“Tailored vapor-phase growth of CuxO-TiO2(x=1,2) nanomaterials decorated with Au particles”. Barreca D, Carraro G, Gasparotto A, Maccato C, Lebedev OI, Parfenova A, Turner S, Tondello E, Van Tendeloo G, Langmuir: the ACS journal of surfaces and colloids 27, 6409 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/la200698t
Abstract: We report on the fabrication of CuxOTiO2 (x = 1, 2) nanomaterials by an unprecedented vapor-phase approach. The adopted strategy involves the growth of porous CuxO matrices by means of chemical vapor deposition (CVD), followed by the controlled dispersion of TiO2 nanoparticles. The syntheses are performed on Si(100) substrates at temperatures of 400550 °C under wet oxygen atmospheres, adopting Cu(hfa)2·TMEDA (hfa =1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoro-2,4-pentanedionate; TMEDA = N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine) and Ti(O-iPr)2(dpm)2 (O-iPr = isopropoxy; dpm = 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionate) as copper and titanium precursors, respectively. Subsequently, finely dispersed gold nanoparticles are introduced in the as-prepared systems via radio frequency (RF)-sputtering under mild conditions. The synthesis process results in the formation of systems with chemical composition and nano-organization strongly dependent on the nature of the initial CuxO matrix and on the deposited TiO2 amount. The decoration with low-size gold clusters paves the way to the engineering of hierarchically organized nanomaterials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.833
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1021/la200698t
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“Barrier efficiency of sponge-like La2Zr2O7 buffer layers for YBCO-coated conductors”. Molina L, Tan H, Biermans E, Batenburg KJ, Verbeeck J, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Superconductor science and technology 24, 065019 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0953-2048/24/6/065019
Abstract: Solution derived La2Zr2O7 films have drawn much attention for potential applications as thermal barriers or low-cost buffer layers for coated conductor technology. Annealing and coating parameters strongly affect the microstructure of La2Zr2O7, but different film processing methods can yield similar microstructural features such as nanovoids and nanometer-sized La2Zr2O7 grains. Nanoporosity is a typical feature found in such films and the implications for the functionality of the films are investigated by a combination of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and quantitative electron tomography. Chemical solution based La2Zr2O7 films deposited on flexible Ni5 at.%W substrates with a {100}lang001rang biaxial texture were prepared for an in-depth characterization. A sponge-like structure composed of nanometer-sized voids is revealed by high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy in combination with electron tomography. A three-dimensional quantification of nanovoids in the La2Zr2O7 film is obtained on a local scale. Mostly non-interconnected highly faceted nanovoids compromise more than one-fifth of the investigated sample volume. The diffusion barrier efficiency of a 170 nm thick La2Zr2O7 film is investigated by STEM-EELS, yielding a 1.8 ± 0.2 nm oxide layer beyond which no significant nickel diffusion can be detected and intermixing is observed. This is of particular significance for the functionality of YBa2Cu3O7 − δ coated conductor architectures based on solution derived La2Zr2O7 films as diffusion barriers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 2.878
Times cited: 31
DOI: 10.1088/0953-2048/24/6/065019
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“Damage and molecular changes under a laser beam in SEM-EDX/MRS interface : a case study on iron-rich particles”. Worobiec A, Darchuk L, Brooker A, Potgieter H, Van Grieken R, Journal of Raman spectroscopy 42, 808 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/JRS.2789
Abstract: The control of damage to individual environmental particles by a laser beam during Raman spectroscopy carried out in ambient air is generally well understood. The nature and control of damage under vacuum conditions (e.g. in the scanning electron microscopy with energy X-ray detection combined with micro-Raman spectroscopyinterfaced SEM-EDX/MRS) are more complex and less well comprehended. The physical and chemical processes that affect the damage caused to small particles by lasers still remain somewhat unclear, but certainly the atmosphere (vacuum/air) and the beam intensity have very significant influences. Furthermore, it has been determined that some particles (e.g. haematite), although stable under an electron beam, are damaged by the laser beam, hampering their analysis. Additionally, when simultaneous analyses by SEM/EDX and MRS are considered, the correct choice of the collection surface plays a crucial role. As a result, the following collection substrates were tested to determine their influence on the laser beam damage process to the particle: silver and aluminium foils and silicon wafers. A test study was performed using artificial examples of haematite (Fe2O3) particles. Exposure of Fe2O3 particles in vacuum to 514- and 785-nm laser radiation often leads to their melting, transformation and evaporation. The dependence of the damage caused by the laser beam on the particle structure is reported here. Molecular and crystallographic changes have also been revealed. Formation of magnetite (as an effect of re-crystallisation) and Raman inactive structures was detected.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1002/JRS.2789
