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“Soliton motion in skyrmion chains : stabilization and guidance by nanoengineered pinning”. Vizarim NP, Souza JCB, Reichhardt CJO, Reichhardt C, Milošević, MV, Venegas PA, Physical review B 105, 224409 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.105.224409
Abstract: Using a particle-based model we examine the depinning motion of solitons in skyrmion chains in quasi -onedimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) systems containing embedded 1D interfaces. The solitons take the form of a particle or hole in a commensurate chain of skyrmions. Under an applied drive, just above a critical depinning threshold, the soliton moves with a skyrmion Hall angle of zero. For higher drives, the entire chain depins, and in a 2D system we observe that both the solitons and chain move at zero skyrmion Hall angle and then transition to a finite skyrmion Hall angle as the drive increases. In a 2D system with a 1D interface that is at an angle to the driving direction, there can be a reversal of the sign of the skyrmion Hall angle from positive to negative. Our results suggest that solitons in skyrmion systems could be used as information carriers in racetrack geometries that would avoid the drawbacks of finite skyrmion Hall angles. The soliton states become mobile at significantly lower drives than the depinning transition of the skyrmion chains themselves.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.7
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.105.224409
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“Identification of a Robust and Durable FeN4CxCatalyst for ORR in PEM Fuel Cells and the Role of the Fifth Ligand”. Nematollahi P, Barbiellini B, Bansil A, Lamoen D, Qingying J, Mukerjee S, Neyts EC, ACS catalysis , 7541 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1021/acscatal.2c01294
Abstract: Although recent studies have advanced the understanding of pyrolyzed
Fe−N−C materials as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts, the atomic and
electronic structures of the active sites and their detailed reaction mechanisms still remain unknown. Here, based on first-principles density functional theory (DFT) computations, we discuss the electronic structures of three FeN4 catalytic centers with different local topologies of the surrounding C atoms with a focus on unraveling the mechanism of their ORR activity in acidic electrolytes. Our study brings back a forgotten, synthesized pyridinic Fe−N coordinate to the community’s attention, demonstrating that this catalyst can exhibit excellent activity for promoting direct four-electron ORR through the addition of a fifth ligand such as −NH2, −OH, and −SO4. We also identify sites with good stability properties through the combined use of our DFT calculations and Mössbauer spectroscopy data.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 12.9
DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.2c01294
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“Shuffling atomic layer deposition gas sequences to modulate bimetallic thin films and nanoparticle properties”. Filez M, Feng J-Y, Minjauw MM, Solano E, Poonkottil N, Van Daele M, Ramachandran RK, Li C, Bals S, Poelman H, Detavernier C, Dendooven J, Filez M, Minjauw M, Solano E, Poonkottil N, Li C, Bals S, Dendooven J, Chemistry of materials (2022). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.chemmater.2c01304
Abstract: Atomic layer deposition (ALD) typically employs metal precursors and co-reactant pulses to deposit thin films in a layer-by-layer fashion. While conventional ABAB-type ALD sequences implement only two functionalities, namely, a metal source and ligand exchange agent, additional functionalities have emerged, including etching and reduction agents. Herein, we construct gas-phase sequences-coined as ALD+-with complex-ities reaching beyond the classic ABAB-type ALD by freely combining multiple functionalities within irregular pulse schemes, e.g., ABCADC. The possibilities of such combinations are explored as a smart strategy to tailor bimetallic thin films and nanoparticle (NP) properties. By doing so, we demonstrate that bimetallic thin films can be tailored with target thickness and through the full compositional range, while the morphology can be flexibly modulated from thin films to NPs by shuI 1ing the pulse sequence. These complex pulse schemes are expected to be broadly applicable but are here explored for Pd-Ru bimetallic thin films and NPs.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemmater.2c01304
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“Fast A-site cation cross-exchange at room temperature : single-to double- and triple-cation halide perovskite nanocrystals”. Otero-Martinez C, Imran M, Schrenker NJ, Ye J, Ji K, Rao A, Stranks SD, Hoye RLZ, Bals S, Manna L, Perez-Juste J, Polavarapu L, Angewandte Chemie: international edition in English 61, e202205617 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1002/ANIE.202205617
Abstract: We report here fast A-site cation cross-exchange between APbX(3) perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) made of different A-cations (Cs (cesium), FA (formamidinium), and MA (methylammonium)) at room temperature. Surprisingly, the A-cation cross-exchange proceeds as fast as the halide (X=Cl, Br, or I) exchange with the help of free A-oleate complexes present in the freshly prepared colloidal perovskite NC solutions. This enabled the preparation of double (MACs, MAFA, CsFA)- and triple (MACsFA)-cation perovskite NCs with an optical band gap that is finely tunable by their A-site composition. The optical spectroscopy together with structural analysis using XRD and atomically resolved high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) and integrated differential phase contrast (iDPC) STEM indicates the homogeneous distribution of different cations in the mixed perovskite NC lattice. Unlike halide ions, the A-cations do not phase-segregate under light illumination.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 16.6
