“Lattice dynamics in Sn nanoislands and cluster-assembled films”. Houben K, Couet S, Trekels M, Menendez E, Peissker T, Seo JW, Hu MY, Zhao JY, Alp EE, Roelants S, Partoens B, Milošević, MV, Peeters FM, Bessas D, Brown SA, Vantomme A, Temst K, Van Bael MJ, Physical review B 95, 155413 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.155413
Abstract: To unravel the effects of phonon confinement, the influence of size and morphology on the atomic vibrations is investigated in Sn nanoislands and cluster-assembled films. Nuclear resonant inelastic x-ray scattering is used to probe the phonon densities of states of the Sn nanostructures which show significant broadening of the features compared to bulk phonon behavior. Supported by ab initio calculations, the broadening is attributed to phonon scattering and can be described within the damped harmonic oscillator model. Contrary to the expectations based on previous research, the appearance of high-energy modes above the cutoff energy is not observed. From the thermodynamic properties extracted from the phonon densities of states, it was found that grain boundary Sn atoms are bound by weaker forces than bulk Sn atoms.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.155413
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“Simultaneous creation of metal nanoparticles in metal organic frameworks via spray drying technique”. Gholampour N, Chaemchuen S, Hu Z-Y, Mousavi B, Van Tendeloo G, Verpoort F, Chemical engineering journal 322, 702 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CEJ.2017.04.085
Abstract: In-situ fabrication of palladium(0) nanoparticles inside zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF-8) has been established via one-step facile spray-dry technique. Crystal structures and morphologies of the Pd@ZIF-8 samples are investigated by powder XRD, TEM, SAED, STEM, and EDX techniques. High angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAAD-STEM) and 3D tomographic analysis confirm the presence of palladium nanoparticles inside the ZIF-8 structure. The porosity, surface area and N-2 physisorption properties are evaluated for Pd@ZIF-8 with various palladium contents. Furthermore, Pd@ZIF-8 samples are effectively applied as heterogeneous catalysts in alkenes hydrogenation. This straightforward method is able to speed up the synthesis of encapsulation of metal nanoparticles in metal organic frameworks. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 6.216
Times cited: 14
DOI: 10.1016/J.CEJ.2017.04.085
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“Van Gogh's Irises and Roses : the contribution of chemical analyses and imaging to the assessment of color changes in the red lake pigments”. Centeno SA, Hale C, Caro F, Cesaratto A, Shibayama N, Delaney J, Dooley K, van der Snickt G, Janssens K, Stein SA, Heritage science 5, 18 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1186/S40494-017-0131-8
Abstract: Vincent van Gogh's still lifes Irises and Roses were investigated to shed light onto the degree to which the paintings had changed, both individually and in relation to each other since they were painted, particularly in regard to the fading of the red lakes. Non-invasive techniques, including macroscopic X-ray fluorescence mapping, reflectance imaging spectroscopy, and X-radiography, were combined with microanalytical techniques in a select number of samples. The in-depth microchemical analysis was necessary to overcome the complications that arise when evaluating by non-invasive methods alone the compositions of passages with complex layering and mixing of paints. The results obtained by these two approaches were complemented by color measurements performed on paint cross-sections and on protected edges, and with historical information provided by the artist's own descriptions, early reviews and reproductions, and the data was used to carry out digital color simulations that provided, to a certain extent, a visualization of how the paintings may have originally appeared.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 21
DOI: 10.1186/S40494-017-0131-8
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“Gallium bismuth halide GaBi-X2 (X = I, Br, Cl) monolayers with distorted hexagonal framework: Novel room-temperature quantum spin Hall insulators”. Li L, Leenaerts O, Kong X, Chen X, Zhao M, Peeters FM, Nano Research 10, 2168 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1007/S12274-017-1464-Z
Abstract: Quantum spin Hall (QSH) insulators with a large topologically nontrivial bulk gap are crucial for future applications of the QSH effect. Among these, group III-V monolayers and their halides, which have a chair structure (regular hexagonal framework), have been widely studied. Using first-principles calculations, we formulate a new structure model for the functionalized group III-V monolayers, which consist of rectangular GaBi-X-2 (X = I, Br, Cl) monolayers with a distorted hexagonal framework (DHF). These structures have a far lower energy than the GaBi-X-2 monolayers with a chair structure. Remarkably, the DHF GaBi-X-2 monolayers are all QSH insulators, which exhibit sizeable nontrivial band gaps ranging from 0.17 to 0.39 eV. The band gaps can be widely tuned by applying different spin-orbit coupling strengths, resulting in a distorted Dirac cone.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 7.354
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1007/S12274-017-1464-Z
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“Unusual quantum confined Stark effect and Aharonov-Bohm oscillations in semiconductor quantum rings with anisotropic effective masses”. de Sousa GO, da Costa DR, Chaves A, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Physical review B 95, 205414 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.205414