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“Surface chemistry and properties of ozone-purified detonation nanodiamonds”. Shenderova O, Koscheev A, Zaripov N, Petrov I, Skryabin Y, Detkov P, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 115, 9827 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/jp1102466
Abstract: Nanodiamond from ozone purification (NDO) demonstrates very distinctive properties within the class of detonation nanodiamonds, namely very high acidity and high colloidal stability in a broad pH range. To understand the origin of these unusual properties of NDO, the nature of the surface functional groups formed during detonation soot oxidation by ozone needs to be revealed. In this work, thermal desorption mass spectrometry (TDMS) and IR spectroscopy were used for the identification of surface groups and it was concluded that carboxylic anhydride groups prevail on the NDO surface. On the basis of the temperature profiles of the desorbed volatile products and their mass balance, it is hypothesized that decomposition of carboxylic anhydride groups from NDO during heating proceeds by two different mechanisms. Other distinctive features of NDO in comparison with air-treated nanodiamond are also reported.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 105
DOI: 10.1021/jp1102466
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“Single neutral excitons confined in AsBr3 in situ etched InGaAs quantum rings”. Ding F, Li B, Akopian N, Perinetti U, Chen YH, Peeters FM, Rastelli A, Zwiller V, Schmidt OG, Journal of nanoelectronics and optoelectronics 6, 51 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1166/jno.2011.1132
Abstract: We observe the evolution of single self-assembled semiconductor quantum dots into quantum rings during AsBr3 in situ etching. The direct three-dimensional imaging of In(Ga)As nanostructures embedded in GaAs matrix is demonstrated by selective wet chemical etching combined with atomic force microscopy. Single neutral excitons confined in these quantum rings are studied by magneto-photoluminescence. Oscillations in the exciton radiative recombination energy and in the emission intensity are observed under an applied magnetic field. Further, we demonstrate that the period of the oscillations can be tuned by a gate potential that modifies the exciton confinement. The experimental results, combined with calculations, indicate that the exciton Aharonov-Bohm effect may account for the observed effects.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 0.497
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1166/jno.2011.1132
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“Dielectric barrier discharges used for the conversion of greenhouse gases: modeling the plasma chemistry by fluid simulations”. De Bie C, Martens T, van Dijk J, Paulussen S, Verheyde B, Corthals S, Bogaerts A, Plasma sources science and technology 20, 024008 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0963-0252/20/2/024008
Abstract: The conversion of methane to value-added chemicals and fuels is considered to be one of the challenges of the 21st century. In this paper we study, by means of fluid modeling, the conversion of methane to higher hydrocarbons or oxygenates by partial oxidation with CO2 or O2 in a dielectric barrier discharge. Sixty-nine different plasma species (electrons, ions, molecules, radicals) are included in the model, as well as a comprehensive set of chemical reactions. The calculation results presented in this paper include the conversion of the reactants and the yields of the reaction products as a function of residence time in the reactor, for different gas mixing ratios. Syngas (i.e. H2 + CO) and higher hydrocarbons (C2Hx) are typically found to be important reaction products.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.302
Times cited: 38
DOI: 10.1088/0963-0252/20/2/024008
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“Structural and vibrational properties of amorphous GeO2 from first-principles”. Scalise E, Houssa M, Pourtois G, Afanas'ev VV, Stesmans A, Applied physics letters 98, 202110 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3593036
Abstract: The structural and vibrational properties of amorphous germanium oxide (a-GeO<sub>2</sub>) are investigated using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory. We first generate an a-GeO<sub>2</sub> structure by first-principles molecular dynamics and analyze its structural properties. The vibrational spectra is then calculated within a density-functional approach. Both static and dynamic properties are in good agreement with experimental data. We next generate defects in our structure (oxygen vacancies with several density and charge states) and consider the most stable atomic configurations, focusing on the vibrational features of threefold coordinated O and divalent Ge centers.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 226
DOI: 10.1063/1.3593036
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“Layered perovskite-like Pb2Fe2O5 structure as a parent matrix for the nucleation and growth of crystallographic shear planes”. Batuk D, Hadermann J, Abakumov A, Vranken T, Hardy A, van Bael M, Van Tendeloo G, Inorganic chemistry 50, 4978 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/ic200211x
