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Author |
Smith, G.J.; Diomede, P.; Gibson, A.R.; Doyle, S.J.; Guerra, V.; Kushner, M.J.; Gans, T.; Dedrick, J.P. |
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Title |
Low-pressure inductively coupled plasmas in hydrogen : impact of gas heating on the spatial distribution of atomic hydrogen and vibrationally excited states |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year  |
2024 |
Publication |
Plasma sources science and technology |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
33 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
025002-25020 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT) |
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Abstract |
Non-equilibrium inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs) operating in hydrogen are of significant interest for applications including large-area materials processing. Increasing control of spatial gas heating, which drives the formation of neutral species density gradients and the rate of gas-temperature-dependent reactions, is critical. In this study, we use 2D fluid-kinetic simulations with the Hybrid Plasma Equipment Model to investigate the spatially resolved production of atomic hydrogen in a low-pressure planar ICP operating in pure hydrogen (10-20 Pa or 0.075-0.15 Torr, 300 W). The reaction set incorporates self-consistent calculation of the spatially resolved gas temperature and 14 vibrationally excited states. We find that the formation of neutral-gas density gradients, which result from spatially non-uniform electrical power deposition at constant pressure, can drive significant variations in the vibrational distribution function and density of atomic hydrogen when gas heating is spatially resolved. This highlights the significance of spatial gas heating on the production of reactive species in relatively high-power-density plasma processing sources. |
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Wos |
001154851700001 |
Publication Date |
2024-01-15 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0963-0252 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
3.8 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 3.8; 2024 IF: 3.302 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:203866 |
Serial |
9054 |
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Author |
Broos, W.; Wittner, N.; Dries, J.; Vlaeminck, S.E.; Gunde-Cimerman, N.; Cornet, I. |
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Title |
Rhodotorula kratochvilovae outperforms Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum in the valorisation of lignocellulosic wastewater to microbial oil |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Process biochemistry (1991) |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
137 |
Issue |
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Pages |
229-238 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE) |
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Abstract |
Rhodotorula kratochvilovae has shown to be a promising species for microbial oil production from lignin-derived compounds. Yet, information on R. kratochvilovae’s detoxification and microbial oil production is scarce. This study investigated the growth and microbial oil production on the phenolic-containing effluent from poplar steam explosion and its detoxification with five R. kratochvilovae strains (EXF11626, EXF9590, EXF7516, EXF3697, EXF3471) and compared them with Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosum. The R. kratochvilovae strains reached a maximum growth rate up to four times higher than C. oleaginosum. Furthermore, all R. kratochvilovae strains generally degraded phenolics more rapidly and to a larger extent than C. oleaginosum. However, the diluted substrate limited the lipid production by all strains as the maximum lipid content and titre were 10.5% CDW and 0.40 g/L, respectively. Therefore, future work should focus on increasing lipid production by using advanced fermentation strategies and stimulating the enzyme excretion by the yeasts for complex substrate breakdown. |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2024-01-13 |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
1359-5113 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
4.4 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 4.4; 2024 IF: 2.497 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:202365 |
Serial |
9087 |
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Author |
Vetters, J.; Thomassen, G.; Van Passel, S. |
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Title |
Sailing through end-of-life challenges : a comprehensive review for offshore wind |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Renewable and sustainable energy reviews |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
199 |
Issue |
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Pages |
114486-16 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
Over the past thirty years, European offshore wind farm development surged, yet end-of-life and decommissioning considerations were overshadowed by initial climate and energy security objectives during design and construction. As the first major projects near their final decade, numerous unanswered questions persist. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study identifies, maps, and evaluates challenges across technical, economic, environmental, social, and policy dimensions spanning five end-of-life phases: planning, dismantling, transport and logistics, waste management, and site recovery. Examining 42 publications reveals 46 distinct challenges affecting stakeholders such as the end-of-life supply chain, policy makers, and society. While 33% of the challenges manifested in the technical dimension, 48% of the challenges covered the planning phase. Notably, the economic challenge of vessel cost and availability was raised most often. Less-explored challenges underscore the importance of consideration before the end-of-life phase intensifies. The study illustrates the complex interconnection of numerous end-of-life challenges across phases, dimensions, and disciplines, emphasizing the imperative of addressing bottlenecks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The results of this study help steering future research, while also improving awareness of challenges for stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders to address imminent challenges through transparent guidelines, data exchange, and circular design principles. The novelty of this study lies in its holistic, multidisciplinary approach, systematic framework for identifying challenges, and critical perspective unveiling interconnectedness. |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2024-05-02 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