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1002/ANIE.202205617
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“The influence of synthesis method on the local structure and electrochemical properties of Li-rich/Mn-rich NMC cathode materials for Li-Ion batteries”. Hendrickx M, Paulus A, Kirsanova MA, Van Bael MK, Abakumov AM, Hardy A, Hadermann J, Nanomaterials 12, 2269 (2022). http://doi.org/10.3390/NANO12132269
Abstract: Electrochemical energy storage plays a vital role in combating global climate change. Nowadays lithium-ion battery technology remains the most prominent technology for rechargeable batteries. A key performance-limiting factor of lithium-ion batteries is the active material of the positive electrode (cathode). Lithium- and manganese-rich nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LMR-NMC) cathode materials for Li-ion batteries are extensively investigated due to their high specific discharge capacities (>280 mAh/g). However, these materials are prone to severe capacity and voltage fade, which deteriorates the electrochemical performance. Capacity and voltage fade are strongly correlated with the particle morphology and nano- and microstructure of LMR-NMCs. By selecting an adequate synthesis strategy, the particle morphology and structure can be controlled, as such steering the electrochemical properties. In this manuscript we comparatively assessed the morphology and nanostructure of LMR-NMC (Li1.2Ni0.13Mn0.54Co0.13O2) prepared via an environmentally friendly aqueous solution-gel and co-precipitation route, respectively. The solution-gel (SG) synthesized material shows a Ni-enriched spinel-type surface layer at the {200} facets, which, based on our post-mortem high-angle annual dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and selected-area electron diffraction analysis, could partly explain the retarded voltage fade compared to the co-precipitation (CP) synthesized material. In addition, deviations in voltage fade and capacity fade (the latter being larger for the SG material) could also be correlated with the different particle morphology obtained for both materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 5.3
DOI: 10.3390/NANO12132269
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“Influence of adding low concentration of oxygenates in mineral diesel oil and biodiesel on the concentration of NO, NO₂, and particulate matter in the exhaust gas of a one-cylinder diesel generator”. Maes RR, Potters G, Fransen E, Van Schaeren R, Lenaerts S, International journal of environmental research and public health 19, 7637 (2022). http://doi.org/10.3390/IJERPH19137637
Abstract: Air quality currently poses a major risk to human health worldwide. Transportation is one of the principal contributors to air pollution due to the quality of exhaust gases. For example, the widely used diesel fuel is a significant source of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). To reduce the content NOx and PM, different oxygenated compounds were mixed into a mineral diesel available at the pump, and their effect on the composition of exhaust gas emissions was measured using a one-cylinder diesel generator. In this setup, adding methanol gave the best relative results. The addition of 2000 ppm of methanol decreased the content of NO by 56%, 2000 ppm of isopropanol decreased NO2 by 50%, and 2000 ppm ethanol decreased PM by 63%. An interesting question is whether it is possible to reduce the impact of hazardous components in the exhaust gas even more by adding oxygenates to biodiesels. In this article, alcohol is added to biodiesel in order to establish the impact on PM and NOx concentrations in the exhaust gases. Adding methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol at concentrations of 2000 ppm and 4000 ppm did not improve NOx emissions. The best results were using pure RME for a low NO content, pure diesel for a low NO2 content, and for PM there were no statistically significant differences.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.3390/IJERPH19137637
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“Halide perovskites as disposable epitaxial templates for the phase-selective synthesis of lead sulfochloride nanocrystals”. Toso S, Imran M, Mugnaioli E, Moliterni A, Caliandro R, Schrenker NJ, Pianetti A, Zito J, Zaccaria F, Wu Y, Gemmi M, Giannini C, Brovelli S, Infante I, Bals S, Manna L, Nature communications 13, 3976 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1038/S41467-022-31699-1
Abstract: Colloidal chemistry grants access to a wealth of materials through simple and mild reactions. However, even few elements can combine in a variety of stoichiometries and structures, potentially resulting in impurities or even wrong products. Similar issues have been long addressed in organic chemistry by using reaction-directing groups, that are added to a substrate to promote a specific product and are later removed. Inspired by such approach, we demonstrate the use of CsPbCl3 perovskite nanocrystals to drive the phase-selective synthesis of two yet unexplored lead sulfochlorides: Pb3S2Cl2 and Pb4S3Cl2. When homogeneously nucleated in solution, lead sulfochlorides form Pb3S2Cl2 nanocrystals. Conversely, the presence of CsPbCl3 triggers the formation of Pb4S3Cl2/CsPbCl3 epitaxial heterostructures. The phase selectivity is guaranteed by the continuity of the cationic subnetwork across the interface, a condition not met in a hypothetical Pb3S2Cl2/CsPbCl3 heterostructure. The perovskite domain is then etched, delivering phase-pure Pb4S3Cl2 nanocrystals that could not be synthesized directly. Phase-selective approaches, such using reaction-directing groups, are often seen in traditional organic chemistry and catalysis. Here authors use perovskite nanocrystals as disposable templates to drive the phase-selective synthesis of two colloidal nanomaterials, the lead sulfohalides Pb3S2Cl2 and Pb4S3Cl2.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 16.6
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-022-31699-1
