types in natural and disturbed environments. Results: Our findings show that roadside disturbance promotes the cover of plants associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. This effect is especially strong in colder mountain environments and in mountain regions where plant communities are dominated by ectomycorrhizal (EcM) or ericoid-mycorrhizal (ErM) associations. Furthermore, non-native plant species, which we confirmed to be mostly AM plants, are more successful in environments dominated by AM associations. Main Conclusions: These biogeographical patterns suggest that changes in mycorrhizal types could be a crucial factor in the worldwide impact of anthropogenic disturbances on mountain ecosystems. Indeed, roadsides foster AM-dominated systems, where AM-fungi might aid AM-associated plant species while potentially reducing the biotic resistance against invasive non-native species, often also associated with AM networks. Restoration efforts in mountain ecosystems will have to contend with changes in the fundamental make-up of EcM- and ErM plant communities induced by roadside disturbance.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:206132			Serial	9198
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Larraín, M.; Billen, P.; Cifuentes, L.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Economic and environmental implications of policy instruments for the circular economy : a case study for postconsumer polyethylene film recycling in Europe			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Resources, conservation and recycling	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	204	Issue		Pages	107519-11
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
	Abstract	The objective of this paper is to examine the recycling rates for mechanical and thermochemical recycling of postconsumer polyethylene flexible packaging after the implementation of different policy instruments. The study uses a supply chain equilibrium model that incorporates market data and techno-economic assessments to simulate market equilibrium. It combines this with a life cycle assessment to explore the environmental implications of implementing different policy instruments. The results show that instruments that do not target a specific technology are more likely to increase thermochemical recycling than mechanical recycling. Furthermore, a higher recycling rate is not equivalent to a better environmental outcome. An increased collection target that ensures a supply of plastic waste would increase the overall recycling rates the most. A recycled content standard for mechanical recycling would lead to the highest increase in mechanical recycling, with top results for environmental indicators, but low results for economic indicators.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-02-29
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	0921-3449	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	13.2	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:203485			Serial	9202
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	Author	De Keyzer, M.; Soens, T.; Verbruggen, C.
	Title	Mens en natuur : een geschiedenis			Type	MA2 Book as author
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	313 p.
	Keywords	MA2 Book as author; History; Centre for Urban History
	Abstract	Onze relatie met de natuur om ons heen is, op zijn zachtst gezegd, ingewikkeld. Mensen gingen niet plots een bedreiging vormen voor het leven op aarde nadat ze er eeuwenlang mee in harmonie hadden geleefd. Verschillende ideeën over de omgang met de natuurlijke omgeving – sommige duurzaam, andere ronduit desastreus – hebben altijd naast elkaar bestaan. We waren er ons al verrassend vroeg van bewust dat ons handelen een nefaste impact kon hebben op de natuur. Maar die bezwaren werden geregeld aan de kant geschoven. Deze inleiding tot de milieugeschiedenis helpt de lezer te begrijpen hoe onze hedendaagse problematische omgang met de natuur en ons milieu tot stand is gekomen. Het is een introductie tot het recente onderzoek naar de relatie tussen mens en natuur doorheen de eeuwen, in de Lage Landen en ver daarbuiten.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN	978-94-014-0395-5	Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205213			Serial	9212
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	Author	Pankratov, D.; Hidalgo Martinez, S.; Karman, C.; Gerzhik, A.; Gomila, G.; Trashin, S.; Boschker, H.T.S.; Geelhoed, J.S.; Mayer, D.; De Wael, K.; Meysman, F.J.R.
	Title	The organo-metal-like nature of long-range conduction in cable bacteria			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	157	Issue		Pages	108675-10
	Keywords	A1 Journal article
	Abstract	Cable bacteria are filamentous, multicellular microorganisms that display an exceptional form of biological electron transport across centimeter-scale distances. Currents are guided through a network of nickel-containing protein fibers within the cell envelope. Still, the mechanism of long-range conduction remains unresolved. Here, we characterize the conductance of the fiber network under dry and wet, physiologically relevant, conditions. Our data reveal that the fiber conductivity is high (median value: 27 S cm−1; range: 2 to 564 S cm−1), does not show any redox signature, has a low thermal activation energy (Ea = 69 ± 23 meV), and is not affected by humidity or the presence of ions. These features set the nickel-based conduction mechanism in cable bacteria apart from other known forms of biological electron transport. As such, conduction resembles that of an organic semi-metal with a high charge carrier density. Our observation that biochemistry can synthesize an organo-metal-like structure opens the way for novel bio-based electronic technologies.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-02-25
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1567-5394	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	5	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 5; 2024 IF: 3.346
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205117			Serial	9215
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Clavel, J.