Abstract: The effects of external electric and magnetic fields on the energy spectrum of quantum rings made out of a bidimensional semiconductor material with anisotropic band structures are investigated within the effective-mass model. The interplay between the effective-mass anisotropy and the radial confinement leads to wave functions that are strongly localized at two diametrically opposite regions where the kinetic energy is lowest due to the highest effective mass. We show that this quantum phenomenon has clear consequences on the behavior of the energy states in the presence of applied in-plane electric fields and out-of-plane magnetic fields. In the former, the quantum confined Stark effect is observed with either linear or quadratic shifts, depending on the direction of the applied field. As for the latter, the usual Aharonov-Bohm oscillations are not observed for a circularly symmetric confining potential, however they can be reinstated if an elliptic ring with an appropriate aspect ratio is chosen.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 19
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.205414
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“Ligand-Induced Shape Transformation of PbSe Nanocrystals”. Peters JL, van den Bos KHW, Van Aert S, Goris B, Bals S, Vanmaekelbergh D, Chemistry of materials 29, 4122 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.chemmater.7b01103
Abstract: We present a study of the relation between the surface chemistry and nanocrystal shape of PbSe nanocrystals with a variable Pb-to-Se stoichiometry and density of oleate ligands. The oleate ligand density and binding configuration are monitored by nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared absorbance spectroscopy, allowing us to quantify the number of surface-attached ligands per NC and the nature of the surface−Pb−oleate configuration. The three-dimensional shape of the PbSe nanocrystals is obtained from high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy combined with an atom counting method. We show that the enhanced oleate capping results in a stabilization and extension of the {111} facets, and a crystal shape transformation from a truncated nanocube to a truncated octahedron.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 9.466
Times cited: 45
DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemmater.7b01103
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“Hybrid statistics-simulations based method for atom-counting from ADF STEM images”. De wael A, De Backer A, Jones L, Nellist PD, Van Aert S, Ultramicroscopy 177, 69 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2017.01.010
Abstract: A hybrid statistics-simulations based method for atom-counting from annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (ADF STEM) images of monotype crystalline nanostructures is presented. Different atom-counting methods already exist for model-like systems. However, the increasing relevance of radiation damage in the study of nanostructures demands a method that allows atom-counting from low dose images with a low signal-to-noise ratio. Therefore, the hybrid method directly includes prior knowledge from image simulations into the existing statistics-based method for atom-counting, and accounts in this manner for possible discrepancies between actual and simulated experimental conditions. It is shown by means of simulations and experiments that this hybrid method outperforms the statistics-based method, especially for low electron doses and small nanoparticles. The analysis of a simulated low dose image of a small nanoparticle suggests that this method allows for far more reliable quantitative analysis of beam-sensitive materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2017.01.010
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“Real-space mapping of electronic orbitals”. Stefan Löffler, Matthieu Bugnet, Nicolas Gauquelin, Sorin Lazar, Elias Assmann, Karsten Held, Gianluigi A Botton, Peter Schattschneider, Ultramicroscopy 177, 26 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2017.01.018
Abstract: Electronic states are responsible for most material properties, including chemical bonds, electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as optical and magnetic properties. Experimentally, however, they remain mostly elusive. Here, we report the real-space mapping of selected transitions between p and d states on the Ångström scale in bulk rutile (TiO2) using electron energy-loss spectrometry (EELS), revealing information on individual bonds between atoms. On the one hand, this enables the experimental verification of theoretical predictions about electronic states. On the other hand, it paves the way for directly investigating electronic states under conditions that are at the limit of the current capabilities of numerical simulations such as, e.g., the electronic states at defects, interfaces, and quantum dots.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.843
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2017.01.018
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“Atomic-scale mechanisms of plasma-assisted elimination of nascent base-grown carbon nanotubes”. Khalilov U, Bogaerts A, Neyts EC, Carbon 118, 452 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbon.2017.03.068
Abstract: Selective etching allows for obtaining carbon nanotubes with a specific chirality. While plasma-assisted etching has already been used to separate metallic tubes from their semiconducting counterparts, little is known about the nanoscale mechanisms of the etching process. We combine (reactive) molecular dynamics (MD) and force-bias Monte Carlo (tfMC) simulations to study H-etching of CNTs. In particular, during the hydrogenation and subsequent etching of both the carbon cap and the tube, they sequentially transform to different carbon nanostructures, including carbon nanosheet, nanowall, and polyyne chains, before they are completely removed from the surface of a substrate-bound Ni-nanocluster.We also found that onset of the etching process is different in the cases of the cap and the tube, although the overall etching scenario is similar in both cases. The entire hydrogenation/etching process for both cases is analysed in detail, comparing with available theoretical and experimental evidences.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 6.337