Abstract: The Pb2Fe2O5 compound with a layered intergrowth structure has been prepared by a solid-state reaction at 700 °C. The incommensurate compound crystallizes in a tetragonal system with a = 3.9037(2) Å, c = 3.9996(4) Å, and q = 0.1186(4)c*, or when treated as a commensurate approximant, a = 3.9047(2) Å, c = 36.000(3) Å, space group I4/mmm. The crystal structure of Pb2Fe2O5 was resolved from transmission electron microscopy data. Atomic coordinates and occupancies of the cation positions were estimated from high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy data. Direct visualization of the positions of the oxygen atoms was possible using annular bright-field scanning transmission electron microscopy. The structure can be represented as an intergrowth of perovskite blocks and partially disordered blocks with a structure similar to that of the Bi2O2 blocks in Aurivillius-type phases. The A-cation positions at the border of the perovskite block and the cation positions in the Aurivillius-type blocks are jointly occupied by Pb2+ and Fe3+ cations, resulting in a layer sequence along the c axis: PbOFeO2PbOFeO2Pb7/8Fe1/8O1xFe5/8Pb3/8O2Fe5/8Pb3/8. Upon heating, the layered Pb2Fe2O5 structure transforms into an anion-deficient perovskite modulated by periodically spaced crystallographic shear (CS) planes. Considering the layered Pb2Fe2O5 structure as a parent matrix for the nucleation and growth of CS planes allows an explanation of the specific microstructure observed for the CS structures in the PbFeO system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.857
Times cited: 16
DOI: 10.1021/ic200211x
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“Catalytic and molecular separation properties of Zeogrids and Zeotiles”. Martens JA, Thybaut JW, Denayer JFM, Sree SP, Aerts A, Reyniers M-F, van Speybroeck V, Waroquier M, Buekenhoudt A, Vankelecom I, Buijs W, Persoons J, Baron GV, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Marin GB, Jacobs PA, Kirschhock CEA, Catalysis today 168, 17 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cattod.2011.01.036
Abstract: Zeogrids and Zeotiles are hierarchical materials built from assembled MFI zeolite precursor units. Permanent secondary porosity in these materials is obtained through self assembly of nanoparticles encountered in MFI zeolite synthesis in the presence of supramolecular templates. Hereon, the aggregated species are termed nanoslabs. Zeogrids are layered materials with lateral spacings between nanoslabs creating galleries qualifying as supermicropores. Zeotiles present a diversity of tridimensional nanoslab assemblies with mesopores. Zeotile-1, -4 and -6 are hexagonal mesostructures. Zeotile-1 has triangular and hexagonal channels; Zeotile-4 has hexagonal channels interconnected via slits. Zeotile-2 has a cubic structure with gyroid type mesoporosity. The behavior of Zeogrids and Zeotiles in adsorption, membrane and chromatographic separation and catalysis has been characterized and compared with zeolites and mesoporous materials derived from unstructured silica sources. Shape selectivity was detected via adsorption of n- and iso-alkanes. The mesoporosity of Zeotiles can be exploited in chromatographic separation of biomolecules. Zeotiles present attractive separation properties relevant to CO2 sequestration. Because of its facile synthesis procedure without hydrothermal steps Zeogrid is convenient for membrane synthesis. The performance of Zeogrid membrane in gas separation, nanofiltration and pervaporation is reported. In the Beckmann rearrangement of cyclohexanone oxime Zeogrids and Zeotiles display a catalytic activity characteristic of silicalite-1 zeolites. Introduction of acidity and redox catalytic activity can be achieved via incorporation of Al and Ti atoms in the nanoslabs during synthesis. Zeogrids are active in hydrocracking, catalytic cracking, alkylation and epoxidation reactions. Zeogrids and Zeotiles often behave differently from ordered mesoporous materials as well as from zeolites and present a valuable extension of the family of hierarchical silicate based materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.636
Times cited: 13
DOI: 10.1016/j.cattod.2011.01.036
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“Understanding the surface diffusion processes during magnetron sputter-deposition of complex oxide Mg-Al-O thin films”. Georgieva V, Voter AF, Bogaerts A, Crystal growth &, design 11, 2553 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1021/cg200318h
Abstract: It is known that film structure may change dramatically with the extent of surface diffusion during the film growth process. In the present work, surface diffusion, induced thermally or activated by energetic impacts, is investigated theoretically under conditions appropriate for magnetron sputter-deposition of MgAlO thin films with varying stoichiometry. The distribution of surface diffusion energy barriers available to the system was determined for each stoichiometry, which allowed assessing in a qualitative way how much surface diffusion will take place on the time scale available between deposition events. The activation energy barriers increase with the Al concentration in the film, and therefore, the surface diffusion rates in the time frame of typical deposition rates drop, which can explain the decrease in crystallinity in the film structure and the transition to amorphous structure. The deposition process and the immediate surface diffusion enhanced by the energetic adatoms are simulated by means of a molecular dynamics model. The longer-time thermal surface diffusion and the energy landscape are studied by the temperature accelerated dynamics method, applied in an approximate way. The surface diffusion enhanced by the energetic impacts appears to be very important for the film structure in the low-temperature deposition regime.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.055
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1021/cg200318h
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“Ultrahigh strain hardening in thin palladium films with nanoscale twins”. Idrissi H, Wang B, Colla MS, Raskin JP, Schryvers D, Pardoen T, Advanced materials 23, 2119 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201004160