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“Wearable hollow microneedle sensing patches for the transdermal electrochemical monitoring of glucose”. Parrilla M, Detamornrat U, Domínguez-Robles J, Donnelly RF, De Wael K, Talanta : the international journal of pure and applied analytical chemistry 249, 123695 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.TALANTA.2022.123695
Abstract: According to the World Health Organization, about 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, with 1.5 million deaths directly attributed each year. Therefore, there is still a need to effectively monitor glucose in diabetic patients for proper management. Recently, wearable patches based on microneedle (MN) sensors provide minimally invasive analysis of glucose through the interstitial fluid (ISF) while exhibiting excellent correlation with blood glucose. Despite many advances in wearable electrochemical sensors, long-term stability and continuous monitoring remain unsolved challenges. Herein, we present a highly stable electrochemical biosensor based on a redox mediator bilayer consisting of Prussian blue and iron-nickel hexacyanoferrate to increase the long-term stability of the readout coupled with a hollow MN array as a sampling unit for ISF uptake. First, the enzymatic biosensor is developed by using affordable screen-printed electrodes (SPE) and optimized for long-term stability fitting the physiological range of glucose in ISF (i.e., 2.5–22.5 mM). In parallel, the MN array is assessed for minimally invasive piercing of the skin. Subsequently, the biosensor is integrated with the MN array leaving a microfluidic spacer that works as the electrochemical cell. Interestingly, a microfluidic channel connects the cell with an external syringe to actively and rapidly withdraw ISF toward the cell. Finally, the robust MN sensing patch is characterized during in vitro and ex vivo tests. Overall, affordable wearable MN-based patches for the continuous monitoring of glucose in ISF are providing an advent in wearable devices for rapid and life-threatening decision-making processes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2022.123695
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“Lumped circuit model for inductive antenna spin-wave transducers”. Vanderveken F, Tyberkevych V, Talmelli G, Sorée B, Ciubotaru F, Adelmann C, Scientific reports 12, 3796 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1038/S41598-022-07625-2
Abstract: We derive a lumped circuit model for inductive antenna spin-wave transducers in the vicinity of a ferromagnetic medium. The model considers the antenna's Ohmic resistance, its inductance, as well as the additional inductance due to the excitation of ferromagnetic resonance or spin waves in the ferromagnetic medium. As an example, the additional inductance is discussed for a wire antenna on top of a ferromagnetic waveguide, a structure that is characteristic for many magnonic devices and experiments. The model is used to assess the scaling properties and the energy efficiency of inductive antennas. Issues related to scaling antenna transducers to the nanoscale and possible solutions are also addressed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 4.6
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-022-07625-2
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“Environmental impact assessment and efficiency of cotton : the case of Northeast Iran”. Naderi Mahdei K, Esfahani SMJ, Lebailly P, Dogot T, Van Passel S, Azadi H, Environment, development and sustainability , 1 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1007/S10668-022-02490-5
Abstract: Cotton is one of the important crops that play an important role in creating a livelihood for rural people in many parts of Iran. Cotton production necessitates a large amount of resources (e.g., fossil energy and agrochemicals, all of which have the potential to damage the environment in various ways). The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the environmental effects of cotton production in the South Khorasan Province of Iran. For this purpose, life cycle assessment (LCA) and data envelopment analysis (DEA) techniques have been applied to investigate the environmental impacts of cotton production. LCA is a practical method to evaluate the environment on the product flow, in which all aspects of the product life cycle are examined by a comprehensive approach. Furthermore, combining the LCA method with other managerial strategies such as DEA could allow researchers to provide decision-makers with more practical and interpretable data. The findings of the efficiency test showed that the average technical efficiency, pure technical efficiency, and scale efficiency were 0.81, 0.92, and 0.87, respectively. Respiratory inorganics (i.e., respiratory effects resulting from winter smog caused by emissions of dust, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides to air) posed the greatest environmental burden in cotton production, followed by non-renewable energy, carcinogens, and global warming. In addition, the highest effects were on human health, and then, on resources and climate change. Energy, on-system pollution, and waste played a crucial role in the environmental impacts of cotton processing. This study suggests improving farmers' knowledge toward the optimum application of chemical fertilizers, or their substitution with green fertilizers, which reduces the environmental effect of growing cotton in the area.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1007/S10668-022-02490-5
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“SF₆, catalytic degradation in a γ-Al₂O₃, packed bed plasma system : a combined experimental and theoretical study”. Cui Z, Zhou C, Jafarzadeh A, Meng S, Yi Y, Wang Y, Zhang X, Hao Y, Li L, Bogaerts A, High voltage , 1 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1049/HVE2.12230