	Title	Plant-mycorrhizal interactions and their role in plant invasions in mountains			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	182 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
	Abstract	Non-native species invasions are one of the most impactful drivers of biodiversity and ecosystem services loss worldwide. One aspect of plant species invasion, which is only recently starting to be recognized as a determinant of invasion success, is the symbiosis between plant and mycorrhizal fungi. Here, I focus on anthropogenic disturbance in mountain ecosystems and its impact on plant communities and mycorrhizal fungi to answer how these communities are impacted by disturbance and whether non-native plants can benefit to establish and spread. To this end I used a combination of different approaches: 1) repeated surveys of plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi along disturbed roadsides in the mountains of Norway, 2) combining a global dataset of native and non-native plants along mountain roads with a database associating plants with their mycorrhizal types, and 3) an in-situ experiment measuring non-native plant success and changes in fungal community following different types of disturbances. Through these methods, I could assess the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on mycorrhizal symbiosis and non-native plant species at multiple scales and resolutions. We found that road disturbance has a globally consistent effect on mycorrhizal types in mountain systems, as plants associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi were more abundant following disturbance. Conversely, vegetation associated with either ectomycorrhizal (EcM) or ericoid mycorrhizal (ErM) fungi was less abundant in disturbed sites. In the regional study, AM fungi were most abundant and diverse in the roots of plant communities affected by road disturbance. Non-native plants were also restricted to these disturbed sites. The experimental results showed that physical disturbance and nutrient addition have negative effects on EcM fungi and positive effects on fungal pathogens, and facilitate non-native plant success. Our results show that anthropogenic disturbance does have an effect on mycorrhizal fungi that in turn impacts the distribution of plant species in disturbed mountain systems. The resulting shift in mycorrhizal fungi benefiting AM fungi and AM plant species could have implications for non-native plant invasions. Indeed, we know that non-native plants predominantly form associations with AM fungi. Therefore, anthropogenic disturbance can facilitate non-native plant success through disruption of the native fungal communities, and especially so in high elevation and cold climate regions which are naturally less dominated by AM plants. I believe this highlights the importance of mycorrhizal symbiosis in understanding plant invasions and emphasizes the importance of monitoring sources of anthropogenic disturbance in mountains to prevent future establishment of non-native plants.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:204154			Serial	9219
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Raes, A.; Minja, A.C.; Ag, K.R.; Verbruggen, S.W.
	Title	Recent advances in metal-doped defective TiO₂ for photocatalytic CO₂ conversion			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Current Opinion in Chemical Engineering	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	44	Issue		Pages	101013-11
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
	Abstract	Introducing defects in TiO2-based photocatalytic materials is a promising strategy for improving light-driven CO2 reduction. However, defects such as oxygen vacancies are generally unstable. As a solution and to further enhance the photocatalytic activity, metal doping has been applied. This mini review aims to summarize recent progress in this particular field. Herein, we have classified metal-doped architectures into three different categories: single metal doping, alloy- and co-doping, and doping of morphologically nanoengineered TiO2−x substrates. The direct relationship between specific metals and product selectivity remains complex, as selectivity can vary significantly among seemingly similar materials. However, numerous methods do show promise in fine-tuning selectivity towards either CO or CH4. In terms of photocatalytic turnover, remarkable yields have been reported in isolated reports, but insufficient experimental data and divergent reaction conditions hamper a true comparison. This puts an emphasis on the need for standardized activity testing.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-03-16
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	2211-3398	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	6.6	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 6.6; 2024 IF: 3.403
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:204462			Serial	9221
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Vetters, J.; Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	Sailing through end-of-life challenges : a comprehensive review for offshore wind			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Renewable and sustainable energy reviews	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	199	Issue		Pages	114486-16
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Over the past thirty years, European offshore wind farm development surged, yet end-of-life and decommissioning considerations were overshadowed by initial climate and energy security objectives during design and construction. As the first major projects near their final decade, numerous unanswered questions persist. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies, maps, and evaluates challenges across technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions spanning five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and site recovery. Examining 42 publications reveals 46 distinct challenges affecting stakeholders such as the end-of-life supply chain, policy makers, and society. While 33% of the challenges manifested in the technical dimension, 48% of the challenges covered the planning phase. Notably, the economic challenge of vessel cost and availability was raised most often. Less-explored challenges underscore the importance of consideration before the end-of-life phase intensifies. The study illustrates the complex interconnection of numerous end-of-life challenges across phases, dimensions, and disciplines, emphasizing the imperative of addressing bottlenecks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The results of this study help steering future research, while also improving awareness of challenges for stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders to address imminent challenges through transparent guidelines, data exchange, and circular design principles. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic, multidisciplinary approach, systematic framework for identifying challenges, and critical perspective unveiling interconnectedness.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-05-02
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1364-0321; 1879-0690	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	15.9	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 15.9; 2024 IF: 8.05
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205652			Serial	9226
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam, S.; Campos, R.; Trashin, S.; Daems, E.; Carneiro, D.; Fraga, A.; Ribeiro, R.; De Wael, K.