Abstract: Nanocrystalline Pd thin films containing coherent growth twin boundaries are deformed using on-chip nanomechanical testing. A large work-hardening capacity is measured. The origin of the observed behavior is unraveled using transmission electron microscopy and shows specific dislocations and twin boundaries interactions. The results indicate the potential for large strength and ductility balance enhancement in Pd films, as needed in membranes for H technologies.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 19.791
Times cited: 57
DOI: 10.1002/adma.201004160
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“Spiral ground state against ferroelectricity in the frustrated magnet BiMnFe2O6”. Abakumov AM, Tsirlin AA, Perez-Mato JM, Petřiček V, Rosner H, Yang T, Greenblatt M, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 214402 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214402
Abstract: The spiral magnetic structure and underlying spin lattice of BiMnFe2O6 are investigated by low-temperature neutron powder diffraction and density functional theory band structure calculations. In spite of the random distribution of the Mn3+ and Fe3+ cations, this centrosymmetric compound undergoes a transition into an incommensurate antiferromagnetically ordered state below TN≃220 K. The magnetic structure is characterized by the propagation vector k=[0,β,0] with β≃0.14 and the P221211′(0β0)0s0s magnetic superspace symmetry. It comprises antiferromagnetic helixes propagating along the b axis. The magnetic moments lie in the ac plane and rotate about π(1+β)≃204.8-deg angle between the adjacent magnetic atoms along b. The spiral magnetic structure arises from the peculiar frustrated arrangement of exchange couplings in the ab plane. The antiferromagnetic coupling along the c axis cancels the possible electric polarization and prevents ferroelectricity in BiMnFe2O6.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214402
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“Synthesis and characterisation of lanthanide-based dioxide”. Esquivel MR, Zelaya E, Advances in applied ceramics 110, 219 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1179/1743676110Y.0000000021
Abstract: In the present work, the microstructure and structure of La(0.25)Ce(0.52)Nd(0.17)Pr(0.06)(OH)(3) and La(0.25)Ce(0.52)Nd(0.17)Pr(0.06)O(2) is obtained from transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction measurements. Space group P6(3)/m is assigned to the structure of La(0.25)Ce(0.52)Nd(0.17)Pr(0.06)(OH)(3). Lanthanides are assigned to Wyckoff positions 2c. Cell parameters are a=6.375(5) angstrom and c=3.753(5) angstrom. The thermal decomposition of this compound was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The process is exothermal with an enthalpy change Delta H degrees value of -254 +/- 10 kJ mol(-1). The decomposition kinetics is complex and two global processes with E(a) values of 98 +/- 4 and 61 +/- 2 kJ mol 21 were observed. The product is a lanthanide dioxide. Space group Fm3m is assigned to the La(0.25)Ce(0.52)Nd(0.17)Pr(0.06)O(2). Lanthanides are distributed in Wyckoff positions 4a. The cell parameter is a=5.479(5) angstrom. Nanopores in the oxide surface are obtained using this method and characterised by STEM measurements.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.325
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1179/1743676110Y.0000000021
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“Metallic nanograins : spatially nonuniform pairing induced by quantum confinement”. Croitoru MD, Shanenko AA, Kaun CC, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 214509 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214509
Abstract: It is well known that the formation of discrete electron levels strongly influences the pairing in metallic nanograins. Here, we focus on another effect of quantum confinement in superconducting grains that was not studied previously, i.e., spatially nonuniform pairing. This effect is very significant when single-electron levels form bunches and/or a kind of shell structure. We find that, in highly symmetric grains, the order parameter can exhibit variations with position by an order of magnitude. Nonuniform pairing is closely related to a quantum-confinement-induced modification of the pairing-interaction matrix elements and size-dependent pinning of the chemical potential to groups of degenerate or nearly degenerate levels. For illustrative purposes, we consider spherical metallic nanograins and also rectangular shapes. We show that the relevant matrix elements are, as a rule, enhanced in the presence of quantum confinement, which favors spatial variations of the order parameter, compensating the corresponding energy cost. The size-dependent pinning of the chemical potential further increases the spatial variation of the pair condensate. The role of nonuniform pairing is smaller in less symmetric confining geometries and/or in the presence of disorder. However, it always remains of importance when the energy spacing between discrete electron levels δ is approaching the scale of the bulk gap ΔB, i.e., δ>0.10.2 ΔB.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 23
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214509
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“On the concept of a supervisory, fuzzy set logic based, advanced filtration control in membrane bioreactors”. Brauns E, van Hoof E, Huyskens C, de Wever H, Desalination and water treatment 29, 119 (2011). http://doi.org/10.5004/DWT.2011.2258
