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“Convexity constraints on linear background models for electron energy-loss spectra”. Van den Broek W, Jannis D, Verbeeck J, Ultramicroscopy 254, 113830 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2023.113830
Abstract: In this paper convexity constraints are derived for a background model of electron energy loss spectra (EELS) that is linear in the fitting parameters. The model outperforms a power-law both on experimental and simulated backgrounds, especially for wide energy ranges, and thus improves elemental quantification results. Owing to the model’s linearity, the constraints can be imposed through fitting by quadratic programming. This has important advantages over conventional nonlinear power-law fitting such as high speed and a guaranteed unique solution without need for initial parameters. As such, the need for user input is significantly reduced, which is essential for unsupervised treatment of large datasets. This is demonstrated on a demanding spectrum image of a semiconductor device sample with a high number of elements over a wide energy range.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Electron Microscopy for Materials Science (EMAT) ;
Impact Factor: 2.2
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2023.113830
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“Activity versus selectivity in photocatalysis : morphological or electronic properties tipping the scale”. Keulemans M, Verbruggen SW, Hauchecorne B, Martens JA, Lenaerts S, Journal of catalysis 344, 221 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCAT.2016.09.033
Abstract: In this paper a structure-activity and structure-selectivity relation is established for three commercial TiO2 sources (P25, P90, and PC500). Morphological and electronic parameters of the photocatalysts are determined using widely applicable and inexpensive characterization procedures. More specifically, the electronic properties are rigorously characterized using an electron titration method yielding quantitative information on the amount of defect sites present in the catalyst. Surface photovoltage measurements on the other hand provide complementary information on the charge carrier recombination process. As model reaction, the degradation of a solid layer of stearic acid is studied using an in situ FTIR reaction cell that enables to investigate the catalyst surface and possible formation of reaction intermediates while the reactions are ongoing. We show that the order of photocatalytic conversion is PC500 > P90 > P25, matching the order of favorable morphological properties. In terms of selectivity to CO2 formation (complete mineralization), however, this trend is reversed: P25 > P90 > PC500, now matching the order of advantageous electronic properties, i.e. low charge carrier recombination and high charge carrier generation. With this we intend to provide new mechanistic insights using a wide variety of physical, (wet) chemical and operando analysis methods that aid the development of performant (self-cleaning) photocatalytic materials.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 6.844
Times cited: 10
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCAT.2016.09.033
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“A simple preparation method for air-sensitive specimens for transmission electron microscopy demonstrated by Rb6C60”. Zhang XF, Zhang XB, Bernaerts D, Van Tendeloo G, Amelinckx S, van Landuyt J, Werner H, Ultramicroscopy 55, 25 (1994). http://doi.org/10.1016/0304-3991(94)90077-9
Abstract: In this paper a particularly simple but efficient method is presented by which samples of alkali-doped C-60 materials or other air-sensitive materials can be prepared and transferred into a transmission electron microscope for direct observations and investigations. Flexible, transparent glove bags are used which are filled to a slight overpressure with dry nitrogen. Under this protective atmosphere, the air-sensitive sample is mounted in the specimen holder and inserted in the vacuum of the electron microscope. Rb6C60 which is prepared and transferred into the microscope in this way has been investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results confirm the bcc structure and especially the location of the rubidium atoms.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 2.436
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1016/0304-3991(94)90077-9
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“Do aptamers always bind? The need for a multifaceted analytical approach when demonstrating binding affinity between aptamer and low molecular weight compounds”. Bottari F, Daems E, de Vries A-M, Van Wielendaele P, Trashin S, Blust R, Sobott F, Madder A, Martins JC, De Wael K, Journal Of The American Chemical Society 142, jacs.0c08691 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1021/JACS.0C08691