	Title	Singlet oxygen-based photoelectrochemical detection of miRNAs in prostate cancer patients’ plasma : a novel diagnostic tool for liquid biopsy			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Bioelectrochemistry: an international journal devoted to electrochemical aspects of biology and biological aspects of electrochemistry	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	158	Issue		Pages	108698-108699
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
	Abstract	Dysregulation of miRNA expression occurs in many cancers, making miRNAs useful in cancer diagnosis and therapeutic guidance. In a clinical context using methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the limited amount of miRNAs in circulation often limits their quantification. Here, we present a PCR-free and sensitive singlet oxygen (1O2)-based strategy for the detection and quantification of miRNAs in untreated human plasma from patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. A target miRNA is specifically captured by functionalised magnetic beads and a detection oligonucleotide probe in a sandwich-like format. The formed complex is concentrated at the sensor surface via magnetic beads, providing an interface for the photoinduced redox signal amplification. The detection oligonucleotide probe bears a molecular photosensitiser, which produces 1O2 upon illumination, oxidising a redox reporter and creating a redox cycling loop, allowing quantification of pM level miRNA in diluted human plasma within minutes after hybridisation and without target amplification.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-04-04
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	1567-5394	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	5	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 5; 2024 IF: 3.346
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205281			Serial	9229
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Metze, D.; Schnecker, J.; Le Noir de Carlan, C.; Bhattarai, B.; Verbruggen, E.; Ostonen, I.; Janssens, I.A.; Sigurdsson, B.D.; Hausmann, B.; Kaiser, C.; Richter, A.
	Title	Soil warming increases the number of growing bacterial taxa but not their growth rates			Type	A1 Journal article
	Year	2024	Publication	Science Advances	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	10	Issue	8	Pages	eadk6295-14
	Keywords	A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
	Abstract	Soil microorganisms control the fate of soil organic carbon. Warming may accelerate their activities putting large carbon stocks at risk of decomposition. Existing knowledge about microbial responses to warming is based on community-level measurements, leaving the underlying mechanisms unexplored and hindering predictions. In a long-term soil warming experiment in a Subarctic grassland, we investigated how active populations of bacteria and archaea responded to elevated soil temperatures (+6°C) and the influence of plant roots, by measuring taxon-specific growth rates using quantitative stable isotope probing and 18 O water vapor equilibration. Contrary to prior assumptions, increased community growth was associated with a greater number of active bacterial taxa rather than generally faster-growing populations. We also found that root presence enhanced bacterial growth at ambient temperatures but not at elevated temperatures, indicating a shift in plant-microbe interactions. Our results, thus, reveal a mechanism of how soil bacteria respond to warming that cannot be inferred from community-level measurements.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-02-23
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN	2375-2548	ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor	13.6	Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: 13.6; 2024 IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:204459			Serial	9230
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Finizola e Silva, M.; Cools, J.; Cools, J.; Van Passel, S.