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2017.03.068
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“Carbon-rich carbon nitride monolayers with Dirac cones : Dumbbell C4N”. Li L, Kong X, Leenaerts O, Chen X, Sanyal B, Peeters FM, Carbon 118, 285 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CARBON.2017.03.045
Abstract: Two-dimensional (2D) carbon nitride materials play an important role in energy-harvesting, energy-storage and environmental applications. Recently, a new carbon nitride, 2D polyaniline (C3N) was proposed [PNAS 113 (2016) 7414-7419]. Based on the structure model of this C3N monolayer, we propose two new carbon nitride monolayers, named dumbbell (DB) C4N-I and C4N-II. Using first-principles calculations, we systematically study the structure, stability, and band structure of these two materials. In contrast to other carbon nitride monolayers, the orbital hybridization of the C/N atoms in the DB C4N monolayers is sp(3). Remarkably, the band structures of the two DB C4N monolayers have a Dirac cone at the K point and their Fermi velocities (2.6/2.4 x 10(5) m/s) are comparable to that of graphene. This makes them promising materials for applications in high-speed electronic devices. Using a tight-binding model, we explain the origin of the Dirac cone. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 6.337
Times cited: 36
DOI: 10.1016/J.CARBON.2017.03.045
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“Quantum transport in graphene Hall bars : effects of side gates”. Petrovic MD, Peeters FM, Solid state communications 257, 20 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SSC.2017.03.012
Abstract: Quantum electron transport in side-gated graphene Hall bars is investigated in the presence of quantizing external magnetic fields. The asymmetric potential of four side-gates distorts the otherwise flat bands of the relativistic Landau levels, and creates new propagating states in the Landau spectrum (i.e. snake states). The existence of these new states leads to an interesting modification of the bend and Hall resistances, with new quantizing plateaus appearing in close proximity of the Landau levels. The electron guiding in this system can be understood by studying the current density profiles of the incoming and outgoing modes. From the fact that guided electrons fully transmit without any backscattering (similarly to edge states), we are able to analytically predict the values of the quantized resistances, and they match the resistance data we obtain with our numerical (tight-binding) method. These insights in the electron guiding will be useful in predicting the resistances for other side-gate configurations, and possibly in other system geometries, as long as there is no backscattering of the guided states.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.554
DOI: 10.1016/J.SSC.2017.03.012
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“CVD growth of monolayer MoS2: Role of growth zone configuration and precursors ratio”. Ozden A, Ay F, Sevik C, Perkgoz NK, Japanese journal of applied physics 56, 06gg05 (2017). http://doi.org/10.7567/JJAP.56.06GG05
Abstract: Single-layer, large-scale two-dimensional material growth is still a challenge for their wide-range usage. Therefore, we carried out a comprehensive study of monolayer MoS2 growth by CVD investigating the influence of growth zone configuration and precursors ratio. We first compared the two commonly used approaches regarding the relative substrate and precursor positions, namely, horizontal and face-down configurations where facedown approach is found to be more favorable to obtain larger flakes under identical growth conditions. Secondly, we used different types of substrate holders to investigate the influence of the Mo and S vapor confinement on the resulting diffusion environment. We suggest that local changes of the S to Mo vapor ratio in the growth zone is a key factor for the change of shape, size and uniformity of the resulting MoS2 formations, which is also confirmed by performing depositions under different precursor ratios. Therefore, to obtain continuous monolayer films, the S to Mo vapor ratio is needed to be kept within a certain range throughout the substrate. As a conclusion, we obtained monolayer triangles with a side length of 90 mu m and circles with a diameter of 500 mu m and continuous films with an area of 85 0 mu m x 1 cm when the S-to-Mo vapor ratio is optimized. (C) 2017 The Japan Society of Applied Physics
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.7567/JJAP.56.06GG05
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“Band alignment of lateral two-dimensional heterostructures with a transverse dipole”. Leenaerts O, Vercauteren S, Partoens B, Applied physics letters 110, 181602 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.4982791
Abstract: It was recently shown that the electronic band alignment in lateral two-dimensional heterostructures is strongly dependent on the system geometry, such as heterostructure width and layer thickness. This is so even in the absence of polar edge terminations because of the appearance of an interface dipole between the two different materials. In this study, this work is expanded to include two-dimensional materials that possess an electronic dipole over their surface, i.e., in the direction transverse to the crystal plane. To this end, a heterostucture consisting of polar hydrofluorinated graphene and non-polar graphane layers is studied with first-principles calculations. As for nonpolar heterostructures, a significant geometry dependence is observed with two different limits for the band offset. For infinitely wide heterostructures, the potential step in the vacuum is equally divided over the two sides of the heterostructure, resulting in a finite potential step in the heterostructure. For infinitely thick heterostructure slabs, on the other hand, the band offset is reduced, similar to the three-dimensional case.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1063/1.4982791