Abstract: In this manuscript, we compare different analytical methodologies to validate or disprove the binding capabilities of aptamer sequences. This was prompted by the lack of a universally accepted and robust quality control protocol for the characterization of aptamer performances coupled with the observation of independent yet inconsistent data sets in the literature. As an example, we chose three aptamers with a reported affinity in the nanomolar range for ampicillin, a β-lactam antibiotic, used as biorecognition elements in several detection strategies described in the literature. Application of a well-known colorimetric assay based on aggregation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) yielded conflicting results with respect to the original report. Therefore, ampicillin binding was evaluated in solution using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), native nano-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (native nESI-MS), and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR). By coupling the thermodynamic data obtained with ITC with the structural information on the binding event given by native nESI-MS and 1H NMR we could verify that none of the ampicillin aptamers show any specific binding with their intended target. The effect of AuNPs on the binding event was studied by both ITC and 1H NMR, again without providing positive evidence of ampicillin binding. To validate the performance of our analytical approach, we investigated two well-characterized aptamers for cocaine/quinine (MN4), chosen for its nanomolar range affinity, and l-argininamide (1OLD) to show the versatility of our approach. The results clearly indicate the need for a multifaceted analytical approach, to unequivocally establish the actual detection potential and performance of aptamers aimed at small organic molecules.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Medical Biochemistry
Impact Factor: 15
DOI: 10.1021/JACS.0C08691
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“The influence of impurities on the performance of the dielectric barrier discharge”. Martens T, Bogaerts A, Brok WJM, van Dijk J, Applied physics letters 96, 091501 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3327800
Abstract: In this letter, we investigate the effect of various levels of nitrogen impurity on the electrical performance of an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge in helium. We illustrate the different current profiles that are obtained, which exhibit one or more discharge pulses per half cycle and evaluate their performance in ionizing the discharge and dissipating the power. It is shown that flat and broad current profiles perform the best in ionizing the discharge and use the least amount of power per generated charged particle.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1063/1.3327800
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“Electronic and magnetic properties of two-dimensional of FeX (X = S, Se, Te) monolayers crystallize in the orthorhombic structures”. Bafekry A, Sarsari IA, Faraji M, Fadlallah MM, Jappor HR, Karbasizadeh S, Nguyen V, Ghergherehchi M, Applied Physics Letters 118, 143102 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1063/5.0046721
Abstract: In this Letter, we explore the lattice, dynamical stability, and electronic and magnetic properties of FeTe bulk and FeX (X=S, Se, Te) monolayers using the density functional calculations. The phonon dispersion relation, elastic stability criteria, and cohesive energy results show the stability of studied FeX monolayers. The mechanical properties reveal that all FeX monolayers have a brittle nature. Furthermore, these structures are stable as we move down the 6A group in the periodic table, i.e., from S, Se, and Te. The stability and work function decrease as the electronegativity decreases. The spin-polarized electronic structures demonstrate that the FeTe monolayer has a total magnetization of 3.8 mu (B), which is smaller than the magnetization of FeTe bulk (4.7 mu (B)). However, FeSe and FeS are nonmagnetic monolayers. The FeTe monolayer can be a good candidate material for spin filter applications due to its electronic and magnetic properties. This study highlights the bright prospect for the application of FeX monolayers in electronic structures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
DOI: 10.1063/5.0046721
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“Asymmetry and switching phenomenology in TiN\ (Al2O3) \ HfO2 \ Hf systems”. Goux L, Fantini A, Govoreanu B, Kar G, Clima S, Chen Y-Y, Degraeve R, Wouters DJ, Pourtois G, Jurczak M, ECS solid state letters 1, 63 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1149/2.003204ssl
Abstract: In this letter, we address the bipolar resistive switching phenomenology in scaled TiN\HfO2\Hf cells. By means of stack engineering using a thin Al2O3 layer inserted either at the TiN\HfO2 or at the Hf\HfO2 interface, we demonstrate that the reset operation takes place close to the TiNanode. Due to the increase of the oxygen-vacancy profile from the TiN to the Hf interface, the filament-confining and wide band-gap Al2O3 layer should indeed be engineered at the interface with the TiN electrode in order to further improve the switching control and to allow reaching larger state resistances. (C) 2012 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/2.003204ssl] All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.184
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1149/2.003204ssl
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“Insights into Ni-filament formation in unipolar-switching Ni/HfO2/TiN resistive random access memory device”. Chen YY, Pourtois G, Adelmann C, Goux L, Govoreanu B, Degreave R, Jurczak M, Kittl JA, Groeseneken G, Wouters DJ, Applied physics letters 100, 113513 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3695078