1364-0321; 1879-0690 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
15.9 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 15.9; 2024 IF: 8.05 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:205652 |
Serial |
9226 |
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Author |
Larraín, M.; Billen, P.; Cifuentes, L.; Van Passel, S. |
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Title |
Economic and environmental implications of policy instruments for the circular economy : a case study for postconsumer polyethylene film recycling in Europe |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Resources, conservation and recycling |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
204 |
Issue |
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Pages |
107519-11 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS) |
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Abstract |
The objective of this paper is to examine the recycling rates for mechanical and thermochemical recycling of postconsumer polyethylene flexible packaging after the implementation of different policy instruments. The study uses a supply chain equilibrium model that incorporates market data and techno-economic assessments to simulate market equilibrium. It combines this with a life cycle assessment to explore the environmental implications of implementing different policy instruments. The results show that instruments that do not target a specific technology are more likely to increase thermochemical recycling than mechanical recycling. Furthermore, a higher recycling rate is not equivalent to a better environmental outcome. An increased collection target that ensures a supply of plastic waste would increase the overall recycling rates the most. A recycled content standard for mechanical recycling would lead to the highest increase in mechanical recycling, with top results for environmental indicators, but low results for economic indicators. |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2024-02-29 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0921-3449 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
13.2 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:203485 |
Serial |
9202 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Tschulkow, M.; Pizzol, M.; Compernolle, T.; Van den Bosch, S.; Sels, B.; Van Passel, S. |
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Title |
The environmental impacts of the lignin-first biorefineries : a consequential life cycle assessment approach |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Resources, conservation and recycling |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
204 |
Issue |
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Pages |
107466-107469 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering Management (ENM) |
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Abstract |
The emerging reductive catalytic fractionation biorefinery which is currently under development aims to convert woody biomass efficiently into high-value products. Despite its potential, the environmental consequences of its implementation are not well known. Therefore, a forward-looking consequential life cycle assessment examines greenhouse gas emissions associated with its products (pulp, phenolic monomers, and oligomers) compared to alternative market options. Findings indicate that current greenhouse gas emissions exceed those of the existing alternatives, with by-products and the gaseous waste stream as major contributors. Process adaption to (i) produce higher-valued products (bleached pulps, phenols, and propylene) and (ii) incinerate gaseous waste stream for energy are proposed, potentially reducing emissions by up to 50 %, outperforming alternative options. Compared to land-based transportation, waterways can increase feedstock availability by up to 1000 km without an increase in emissions. In conclusion, the consequential approach provides valuable insights for enhancing and optimizing the environmental performance of the process. |
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Publisher |
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Place of Publication |
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Editor |
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Language |
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Wos |
001186282000001 |
Publication Date |
2024-02-14 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0921-3449 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
13.2 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 13.2; 2024 IF: 3.313 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:205493 |
Serial |
9234 |
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Author |
Metze, D.; Schnecker, J.; Le Noir de Carlan, C.; Bhattarai, B.; Verbruggen, E.; Ostonen, I.; Janssens, I.A.; Sigurdsson, B.D.; Hausmann, B.; Kaiser, C.; Richter, A. |
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Title |
Soil warming increases the number of growing bacterial taxa but not their growth rates |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Science Advances |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
10 |
Issue |
8 |
Pages |
eadk6295-14 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change |
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Abstract |
Soil microorganisms control the fate of soil organic carbon. Warming may accelerate their activities putting large carbon stocks at risk of decomposition. Existing knowledge about microbial responses to warming is based on community-level measurements, leaving the underlying mechanisms unexplored and hindering predictions. In a long-term soil warming experiment in a Subarctic grassland, we investigated how active populations of bacteria and archaea responded to elevated soil temperatures (+6°C) and the influence of plant roots, by measuring taxon-specific growth rates using quantitative stable isotope probing and 18 O water vapor equilibration. Contrary to prior assumptions, increased community growth was associated with a greater number of active bacterial taxa rather than generally faster-growing populations. We also found that root presence enhanced bacterial growth at ambient temperatures but not at elevated temperatures, indicating a shift in plant-microbe interactions. Our results, thus, reveal a mechanism of how soil bacteria respond to warming that cannot be inferred from community-level measurements. |
