“Rapid evaluation of the debromination mechanism of eosin in oil paint by direct analysis in real time and direct infusion-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry”. Alvarez-Martin A, Cleland TP, Kavich GM, Janssens K, Newsome GA, Analytical chemistry 91, 10856 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.9B02568
Abstract: Eosin is a synthetic organic colorant prone to fading under the influence of light. On the basis of the growing interest in the understanding of the discoloration mechanism of eosin-based lakes, this study compares the ability of two ultrafast and ultrasensitive mass spectrometry techniques to detect eosin derivatives in complex matrices, such as oil media without the use of conventional separation columns or additional sample preparation protocols. Direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART-MS) and direct infusion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DI-ESI-MS) were used to characterize the degradation pathway of eosin in oil media. The analysis protocols developed in this study are applied to discern the degradation mechanism of the lake pigment eosin (comprising the molecule per se complexed to an inorganic substrate) dispersed in linseed oil to create an oil paint. The analysis of oil paints by high resolution MS without an extraction methodology that modifies the system chemistry allowed us to identify the degradation forms without causing any additional fragmentation. Both techniques revealed the primary photodegradation pathway of eosin in linseed oil, and DI-ESI-MS provided additional information on the native conformation of the lake.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 6.32
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.9B02568
|
“Singlet oxygen-based electrosensing by molecular photosensitizers”. Trashin S, Rahemi V, Ramji K, Neven L, Gorun SM, De Wael K, Nature communications 8, 16108 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1038/NCOMMS16108
Abstract: Enzyme-based electrochemical biosensors are an inspiration for the development of (bio)analytical techniques. However, the instability and reproducibility of the reactivity of enzymes, combined with the need for chemical reagents for sensing remain challenges for the construction of useful devices. Here we present a sensing strategy inspired by the advantages of enzymes and photoelectrochemical sensing, namely the integration of aerobic photocatalysis and electrochemical analysis. The photosensitizer, a bioinspired perfluorinated Zn phthalocyanine, generates singlet-oxygen from air under visible light illumination and oxidizes analytes, yielding electrochemically-detectable products while resisting the oxidizing species it produces. Compared with enzymatic detection methods, the proposed strategy uses air instead of internally added reactive reagents, features intrinsic baseline correction via on/off light switching and shows C-F bonds-type enhanced stability. It also affords selectivity imparted by the catalytic process and nano-level detection, such as 20 nM amoxicillin in μl sample volumes.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 12.124
Times cited: 26
DOI: 10.1038/NCOMMS16108
|
“Of enzyme use in cost-effective high solid simultaneous saccharification and fermentation processes”. Sóti V, Lenaerts S, Cornet I, Journal of biotechnology 270, 70 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JBIOTEC.2018.01.020
Abstract: Enzyme cost is considered to be one of the most significant factors defining the final product price in lignocellulose hydrolysis and fermentation. Enzyme immobilization and recycling can be a tool to decrease costs. However, high solid loading is a key factor towards high product titers, and recovery of immobilized enzymes from this thick liquid is often overlooked. This paper aims to evaluate the economic feasibility of immobilized enzymes in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) of lignocellulose biomass in general, as well as the recuperation of magnetic immobilized enzymes (m-CLEAs) during high solid loading in simultaneous saccharification, detoxification and fermentation processes (SSDF) of lignocellulose biomass. Enzyme prices were obtained from general cost estimations by Klein-Marcuschamer et al. [Klein-Marcuschamer et al. (2012) Biotechnol. Bioeng. 109, 10831087]. During enzyme cost analysis, the influence of inoculum recirculation as well as a shortened fermentation time was explored. Both resulted in 15% decrease of final enzyme product price. Enzyme recuperation was investigated experimentally and 99.5 m/m% of m-CLEAs was recovered from liquid medium in one step, while 88 m/m% could still be recycled from a thick liquid with high solid concentrations (SSF fermentation broth). A mathematical model was constructed to calculate the cost of immobilized and free enzyme utilization and showed that, with current process efficiencies and commercial enzyme prices, the cost reduction obtained by enzyme immobilization can reach around 60% compared to free enzyme utilization, while lower enzyme prices will result in a lower percentage of immobilization related savings, but overall enzyme costs will decrease significantly. These results are applied in a case study, estimating the viability of shifting from sugar to lignocellulose substrate for a 100 t lactic acid fermentation batch. It was concluded that it will only be economically feasible if the enzymes are produced at the most optimistic variable cost and either the activity of the immobilized catalyst or the recovery efficiency is further increased.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
Impact Factor: 2.599
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/J.JBIOTEC.2018.01.020
|
“Beyond the environmentalist's paradox and the debate on weak versus strong sustainability”. Ang F, Van Passel S, Bioscience 62, 251 (2012). http://doi.org/10.1525/BIO.2012.62.3.6
Abstract: Environmentalists generally argue that ecological damage will (eventually) lead to declines in human well-being. From this perspective, the recent introduction of the “environmentalist's paradox” in BioScience by Raudsepp-Hearne and colleagues (2010) is particularly significant. In essence, Raudsepp-Hearne and colleagues (2010) claimed that although ecosystem services have been degraded, human well-being-paradoxically-has increased. In this article, we show that this debate is in fact rooted in a broader discussion on weak sustainability versus strong sustainability (the substitutability of human-made capital for natural capital). We warn against the reductive nature of focusing only on a stock flow framework in which a natural-capital stock produces ecosystem services. Concretely, we recommend a holistic approach in which the complexity, irreversibility, uncertainty, and ethical predicaments intrinsic to the natural environment and its connections to humanity are also considered.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.378
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1525/BIO.2012.62.3.6
|
“New generation monitoring devices for heritage guardians to detect multiple events and hazards”. Schalm O, Anaf W, Callier J, Leyva Pernia D, IOP conference series : materials science and engineering 364, Unsp 012056 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899X/364/1/012056
Abstract: Environmental parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, visible light, UV radiation and pollution influence the deterioration rate of heritage items. To judge on the environmental appropriateness for heritage conservation, it is therefore important to monitor the environment. Often, an incomplete set of environmental parameters is measured, or sporadic or time-averaged measurements are performed. As a result, a wide range of undesirable situations and hazards remain unnoticed. This might lead to an underestimation of environmental dangers (i.e., inaccurate judgement) or to inappropriate mitigation measures (i.e., inaccurate decision making). We present an innovative and user-friendly monitoring device that simultaneously and continuously measures (1) environmental parameters and (2) material behavior. An extended combination of off-the-shelf sensors for temperature, relative humidity, air speed, CO2, NO2, O-3 and particulate matter are connected to a multipurpose datalogger. In-house developed sensors for the shrinkage and expansion behavior of wood, as well as sensors for metal corrosion rates are connected to the same datalogger. Such extended monitoring shows the identification of a wider range of undesirable situations, and it facilitates the search for correlations between such situations and the sources that cause them, i.e., the hazards.