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“A Comprehensive Study of the Electrodeposition of Nickel Nanostructures from Deep Eutectic Solvents: Self-Limiting Growth by Electrolysis of Residual Water”. Mernissi Cherigui EA, Sentosun K, Bouckenooge P, Vanrompay H, Bals S, Terryn H, Ustarroz J, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 121, 9337 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.7b01104
Abstract: The electrodeposition of nickel nanostructures on glassy carbon was investigated in 1:2 choline chloride – urea (1:2 ChCl-U) deep eutectic solvent (DES). By combining electrochemical techniques with ex-situ FE-SEM, XPS, HAADF-STEM and EDX, the electrochemical processes occurring during nickel deposition were better understood. Special attention was given to the interaction between the solvent and the growing nickel nanoparticles. The application of a suffciently negative potential results into the electrocatlytic hydrolisis of residual water in the DES, which leads to the formation of a mixed layer of Ni/Ni(OH)2(ads). In addition, hydrogen bonds between hydroxide species and the DES components could be formed, quenching the growth of the nickel clusters favouring their aggregation. Due to these processes, a highly dense distribution of nickel nanostructures can be obtained within a wide potential range. Understanding the role of residual water and the interactions at the interface during metal electrodeposition from DESs is essential to produce supported nanostructures in a controllable way for a broad range of applications and technologies.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 66
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.7b01104
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“Direct observation of enhanced magnetism in individual size- and shape-selected 3d transition metal nanoparticles”. Kleibert A, Balan A, Yanes R, Derlet PM, Vaz CAF, Timm M, Fraile Rodríguez A, Béché, A, Verbeeck J, Dhaka RS, Radovic M, Nowak U, Nolting F, Physical review B 95, 195404 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.95.195404
Abstract: Magnetic nanoparticles are critical building blocks for future technologies ranging from nanomedicine to spintronics. Many related applications require nanoparticles with tailored magnetic properties. However, despite significant efforts undertaken towards this goal, a broad and poorly understood dispersion of magnetic properties is reported, even within monodisperse samples of the canonical ferromagnetic 3d transition metals. We address this issue by investigating the magnetism of a large number of size- and shape-selected, individual nanoparticles of Fe, Co, and Ni using a unique set of complementary characterization techniques. At room temperature, only superparamagnetic behavior is observed in our experiments for all Ni nanoparticles within the investigated sizes, which range from 8 to 20 nm. However, Fe and Co nanoparticles can exist in two distinct magnetic states at any size in this range: (i) a superparamagnetic state, as expected from the bulk and surface anisotropies known for the respective materials and as observed for Ni, and (ii) a state with unexpected stable magnetization at room temperature. This striking state is assigned to significant modifications of the magnetic properties arising from metastable lattice defects in the core of the nanoparticles, as concluded by calculations and atomic structural characterization. Also related with the structural defects, we find that the magnetic state of Fe and Co nanoparticles can be tuned by thermal treatment enabling one to tailor their magnetic properties for applications. This paper demonstrates the importance of complementary single particle investigations for a better understanding of nanoparticle magnetism and for full exploration of their potential for applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 21
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.95.195404
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“Surface states and positron annihilation spectroscopy: results and prospects from a first-principles approach”. Callewaert V, Saniz R, Barbiellini B, Partoens B, Journal of physics : conference series 791, 012036 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/791/1/012036
Abstract: The trapping of positrons at the surface of a material can be exploited to study quite selectively the surface properties of the latter by means of positron annihilation spectroscopy techniques. To support these, it is desirable to be able to theoretically predict the existence of such positronic surface states and to describe their annihilation characteristics with core or valence surface electrons in a reliable way. Here, we build on the well-developed first-principles techniques for the study of positrons in bulk solids as well as on previous models for surfaces, and investigate two schemes that can improve the theoretical description of the interaction of positrons with surfaces. One is based on supplementing the local-density correlation potential with the corrugated image potential at the surface, and the other is based on the weighted-density approximation to correlation. We discuss our results for topological insulators, graphene layers, and quantum dots, with emphasis on the information that can be directly related to experiment. We also discuss some open theoretical problems that should be addressed by future research.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/791/1/012036