Abstract: In this letter, CMOS-compatible Ni/HfO2/TiN resistive random access memory stacks demonstrated attractive unipolar switching properties, showing >10(3) endurance and long retention at 150 degrees C. The Ni bottom electrode (BE) improved the switching yield over the NiSiPt BE. To better understand the unipolar forming mechanism, ab initio simulation and time of flight-secondary ion mass spectroscopy were utilized. Compared to the NiSiPt BE, Ni BE gives larger Ni diffusion in the HfO2 and lower formation enthalpy of Ni2+ species during electrical forming. Both the electrical and physical results supported a Ni-injection mechanism for the filament formation. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.3695078]
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 29
DOI: 10.1063/1.3695078
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“Prediction of the decomposition tendency of C5F10O on discharged metal surfaces”. Cui Z, Jafarzadeh A, Hao Y, Liu L, Li L, Zheng Y, IEEE transactions on dielectrics and electrical insulation 30, 1365 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1109/TDEI.2023.3263129
Abstract: In this letter, a dipole sheet method is proposed to theoretically study the adsorption and decomposition of C5F10O over-discharged Cu (111) and Al (111) surfaces. A synergistic effect of external electric fields and surface excess charges shows up for jointly promoting the adsorption of C5F10O, accompanied by the enhancement of C-F bond elongation and charge transfer process. The decomposition of C5F10O is facilitated in the discharged region and the initial decomposition is found most likely to occur via the cleavage of the C-F single bond. The results indicate that the decomposition of C5F10O over the metal electrode surfaces is much accelerated when discharge faults occur and free F atoms could be generated from C5F10O before its carbon chain breakage. These findings help to elucidate the underlying decomposition tendency of C5F10O in discharged systems and provide a practical method for evaluating and designing new insulation gases.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.1
DOI: 10.1109/TDEI.2023.3263129
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“Pulse shape influence on the atmospheric barrier discharge”. Martens T, Bogaerts A, van Dijk J, Applied physics letters 96, 131503 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1063/1.3315881
Abstract: In this letter we compare the effect of a radio-frequency sine, a low frequency sine, a rectangular and a pulsed dc voltage profile on the calculated electron production and power consumption in the dielectric barrier discharge. We also demonstrate using calculated potential distribution profiles of high time and space resolution how the pulsed dc discharge generates a secondary discharge pulse by deactivating the power supply.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.411
Times cited: 35
DOI: 10.1063/1.3315881
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“The influence of power and frequency on the filamentary behavior of a flowing DBD—application to the splitting of CO2”. Ozkan A, Dufour T, Silva T, Britun N, Snyders R, Bogaerts A, Reniers F, Plasma sources science and technology 25, 025013 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1088/0963-0252/25/2/025013
Abstract: In this experimental study, a flowing dielectric barrier discharge operating at atmospheric pressure is used for the splitting of CO2 into O2 and CO. The influence of the applied frequency and plasma power on the microdischarge properties is investigated to understand their role on the CO2 conversion. Electrical measurements are carried out to explain the conversion trends and to characterize the microdischarges through their number, their lifetime,
their intensity and the induced electrical charge. Their influence on the gas and electrode temperatures is also evidenced through optical emission spectroscopy and infrared imaging. It is shown that, in our configuration, the conversion depends mostly on the charge delivered in the plasma and not on the effective plasma voltage when the applied power is modified. Similarly, at constant total current, a better conversion is observed at low frequencies, where a less filamentary discharge regime with a higher effective plasma voltage than that at a higher
frequency is obtained.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.302
Times cited: 40
DOI: 10.1088/0963-0252/25/2/025013
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“Probing the intrinsic limitations of the contact resistance of metal/semiconductor interfaces through atomistic simulations”. Pourtois G, Dabral A, Sankaran K, Magnus W, Yu H, de de Meux AJ, Lu AKA, Clima S, Stokbro K, Schaekers M, Houssa M, Collaert N, Horiguchi N, Semiconductors, Dielectrics, And Metals For Nanoelectronics 15: In Memory Of Samares Kar , 303 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1149/08001.0303ECST
Abstract: In this contribution, we report a fundamental study of the factors that set the contact resistivity between metals and highly doped semiconductors. We investigate the case of n-type doped Si contacted with amorphous TiSi combining first-principles calculations with Non-Equilibrium Green functions transport simulations. The intrinsic contact resistivity is found to saturate at similar to 2x10(-10) Omega.cm(2) with the doping concentration and sets an intrinsic limit to the ultimate contact resistance achievable for n-doped Si vertical bar amorphous-TiSi. This limit arises from the intrinsic properties of the semiconductor and of the metal such as their electron effective masses and Fermi energies. We illustrate that, in this regime, contacting metals with a heavy electron effective mass helps reducing the interface intrinsic contact resistivity.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1149/08001.0303ECST