Keywords: P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; History; Antwerp Systems and software Modelling (AnSyMo); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
DOI: 10.1088/1757-899X/364/1/012056
|
“A new opportunity for biomagnetic monitoring of particulate pollution in an urban environment using tree branches”. Wuyts K, Hofman J, van Wittenberghe S, Nuyts G, De Wael K, Samson R, Atmospheric environment : an international journal 190, 177 (2018). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2018.07.014
Abstract: Environmental magnetism, and the magnetic leaf signal in particular, is amply investigated and applied as proxy for atmospheric particulate matter pollution. In this study, we investigated the magnetic signal of annual segments of tree branches, and the composition of particles deposited hereon. Branches are, contrary to leaves of deciduous trees, available during leaf-off seasons and exposed to air pollution year-round. We examined the intra- and inter-tree variation in saturation isothermal remanent magnetization (SIRM) of branch internodes of London plane (Platanus x aeerifolia Willd.) trees in an urban environment. The branch SIRM, normalized by surface area, ranged from 18 to 650 x 10(-6) angstrom; the median amounted to 106 x 10(-6) angstrom. Most of the branch magnetic signal was attributed to the epidermis or bark, and the presence of metal-containing particles on the branch surfaces was confirmed by SEM-EDX. The location of the trees and the height, the depth in the crown and the age of the branches significantly influenced the branch SIRM. The median branch SIRM was up to 135% higher near a busy ring road than in quiet environments (city park and quiet street canyon), and was linked to the presence of Fe-rich particles with co-occurrence of trace metals such as Cr, Cu, Zn and Mn on the branch surface. Within the tree crowns, the branch SIRM generally decreased with increasing height, and was 22% higher in the interior than at the periphery of the crowns. Within the branches, the SIRM increased with each year of exposure, but did not relate to year-to-year variation in particle concentrations due to branch surface changes (epidermis shedding). Our results provide indications that branches can be a valuable alternative for biomagnetic monitoring of particulate pollution, but intra-tree variability in branch SIRM can be substantial due to the branch's location in the tree and branch age.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.629
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2018.07.014
|
“Chromium speciation methods and infrared spectroscopy for studying the chemical reactivity of lead chromate-based pigments in oil medium”. Monico L, Janssens K, Cotte M, Sorace L, Vanmeert F, Brunetti BG, Miliani C, Microchemical journal
T2 –, TECHNART Conference, APR 27-30, 2015, Catania, ITALY 124, 272 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2015.08.028
Abstract: Environmental factors, such as light, humidity and temperature are triggering agents for the alteration of organic and/or inorganic constituents of oil paintings. The oxidation of the organic material is favored by increasing of relative humidity and temperature, whereas processes involving changes of the oxidation states of a number of inorganic pigments (e.g., vermilion, cadmium yellows, zinc yellows, chrome yellows) are mainly activated by light-exposure. In view of the optimization of the long-term conservation and restoration strategies of paintings it is of relevant interest to establish the consequences of thermal parameters (temperature and relative humidity) on the chemical/photochemical-reactivity and the nature of the alteration products of light sensitive-pigments in oil medium. To this aim here we propose a multi-method analytical approach based on the combination of diffuse reflectance UV-Vis, FTIR, synchrotron radiation (SR)-based micro X-ray fluorescence (mu-XRF)/micro-X-ray absorption neat edge structure ()CANES) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopies for studying the effects of different relative humidity conditions before and after light exposure on the reactivity of a series of lead chromate-based pigments [such as PbCrO4 center dot PbO (monoclinic), PbCrO4 (monoclinic) and PbCr0.2S0.8O4 (orthorhombic)] in an oil medium. The investigation of paint models was also compared to that of a late 19th century historical orthorhombic PbCr0.4S0.6O4 oil paint. Diffuse reflectance UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopies were used to obtain information associated with chromatic changes and the formation of organo-metal degradation products at the paint surface. SR-based Cr K-edge mu-XANES/mu-XRF mapping analysis and EPR spectroscopy were employed in a complementary fashion to determine the amount, nature and distribution of Cr(III) and Cr(V)-based alteration compounds within the paints with micrometric spatial resolution. Under the employed thermal aging conditions, lead(II)-carboxylates and reduced Cr-compounds (in abundance of up to about 35% at the surface) have been identified in the lead chromate-based paints. The tendency of chromates to become reduced increased with increasing moisture levels and was favored for the orthorhombic PbCr0.2S0.8O4 compounds. The redox process gave rise to the formation of Cr(V)-species in relative amount much higher than that was formed in the equivalent paint which was exposed only to light. After light-exposure of the thermally aged paints, compounds ascribable to the oxidation of the organic binder were detected for all the types of pigments. Nevertheless, the previous thermal treatment increased the tendency toward photo-reduction of only the PbCr0.2S0.8O4 pigment. For this light-sensitive compound, the thickness variation of the reduced Cr-rich (ca. 70%) photo-alteration layer with moisture levels could be ascribed to a surface passivation phenomenon that had already occurred before photochemical aging. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 3.034
Times cited: 23
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2015.08.028
|
“Accounting for externalities in cross-sectional economic models of climate change impacts”. Moretti M, Vanschoenwinkel J, Van Passel S, Ecological Economics 185, 107058 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2021.107058