Abstract: Effective abatement of the greenhouse gas sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) waste is of great importance for the environment protection. This work investigates the size effect and the surface properties of gamma-Al2O3 pellets on SF6 degradation in a packed bed dielectric barrier discharge (PB-DBD) system. Experimental results show that decreasing the packing size improves the filamentary discharges and promotes the ignition and the maintenance of plasma, enhancing the degradation performance at low input powers. However, too small packing pellets decrease the gas residence time and reduce the degradation efficiency, especially for the input power beyond 80 W. Besides, lowering the packing size promotes the generation of SO2, while reduces the yields of S-O-F products, corresponding to a better degradation. After the discharge, the pellet surface becomes smoother with the appearance of S and F elements. Density functional theory calculations show that SF6 is likely to be adsorbed at the Al-III site over the gamma-Al2O3(110) surface, and it is much more easily to decompose than in the gas phase. The fluorine gaseous products can decompose and stably adsorb on the pellet surface to change the surface element composition. This work provides a better understanding of SF6 degradation in a PB-DBD system.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.4
DOI: 10.1049/HVE2.12230
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“Boron structure evolution in magnetic Cr₂O₃, thin films”. Sun C, Street M, Zhang C, Van Tendeloo G, Zhao W, Zhang Q, Materials Today Physics 27, 100753 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MTPHYS.2022.100753
Abstract: B substituting O in antiferromagnetic Cr2O3 is known to increase the Ne ' el temperature, whereas the actual B dopant site and the corresponding functionality remains unclear due to the complicated local structure. Herein, A combination of electron energy loss spectroscopy and first-principles calculations were used to unveil B local structures in B doped Cr2O3 thin films. B was found to form either magnetic active BCr4 tetrahedra or various inactive BO3 triangles in the Cr2O3 lattice, with a* and z* bonds exhibiting unique spectral features. Identification of BO3 triangles was achieved by changing the electron momentum transfer to manipulate the differential cross section for the 1s-z* and 1s-a* transitions. Modeling the experimental spectra as a linear combination of simulated B K edges reproduces the experimental z* / a* ratios for 15-42% of the B occupying the active BCr4 structure. This result is further supported by first-principles based thermodynamic calculations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 11.5
DOI: 10.1016/J.MTPHYS.2022.100753
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“Exploring and selecting supershapes in virtual reality with line, quad, and cube shaped widgets”. Nicolau F, Gielis J, Simeone AL, Simoes Lopes D, , 21 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1109/VR51125.2022.00019
Abstract: Supershapes are used in Parametric Design to model, literally, thou-sands of natural and man-made shapes with a single 6 parameter formula. However, users are left to probe such a rich yet dense collection of supershapes using a set of independent 1-D sliders. Some of the formula’s parameters are non-linear in nature, making them particularly difficult to grasp with conventional 1-D sliders alone. VR appears as a promising setting for Parametric Design with supershapes since it empowers users with more natural visual inspection and shape browsing techniques, with multiple solutions being displayed at once and the possibility to design more interesting forms of slider interaction. In this work, we propose VR shape widgets that allow users to probe and select supershapes from a multitude of solutions. Our designs take leverage on thumbnails, mini-maps, haptic feedback and spatial interaction, while supporting 1-D, 2-D and 3-D supershape parameter spaces. We conducted a user study (N = 18) and found that VR shape widgets are effective, more efficient, and natural than conventional VR 1-D sliders while also usable for users without prior knowledge on supershapes. We also found that the proposed VR widgets provide a quick overview of the main supershapes, and users can easily reach the desired solution without having to perform fine-grain handle manipulations.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1109/VR51125.2022.00019
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“Quantitatively linking morphology and optical response of individual silver nanohedra”. Wang Y, Sztranyovszky Z, Zilli A, Albrecht W, Bals S, Borri P, Langbein W, Nanoscale 14, 11028 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1039/D2NR02131E
Abstract: The optical response of metal nanoparticles is governed by plasmonic resonances, which are dictated by the particle morphology. A thorough understanding of the link between morphology and optical response requires quantitatively measuring optical and structural properties of the same particle. Here we present such a study, correlating electron tomography and optical micro-spectroscopy. The optical measurements determine the scattering and absorption cross-section spectra in absolute units, and electron tomography determines the 3D morphology. Numerical simulations of the spectra for the individual particle geometry, and the specific optical set-up used, allow for a quantitative comparison including the cross-section magnitude. Silver nanoparticles produced by photochemically driven colloidal synthesis, including decahedra, tetrahedra and bi-tetrahedra are investigated. A mismatch of measured and simulated spectra is found in some cases when assuming pure silver particles, which is explained by the presence of a few atomic layers of tarnish on the surface, not evident in electron tomography. The presented method tightens the link between particle morphology and optical response, supporting the predictive design of plasmonic nanomaterials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.7
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1039/D2NR02131E