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“Study of the intrinsic limitations of the contact resistance of metal/semiconductor interfaces through atomistic simulations”. Dabral A, Pourtois G, Sankaran K, Magnus W, Yu H, de de Meux AJ, Lu AKA, Clima S, Stokbro K, Schaekers M, Collaert N, Horiguchi N, Houssa M, ECS journal of solid state science and technology 7, N73 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1149/2.0041806JSS
Abstract: In this contribution, we report a fundamental study of the factors that set the contact resistivity between metals and highly doped n-type 2D and 3D semiconductors. We investigate the case of n-type doped Si contacted with amorphous TiSi combining first principles calculations with Non-Equilibrium Green functions transport simulations. The evolution of the intrinsic contact resistivity with the doping concentration is found to saturate at similar to 2 x 10(-10) Omega.cm(2) for the case of TiSi and imposes an intrinsic limit to the ultimate contact resistance achievable for n-doped Silamorphous-TiSi (aTiSi). The limit arises from the intrinsic properties of the semiconductors and of the metals such as their electron effective masses and Fermi energies. We illustrate that, in this regime, contacting heavy electron effective mass metals with semiconductor helps reducing the interface intrinsic contact resistivity. This observation seems to hold true regardless of the 3D character of the semiconductor, as illustrated for the case of three 2D semiconducting materials, namely MoS2, ZrS2 and HfS2. (C) The Author(s) 2018. Published by ECS.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT); Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.787
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1149/2.0041806JSS
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“Combining molecular dynamics with Monte Carlo simulations : implementations and applications”. Neyts EC, Bogaerts A, Theoretical chemistry accounts : theory, computation, and modeling 132, 1320 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1007/s00214-012-1320-x
Abstract: In this contribution, we present an overview of the various techniques for combining atomistic molecular dynamics with Monte Carlo simulations, mainly in the context of condensed matter systems, as well as a brief summary of the main accelerated dynamics techniques. Special attention is given to the force bias Monte Carlo technique and its combination with molecular dynamics, in view of promising recent developments, including a definable timescale. Various examples of the application of combined molecular dynamics / Monte Carlo simulations are given, in order to demonstrate the enhanced simulation efficiency with respect to either pure molecular dynamics or Monte Carlo.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 1.89
Times cited: 27
DOI: 10.1007/s00214-012-1320-x
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“A 3D model of a reverse vortex flow gliding arc reactor”. Trenchev G, Kolev S, Bogaerts A, Plasma sources science and technology 25, 035014 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1088/0963-0252/25/3/035014
Abstract: In this computational study, a gliding arc plasma reactor with a reverse-vortex flow stabilization is modelled for the first time by a fluid plasma description. The plasma reactor operates with argon gas at atmospheric pressure. The gas flow is simulated using the k-ε Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes turbulent model. A quasi-neutral fluid plasma model is used for computing the plasma properties. The plasma arc movement in the reactor is observed, and the results for the gas flow, electrical characteristics, plasma density, electron temperature, and gas temperature are analyzed.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 3.302
Times cited: 20
DOI: 10.1088/0963-0252/25/3/035014
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“Application of Gielis transformation to the design of metamaterial structures”. de Jong van Coevorden CM, Gielis J, Caratelli D, Journal of physics : conference series 963, Unsp 012008 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/963/1/012008
Abstract: In this communication, the use of Gielis transformation to design more compact metamaterial unit cells is explored. For this purpose, transformed complementary split ring resonators and spiral resonators are coupled to micro-strip lines and theirbehaviour is investigated. The obtained results confirm that the useof the considered class of supershaped geometries enables the synthesis of very compact scalable microwave components.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/963/1/012008
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“Statistical parameter estimation theory : principles and simulation studies”. de Backer A, Fatermans J, den Dekker AJ, Van Aert S Advances in imaging and electron physics
T2 – Advances in imaging and electron physics. page 29 (2021).