Abstract: Environmental effects and natural resources depletion associated with agriculture production affect the agriculture response to climate change. Traditional cross-sectional climate response models ignore this requirement. This research estimates the impact of climate on European agriculture using a continental scale Ricardian analysis. We correct farm income by accounting for resources (energy, fertilisers, pesticides, and water) use intensity and calculate the sustainable value for a sample of 9497 specialized field crop farms. Compared with the traditional Ricardian method, the marginal effects of temperature remain positive (but less positive) in Northern countries, while it leads to less damages in Southern countries when net revenue and farms? sustainable values are used as dependent variables. Accounting for the environmental effects and depletion of natural capital improves the ability of the Ricardian method to estimate agriculture climate response functions in the long run.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 2.965
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2021.107058
|
“The Influence of Size, Shape, and Twin Boundaries on Heat‐Induced Alloying in Individual Au@Ag Core–Shell Nanoparticles”. Mychinko M, Skorikov A, Albrecht W, Sánchez‐Iglesias A, Zhuo X, Kumar V, Liz‐Marzán LM, Bals S, Small , 2102348 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1002/smll.202102348
Abstract: Environmental conditions during real-world application of bimetallic core–shell nanoparticles (NPs) often include the use of elevated temperatures, which are known to cause elemental redistribution, in turn significantly altering the properties of these nanomaterials. Therefore, a thorough understanding of such processes is of great importance. The recently developed combination of fast electron tomography with in situ heating holders is a powerful approach to investigate heat-induced processes at the single NP level, with high spatial resolution in 3D. In combination with 3D finite-difference diffusion simulations, this method can be used to disclose the influence of various NP parameters on the diffusion dynamics in Au@Ag core–shell systems. A detailed study of the influence of heating on atomic diffusion and alloying for Au@Ag NPs with varying core morphology and crystallographic details is carried out. Whereas the core shape and aspect ratio of the NPs play a minor role, twin boundaries are found to have a strong influence on the elemental diffusion.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 8.643
Times cited: 8
DOI: 10.1002/smll.202102348
|
“Consistent predictors of microbial community composition across spatial scales in grasslands reveal low context‐dependency”. Radujković, D, Vicca S, van Rooyen M, Wilfahrt P, Brown L, Jentsch A, Reinhart KO, Brown C, De Gruyter J, Jurasinski G, Askarizadeh D, Bartha S, Beck R, Blenkinsopp T, Cahill J, Campetella G, Canullo R, Chelli S, Enrico L, Fraser L, Hao X, Henry HAL, Hohn M, Jouri MH, Koch M, Lawrence Lodge R, Li FY, Lord JM, Milligan P, Minggagud H, Palmer T, Schröder B, Szabó, G, Zhang T, Zimmermann Z, Verbruggen E, Molecular ecology 32, 6924 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1111/MEC.17178
Abstract: Environmental circumstances shaping soil microbial communities have been studied extensively. However, due to disparate study designs, it has been difficult to resolve whether a globally consistent set of predictors exists, or context‐dependency prevails. Here, we used a network of 18 grassland sites (11 of those containing regional plant productivity gradients) to examine (i) if similar abiotic or biotic factors predict both large‐scale (across sites) and regional‐scale (within sites) patterns in bacterial and fungal community composition, and (ii) if microbial community composition differs consistently at two levels of regional plant productivity (low vs. high). Our results revealed that bacteria were associated with particular soil properties (such as base saturation) and both bacteria and fungi were associated with plant community composition across sites and within the majority of sites. Moreover, a discernible microbial community signal emerged, clearly distinguishing high and low‐productivity soils across different grasslands independent of their location in the world. Hence, regional productivity differences may be typified by characteristic soil microbial communities across the grassland biome. These results could encourage future research aiming to predict the general effects of global changes on soil microbial community composition in grasslands and to discriminate fertile from infertile systems using generally applicable microbial indicators.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
Impact Factor: 4.9
DOI: 10.1111/MEC.17178
|
“First-principles analysis of aluminium interaction with nitrogen-doped graphene nanoribbons –, from adatom bonding to various”. Dobrota AS, Vlahovic J, V Skorodumova N, Pasti IA, Materials Today Communications 31, 103388 (2022). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MTCOMM.2022.103388
Abstract: Enhancing aluminium interaction with graphene-based materials is of crucial importance for the development of Al-storage materials and novel functional materials via atomically precise doping. Here, DFT calculations are employed to investigate Al interactions with non-doped and N-doped graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) and address the impact of the edge sites and N-containing defects on the material's reactivity towards Al. The presence of edges does not influence the energetics of Al adsorption significantly (compared to pristine graphene sheet). On the other hand, N-doping of graphene nanoribbons is found to affect the adsorption energy of Al to an extent that strongly depends on the type of N-containing defect. The introduction of edge-NO group and doping with in -plane pyridinic N result in Al adsorption nearly twice as strong as on pristine graphene. Moreover, double n-type doping via N and Al significantly alters the electronic structure of Al,N-containing GNRs. Our results suggest that selectively doped GNRs with pyridinic N can have enhanced Al-storage capacity and could be potentially used for selective Al electrosorption and removal. On the other hand, Al,N-containing GNRs with pyridinic N could also be used in resistive sensors for mechanical deformation. Namely, strain along the longitudinal axis of these dual doped GNRs does not affect the binding of Al but tunes the bandgap and causes more than 700-fold change in the conductivity. Thus, careful defect engineering and selective doping of GNRs with N (and Al) could lead to novel multifunctional materials with exceptional properties. [GRAPHICS]