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“‘biogeom&rsquo, : an R package for simulating and fitting natural shapes”. Shi P, Gielis J, Quinn BK, Niklas KJ, Ratkowsky DA, Schrader J, Ruan H, Wang L, Niinemets Ü, Niinennets U, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 1516, 123 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1111/NYAS.14862
Abstract: Many natural objects exhibit radial or axial symmetry in a single plane. However, a universal tool for simulating and fitting the shapes of such objects is lacking. Herein, we present an R package called 'biogeom' that simulates and fits many shapes found in nature. The package incorporates novel universal parametric equations that generate the profiles of bird eggs, flowers, linear and lanceolate leaves, seeds, starfish, and tree-rings, and three growth-rate equations that generate the profiles of ovate leaves and the ontogenetic growth curves of animals and plants. 'biogeom' includes several empirical datasets comprising the boundary coordinates of bird eggs, fruits, lanceolate and ovate leaves, tree rings, seeds, and sea stars. The package can also be applied to other kinds of natural shapes similar to those in the datasets. In addition, the package includes sigmoid curves derived from the three growth-rate equations, which can be used to model animal and plant growth trajectories and predict the times associated with maximum growth rate. 'biogeom' can quantify the intra- or interspecific similarity of natural outlines, and it provides quantitative information of shape and ontogenetic modification of shape with important ecological and evolutionary implications for the growth and form of the living world.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 5.2
DOI: 10.1111/NYAS.14862
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“Economic indices of by-products utilization and forage production in semi-arid rangelands”. Motamedi J, Azadi H, Alijanpour A, Shafiei AB, Sheidai-Karkaj E, Mofidi-Chelan M, Moghaddam SM, Van Passel S, Witlox F, Journal of environmental planning and management , 1 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1080/09640568.2022.2071687
Abstract: One of the most basic criteria in documenting rangeland use prospects is the recognition of byproducts and their economic appraisal. The current study was conducted to assess the economic indices of exploiting byproduct production in Shahindej, Northwest Iran. For this purpose, 24 by-product-generating species were selected in 114 locations that belong to 49 rangeland units. The total expected value of 24 by-product generating species yield and forage production was calculated at 44.22 USD ha(-1). The results of this study showed that the sustainability of natural resources depends on the effective participation and empowerment of local communities. Furthermore, by-product exploitation contributes significantly to the local economy and employment while also reducing grazing intensity. Overall, the findings of this study show that by-product earnings should be considered in range management schemes and comprehensive natural-area management.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sociology; Law; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 1.56
DOI: 10.1080/09640568.2022.2071687
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“Catalyst-free single-step plasma reforming of CH4 and CO2 to higher value oxygenates under ambient conditions”. Wang Y, Chen Y, Harding J, He H, Bogaerts A, Tu X, Chemical Engineering Journal 450, 137860 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2022.137860
Abstract: Direct conversion of CH4 and CO2 to liquid fuels and chemicals under mild conditions is appealing for biogas conversion and utilization but challenging due to the inert nature of both gases. Herein, we report a promising plasma process for the catalyst-free single-step conversion of CH4 and CO2 into higher value oxygenates (i.e., methanol, acetic acid, ethanol, and acetone) at ambient pressure and room temperature using a water-cooled dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor, with methanol being the main liquid product. The distribution of liquid products could be tailored by tuning the discharge power, reaction temperature and residence time. Lower discharge powers (10–15 W) and reaction temperatures (5–20 ◦ C) were favourable for the production of liquid products, achieving the highest methanol selectivity of 43% at 5 ◦ C and 15 W. A higher discharge power and reaction temperature, on the other hand, produced more gaseous products, particularly H2 (up to 26% selectivity) and CO (up to 33% selectivity). In addition, varying these process parameters (discharge power, reaction temperature and residence time) resulted in a simultaneous change in key discharge properties, such as mean electron energy (Ee), electron density (ne) and specific energy input (SEI), all of which are essential determiners of plasma chemical reactions. According to the results of artificial neural network (ANN) models, the relative importance of these process parameters and key discharge indicators on reaction performance follows the order: discharge power > reaction temperature > residence time, and SEI > ne > Ee, respectively. This work provides new insights into the contributions and tuning mechanism of multiple parameters for optimizing the reaction performance (e.g., liquid production) in the plasma gas conversion process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2022.137860
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“Prediction of novel two-dimensional Dirac nodal line semimetals in Al₂B₂, and AlB₄, monolayers”. Abedi S, Sisakht ET, Hashemifar SJ, Cherati NG, Sarsari IA, Peeters FM, Nanoscale 14, 11270 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1039/D2NR00888B