Abstract: In this chapter, the principles of statistical parameter estimation theory for a quantitative analysis of atomic-resolution electron microscopy images are introduced. Within this framework, electron microscopy images are described by a parametric statistical model. Here, parametric models are introduced for different types of electron microscopy images: reconstructed exit waves, annular dark-field (ADF) scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) images, and simultaneously acquired ADF and annular bright-field (ABF) STEM images. Furthermore, the Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB) is introduced, i.e. a theoretical lower bound on the variance of any unbiased estimator. This CRLB is used to quantify the precision of the structure parameters of interest, such as the atomic column positions and the integrated atomic column intensities.
Keywords: H2 Book chapter; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
DOI: 10.1016/BS.AIEP.2021.01.002
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“Optimal experiment design for nanoparticle atom counting from ADF STEM images”. de Backer A, Fatermans J, den Dekker AJ, Van Aert S Advances in imaging and electron physics
T2 – Advances in imaging and electron physics. page 145 (2021).
Abstract: In this chapter, the principles of detection theory are used to quantify the probability of error for atom counting from high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (HRSTEM) images. Binary and multiple hypothesis testing have been investigated in order to determine the limits to the precision with which the number of atoms in a projected atomic column can be estimated. The probability of error has been calculated when using STEM images, scattering cross-sections or peak intensities as a criterion to count atoms. Based on this analysis, we conclude that scattering cross-sections perform almost equally well as images and perform better than peak intensities. Furthermore, the optimal STEM detector design can be derived for atom counting using the expression of the probability of error. We show that for very thin objects the low-angle annular dark-field (LAADF) regime is optimal and that for thicker objects the optimal inner detector angle increases.
Keywords: H2 Book chapter; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
DOI: 10.1016/BS.AIEP.2021.01.005
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“Atom counting”. de Backer A, Fatermans J, den Dekker AJ, Van Aert S Advances in imaging and electron physics
T2 – Advances in imaging and electron physics. page 91 (2021).
Abstract: In this chapter, a statistical model-based method to count the number of atoms of monotype crystalline nanostructures from high-resolution annular dark-field (ADF) scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) images is discussed in detail together with a thorough study on the possibilities and inherent limitations. We show that this method can be applied to nanocrystals of arbitrary shape, size, and atom type. The validity of the atom-counting results is confirmed by means of detailed image simulations and it is shown that the high sensitivity of our method enables us to count atoms with single atom sensitivity.
Keywords: H2 Book chapter; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
DOI: 10.1016/BS.AIEP.2021.01.004
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“Morphological TEM studies and magnetoresistance analysis of sputtered Al-substituted ZnO films : the role of oxygen”. Van Gompel M, Atalay AY, Gaulke A, Van Bael MK, D'Haen J, Turner S, Van Tendeloo G, Vanacken J, Moshchalkov VV, Wagner P, Physica status solidi : A : applications and materials science 212, 1191 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1002/pssa.201431888
Abstract: In this article, we report on the synthesis of thin, epitaxial films of the transparent conductive oxide Al:ZnO on (0001)-oriented synthetic sapphire substrates by DC sputtering from targets with a nominal 1 at.% Al substitution. The deposition was carried out at an unusually low substrate temperature of only 250 °C in argonoxygen mixtures as well as in pure argon. The impact of the processgas composition on the morphology was analysed by transmission electron microscopy, revealing epitaxial growth in all the cases with a minor impact of the process parameters on the resulting grain sizes. The transport properties resistivity, Hall effect and magnetoresistance were studied in the range from 10 to 300 K in DC and pulsed magnetic fields up to 45 T. While the carrier density and mobility are widely temperature independent, we identified a low fieldlow temperature regime in which the magnetoresistance shows an anomalous, negative behaviour. At higher fields and temperatures, the magnetoresistance exhibits a more conventional, positive curvature with increasing field strength. As a possible explanation, we propose carrier scattering at localised magnetic trace impurities and magnetic correlations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 1.775
DOI: 10.1002/pssa.201431888