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
DOI: 10.1016/J.MTCOMM.2022.103388
|
“Design and construction of an experimental setup to enhance mineral weathering through the activity of soil organisms”. Calogiuri T, Hagens M, Van Groenigen JW, Corbett T, Hartmann J, Hendriksen R, Janssens I, Janssens IA, Ledesma Dominguez G, Loescher G, Mortier S, Neubeck A, Niron H, Poetra RP, Rieder L, Struyf E, Van Tendeloo M, De Schepper T, Verdonck T, Vlaeminck SE, Vicca S, Vidal A, Journal of visualized experiments , e65563 (2023). http://doi.org/10.3791/65563
Abstract: Enhanced weathering (EW) is an emerging carbon dioxide (CO2) removal technology that can contribute to climate change mitigation. This technology relies on accelerating the natural process of mineral weathering in soils by manipulating the abiotic variables that govern this process, in particular mineral grain size and exposure to acids dissolved in water. EW mainly aims at reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations by enhancing inorganic carbon sequestration. Until now, knowledge of EW has been mainly gained through experiments that focused on the abiotic variables known for stimulating mineral weathering, thereby neglecting the potential influence of biotic components. While bacteria, fungi, and earthworms are known to increase mineral weathering rates, the use of soil organisms in the context of EW remains underexplored. This protocol describes the design and construction of an experimental setup developed to enhance mineral weathering rates through soil organisms while concurrently controlling abiotic conditions. The setup is designed to maximize weathering rates while maintaining soil organisms' activity. It consists of a large number of columns filled with rock powder and organic material, located in a climate chamber and with water applied via a downflow irrigation system. Columns are placed above a fridge containing jerrycans to collect the leachate. Representative results demonstrate that this setup is suitable to ensure the activity of soil organisms and quantify their effect on inorganic carbon sequestration. Challenges remain in minimizing leachate losses, ensuring homogeneous ventilation through the climate chamber, and avoiding flooding of the columns. With this setup, an innovative and promising approach is proposed to enhance mineral weathering rates through the activity of soil biota and disentangle the effect of biotic and abiotic factors as drivers of EW.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Internet Data Lab (IDLab); Applied mathematics; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change
Impact Factor: 1.2
DOI: 10.3791/65563
|
“Enhancement of pollutants removal from saline wastewater through simultaneous anammox and denitrification (SAD) process with glycine betaine addition”. Zhu W, Li J, Wang B, Chen G, Bioresource Technology 315, 123784 (2020). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123784
Abstract: Enhanced pollutants removal from saline wastewater was investigated in simultaneous anammox and denitrification (SAD) process with glycine betaine (GB) addition. Long-term operation indicated the optimal GB dose was around 0.4 mM, which enhanced both anammox and denitrifying activity by 30% and 45%, respectively. The total nitrogen and organic removal rates were 0.38 +/- 0.2 kgN/m(3)/d and 0.34 +/- 0.3 kgCOD/m(3)/d, respectively, which increased by 34.5% and 20.5%. Independent of GB dose, denitrifying activity was promoted, but anammox activity was drastically deteriorated after excessive GB addition. The optimal GB dose predicated by both Gaussian and Modified-Boltzmann models were 0.42-0.45 mM. Besides, the bacterial activity recovery after excessive GB addition could be analyzed by the Modified-Boltzmann model. With 1.5 mM GB, granular floatation occurred since numerous gas bubbles were inside the granules. In general, exogenous GB addition can mitigate salinity inhibition and promote pollutants removal from saline wastewater.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 11.4
Times cited: 1
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2020.123784
|
“Valorization of thermal treatment residues in enhanced landfill mining : environmental and economic evaluation”. Danthurebandara M, Van Passel S, Machiels L, Van Acker K, Journal Of Cleaner Production 99, 275 (2015). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2015.03.021
Abstract: Enhanced Landfill Mining is an innovative concept which allows the recovery of land, re-introduction of materials to the material cycles and recovery of energy from a considerably large stock of resources held in landfills. Plasma gasification is a viable candidate for combined energy and material valorization in the framework of Enhanced landfill Mining. Besides energy production, plasma gasification also delivers an environmentally stable vitrified residue called plasmastone, which can be converted into building materials. This paper presents an environmental and economic evaluation of the valorization of thermal treatment residues (plasmastone) in the context of Enhanced Landfill Mining. The most common valorization route, that is, the treatment of plasmastone via production of aggregates, is compared with two other possible, higher added value applications, which are inorganic polymer production and blended cement production. The evaluation is based on life cycle assessment and life cycle costing. The study suggests that the environmental and economic performances of the valorization routes depend mainly on the quality and quantity of the final products produced from a certain amount of plasmastone. The materials with the greatest contribution to potential global warming and to the net present value of the valorization scenarios are the process input materials of sodium silicate, sodium hydroxide and cement. The study concludes that the plasmastone valorization via inorganic polymer production yields higher environmental benefits, while the blended cement production provides higher economic profits. Plasmastone valorization via aggregates production does not yield economic or environmental benefits. Given the trade-off between environmental and economic performances, we conclude that the decisions regarding the selection of appropriate valorization routes should be made cautiously to obtain optimal environmental benefits and economic profits. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM)