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Corporate Author |
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Thesis |
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Place of Publication |
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Language |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2024-02-23 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2375-2548 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
13.6 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 13.6; 2024 IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:204459 |
Serial |
9230 |
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Author |
Jorissen, B.; Covaci, L.; Partoens, B. |
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Title |
Comparative analysis of tight-binding models for transition metal dichalcogenides |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
SciPost physics core |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
7 |
Issue |
1 |
Pages |
004-30 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT); Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
We provide a comprehensive analysis of the prominent tight-binding (TB) models for transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) available in the literature. We inspect the construction of these TB models, discuss their parameterization used and conduct a thorough comparison of their effectiveness in capturing important electronic properties. Based on these insights, we propose a novel TB model for TMDs designed for enhanced computational efficiency. Utilizing MoS2 as a representative case, we explain why specific models offer a more accurate description. Our primary aim is to assist researchers in choosing the most appropriate TB model for their calculations on TMDs. |
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Place of Publication |
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Language |
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Wos |
001170769300001 |
Publication Date |
2024-02-06 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:202983 |
Serial |
9012 |
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Author |
Shafiei, M.; Fazileh, F.; Peeters, F.M.; Milošević, M.V. |
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Title |
Floquet engineering of axion and high-Chern number phases in a topological insulator under illumination |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
SciPost Physics Core |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
7 |
Issue |
7 |
Pages |
024-16 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
Quantum anomalous Hall, high-Chern number, and axion phases in topological insulators are characterized by its Chern invariant C (respectively, C = 1, integer C > 1, and C = 0 with half-quantized Hall conductance of opposite signs on top and bottom surfaces). They are of recent interest because of novel fundamental physics and prospective applications, but identifying and controlling these phases has been challenging in practice. Here we show that these states can be created and switched between in thin films of Bi2Se3 by Floquet engineering, using irradiation by circularly polarized light. We present the calculated phase diagrams of encountered topological phases in Bi2Se3, as a function of wavelength and amplitude of light, as well as sample thickness, after properly taking into account the penetration depth of light and the variation of the gap in the surface states. These findings open pathways towards energy-efficient optoelectronics, advanced sensing, quantum information processing and metrology. |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
001217885300001 |
Publication Date |
2024-05-01 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:205972 |
Serial |
9151 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Brognara, A.; Kashiwar, A.; Jung, C.; Zhang, X.; Ahmadian, A.; Gauquelin, N.; Verbeeck, J.; Djemia, P.; Faurie, D.; Dehm, G.; Idrissi, H.; Best, J.P.; Ghidelli, M. |
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Title |
Tailoring mechanical properties and shear band propagation in ZrCu metallic glass nanolaminates through chemical heterogeneities and interface density |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Small Structures |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
2400011-11 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
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Abstract |
The design of high‐performance structural thin films consistently seeks to achieve a delicate equilibrium by balancing outstanding mechanical properties like yield strength, ductility, and substrate adhesion, which are often mutually exclusive. Metallic glasses (MGs) with their amorphous structure have superior strength, but usually poor ductility with catastrophic failure induced by shear bands (SBs) formation. Herein, we introduce an innovative approach by synthesizing MGs characterized by large and tunable mechanical properties, pioneering a nanoengineering design based on the control of nanoscale chemical/structural heterogeneities. This is realized through a simplified model Zr 24 Cu 76 /Zr 61 Cu 39 , fully amorphous nanocomposite with controlled nanoscale periodicity ( Λ , from 400 down to 5 nm), local chemistry, and glass–glass interfaces, while focusing in‐depth on the SB nucleation/propagation processes. The nanolaminates enable a fine control of the mechanical properties, and an onset of crack formation/percolation (>1.9 and 3.3%, respectively) far above the monolithic counterparts. Moreover, we show that SB propagation induces large chemical intermixing, enabling a brittle‐to‐ductile transition when Λ ≤ 50 nm, reaching remarkably large plastic deformation of 16% in compression and yield strength ≈2 GPa. Overall, the nanoengineered control of local heterogeneities leads to ultimate and tunable mechanical properties opening up a new approach for strong and ductile materials. |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2024-05-20 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2688-4062 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:205798 |
Serial |
9176 |
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Author |
Linek, J.; Wyszynski, M.; Müller, B.; Korinski, D.; Milošević, M.V.; Kleiner, R.; Koelle, D. |
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Title |