	Title	A systematic review identifying the drivers and barriers to the adoption of climate-smart agriculture by smallholder farmers in Africa			Type	Administrative Services
	Year	2024	Publication	Frontiers in environmental economics	Abbreviated Journal
	Volume	3	Issue		Pages	1356335-14
	Keywords	Administrative Services; A3 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
	Abstract	Climate change impact, food security concerns, and greenhouse gas emissions are pressuring agricultural production systems in developing countries. There is a need for a shift toward sustainable food systems. One of the concepts introduced to drive this shift is climate-smart agriculture (CSA), endorsed by international organizations to address multifaceted challenges. Despite widespread attention and support, the adoption of CSA among African farmers remains low. This systematic literature review aims to shed light on the factors influencing CSA adoption amongst African farmers. Within the articles identified as relevant, over 50 CSA practices and more than 40 factors influencing CSA adoption were distinguished. These influencing factors can be categorized as personal, farm- related, financial, environmental, and informational. The focus of this review is to identify and explain the overall impact (positive, negative, or mixed) of these factors on CSA adoption. Overall, many factors result in mixed effects, only some factors have an unambiguous positive or negative effect on CSA adoption. For instance, educational level emerges as a key personal factor, positively impacting CSA adoption, along with positive influences from farmers’ experience and farm size among farm-related factors. Financial factors reveal distinct patterns, with income from farming and access to credit positively influencing adoption, while off-farm income exhibits a negative effect. Environmental factors, though less researched, indicate positive impacts related to changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, and droughts. Lastly, informational factors consistently exhibit a positive effect on CSA adoption, with training, access to extension, group memberships, climate information, and CSA awareness playing crucial roles. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers seeking to enhance CSA adoption in Africa, offering a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted dynamics at play.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date	2024-04-03
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:205017			Serial	9233
Permanent link to this record



	Author	Ramirez-Rojas, I.
	Title	Underground connections : the interplay between tropical rainforest trees and soil microbial communities			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	205 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
	Abstract	Tropical rainforests host an exceptional biodiversity and play a fundamental role in the regulation of global climatic cycles. Soil fungi and bacteria are key players in the transformation and processing of nutrients in terrestrial ecosystems while having an essential role as tree mutualists or antagonists. Still, there are gaps in our understanding of the main variables driving soil microbes on these forests and it is unclear how future climate change scenarios may impact soil microbes and further affect the ecosystem. In this thesis, we first explored the drivers of the microbial community composition in two pristine forests in French Guiana by using amplicon DNA sequencing. The neighboring tree species were found to be a crucial factor influencing the fungal and bacterial community composition at our sites regardless of the season. Additionally, within the environmental factors explored, soil moisture, phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) availability were consistently the main soil properties controlling the composition of soil microbial communities. Secondly, as increased nutrient deposition due to anthropogenic activities are expected to affect tropical forests ecosystems N and P availability, a factorial N and P nutrient addition experiment in the same sites was used to assess the effects of changes in the soil nutrient stoichiometry on the soil microbial communities. These results showed that after 3 years of nutrient additions, the bacterial and fungal community composition was affected by both the N and P additions. Besides, the fungal community composition had a stronger response to the nutrient addition, especially when P was added. Moreover, when the nutrient addition effect was assessed in bacteria and fungi with different life strategies, we found different nutrient optima between them. Furthermore, to study the effect of the connection to an existing mycorrhizal mycelium on tree seedlings, I established a mycelium exclusion experiment. Interestingly, we could not detect an effect of the mycorrhizal mycelium exclusion on the seedling N uptake, performance, or fungal community composition in roots after one year. All together this work provides a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the soil microbial communities on these lowland tropical forests, demonstrating that the tree community composition exerts a higher influence on the soil microbial community composition than previously expected. Moreover, our results show that the fungal and bacterial community composition and its relationship with trees in the vicinity is highly dependent on the ecosystem nutrient availability.
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:204907			Serial	9237
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	Author	Montiel, F.N.
	Title	Voltage against illicit drug trafficking : capabilities of electrochemical fingerprinting to detect illicit drugs			Type	Doctoral thesis
	Year	2024	Publication		Abbreviated Journal
	Volume		Issue		Pages	256 p.
	Keywords	Doctoral thesis; Pharmacology. Therapy; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
	Abstract
	Address
	Corporate Author				Thesis
	Publisher		Place of Publication		Editor
	Language		Wos		Publication Date
	Series Editor		Series Title		Abbreviated Series Title
	Series Volume		Series Issue		Edition
	ISSN		ISBN		Additional Links	UA library record
	Impact Factor		Times cited		Open Access
	Notes				Approved	Most recent IF: NA
	Call Number	UA @ admin @ c:irua:204707			Serial	9243
Permanent link to this record