Impact Factor: 5.715
Times cited: 17
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCLEPRO.2015.03.021
|
“Detailed analysis of petroleum hydrocarbon attenuation in biopiles by high-performance liquid chromatography followed by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography”. Mao D, Lookman R, van de Weghe H, Vanermen G, de Brucker N, Diels L, Journal of chromatography : A 1216, 1524 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CHROMA.2008.12.087
Abstract: Enhanced bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbons in two biopiles was quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) followed by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCXGC). The attenuation of 34 defined hydrocarbon classes was calculated by HPLCGCXGC analysis of representative biopile samples at start-up and after 18 weeks of biopile operation. In general, a-cyclic alkanes were most efficiently removed from the biopiles, followed by monoaromatic hydrocarbons. Cycloalkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were more resistant to degradation. A-cyclic biomarkers farnesane, trimethyl-C13, norpristane, pristane and phytane dropped to only about 10% of their initial concentrations. On the other hand, C29C31 hopane concentrations remained almost unaltered after 18 weeks of biopile operation, confirming their resistance to biodegradation. They are thus reliable indicators to estimate attenuation potential of petroleum hydrocarbons in biopile processed soils.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
DOI: 10.1016/J.CHROMA.2008.12.087
|
“Understanding CeO2-Based Nanostructures through Advanced Electron Microscopy in 2D and 3D”. Zhang Y, Bals S, Van Tendeloo G, Particle and particle systems characterization 36, 1800287 (2019). http://doi.org/10.1002/ppsc.201800287
Abstract: Engineering morphology and size of CeO2-based nanostructures on a (sub)nanometer scale will greatly influence their performance; this is because of their high oxygen storage capacity and unique redox properties, which allow faster switching of the oxidation state between Ce4+ and Ce3+. Although tremendous research has been carried out on the shapecontrolled synthesis of CeO2, the characterization of these nanostructures at the atomic scale remains a major challenge and the origin of debate. The rapid developments of aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (AC-TEM) have pushed the resolution below 1 Å, both in TEM and in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) mode. At present, not only morphology and structure, but also composition and electronic structure can be analyzed at an atomic scale, even in 3D. This review summarizes recent significant achievements using TEM/ STEM and associated spectroscopic techniques to study CeO2-based nanostructures and related catalytic phenomena. Recent results have shed light on the understanding of the different mechanisms. The potential and limitations, including future needs of various techniques, are discussed with recommendations to facilitate further developments of new and highly efficient CeO2-based nanostructures.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 4.474
Times cited: 22
DOI: 10.1002/ppsc.201800287
|
“Autotrophic nitrogen polishing of secondary effluents : Alkaline pH and residual nitrate control S0-driven denitratation for downstream anammox treatment”. Xie Y, Van Tendeloo M, Zhu W, Peng L, Vlaeminck SE, Journal of Water Process Engineering 56, 104402 (2023). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JWPE.2023.104402
Abstract: Energy-lean nitrogen removal technologies, such as partial nitritation/anammox, often encounter effluent issues due to elevated nitrate and ammonium levels. This study proposed a novel autotrophic polishing strategy coupling sulfur-driven denitratation with anammox. To explore the denitratation potential in obtaining stable and sufficient nitrite accumulation, the effects of pH, residual nitrate level, and biomass-specific nitrate loading rate (BSNLR) were investigated in an S0-packed bed reactor at low hydraulic retention time (i.e., 0.2 h). Implementing pH and residual nitrate control strategies would be easier in practice than BSNLR control to polish secondary effluent. Alkaline pH values could realize successful nitrite accumulation without residual nitrate, and further intensify the accumulation under increased residual nitrate levels. The nitrate level was positively correlated with the nitrite accumulation efficiency. At pH 8.5 and nitrate concentration of 1.0 ± 0.8 mg N L−1, sulfur-driven denitratation could successfully maintain nitrite accumulation of 6.4 ± 1.0 mg NO2−-N L−1, ideally for the downstream anammox in case of residual ammonium levels of around 5 mg N L−1. Since Thiobacillus members play a key role in managing nitrite accumulation, their abundance should be guaranteed in the practical application.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 7
DOI: 10.1016/J.JWPE.2023.104402
|
“Iron, copper, zinc and lead in hair from Sudanese populations of different age groups”. Eltayeb MAH, Van Grieken RE, The science of the total environment 95, 157 (1990). http://doi.org/10.1016/0048-9697(90)90061-X
Abstract: Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence was used for the analysis of hair samples from three different age groups of the Sudanese population. Hair samples were digested in a mixture of nitric and perchloric acids and the metals were then precipitated with ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate. The variations of the Fe, Cu, Zn and Pb content of hair with age were investigated. The averages of the elemental concentrations in each age group were compared with the other age groups and with literature values. The correlation of each pair of elements in the hair samples was also investigated.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/0048-9697(90)90061-X
|
“Soil analysis by thin-film energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence”. Van Grieken R, Van 't dack L, Costa Dantas C, Da Silveira Dantas H, Analytica chimica acta 108, 93 (1979). http://doi.org/10.1016/S0003-2670(01)93044-2