Abstract: Topological semimetal phases in two-dimensional (2D) materials have gained widespread interest due to their potential applications in novel nanoscale devices. Despite the growing number of studies on 2D topological nodal lines (NLs), candidates with significant topological features that combine nontrivial topological semimetal phase with superconductivity are still rare. Herein, we predict Al2B2 and AlB4 monolayers as new 2D nonmagnetic Dirac nodal line semimetals with several novel features. Our extensive electronic structure calculations combined with analytical studies reveal that, in addition to multiple Dirac points, these 2D configurations host various highly dispersed NLs around the Fermi level, all of which are semimetal states protected by time-reversal and in-plane mirror symmetries. The most intriguing NL in Al2B2 encloses the K point and crosses the Fermi level, showing a considerable dispersion and thus providing a fresh playground to explore exotic properties in dispersive Dirac nodal lines. More strikingly, for the AlB4 monolayer, we provide the first evidence for a set of 2D nonmagnetic open type-II NLs coexisting with superconductivity at a rather high transition temperature. The coexistence of superconductivity and nontrivial band topology in AlB4 not only makes it a promising material to exhibit novel topological superconducting phases, but also a rather large energy dispersion of type-II nodal lines in this configuration may offer a platform for the realization of novel topological features in the 2D limit.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 6.7
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1039/D2NR00888B
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“Hierarchical design in nanoporous metals”. Ying J, Lenaerts S, Symes MD, Yang X-Y, Advanced Science 9, 2106117 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADVS.202106117
Abstract: Hierarchically porous metals possess intriguing high accessibility of matter molecules and unique continuous metallic frameworks, as well as a high level of exposed active atoms. High rates of diffusion and fast energy transfer have been important and challenging goals of hierarchical design and porosity control with nanostructured metals. This review aims to summarize recent important progress toward the development of hierarchically porous metals, with special emphasis on synthetic strategies, hierarchical design in structure-function and corresponding applications. The current challenges and future prospects in this field are also discussed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1002/ADVS.202106117
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“Multimode electron tomography sheds light on synthesis, structure, and properties of complex metal-based nanoparticles”. Jenkinson K, Liz-Marzan LM, Bals S, Advanced materials 34, 2110394 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADMA.202110394
Abstract: Electron tomography has become a cornerstone technique for the visualization of nanoparticle morphology in three dimensions. However, to obtain in-depth information about a nanoparticle beyond surface faceting and morphology, different electron microscopy signals must be combined. The most notable examples of these combined signals include annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (ADF-STEM) with different collection angles and the combination of ADF-STEM with energy-dispersive X-ray or electron energy loss spectroscopies. Here, the experimental and computational development of various multimode tomography techniques in connection to the fundamental materials science challenges that multimode tomography has been instrumental to overcoming are summarized. Although the techniques can be applied to a wide variety of compositions, the study is restricted to metal and metal oxide nanoparticles for the sake of simplicity. Current challenges and future directions of multimode tomography are additionally discussed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 29.4
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1002/ADMA.202110394
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“Parameterisation of the drag effect of climbers depending on wind speed and LAD”. Ysebaert T, Samson R, Denys S, Sustainable Cities and Society 84, 103979 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SCS.2022.103979
Abstract: The implementation of green walls is increasingly seen as a strategy to tackle urban air pollution and to make cities more climate resilient. The correct description of the vegetation-wind interaction is key in describing the effect of vegetation in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models. The accuracy of the modelled wind flow is highly linked to the uncertainty about the drag coefficient (C-d). In addition, at low wind speeds viscous drag (K) is not negligible and it should be regarded in CFD models. This research aims to address the uncertainty related to C-d and K by including the effect of climbers on both the momentum and turbulence equations in the Wilcox revised k-omega model. The change of K with increasing Reynolds number showed an increase from 5.10(-8 )m(2) up to the dynamic viscosity of air (asymptotic to 10(-5) m(2)) following a logistic function. Beyond the transition region from viscous to form drag, C-d, in the range of 0.1-1.1, declined with increasing Reynolds number following a power law function. Furthermore, the plant morphological parameters determining permeability and drag coefficient were identified. This study showed that the knowledge of viscous and shape resistance is necessary to obtain accurate statistics for air flow through vegetation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.7
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCS.2022.103979
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“Feature Papers to Celebrate “Environmental Catalysis”—Trends &, Outlook”. Lamonier J-F, Bogaerts A, Catalysts 12, 720 (2022). http://doi.org/10.3390/catal12070720
Abstract: This Special Issue collects three reviews, eight articles, and two communications related to the design of catalysts for environmental applications, such as the transformation of several pollutants into harmless or valuable products [...]