Abstract: The filtration process within a membrane bioreactor (MBR) is mostly controlled in a classic way through typical set-points such as aeration flow rate, filtration duration, backwash frequency or relaxation duration. The values of these filtration set-points result from experience and remain often unchanged during the installations operational lifetime. Filtration is dictated considerably by membrane fouling phenomena. The fouling potential of the mixed liquor however can significantly fluctuate, even daily, from changing influent characteristics. Fixed set-point values thus may represent sub-optimal filtration conditions. Consequently, a supervising advanced control system, being able to continuously adapt the set-points values would be beneficial regarding the MBR filtration process optimization. Such optimization could reduce the corresponding MBR energy consumption, e.g. linked to the filtration related membrane aeration. An Advanced Control System (ACS) based on Fuzzy Set Logic (FSL) is introduced here, enabling to supervise an existing classic membrane filtration control system. Such ACS is able to daily (or even more frequent) optimize the set-points of the underlying classic control system, from the input of various sensor and process parameter values. The theoretical background and practical implementation of the FSL based ACS concept is explained.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.5004/DWT.2011.2258
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“Three-dimensional ferromagnetic architectures with multiple metastable states”. Nasirpouri F, Engbarth MA, Bending SJ, Peter LM, Knittel A, Fangohr H, Milošević, MV, Applied physics letters 98, 222506 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3595339
Abstract: We demonstrate controllable dual-bath electrodeposition of nickel on architecture-tunable three-dimensional (3D) silver microcrystals. Magnetic hysteresis loops of individual highly faceted Ag-Ni core-shell elements reveal magnetization reversal that comprises multiple sharp steps corresponding to different stable magnetic states. Finite-element micromagnetic simulations on smaller systems show several jumps during magnetization reversal which correspond to transitions between different magnetic vortex states. Structures of this type could be realizations of an advanced magnetic data storage architecture whereby each element represents one multibit, storing a combination of several conventional bits depending on the overall number of possible magnetic states associated with the 3D core-shell shape.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1063/1.3595339
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“Electronic properties of hydrogenated silicene and germanene”. Houssa M, Scalise E, Sankaran K, Pourtois G, Afanas'ev VV, Stesmans A, Applied physics letters 98, 223107 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3595682
Abstract: The electronic properties of hydrogenated silicene and germanene, so called silicane and germanane, respectively, are investigated using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory. Two different atomic configurations are found to be stable and energetically degenerate. Upon the adsorption of hydrogen, an energy gap opens in silicene and germanene. Their energy gaps are next computed using the HSE hybrid functional as well as the G(0)W(0) many-body perturbation method. These materials are found to be wide band-gap semiconductors, the type of gap in silicane (direct or indirect) depending on its atomic configuration. Germanane is predicted to be a direct-gap material, independent of its atomic configuration, with an average energy gap of about 3.2 eV, this material thus being potentially interesting for optoelectronic applications in the blue/violet spectral range. (C) 2011 American Institute of Physics. [doi: 10.1063/1.3595682]
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 63
DOI: 10.1063/1.3595682
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“Thermal behavior of Si-doped fullerenes vs their structural stability at T = 0 K : a density functional study”. Scipioni R, Matsubara M, Ruiz E, Massobrio C, Boero M, Chemical physics letters 510, 14 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cplett.2011.05.019
Abstract: We establish the topological conditions underlying the thermal stability of C30Si30 clusters. Two topologies have been considered: a segregated one, where Si and C atoms lie on neighboring and yet, separated parts of the cage, and a non-segregated one, where the number of SiC bonds is maximized. The segregated network is energetically favored against the non-segregated one, both structures being fully relaxed at T = 0 K. Conversely, the non-segregated structure is the only one stable at finite temperatures, regardless of the nature of the local states (d or p) included in the KleynmanBylander construction.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.815
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2011.05.019
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“Zirconia-modified exfoliated graphite”. Afanasov IM, Van Tendeloo G, Inorganic materials 47, 603 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1134/S0020168511050013
Abstract: Zirconia has been incorporated into exfoliated graphite (EG) through the anodic polarization in the natural graphite-ZrO(NO3)2-HNO3-H2O system, followed by flash heating. The thermal properties of the oxidized graphites employed as precursors to EG have been studied by thermogravimetry in combination with differential scanning calorimetry, and the distribution of ZrO2 particles in the EG has been assessed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Conditions are described for the preparation of EG with bulk densities in the range 1.34.7 g/l and ZrO2 contents in the range 434 wt %.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 0.62
DOI: 10.1134/S0020168511050013
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“Geometry-driven vortex states in type-I superconducting Pb nanowires”. Engbarth MA, Bending SJ, Milošević, MV, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 224504 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.224504