Abstract: Energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence is advantageous for trace analysis of soils present as thin films. A target thickness of about 2 mg cm-2 provides a compromise between optimal sensitivity and minimal absorption effect or optimal accuracy. Sample preparation involves only suspending the finely ground soil in water and drying this suspension on a thin mylar foil glued on a ring that fits into the x.r.f. spectrometer. The effective sample weight present in the exciting beam area is computed from the scatter peaks, a method that cancels out target heterogeneity problems. High accuracy is demonstrated for many elements in reference soil and rock materials; a precision around 5% and a detection limit around 10 ppm can be achieved. As an illustration, results for 16 trace elements and preliminary interpretation are given for a series of pedologically important soil samples from Brasil.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/S0003-2670(01)93044-2
|
“Preconcentration and XRF-determination of heavy metals in hair from Sudanese populations”. Eltayeb MAH, Van Grieken RE, Journal of radioanalytical and nuclear chemistry 131, 331 (1989). http://doi.org/10.1007/BF02060598
Abstract: Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis was applied for the analysis of hair. The hair samples were digested in a mixture of nitric and perchloric acid and the heavy metals were precipitated with ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate. The accuracy, precision and recovery of the method for the elements Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb were evaluated through the analysis of a standard hair sample. The procedure was applied to the analysis of hair from an occupationally exposed group of Sudanese workers and a control group. The hair of the exposed group showed a range of 80550 ppm Fe, 612 ppm Cu, 57190 ppm Zn and 703700 ppm Pb, while that of the control group had a range of 60310 ppm Fe, 722 ppm Cu, 89170 ppm Zn and 317 ppm Pb.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1007/BF02060598
|
“Study of the uniformity of aerosol filters by scanning MA-XRF”. Cabal A, Legrand S, Van den Bril B, Tote K, Janssens K, van Espen P, X-ray spectrometry
T2 –, 17th European Conference on X-Ray Spectrometry (EXRS), JUN 19-24, 2016, Univ Gothenburg, Univ Gothenburg, Gothenburg, SWEDEN 46, 461 (2017). http://doi.org/10.1002/XRS.2767
Abstract: Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is an attractive analytical method to determine the level of air pollution by heavy metals. The concentration of the filter in ng/cm(2) is obtained by direct comparison of the net characteristic line intensity of an element with that of a thin film standard. As the sampled area on the filter and the area of the standard are larger than the area analysed by the instrument, the distribution of the elements on the surface of both samples and standards have to be sufficiently uniform. If this is not the case, biased concentration estimates are obtained. Two scanning macro-XRF setups with a beam diameter of similar to 0.5 mm were used to investigate the distribution of elements in (1) commercially available (Micromatter) standards, (2) in-house quartz filter standards obtained with an aerosol generator and (3) particulatematter (PM10) collected on quartz filters by a Leckel SEQ 47/50 sampler. The uniformity of the Micromatter standards was better than 2%. At least some in-house standards showed a concave distribution with less material at the edges. The maximum bias introduced by this is less than 5%. Because of the limited sensitivity of scanning XRF compared with conventional XRF, the distribution of only a few common elements like Ca and Fe could be determined reliably in aerosol filters. The distribution of some heavy elements could only be measured in filters sampled in polluted regions. In general, the loading of particulate matter over the filters was uniform. Copyright (C) 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 1.298
Times cited: 4
DOI: 10.1002/XRS.2767
|
“Piloting carbon-lean nitrogen removal for energy-autonomous sewage treatment”. Van Tendeloo M, Bundervoet B, Carlier N, Van Beeck W, Mollen H, Lebeer S, Colsen J, Vlaeminck SE, Environmental Science-Water Research &, Technology 7, 2268 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1039/D1EW00525A
Abstract: Energy-autonomous sewage treatment can be achieved if nitrogen (N) removal does not rely on organic carbon (∼chemical oxygen demand, COD), so that a maximum of the COD can be redirected to energy recovery. Shortcut N removal technologies such as partial nitritation/anammox and nitritation/denitritation are therefore essential, enabling carbon- and energy-lean nitrogen removal. In this study, a novel three-reactor pilot design was tested and consisted of a denitrification, an intermittent aeration, and an anammox tank. A vibrating sieve was added for differential sludge retention time (SRT) control. The 13 m3 pilot was operated on pre-treated sewage (A-stage effluent) at 12–24 °C. Selective suppression of unwanted nitrite-oxidizing bacteria over aerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria was achieved with strict floccular SRT management combined with innovative aeration control, resulting in a minimal nitrate production ratio of 17 ± 10%. Additionally, anoxic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB) activity could be maintained in the reactor for at least 150 days because of long granular SRT management and the anammox tank. Consequently, the COD/N removal ratio of 2.3 ± 0.7 demonstrated shortcut N removal almost three times lower than the currently applied nitrification/denitrification technology. The effluent total N concentrations of 17 ± 3 mg TN per L (at 21 ± 1 °C) and 17 ± 6 mg TN per L (at 15 ± 1 °C) were however too high for application at the sewage treatment plant Nieuwveer (Breda, The Netherlands). Corresponding N removal efficiencies were 52 ± 12% and 37 ± 21%, respectively. Further development should focus on redirecting more nitrite to AnAOB in the B-stage, exploring effluent-polishing options, or cycling nitrate for increased A-stage denitrification.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL)
Impact Factor: 2.817
DOI: 10.1039/D1EW00525A
|
“The path to sustainable energy supply systems: Proposal of an integrative sustainability assessment framework”. Buchmayr A, Verhofstadt E, Van Ootegem L, Sanjuan Delmás D, Thomassen G, Dewulf J, Renewable &, Sustainable Energy Reviews 138, 110666 (2021). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2020.110666