Keywords: Editorial; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.9
DOI: 10.3390/catal12070720
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“Alternating superconducting and charge density wave monolayers within bulk 6R-TaS₂”. Achari A, Bekaert J, Sreepal V, Orekhov A, Kumaravadivel P, Kim M, Gauquelin N, Pillai PB, Verbeeck J, Peeters FM, Geim AK, Milošević, MV, Nair RR, Nano letters 22, 6268 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.2C01851
Abstract: Van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures continue to attract intense interest as a route of designing materials with novel properties that cannot be found in nature. Unfortunately, this approach is currently limited to only a few layers that can be stacked on top of each other. Here, we report a bulk vdW material consisting of superconducting 1H TaS2 monolayers interlayered with 1T TaS2 monolayers displaying charge density waves (CDW). This bulk vdW heterostructure is created by phase transition of 1T-TaS2 to 6R at 800 degrees C in an inert atmosphere. Its superconducting transition (T-c) is found at 2.6 K, exceeding the T-c of the bulk 2H phase. Using first-principles calculations, we argue that the coexistence of superconductivity and CDW within 6R-TaS2 stems from amalgamation of the properties of adjacent 1H and 1T monolayers, where the former dominates the superconducting state and the latter the CDW behavior.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 10.8
Times cited: 12
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.2C01851
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“Controlling the hybridization gap and transport in a thin-film topological insulator : effect of strain, and electric and magnetic field”. Shafiei M, Fazileh F, Peeters FM, Milošević, MV, Physical review B 106, 035119 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.106.035119
Abstract: In a thin-film topological insulator (TI), the edge states on two surfaces may couple by quantum tunneling, opening a gap known as the hybridization gap. Controlling the hybridization gap and transport has a variety of potential uses in photodetection and energy-harvesting applications. In this paper, we report the effect of strain, and electric and magnetic field, on the hybridization gap and transport in a thin Bi2Se3 film, investigated within the tight-binding theoretical framework. We demonstrate that vertical compression decreases the hybridization gap, as does tensile in-plane strain. Applying an electric field breaks the inversion symmetry and leads to a Rashba-like spin splitting proportional to the electric field, hence closing and reopening the gap. The influence of a magnetic field on thin-film TI is also discussed, starting from the role of an out-of-plane magnetic field on quantum Hall states. We further demonstrate that the hybridization gap can be controlled by an in-plane magnetic field, and that by applying a sufficiently strong field a quantum phase transition from an insulator to a semimetal can be achieved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.7
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.106.035119
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“Axion insulator states in a topological insulator proximitized to magnetic insulators : a tight-binding characterization”. Shafiei M, Fazileh F, Peeters FM, Milošević, MV, Physical review materials 6, 074205 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVMATERIALS.6.074205
Abstract: The recent discovery of axion states in materials such as antiferromagnetic topological insulators has boosted investigations of the magnetoelectric response in topological insulators and their promise towards realizing dissipationless topological electronics. In this paper, we develop a tight-binding methodology to explore the emergence of axion states in Bi2Se3 in proximity to magnetic insulators on the top and bottom surfaces. The topological protection of the surface states is lifted by a time-reversal-breaking perturbation due to the proximity of a magnetic insulator, and a gap is opened on the surfaces, giving rise to half-quantized Hall conductance and a zero Hall plateau-evidencing an axion insulator state. We developed a real-space tight-binding Hamiltonian for Bi2Se3 using first-principles data. Transport properties of the system were obtained within the Landauer-Buttiker formalism, and we discuss the creation of axion states through Hall conductance and a zero Hall plateau at the surfaces, as a function of proximitized magnetization and corresponding potentials at the surfaces, as well as the thickness of the topological insulator.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.4
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVMATERIALS.6.074205
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“Reducing electron beam damage through alternative STEM scanning strategies, Part II: Attempt towards an empirical model describing the damage process”. Jannis D, Velazco A, Béché, A, Verbeeck J, Ultramicroscopy , 113568 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2022.113568
Abstract: In this second part of a series we attempt to construct an empirical model that can mimick all experimental observations made regarding the role of an alternative interleaved scan pattern in STEM imaging on the beam damage in a specific zeolite sample. We make use of a 2D diffusion model that describes the dissipation of the deposited beam energy in the sequence of probe positions that are visited during the scan pattern. The diffusion process allows for the concept of trying to ‘outrun’ the beam damage by carefully tuning the dwell time and distance between consecutively visited probe positions. We add a non linear function to include a threshold effect and evaluate the accumulated damage in each part of the image as a function of scan pattern details. Together, these ingredients are able to describe qualitatively all aspects of the experimental data and provide us with a model that could guide a further optimisation towards even lower beam damage without lowering the applied electron dose. We deliberately remain vague on what is diffusing here which avoids introducing too many sample specific details. This provides hope that the model can be applied also in sample classes that were not yet studied in such great detail by adjusting higher level parameters: a sample dependent diffusion constant and damage threshold.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.2
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2022.113568
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“Gas-solid hydrodynamics in a stator-rotor vortex chamber reactor”. Lang X, Ouyang Y, Vandewalle LA, Goshayeshi B, Chen S, Madanikashani S, Perreault P, Van Geem KM, van Geem KM, Chemical engineering journal 446, 137323 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2022.137323