Abstract: Hall probe magnetometry has been used to investigate the magnetization of individual cylindrically shaped Pb nanowires grown by electrocrystallization on a highly oriented pyrolytic graphite electrode. These measurements have been interpreted by comparison with three-dimensional Ginzburg-Landau (GL) calculations for nanowires with our sample parameters. We find that the measured superheating field and the critical field for surface superconductivity are strongly influenced by the temperature-dependent coherence length, ξ(T) and penetration depth λ(T) and their relationship to the nanowire diameter. As the temperature is increased toward Tc this drives a change in the superconductor-normal transition from first order irreversible to first order reversible and finally second order reversible. We find that the geometrical flux confinement in our type-I nanowires leads to the formation of a one-dimensional row of single-quantum vortices. While GL calculations show a quite uniform distribution of vortices in thin nanowires, clear vortex bunching is found as the diameter increases, suggesting a transition to a more classical type-I behavior. Subtle changes in minor magnetization loops also indicate that slightly different flux configurations can form with the same vorticity, which depend on the sample history.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 19
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.224504
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“Photocatalytic degradation of ethylene : an FTIR in situ study under atmospheric conditions”. Hauchecorne B, Tytgat T, Verbruggen SW, Hauchecorne D, Terrens D, Smits M, Vinken K, Lenaerts S, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 105, 111 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APCATB.2011.03.041
Abstract: In this paper, the reaction mechanism of the photocatalytic oxidation of ethylene is elucidated by means of an in-house developed FTIR in situ reactor. This reactor allowed us to look at the catalytic surface at the moment the reactions actually occur. This new approach gave some exciting new insights in how ethylene is photocatalytically oxidised. It was found that there is a change in dipole moment of the ethylene molecule when it is brought in the neighbourhood of the catalyst. From this finding, a hypothesis was formulated on how the CC-bond from ethylene will break. It was found that the aforementioned interaction between the catalyst and the molecule, allows the excited electrons from the UV irradiated catalyst to occupy the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the ethylene molecule through a process known as backdonation. Following this hypothesis, it was found that the degradation occurs through the formation of two intermediates: formaldehyde and formic acid, for which formaldehyde is bound in two different ways (coordinatively and as bidentate). Finally CO2 and H2O are found as end products, resulting in the complete mineralisation of the pollutant.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Molecular Spectroscopy (MolSpec); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 9.446
Times cited: 29
DOI: 10.1016/J.APCATB.2011.03.041
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“Structure and energetics of hydrogen chemisorbed on a single graphene layer to produce graphane”. Dzhurakhalov AA, Peeters FM, Carbon 49, 3258 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbon.2011.03.052
Abstract: Chemisorption of hydrogen on graphene is studied using atomistic simulations with the second generation of reactive empirical bond order Brenner inter-atomic potential. The lowest energy adsorption sites and the most important metastable sites are determined. The H concentration is varied from a single H atom, to clusters of H atoms up to full coverage. We found that when two or more H atoms are present, the most stable configurations of H chemisorption on a single graphene layer are ortho hydrogen pairs adsorbed on one side or on both sides of the graphene sheet. The latter has the highest hydrogen binding energy. The next stable configuration is the orthopara pair combination, and then para hydrogen pairs. The structural changes of graphene caused by chemisorbed hydrogen are discussed and are compared with existing experimental data and other theoretical calculations. The obtained results will be useful for nanoengineering of graphene by hydrogenation and for hydrogen storage.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES)
Impact Factor: 6.337
Times cited: 46
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2011.03.052
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“Wavepacket scattering of Dirac and Schrödinger particles on potential and magnetic barriers”. Rakhimov KY, Chaves A, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Journal of physics : condensed matter 23, 275801 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/0953-8984/23/27/275801
Abstract: We investigate the dynamics of a charged particle moving in a graphene layer and in a two-dimensional electron gas, where it obeys the Dirac and the Schrödinger equations, respectively. The charge carriers are described as Gaussian wavepackets. The dynamics of the wavepackets is studied numerically by solving both quantum-mechanical and relativistic equations of motion. The scattering of such wavepackets by step-like magnetic and potential barriers is analysed for different values of wavepacket energy and width. We find: (1) that the average position of the wavepacket does not coincide with the classical trajectory, and (2) that, for slanted incidence, the path of the centre of mass of the wavepacket does not have to penetrate the barrier during the scattering process. Trembling motion of the charged particle in graphene is observed in the absence of an external magnetic field and can be enhanced by a substrate-induced mass term.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.649