Abstract: Energy supply is essential for the functioning and well-being of a society. Decision-makers are faced with the challenge to balance burdens and benefits of energy supply practices with the aim to achieve environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Literature exhibits a broad variety of sustainability assessment frameworks for energy supply technologies. However, there is no consensus on which aspects need to be covered for a comprehensive assessment of sustainability. While some aspects, such as environmental emission damage, receive predominant attention, there is a lack of coverage and adequate quantification for others. This led in the past to an unbalanced basis for decision-making.
Based on an analysis of literature, 12 impact categories were identified for the assessment of energy technologies. The analysis included the judgement of quantification approaches regarding their significance for describing the impact categories and their maturity resulting in the proposal of 12 concrete indicators. A framework is proposed to manage and integrate the assessment of single impact categories. The framework produces normalized and weighted output indicators to use in the form of a dashboard or alternatively a single sustainability index for informed decision-making.
Finally, the proposed sustainability assessment framework relies on life cycle, local impact, and supply chain risks assessment. It consists of both well-established assessment methods as well as suggestions for new indicators in order to allow a full assessment of all impact categories. It thereby goes beyond the isolated assessment of impacts and offers the basis for comparison of complete energy supply mixes.
Keywords: A1 Journal Article; Engineering Management (ENM) ;
Impact Factor: 8.05
DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2020.110666
|
“Acquisition of the EELS data cube by tomographic reconstruction”. van den Broek W, Verbeeck J, de Backer S, Scheunders P, Schryvers D, Ultramicroscopy 106, 269 (2006). http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultramic.2005.09.001
Abstract: Energy filtered TEM, EFTEM, provides three-dimensional data, two spatial and one spectral dimension. We propose to acquire these data by measuring a series of images with a defocused energy filter. It will be shown that each image is a projection of the data on the detector and that reconstruction of the data out of a sufficient number of such projections using a tomographic reconstruction algorithm is possible. This technique uses only a fraction of the electron dose an energy filtered series (EFS) needs for the same spectral and spatial resolution and the same mean signal-to-noise ratio. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Vision lab
Impact Factor: 2.843
Times cited: 6
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2005.09.001
|
“Fullerene-C60 sensor for ultra-high sensitive detection of bisphenol-A and its treatment by green technology”. Rather JA, De Wael K, Sensors and actuators : B : chemical 176, 110 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SNB.2012.08.081
Abstract: Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) are environmental pollutants that, once incorporated into an organism, affect the hormonal balance of humans and various species. Its presence in environment is of great importance in water quality related questions. The proposed method describes the development of an accurate, sensitive and selective sensor for the detection of bisphenol-A (BPA) and its treatment by green technology. A fullerene (C60) fabricated electrochemical sensor was developed for the ultrasensitive detection of BPA. The homemade sensor was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronocoulometry. The influence of measuring parameters such as pH and C60 loading on the analytical performance of the sensor was evaluated. Various kinetic parameters such as electron transfer number (n); charge transfer coefficient (α); electrode surface area (A) and diffusion coefficient (D) were also calculated. Under the optimal conditions, the oxidation peak current was linear over the concentration range of 74 nM to 0.23 μM with the detection limit (LOD) of 3.7 nM. The fabricated sensor was successfully applied to the determination of BPA in wastewater samples and it has promising analytical applications for the direct determination of BPA at trace level.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Impact Factor: 5.401
Times cited: 79
DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2012.08.081
|
“Highly Efficient Hyperbranched CNT Surfactants: Influence of Molar Mass and Functionalization”. Bertels E, Bruyninckx K, Kurttepeli, Smet M, Bals S, Goderis B, Langmuir: the ACS journal of surfaces and colloids 30, 12200 (2014). http://doi.org/10.1021/la503032g
Abstract: End-group-functionalized hyperbranched polymers were synthesized to act as a carbon nanotube (CNT) surfactant in aqueous solutions. Variation of the percentage of triphenylmethyl (trityl) functionalization and of the molar mass of the hyperbranched polyglycerol (PG) core resulted in the highest measured surfactant efficiency for a 5000 g/mol PG with 5.6% of the available hydroxyl end-groups replaced by trityl functions, as shown by UV-vis measurements. Semiempirical model calculations suggest an even higher efficiency for PG5000 with 2.5% functionalization and maximal molecule specific efficiency in general at low degrees of functionalization. Addition of trityl groups increases the surfactant-nanotube interactions in comparison to unfunctionalized PG because of pi-pi stacking interactions. However, at higher functionalization degrees mutual interactions between trityl groups come into play, decreasing the surfactant efficiency, while lack of water solubility becomes an issue at very high functionalization degrees. Low molar mass surfactants are less efficient compared to higher molar mass species most likely because the higher bulkiness of the latter allows for a better CNT separation and stabilization. The most efficient surfactant studied allowed dispersing 2.85 mg of CNT in 20 mL with as little as 1 mg of surfactant. These dispersions, remaining stable for at least 2 months, were mainly composed of individual CNTs as revealed by electron microscopy.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT)
Impact Factor: 3.833
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1021/la503032g
|
“Velázquez? A portrait of Pope Innocent X : an X-ray imaging investigation (II)”. Vanmeert F, Van der Snickt G, Legrand S, Janssens K page 132 (2019).