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“New insights into the nanostructure of innovative thin film solar cells gained by positron annihilation spectroscopy”. Eijt SWH, Shi W, Mannheim A, Butterling M, Schut H, Egger W, Dickmann M, Hugenschmidt C, Shakeri B, Meulenberg RW, Callewaert V, Saniz R, Partoens B, Barbiellini B, Bansil A, Melskens J, Zeman M, Smets AHM, Kulbak M, Hodes G, Cahen D, Brück E, Journal of physics : conference series 791, 012021 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/791/1/012021
Abstract: Recent studies showed that positron annihilation methods can provide key insights into the nanostructure and electronic structure of thin film solar cells. In this study, positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) is applied to investigate CdSe quantum dot (QD) light absorbing layers, providing evidence of positron trapping at the surfaces of the QDs. This enables one to monitor their surface composition and electronic structure. Further, 2D-Angular Correlation of Annihilation Radiation (2D-ACAR) is used to investigate the nanostructure of divacancies in photovoltaic-high-quality a-Si:H films. The collected momentum distributions were converted by Fourier transformation to the direct space representation of the electron-positron autocorrelation function. The evolution of the size of the divacancies as a function of hydrogen dilution during deposition of a-Si:H thin films was examined. Finally, we present a first positron Doppler Broadening of Annihilation Radiation (DBAR) study of the emerging class of highly efficient thin film solar cells based on perovskites.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/791/1/012021
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“Gel-based morphological design of zirconium metal-organic frameworks”. Bueken B, Van Velthoven N, Willhammar T, Stassin T, Stassen I, Keen DA, Baron GV, Denayer JFM, Ameloot R, Bals S, De Vos D, Bennett TD, Chemical science 8, 3939 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1039/C6SC05602D
Abstract: The ability of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to gelate under specific synthetic conditions opens up new opportunities in the preparation and shaping of hierarchically porous MOF monoliths, which could be directly implemented for catalytic and adsorptive applications. In this work, we present the first examples of xero-or aerogel monoliths consisting solely of nanoparticles of several prototypical Zr4+-based MOFs: UiO-66-X (X – H, NH2, NO2, (OH)(2)), UiO-67, MOF-801, MOF-808 and NU-1000. High reactant and water concentrations during synthesis were observed to induce the formation of gels, which were converted to monolithic materials by drying in air or supercritical CO2. Electron microscopy, combined with N-2 physisorption experiments, was used to show that irregular nanoparticle packing leads to pure MOF monoliths with hierarchical pore systems, featuring both intraparticle micropores and interparticle mesopores. Finally, UiO-66 gels were shaped into monolithic spheres of 600 mm diameter using an oil-drop method, creating promising candidates for packed-bed catalytic or adsorptive applications, where hierarchical pore systems can greatly mitigate mass transfer limitations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.668
Times cited: 168
DOI: 10.1039/C6SC05602D
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“Thickness dependent properties in oxide heterostructures driven by structurally induced metal-oxygen hybridization variations”. Liao Z, Gauquelin N, Green RJ, Macke S, Gonnissen J, Thomas S, Zhong Z, Li L, Si L, Van Aert S, Hansmann P, Held K, Xia J, Verbeeck J, Van Tendeloo G, Sawatzky GA, Koster G, Huijben M, Rijnders G, Advanced functional materials 27, 1606717 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1002/ADFM.201606717
Abstract: Thickness-driven electronic phase transitions are broadly observed in different types of functional perovskite heterostructures. However, uncertainty remains whether these effects are solely due to spatial confinement, broken symmetry, or rather to a change of structure with varying film thickness. Here, this study presents direct evidence for the relaxation of oxygen-2p and Mn-3d orbital (p-d) hybridization coupled to the layer-dependent octahedral tilts within a La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 film driven by interfacial octahedral coupling. An enhanced Curie temperature is achieved by reducing the octahedral tilting via interface structure engineering. Atomically resolved lattice, electronic, and magnetic structures together with X-ray absorption spectroscopy demonstrate the central role of thickness-dependent p-d hybridization in the widely observed dimensionality effects present in correlated oxide heterostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 12.124
Times cited: 55
DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201606717
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“An agent-based model of farmer behaviour to explain the limited adaptability of Flemish agriculture”. Maes D, Van Passel S, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions 22, 63 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.EIST.2016.06.001
Abstract: Transition projects have been implemented for Flemish agriculture since 2003, but these did not enable a transformation of the agricultural sector. This paper looks at pre-transition scenarios that have been collectively designed by stakeholders of the agricultural sector in 2002. These foresaw decreases in the regional animal stocks in Flanders. However, the real evolution of the sector did not reveal such a decrease. It is assumed that the individual adaptive behaviour of farmers can explain the unexpected stability of the Flemish agricultural sector. A detailed agent-based model has been built to replicate the past evolution, accounting for structural diversity of farmers, heterogeneity in behaviour, and natural resource constraints. The results indicate that different forms of rigidity in the individual behaviour of farmers slow down the adaptation of the agricultural sector. Future transition scenarios should account for these elements in order not to overestimate the speed of change in the sector. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM)