Times cited: 32
DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/23/27/275801
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“Simultaneous etching and deposition processes during the etching of silicon with a Cl2/O2/Ar inductively coupled plasma”. Tinck S, Bogaerts A, Shamiryan D, Plasma processes and polymers 8, 490 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/ppap.201000189
Abstract: In this article, surface processes occurring during the etching of Si with a Cl2/O2/Ar plasma are investigated by means of experiments and modeling. Cl2-based plasmas are commonly used to etch silicon, while a small fraction of O2 is added to protect the sidewalls from lateral etching during the shallow trench isolation process. When the oxygen fraction exceeds a critical value, the wafer surface process changes from an etching regime to a deposition regime, drastically reducing the etch rate. This effect is commonly referred to as the etch stop phenomenon. To gain better understanding of this mechanism, the oxygen fraction is varied in the gas mixture and special attention is paid to the effects of oxygen and of the redeposition of non-volatile etched species on the overall etch/deposition process. It is found that, when the O2 flow is increased, the etch process changes from successful etching to the formation of a rough surface, and eventually to the actual growth of an oxide layer which completely blocks the etching of the underlying Si. The size of this etch stop island was found to increase as a function of oxygen flow, while its thickness was dependent on the amount of Si etched. This suggests that the growth of the oxide layer mainly depends on the redeposition of non-volatile etch products. The abrupt change in the etch rate as a function of oxygen fraction was not found back in the oxygen content of the plasma, suggesting the competitive nature between oxidation and chlorination at the wafer. Finally, the wafer and reactor wall compositions were investigated by modeling and it was found that the surface rapidly consisted mainly of SiO2 when the O2 flow was increased above about 15 sccm.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.846
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1002/ppap.201000189
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“Electronic structure and band gap of zinc spinel oxides beyond LDA : ZnAl2O4, ZnGa2O4 and ZnIn2O4”. Dixit H, Tandon N, Cottenier S, Saniz R, Lamoen D, Partoens B, van Speybroeck V, Waroquier M, New journal of physics 13, 063002 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1088/1367-2630/13/6/063002
Abstract: We examine the electronic structure of the family of ternary zinc spinel oxides ZnX2O4 (X=Al, Ga and In). The band gap of ZnAl2O4 calculated using density functional theory (DFT) is 4.25 eV and is overestimated compared with the experimental value of 3.83.9 eV. The DFT band gap of ZnGa2O4 is 2.82 eV and is underestimated compared with the experimental value of 4.45.0 eV. Since DFT typically underestimates the band gap in the oxide system, the experimental measurements for ZnAl2O4 probably require a correction. We use two first-principles techniques capable of describing accurately the excited states of semiconductors, namely the GW approximation and the modified BeckeJohnson (MBJ) potential approximation, to calculate the band gap of ZnX2O4. The GW and MBJ band gaps are in good agreement with each other. In the case of ZnAl2O4, the predicted band gap values are >6 eV, i.e. ~2 eV larger than the only reported experimental value. We expect future experimental work to confirm our results. Our calculations of the electron effective masses and the second band gap indicate that these compounds are very good candidates to act as transparent conducting host materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.786
Times cited: 98
DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/13/6/063002
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“Design of Ru-zeolites for hydrogen-free production of conjugated linoleic acid”. Philippaerts A, Goossens S, Vermandel W, Tromp M, Turner S, Geboers J, Van Tendeloo G, Jacobs PA, Sels BF, Chemsuschem 4, 757 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.201100015
Abstract: While conjugated vegetable oils are currently used as additives in the drying agents of oils and paints, they are also attractive molecules for making bio-plastics. Moreover, conjugated oils will soon be accepted as nutritional additives for functional food products. While current manufacture of conjugated vegetable oils or conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) uses a homogeneous base as isomerisation catalyst, a heterogeneous alternative is not available today. This contribution presents the direct production of CLAs over Ru supported on different zeolites, varying in topology (ZSM-5, BETA, Y), Si/Al ratio and countercation (H+, Na+, Cs+). Ru/Cs-USY, with a Si/Al ratio of 40, was identified as the most active and selective catalyst for isomerisation of methyl linoleate (cis-9,cis-12 (C18:2)) to CLA at 165 °C. Interestingly, no hydrogen pre-treatment of the catalyst or addition of hydrogen donors is required to achieve industrially relevant isomerisation productivities, namely, 0.7 g of CLA per litre of solvent per minute. Moreover, the biologically most active CLA isomers, namely, cis-9,trans-11, trans-10,cis-12 and trans-9,trans-11, were the main products, especially at low catalyst concentrations. Ex situ physicochemical characterisation with CO chemisorption, extended X-ray absorption fine structure measurements, transmission electron microscopy analysis, and temperature-programmed oxidation reveals the presence of highly dispersed RuO2 species in Ru/Cs-USY(40).