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“Simultaneous etching and deposition processes during the etching of silicon with a Cl2/O2/Ar inductively coupled plasma”. Tinck S, Bogaerts A, Shamiryan D, Plasma processes and polymers 8, 490 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1002/ppap.201000189
Abstract: In this article, surface processes occurring during the etching of Si with a Cl2/O2/Ar plasma are investigated by means of experiments and modeling. Cl2-based plasmas are commonly used to etch silicon, while a small fraction of O2 is added to protect the sidewalls from lateral etching during the shallow trench isolation process. When the oxygen fraction exceeds a critical value, the wafer surface process changes from an etching regime to a deposition regime, drastically reducing the etch rate. This effect is commonly referred to as the etch stop phenomenon. To gain better understanding of this mechanism, the oxygen fraction is varied in the gas mixture and special attention is paid to the effects of oxygen and of the redeposition of non-volatile etched species on the overall etch/deposition process. It is found that, when the O2 flow is increased, the etch process changes from successful etching to the formation of a rough surface, and eventually to the actual growth of an oxide layer which completely blocks the etching of the underlying Si. The size of this etch stop island was found to increase as a function of oxygen flow, while its thickness was dependent on the amount of Si etched. This suggests that the growth of the oxide layer mainly depends on the redeposition of non-volatile etch products. The abrupt change in the etch rate as a function of oxygen fraction was not found back in the oxygen content of the plasma, suggesting the competitive nature between oxidation and chlorination at the wafer. Finally, the wafer and reactor wall compositions were investigated by modeling and it was found that the surface rapidly consisted mainly of SiO2 when the O2 flow was increased above about 15 sccm.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT)
Impact Factor: 2.846
Times cited: 5
DOI: 10.1002/ppap.201000189
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“Micro-Raman analysis for the identification of pigments from 19th and 20th century paintings”. Aibéo CL, Goffin S, Schalm O, van der Snickt G, Laquière N, Eyskens P, Janssens K, Journal of Raman spectroscopy 39, 1091 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1002/JRS.1990
Abstract: In this article, results using confocal µ-Raman to analyse the cross-section of paint samples are presented. Results obtained with light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with an energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and micro-X-ray fluorescence (µ-XRF) are mentioned and compared to the ones obtained with confocal (MRS). In some cases, pigment identification was possible only by combining analytical results from different techniques. The samples were drawn from five paintings belonging to the Academy of Fine Arts of Antwerp, which are part of a collection of 34 paintings made by students from the Academy between 1819 and 1920. Since, on the one hand, the painting techniques and materials, especially pigments, used in this period are still not completely known, and on the other hand, this collection constitutes a very important and reliable resource of information, these paintings were chosen for a systematic investigation. They represent the evolution of painting in Belgium over approximately a century.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 2.969
Times cited: 28
DOI: 10.1002/JRS.1990
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“Unique properties of core shell Ag@Au nanoparticles for the aptasensing of bacterial cells”. Hamidi-Asl E, Dardenne F, Pilehvar S, Blust R, De Wael K, Chemosensors 4, 16 (2016). http://doi.org/10.3390/CHEMOSENSORS4030016
Abstract: In this article, it is shown that the efficiency of an electrochemical aptasensing device is influenced by the use of different nanoparticles (NPs) such as gold nanoparticles (Au), silver nanoparticles (Ag), hollow gold nanospheres (HGN), hollow silver nanospheres (HSN), silvergold core shell (Ag@Au), goldsilver core shell (Au@Ag), and silvergold alloy nanoparticles (Ag/Au). Among these nanomaterials, Ag@Au core shell NPs are advantageous for aptasensing applications because the core improves the physical properties and the shell provides chemical stability and biocompatibility for the immobilization of aptamers. Self-assembly of the NPs on a cysteamine film at the surface of a carbon paste electrode is followed by the immobilization of thiolated aptamers at these nanoframes. The nanostructured (Ag@Au) aptadevice for Escherichia coli as a target shows four times better performance in comparison to the response obtained at an aptamer modified planar gold electrode. A comparison with other (core shell) NPs is performed by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. Also, the selectivity of the aptasensor is investigated using other kinds of bacteria. The synthesized NPs and the morphology of the modified electrode are characterized by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.3390/CHEMOSENSORS4030016