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/J.EIST.2016.06.001
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“Aligning graphene in bulk copper : nacre-inspired nanolaminated architecture coupled with in-situ processing for enhanced mechanical properties and high electrical conductivity”. Cao M, Xiong D-B, Tan Z, Ji G, Amin-Ahmadi B, Guo Q, Fan G, Guo C, Li Z, Zhang D, Carbon 117, 65 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CARBON.2017.02.089
Abstract: Methods used to strengthen metals generally also cause a pronounced decrease in ductility and electrical conductivity. In this work a bioinspired strategy is applied to surmount the dilemma. By assembling copper submicron flakes cladded with in-situ grown graphene, graphene/copper matrix composites with a nanolaminated architecture inspired by a natural nacre have been prepared. Owing to a combined effect-from the bioinspired nanolaminated architecture and improved interfacial bonding, a synergy has been achieved between mechanical strength and ductility as well as electrical conductivity in the graphene/copper matrix composites. With a low volume fraction of only 2.5% of graphene, the composite shows a yield strength and elastic modulus similar to 177% and similar to 25% higher than that of unreinforced copper matrix, respectively, while retains ductility and electrical conductivity comparable to that of pure copper. The bioinspired nanolaminated architecture enhances the efficiencies of two-dimensional (2D) graphene in mechanical strengthening and electrical conducting by aligning graphene to maximize performance for required loading and carrier transporting conditions, and toughens the composites by crack deflection. Meanwhile, in-situ growth of graphene is beneficial for improving interfacial bonding and structural quality of graphene. The strategy sheds light on the development of composites with good combined structural and functional properties. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
DOI: 10.1016/J.CARBON.2017.02.089
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“Valley filtering in graphene due to substrate-induced mass potential”. da Costa DR, Chaves A, Farias GA, Peeters FM, Journal of physics : condensed matter 29, 215502 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1088/1361-648X/AA6B24
Abstract: The interaction of monolayer graphene with specific substrates may break its sublattice symmetry and results in unidirectional chiral states with opposite group velocities in the different Dirac cones (Zarenia et al 2012 Phys. Rev. B 86 085451). Taking advantage of this feature, we propose a valley filter based on a transversal mass kink for low energy electrons in graphene, which is obtained by assuming a defect region in the substrate that provides a change in the sign of the substrate-induced mass and thus creates a non-biased channel, perpendicular to the kink, for electron motion. By solving the time-dependent Schrodinger equation for the tight-binding Hamiltonian, we investigate the time evolution of a Gaussian wave packet propagating through such a system and obtain the transport properties of this graphene-based substrate-induced quantum point contact. Our results demonstrate that efficient valley filtering can be obtained, provided: (i) the electron energy is sufficiently low, i.e. with electrons belonging mostly to the lowest sub-band of the channel, and (ii) the channel length (width) is sufficiently long (narrow). Moreover, even though the transmission probabilities for each valley are significantly affected by impurities and defects in the channel region, the valley polarization in this system is shown to be robust against their presence.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1088/1361-648X/AA6B24
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“Modeling of CO2Splitting in a Microwave Plasma: How to Improve the Conversion and Energy Efficiency”. Berthelot A, Bogaerts A, The journal of physical chemistry: C : nanomaterials and interfaces 121, 8236 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.6b12840
Abstract: Microwave plasmas are one of the most promising techniques for CO2 conversion into value-added chemicals and fuels since they are very energy efficient. Nevertheless, experiments show that this high energy efficiency is only reached at low pressures and significantly drops toward atmospheric pressure, which is a clear limitation for industrial applications. In this paper, we use a zerodimensional reaction kinetics model to simulate a CO2 microwave plasma in a pressure range from 50 mbar to 1 bar, in order to evaluate the reasons for this decrease in energy efficiency at atmospheric pressure. The code includes a detailed description of the vibrational kinetics of CO2, CO, and O2 as well as the energy exchanges between them because the vibrational kinetics is known to be crucial for energy efficient CO2 splitting. First, we use a self-consistent gas temperature calculation in order to assess the key performance indicators for CO2 splitting, i.e., the CO2 conversion and corresponding energy efficiency. Our results indicate that lower pressures and higher power densities lead to more vibrational excitation, which is beneficial for the conversion. We also demonstrate the key role of the gas temperature. The model predicts the highest conversion and energy efficiencies at pressures around 300 mbar, which is in agreement with experiments from the literature. We also show the beneficial aspect of fast gas cooling in the afterglow at high pressure. In a second step, we study in more detail the effects of pressure, gas temperature, and power density on the vibrational distribution function and on the dissociation and recombination mechanisms of CO2, which define the CO2 splitting efficiency. This study allows us to identify the limiting factors of CO2 conversion and to propose potential solutions to improve the process.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 4.536