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 7.226
Times cited: 24
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201100015
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“Effect of PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 thin layer on structure, electronic and magnetic properties of La0.65Sr0.35MnO3 and La0.65Ca0.30MnO3 thin-films”. Hezareh T, Razavi FS, Kremer RK, Habermeier H-U, Lebedev OI, Kirilenko D, Van Tendeloo G, Journal of applied physics 109, 113707 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3592660
Abstract: Epitaxial thin film heterostructures of high dielectric PbZr<sub>1-x</sub>Ti<sub>x</sub>O<sub>3</sub> (PZT) and La<sub>1-x</sub>A<sub>x</sub>MnO<sub>3</sub> (A-divalent alkaline earth metals such as Sr (LSMO) and Ca (LCMO)) were grown on SrTiO<sub>3</sub> substrates and their structure, temperature dependence of electrical resistivity, and magnetization were investigated as a function of the thickness of the LSMO(LCMO) layer. The microstructures of the samples were analyzed by TEM. By applying an electric field across the PZT layer, we applied a ferrodistortive pressure on the manganite layer and studied the correlations between lattice distortion and electric transport and magnetic properties of the CMR materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.068
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1063/1.3592660
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“Heating of quasiparticles driven by oscillations of the order parameter in short superconducting microbridges”. Vodolazov DY, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 224523 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.224523
Abstract: We predict heating of quasiparticles driven by order parameter oscillations in the resistive state of short superconducting microbridges. The finite relaxation time of the magnitude of the order parameter |Δ| and the dependence of the spectral functions both on |Δ| and the supervelocity Q are the origin of this effect. Our results are opposite to those of Aslamazov and Larkin [ Zh. Eks. Teor. Fiz. 70 1340 (1976)] and Schmid et al. [ Phys. Rev. B 21 5076 (1980)] where cooling of quasiparticles was found.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.224523
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“Conditions for nonmonotonic vortex interaction in two-band superconductors”. Chaves A, Komendová, L, Milošević, MV, Andrade JS, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 214523 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214523
Abstract: We describe a semianalytic approach to the two-band Ginzburg-Landau theory, which predicts the behavior of vortices in two-band superconductors. We show that the character of the short-range vortex-vortex interaction is determined by the sign of the normal domain-superconductor interface energy, in analogy with the conventional differentiation between type I and type II superconductors. However, we also show that the long-range interaction is determined by a modified Ginzburg-Landau parameter κ*, different from the standard κ of a bulk superconductor. This opens the possibility for nonmonotonic vortex-vortex interaction, which is temperature dependent, and can be further tuned by alterations of the material on the microscopic scale.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 46
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.214523
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“Lattice thermal properties of graphane : thermal contraction, roughness, and heat capacity”. Neek-Amal M, Peeters FM, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 83, 235437 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.83.235437
Abstract: Using atomistic simulations, we determine the roughness and the thermal properties of a suspended graphane sheet. As compared to graphene, we found that (i) hydrogenated graphene has a larger thermal contraction, (ii) the roughness exponent at room temperature is smaller, i.e., ≃ 1.0 versus ≃ 1.2 for graphene, (iii) the wavelengths of the induced ripples in graphane cover a wide range corresponding to length scales in the range 30125 Å at room temperature, and (iv) the heat capacity of graphane is estimated to be 29.32±0.23 J/mol K, which is 14.8% larger than that for graphene, i.e., 24.98±0.14 J/mol K. Above 1500 K, we found that graphane buckles when its edges are supported in the x-y plane.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 42
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.83.235437
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