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“Variational quantum Monte Carlo study of charged excitons in fractional dimensional space”. Rønnow TF, Pedersen TG, Partoens B, Berthelsen KK, Physical review : B : condensed matter and materials physics 84, 035316 (2011). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.84.035316
Abstract: In this article we study excitons and trions in fractional dimensional spaces using the model suggested by C. Palmer [ J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 37 6987 (2004)] through variational quantum Monte Carlo. We present a direct approach for estimating the exciton binding energy and discuss the von Neumann rejection- and Metropolis sampling methods. A simple variational estimate of trions is presented which shows good agreement with previous calculations done within the fractional dimensional model presented by D. R. Herrick and F. H. Stillinger [ Phys. Rev. A 11 42 (1975) and J. Math. Phys. 18 1224 (1977)]. We explain the spatial physics of the positive and negative trions by investigating angular and inter-atomic distances. We then examine the wave function and explain the differences between the positive and negative trions with heavy holes. As applications of the fractional dimensional model we study three systems: First we apply the model to estimate the energy of the hydrogen molecular ion H2+. Then we estimate trion binding energies in GaAs-based quantum wells and we demonstrate a good agreement with other theoretical work as well as experimentally observed binding energies. Finally, we apply the results to carbon nanotubes. We find good agreement with recently observed binding energies of the positively charged trion.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.84.035316
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“A combined 3D and 2D light scattering study on aqueous colloidal model systems with tunable interactions”. Liu Y, Claes N, Trepka B, Bals S, Lang PR, Soft matter 12, 8485 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1039/c6sm01376g
Abstract: In this article we report on the synthesis and characterization of a system of colloidal spheres suspended in an aqueous solvent which can be refractive index-matched, thus allowing for investigations of the particle near-wall dynamics by evanescent wave dynamic light scattering at concentrations up to the isotropic to ordered transition and beyond. The particles are synthesized by copolymerization of a fluorinated acrylic ester monomer with a polyethylene-glycol (PEG) oligomer by surfactant free emulsion polymerization. Static and dynamic light scattering experiments in combination with cryo transmission electron microscopy reveal that the particles have a core shell structure with a significant enrichment of the PEG chains on the particles surface. In index-matching DMSO/water suspensions the particles arrange in an ordered phase at volume fraction above 7%, if no additional electrolyte is present. The near-wall dynamics at low volume fraction are quantitatively described by the combination of electrostatic repulsion and hydrodynamic interaction between the particles and the wall. At volume fractions close to the isotropic to ordered transition, the near-wall dynamics are more complex and qualitatively reminiscent of the behaviour which was observed in hard sphere suspensions at high concentrations.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.889
Times cited: 2
DOI: 10.1039/c6sm01376g
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“Enzyme-gelatin electrochemical biosensors : scaling down”. De Wael K, De Belder S, Pilehar S, Van Steenberge G, Herrebout W, Heering HA, Biosensors 2, 101 (2012). http://doi.org/10.3390/BIOS2010101
Abstract: In this article we investigate the possibility of scaling down enzyme-gelatin modified electrodes by spin coating the enzyme-gelatin layer. Special attention is given to the electrochemical behavior of the selected enzymes inside the gelatin matrix. A glassy carbon electrode was used as a substrate to immobilize, in the first instance, horse heart cytochrome c (HHC) in a gelatin matrix. Both a drop dried and a spin coated layer was prepared. On scaling down, a transition from diffusion controlled reactions towards adsorption controlled reactions is observed. Compared to a drop dried electrode, a spin coated electrode showed a more stable electrochemical behavior. Next to HHC, we also incorporated catalase in a spin coated gelatin matrix immobilized on a glassy carbon electrode. By spincoating, highly uniform sub micrometer layers of biocompatible matrices can be constructed. A full electrochemical study and characterization of the modified surfaces has been carried out. It was clear that in the case of catalase, gluteraldehyde addition was needed to prevent leaking of the catalase from the gelatin matrix.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Molecular Spectroscopy (MolSpec)
DOI: 10.3390/BIOS2010101
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“Intensified swirling reactor for the dehydrogenation of LOHC”. Van Hoecke L, Kummamuru NB, Pourfallah H, Verbruggen SW, Perreault P, International journal of hydrogen energy , 1 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.IJHYDENE.2023.08.150