Times cited: 47
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.6b12840
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“Evidence for anionic redox activity in a tridimensional-ordered Li-rich positive electrode β-Li2IrO3”. Pearce PE, Perez AJ, Rousse G, Saubanère M, Batuk D, Foix D, McCalla E, Abakumov AM, Van Tendeloo G, Doublet M-L, Tarascon J-M, Nature materials 16, 580 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1038/nmat4864
Abstract: Lithium-ion battery cathode materials have relied on cationic redox reactions until the recent discovery of anionic redox activity in Li-rich layered compounds which enables capacities as high as 300 mAh g(-1). In the quest for new high-capacity electrodes with anionic redox, a still unanswered question was remaining regarding the importance of the structural dimensionality. The present manuscript provides an answer. We herein report on a beta-Li2IrO3 phase which, in spite of having the Ir arranged in a tridimensional (3D) framework instead of the typical two-dimensional (2D) layers seen in other Li-rich oxides, can reversibly exchange 2.5 e(-) per Ir, the highest value ever reported for any insertion reaction involving d-metals. We show that such a large activity results from joint reversible cationic (Mn+) and anionic (O-2)(n-) redox processes, the latter being visualized via complementary transmission electron microscopy and neutron diffraction experiments, and confirmed by density functional theory calculations. Moreover, beta-Li2IrO3 presents a good cycling behaviour while showing neither cationic migration nor shearing of atomic layers as seen in 2D-layered Li-rich materials. Remarkably, the anionic redox process occurs jointly with the oxidation of Ir4+ at potentials as low as 3.4 V versus Li+/Li-0, as equivalently observed in the layered alpha-Li2IrO3 polymorph. Theoretical calculations elucidate the electrochemical similarities and differences of the 3D versus 2D polymorphs in terms of structural, electronic and mechanical descriptors. Our findings free the structural dimensionality constraint and broaden the possibilities in designing high-energy-density electrodes for the next generation of Li-ion batteries.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 39.737
DOI: 10.1038/nmat4864
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“Toward the Understanding of Selective Si Nano-Oxidation by Atomic Scale Simulations”. Khalilov U, Bogaerts A, Neyts EC, Accounts of chemical research 50, 796 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1021/acs.accounts.6b00564
Abstract: The continuous miniaturization of nanodevices, such as transistors, solar cells, and optical fibers, requires the controlled synthesis of (ultra)thin gate oxides (<10 nm), including Si gate-oxide (SiO2) with high quality at the atomic scale. Traditional thermal growth of SiO2 on planar Si surfaces, however, does not allow one to obtain such ultrathin oxide due to either the high oxygen diffusivity at high temperature or the very low sticking ability of incident oxygen at low temperature. Two recent techniques, both operative at low (room) temperature, have been put forward to overcome these obstacles: (i) hyperthermal oxidation of planar Si surfaces and (ii) thermal or plasma-assisted oxidation of nonplanar Si surfaces, including Si nanowires (SiNWs). These nanooxidation processes are, however, often difficult to study experimentally, due to the key intermediate processes taking place on the nanosecond time scale.
In this Account, these Si nano-oxidation techniques are discussed from a computational point of view and compared to both hyperthermal and thermal oxidation experiments, as well as to well-known models of thermal oxidation, including the Deal−Grove, Cabrera−Mott, and Kao models and several alternative mechanisms. In our studies, we use reactive molecular dynamics (MD) and hybrid MD/Monte Carlo simulation techniques, applying the Reax force field. The incident energy of oxygen species is chosen in the range of 1−5 eV in hyperthermal oxidation of planar Si surfaces in order to prevent energy-induced damage. It turns out that hyperthermal growth allows for two growth modes, where the ultrathin oxide thickness depends on either (1) only the kinetic energy of the incident oxygen species at a growth temperature below Ttrans = 600 K, or (2) both the incident energy and the growth temperature at a growth temperature above Ttrans. These modes are specific to such ultrathin oxides, and are not observed in traditional thermal oxidation, nor theoretically considered by already existing models. In the case of thermal or plasma-assisted oxidation of small Si nanowires, on the other hand, the thickness of the ultrathin oxide is a function of the growth temperature and the nanowire diameter. Below Ttrans, which varies with the nanowire diameter, partially oxidized SiNW are formed, whereas complete oxidation to a SiO2 nanowire occurs only above Ttrans. In both nano-oxidation processes at lower temperature (T < Ttrans), final sandwich c-Si|SiOx|a-SiO2 structures are obtained due to a competition between overcoming the energy barrier to penetrate into Si subsurface layers and the compressive stress (∼2−3 GPa) at the Si crystal/oxide interface. The overall atomic-simulation results strongly indicate that the thickness of the intermediate SiOx (x < 2) region is very limited (∼0.5 nm) and constant irrespective of oxidation parameters. Thus, control over the ultrathin SiO2 thickness with good quality is indeed possible by accurately tuning the oxidant energy, oxidation temperature and surface curvature.