Abstract: Encompassing a broad spectrum of methodological approaches and aims, the scholars contributing to this volume offer renewed perspectives on the multifaceted oeuvre of Diego Velázquez. The seventeenth-century artist’s exceptional religious works as well as his numerous portraits are examined within the social and historical context of Velázquez’s milieu which included both the Spanish court as well as circles comprising important intellectual figures of his time. Following a close investigation of his works, which also includes the results of recent technological examinations on his paintings, the contributors to this volume offer new, exciting findings and discussions on the inspirations, sources and possible intentions of Velázquez.
Keywords: H3 Book chapter; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
|
“General 2D Schrödinger-Poisson solver with open boundary conditions for nano-scale CMOS transistors”. Pourghaderi MA, Magnus W, Sorée B, de Meyer K, Meuris M, Heyns M, Journal of computational electronics 7, 475 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1007/s10825-008-0257-8
Abstract: Employing the quantum transmitting boundary (QTB) method, we have developed a two-dimensional Schrödinger-Poisson solver in order to investigate quantum transport in nano-scale CMOS transistors subjected to open boundary conditions. In this paper we briefly describe the building blocks of the solver that was originally written to model silicon devices. Next, we explain how to extend the code to semiconducting materials such as germanium, having conduction bands with energy ellipsoids that are neither parallel nor perpendicular to the channel interfaces or even to each other. The latter introduces mixed derivatives in the 2D effective mass equation, thereby heavily complicating the implementation of open boundary conditions. We present a generalized quantum transmitting boundary method that mainly leans on the completeness of the eigenstates of the effective mass equation. Finally, we propose a new algorithm to calculate the chemical potentials of the source and drain reservoirs, taking into account their mutual interaction at high drain voltages. As an illustration, we present the potential and carrier density profiles obtained for a (111) Ge NMOS transistor as well as the ballistic current characteristics.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 1.526
Times cited: 3
DOI: 10.1007/s10825-008-0257-8
|
“Bilayer SnS2 : tunable stacking sequence by charging and loading pressure”. Bacaksiz C, Cahangirov S, Rubio A, Senger RT, Peeters FM, Sahin H, Physical review B 93, 125403 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.93.125403
Abstract: Employing density functional theory-based methods, we investigate monolayer and bilayer structures of hexagonal SnS2, which is a recently synthesized monolayer metal dichalcogenide. Comparison of the 1H and 1T phases of monolayer SnS2 confirms the ground state to be the 1T phase. In its bilayer structure we examine different stacking configurations of the two layers. It is found that the interlayer coupling in bilayer SnS2 is weaker than that of typical transition-metal dichalcogenides so that alternative stacking orders have similar structural parameters and they are separated with low energy barriers. A possible signature of the stacking order in the SnS2 bilayer has been sought in the calculated absorbance and reflectivity spectra. We also study the effects of the external electric field, charging, and loading pressure on the characteristic properties of bilayer SnS2. It is found that (i) the electric field increases the coupling between the layers at its preferred stacking order, so the barrier height increases, (ii) the bang gap value can be tuned by the external E field and under sufficient E field, the bilayer SnS2 can become a semimetal, (iii) the most favorable stacking order can be switched by charging, and (iv) a loading pressure exceeding 3 GPa changes the stacking order. The E-field tunable band gap and easily tunable stacking sequence of SnS2 layers make this 2D crystal structure a good candidate for field effect transistor and nanoscale lubricant applications.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)
Impact Factor: 3.836
Times cited: 38
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.93.125403
|
“Farm household risk balancing : empirical evidence from Switzerland”. de Mey Y, Wauters E, Schmid D, Lips M, Vancauteren M, Van Passel S, European Review Of Agricultural Economics 43 (2016). http://doi.org/10.1093/ERAE/JBV030
Abstract: Empirical evidence on household risk balancing behaviour is presented by estimating a fixed effects seemingly unrelated regression model using Swiss Farm Accountancy Data Network data. We find that in response to changes in expected business risks, Swiss farm households not only make strategic farm financial risk decisions (original risk balancing), but also make strategic off-farm decisions (household risk balancing) by altering their share of off-farm income and relative consumption. Small farms appear to make more use of household risk balancing strategies whereas large farms conversely make more use of the original risk balancing strategy.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Economics
Impact Factor: 1.6
Times cited: 15
DOI: 10.1093/ERAE/JBV030
|