Abstract: In the recent advances towards more sustainable global energy supply, H2 is a possible alternative for large scale energy storage. In this view, Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHC) are a class of molecules that allow for easier long term energy storage compared to conventional H2 technologies. CFD simulations were used to showcase the hydrodynamics of the dehydrogenation of a LOHC in a new reactor unit, via a cold flow mock-up study. This reactor was designed to allow for a swirling motion of the liquid carrier material, favouring the removal of H2 gas from the flow and forcing the equilibrium of the reaction towards dehydrogenation, as well as to keep the catalyst particles in motion. The CFD simulations were validated qualitatively with experimental operation of the reactor, in a system with identical dimensionless numbers (Reynolds and Stokes), in order to use less costly products during the prototyping phase.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology
Impact Factor: 7.2
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHYDENE.2023.08.150
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“Classical trajectories : a powerful tool for solving tunneling problems”. Sels D, Brosens F, Magnus W, Physica: A : theoretical and statistical physics 391, 78 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.physa.2011.08.030
Abstract: In the realm of Ehrenfests theorem, classical trajectories obeying Newtons laws have been proven useful to construct explicit solutions to the time-dependent WignerLiouville equation. Whereas previous works have particularly focused on the initial distribution function as a vehicle found to carry the signatures of quantum statistics into the time-dependent solution, the present paper shows that the LagrangeCharpit method based on classical trajectories can be successfully invoked as well to tackle quantum mechanical features with no classical counterpart, such as tunneling.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Theory of quantum systems and complex systems; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 2.243
Times cited: 7
DOI: 10.1016/j.physa.2011.08.030
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“Structural, electrochemical and magnetic properties of a novel KFeSO4F polymorph”. Lander L, Rousse G, Abakumov AM, Sougrati M, Van Tendeloo G, Tarascon J-M, Journal of materials chemistry A : materials for energy and sustainability 3, 19754 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1039/c5ta05548b
Abstract: In the quest for sustainable and low-cost positive electrode materials for Li-ion batteries, we discovered, as reported herein, a new low temperature polymorph of KFeSO4F. Contrary to the high temperature phase crystallizing in a KTiOPO4-like structure, this new phase adopts a complex layer-like structure built on FeO4F2 octahedra and SO4 tetrahedra, with potassium cations located in between the layers, as solved using neutron and synchrotron diffraction experiments coupled with electron diffraction. The detailed analysis of the structure reveals an alternation of edge-and corner-shared FeO4F2 octahedra leading to a large monoclinic cell of 1771.774(7) angstrom(3). The potassium atoms are mobile within the structure as deduced by ionic conductivity measurements and confirmed by the bond valence energy landscape approach thus enabling a partial electrochemical removal of K+ and uptake of Li+ at an average potential of 3.7 V vs. Li+/Li-0. Finally, neutron diffraction experiments coupled with SQUID measurements reveal a long range antiferromagnetic ordering of the Fe2+ magnetic moments below 22 K with a possible magnetoelectric behavior.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.867
Times cited: 11
DOI: 10.1039/c5ta05548b
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“Effect of boundary-induced chirality on magnetic textures in thin films”. Mulkers J, Hals KMD, Leliaert J, Milošević, MV, Van Waeyenberge B, Everschor-Sitte K, Physical review B 98, 064429 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVB.98.064429
Abstract: In the quest for miniaturizing magnetic devices, the effects of boundaries and surfaces become increasingly important. Here we show how the recently predicted boundary-induced Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) affects the magnetization of ferromagnetic films with a C-infinity v symmetry and a perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. For an otherwise uniformly magnetized film, we find a surface twist when the magnetization in the bulk is canted by an in-plane external field. This twist at the surfaces caused by the boundary-induced DMI differs from the common canting caused by internal DMI observed at the edges of a chiral magnet. Furthermore, we find that the surface twist due to the boundary-induced DMI strongly affects the width of the domain wall at the surfaces. We also find that the skyrmion radius increases in the depth of the film, with the average size of the skyrmion increasing with boundary-induced DMI. This increase suggests that the boundary-induced DMI contributes to the stability of the skyrmion.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 9
DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVB.98.064429
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