In general, we discuss and put in perspective these two oxidation mechanisms for obtaining controllable ultrathin gate-oxide films, offering a new route toward the fabrication of nanodevices via selective nano-oxidation.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 20.268
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.6b00564
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“Simplex Volume Maximization (SiVM): a matrix factorization algorithm with non-negative constrains and low computing demands for the interpretation of full spectral X-ray fluorescence imaging data”. Alfeld M, Wahabzada M, Bauckhage C, Kersting K, van der Snickt G, Noble P, Janssens K, Wellenreuther G, Falkenberg G, Microchemical journal 132, 179 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2017.02.001
Abstract: Technological progress allows for an ever-faster acquisition of hyperspectral data, challenging the users to keep up with interpreting the recorded data. Matrix factorization, the representation of data sets by bases (or loads) and coefficient (or score) images is long used to support the interpretation of complex data sets. We propose in this publication Simplex Volume Maximization (SiVM) for the analysis of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging data sets. SiVM selects archetypical data points that represents the data set and thus provides easily understandable bases, preserves the non-negative character of XRF data sets and has low demands concerning computing resources. We apply SiVM on an XRF data set of Hans Memling's Portrait of a man from the Lespinette family from the collection of the Mauritshuis (The Hague, NL) and discuss capabilities and shortcomings of SiVM. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.034
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2017.02.001
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“Electrostatically confined trilayer graphene quantum dots”. Mirzakhani M, Zarenia M, Vasilopoulos P, Peeters FM, Physical review B 95, 155434 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.155434
Abstract: Electrically gating of trilayer graphene (TLG) opens a band gap offering the possibility to electrically engineer TLG quantum dots. We study the energy levels of such quantum dots and investigate their dependence on a perpendicular magnetic field B and different types of stacking of the graphene layers. The dots are modeled as circular and confined by a truncated parabolic potential which can be realized by nanostructured gates or position-dependent doping. The energy spectra exhibit the intervalley symmetry E-K(e) (m) = -E (h)(K') (m) for the electron (e) and hole (h) states, where m is the angular momentum quantum number and K and K' label the two valleys. The electron and hole spectra for B = 0 are twofold degenerate due to the intervalley symmetry E-K (m) = E-K' [-(m + 1)]. For both ABC [alpha = 1.5 (1.2) for large (small) R] and ABA (alpha = 1) stackings, the lowest-energy levels show approximately a R-alpha dependence on the dot radius R in contrast with the 1/R-3 one for ABC-stacked dots with infinite-mass boundary. As functions of the field B, the oscillator strengths for dipole-allowed transitions differ drastically for the two types of stackings.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.155434
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“Monolayer alkali and transition-metal monoxides : MgO, CaO, MnO, and NiO”. Shayeganfar F, Vasu KS, Nair RR, Peeters FM, Neek-Amal M, Physical review B 95, 144109 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.144109
Abstract: Two-dimensional crystals with strong interactions between layers has attracted increasing attention in recent years in a variety of fields. In particular, the growth of a single layer of oxide materials (e.g., MgO, CaO, NiO, and MnO) over metallic substrates were found to display different physical properties than their bulk. In this study, we report on the physical properties of a single layer of metallic oxide materials and compare their properties with their bulk and other two-dimensional (2D) crystals. We found that the planar structure of metallic monoxides are unstable whereas the buckled structures are thermodynamically stable. Also, the 2D-MnO and NiO exhibit different magnetic (ferromagnetic) and optical properties than their bulk, whereas band-gap energy and linear stiffness are found to be decreasing from NiO to MgO. Our findings provide insight into oxide thin-film technology applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Times cited: 21
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.95.144109
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“Fundamental mechanisms responsible for the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency in microwave dielectric ceramics”. Zhang S, Sahin H, Torun E, Peeters F, Martien D, DaPron T, Dilley N, Newman N, Journal of the American Ceramic Society 100, 1508 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1111/JACE.14648
Abstract: The temperature coefficient of resonant frequency ((f)) of a microwave resonator is determined by three materials parameters according to the following equation: (f)=-(1/2 (epsilon) + 1/2 + (L)), where (L), (epsilon), and are defined as the linear temperature coefficients of the lattice constant, dielectric constant, and magnetic permeability, respectively. We have experimentally determined each of these parameters for Ba(Zn1/3Ta2/3)O-3, 0.8 at.% Ni-doped Ba(Zn1/3Ta2/3)O-3, and Ba(Ni1/3Ta2/3)O-3 ceramics. These results, in combination with density functional theory calculations, have allowed us to develop a much improved understanding of the fundamental physical mechanisms responsible for the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency, (f).
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.841
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1111/JACE.14648
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“Facile morphology-controlled synthesis of organolead iodide perovskite nanocrystals using binary capping agents”. Debroye E, Yuan H, Bladt E, Baekelant W, Van der Auweraer M, Hofkens J, Bals S, Roeffaers MBJ, ChemNanoMat : chemistry of nanomaterials for energy, biology and more 3, 223 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1002/CNMA.201700006
Abstract: Controlling the morphology of organolead halide perovskite crystals is crucial to a fundamental understanding of the materials and to tune their properties for device applications. Here, we report a facile solution-based method for morphology-controlled synthesis of rod-like and plate-like organolead halide perovskite nanocrystals using binary capping agents. The morphology control is likely due to an interplay between surface binding kinetics of the two capping agents at different crystal facets. By high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy, we show that the obtained nanocrystals are monocrystalline. Moreover, long photoluminescence decay times of the nanocrystals indicate long charge diffusion lengths and low trap/defect densities. Our results pave the way for large-scale solution synthesis of organolead halide perovskite nanocrystals with controlled morphology for future device applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.937
Times cited: 19
DOI: 10.1002/CNMA.201700006
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