Abstract: The gas-solid vortex reactor (GSVR) has enormous process intensification potential. However the huge gas consumption can be a serious disadvantage for the GSVR in some applications such as fast pyrolysis. In this work, we demonstrate a recent novel design, where a stator-rotor vortex chamber (STARVOC) is driven by the fluid's kinetic energy, to decouple the solids bed rotation and gas. Gas-solid fluidization by using air and monosized aluminum balls was performed to investigate the hydrodynamics. A constructed fluidization flow regime map for a fixed solids loading of 100 g shows that the bed can only be fluidized for a rotation speed between 200 and 400 RPM. Below 200 RPM, particles settle down on the bottom plate and cannot form a stable bed due to inertia and friction. Above 400 RPM, the bed cannot be fluidized with superficial velocities up to 1.8 m/s (air flow rate of 90 Nm(3)/h). The bed thickness shows some non-uniformities, being smaller at the top of the bed than at the bottom counterpart. However by increasing the air flow rate or rotation speed the axial nonuniformity can be resolved. The bed pressure drop first increases with increasing gas flow rate and then levels off, showing similar characteristics as conventional fluidized beds. Theoretical pressure drops calculated from mathematical models such as Kao et al. model agree well with experimental measurements. Particle velocity discrepancies between the top and bottom particles reveal that the impact of gravity cannot be completely neglected. Design guidelines and possible applications for further development of STARVOC concept are proposed based on fundamental data provided in this work.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 15.1
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2022.137323
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“Resistance minimum in LaAlO3/Eu1-xLaxTiO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures”. Lebedev N, Huang Y, Rana A, Jannis D, Gauquelin N, Verbeeck J, Aarts J, Physical review materials 6, 075003 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVMATERIALS.6.075003
Abstract: In this paper we study LaAlO3/Eu1-xLaxTiO3/SrTiO3 structures with nominally x = 0, 0.1 and different thicknesses of the Eu1-xLaxTiO3 layer. We observe that both systems have many properties similar to previously studied LaAlO3/EuTiO3/SrTiO3 and other oxide interfaces, such as the formation of a two-dimensional electron liquid for two unit cells of Eu1-xLaxTiO3; a metal-insulator transition driven by the increase in thickness of the Eu1-xLaxTiO3 layer; the presence of an anomalous Hall effect when driving the systems above the Lifshitz point with a back-gate voltage; and a minimum in the temperature dependence of the sheet resistance below the Lifshitz point in the one-band regime, which becomes more pronounced with increasing negative gate voltage. However, and notwithstanding the likely presence of magnetism in the system, we do not attribute that minimum to the Kondo effect, but rather to the properties of the SrTiO3 crystal and the inevitable effects of charge trapping when using back gates.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.4
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVMATERIALS.6.075003
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“Latent superconductivity at parallel interfaces in a superlattice dominated by another collective quantum phase”. Moura VN, Dantas DS, Farias GA, Chaves A, Milošević, MV, Physical review B 106, 014516 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.106.014516
Abstract: We theoretically examine behavior of superconductivity at parallel interfaces separating the domains of another dominant collective excitation, such as charge density waves or spin density waves. Due to their competitive coupling in a two-component Ginzburg-Landau model, suppression of the dominant order parameter at the interfacial planes allows for nucleation of the (hidden) superconducting order parameter at those planes. In such a case, we demonstrate how the number of the parallel interfacial planes and the distance between them are linked to the number and the size of the emerging superconducting gaps in the system, as well as the versatility and temperature evolution of the possible superconducting phases. These findings bear relevance to a broad selection of known layered superconducting materials, as well as to further design of artificial (e.g., oxide) superlattices, where the interplay between competing order parameters paves the way towards otherwise unattainable superconducting states, some with enhanced superconducting critical temperature.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.7
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.106.014516
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“Self-assembled ligand-capped plasmonic Au nanoparticle films in the Kretschmann configuration for sensing of volatile organic compounds”. Borah R, Smets J, Ninakanti R, Tietze ML, Ameloot R, Chigrin DN, Bals S, Lenaerts S, Verbruggen SW, ACS applied nano materials 5, acsanm.2c02524 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACSANM.2C02524
Abstract: Films of close-packed Au nanoparticles are coupled electrodynamically through their collective plasmon resonances. This collective optical response results in enhanced light–matter interactions, which can be exploited in various applications. Here, we demonstrate their application in sensing volatile organic compounds, using methanol as a test case. Ordered films over several cm2 were obtained by interfacial self-assembly of colloidal Au nanoparticles (∼10 nm diameter) through controlled evaporation of the solvent. Even though isolated nanoparticles of this size are inherently nonscattering, when arranged in a close-packed film the plasmonic coupling results in a strong reflectance and absorbance. The in situ tracking of vapor phase methanol concentration through UV–vis transmission measurements of the nanoparticle film is first demonstrated. Next, in situ ellipsometry of the self-assembled films in the Kretschmann (also known as ATR) configuration is shown to yield enhanced sensitivity, especially with phase difference measurements, Δ. Our study shows the excellent agreement between theoretical models of the spectral response of self-assembled films with experimental in situ sensing experiments. At the same time, the theoretical framework provides the basis for the interpretation of the various observed experimental trends. Combining periodic nanoparticle films with ellipsometry in the Kretschmann configuration is a promising strategy toward highly sensitive and selective plasmonic thin-film devices based on colloidal fabrication methods for volatile organic compound (VOC) sensing applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 5.9
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1021/ACSANM.2C02524
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