On the coupling of magnetic moments to superconducting quantum interference devices |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Superconductor science and technology |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
37 |
Issue |
2 |
Pages |
025010-25012 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
We investigate the coupling factor phi( mu) that quantifies the magnetic flux phi per magnetic moment mu of a point-like magnetic dipole that couples to a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). Representing the dipole by a tiny current-carrying (Amperian) loop, the reciprocity of mutual inductances of SQUID and Amperian loop provides an elegant way of calculating phi(mu)(r,e(mu)) vs. position r and orientation e(mu) of the dipole anywhere in space from the magnetic field B-J(r) produced by a supercurrent circulating in the SQUID loop. We use numerical simulations based on London and Ginzburg-Landau theory to calculate phi (mu) from the supercurrent density distributions in various superconducting loop geometries. We treat the far-field regime ( r greater than or similar to a= inner size of the SQUID loop) with the dipole placed on (oriented along) the symmetry axis of circular or square shaped loops. We compare expressions for phi (mu) from simple filamentary loop models with simulation results for loops with finite width w (outer size A > alpha), thickness d and London penetration depth lambda(L )and show that for thin ( d << alpha ) and narrow (w < alpha) loops the introduction of an effective loop size a(eff) in the filamentary loop-model expressions results in good agreement with simulations. For a dipole placed right in the center of the loop, simulations provide an expression phi(mu)(a,A,d,lambda(L)) that covers a wide parameter range. In the near-field regime (dipole centered at small distance z above one SQUID arm) only coupling to a single strip representing the SQUID arm has to be considered. For this case, we compare simulations with an analytical expression derived for a homogeneous current density distribution, which yields excellent agreement for lambda(L)>w,d . Moreover, we analyze the improvement of phi(mu) provided by the introduction of a narrow constriction in the SQUID arm below the magnetic dipole. |
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Place of Publication |
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Language |
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Wos |
001145725500001 |
Publication Date |
2024-01-04 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0953-2048 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
3.6 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 3.6; 2024 IF: 2.878 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:202759 |
Serial |
9067 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Ozdemir, I.; Arkin, H.; Milošević, M.V.; V. Barth, J.; Aktuerk, E. |
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Title |
Exploring the adsorption mechanisms of neurotransmitter and amino acid on Ti3C2-MXene monolayer : insights from DFT calculations |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Surfaces and interfaces |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
46 |
Issue |
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Pages |
104169-9 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Abstract |
In this study, we conducted a systematic density functional theory (DFT) investigation of the interaction between Ti3C2-MXene monolayer and biological molecules dopamine (DA) and serine (Ser) as neurotransmitter and amino acid, respectively. Our calculations show good agreement with previous literature findings for the optimized Ti3C2 monolayer. We found that DA and Ser molecules bind to the Ti3C2 surface with adsorption energies of -2.244 eV and -3.960 eV, respectively. The adsorption of Ser resulted in the dissociation of one H atom. Electronic density of states analyses revealed little changes in the electronic properties of the Ti3C2-MXene monolayer upon adsorption of the biomolecules. We further investigated the interaction of DA and Ser with Ti3C2 monolayers featuring surface -termination with OH functional group, and Ti -vacancy. Our calculations indicate that the adsorption energies significantly decrease in the presence of surface termination, with adsorption energies of -0.097 eV and -0.330 eV for DA and Ser, respectively. Adsorption energies on the Ti -vacancy surface, on the other hand, are calculated to be -3.584 eV and -3.856 eV for DA and Ser, respectively. Our results provide insights into the adsorption behavior of biological molecules on Ti3C2-MXene, demonstrating the potential of this material for biosensing and other biomedical applications. These findings highlight the importance of surface modifications in the development of functional materials and devices based on Ti3C2-MXene, and pave the way for future investigations into the use of 2D materials for biomedical applications. |
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Wos |
001206950300001 |
Publication Date |
2024-03-08 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2468-0230 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
6.2 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 6.2; 2024 IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:205977 |
Serial |
9150 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Tsonev, I.; Ahmadi Eshtehardi, H.; Delplancke, M.-P.; Bogaerts, A. |
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Title |
Importance of geometric effects in scaling up energy-efficient plasma-based nitrogen fixation |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| |
Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Sustainable energy & fuels |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
1-19 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT) |
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Abstract |
Despite the recent promising potential of plasma-based nitrogen fixation, the technology faces significant challenges in efficient upscaling. To tackle this challenge, we investigate two reactors, i.e., a small one, operating in a flow rate range of 5-20 ln min-1 and current range of 200-500 mA, and a larger one, operating at higher flow rate (100-300 ln min-1) and current (400-1000 mA). Both reactors operate in a pin-to-pin configuration and are powered by direct current (DC) from the same power supply unit, to allow easy comparison and evaluate the effect of upscaling. In the small reactor, we achieve the lowest energy cost (EC) of 2.8 MJ mol-1, for a NOx concentration of 1.72%, at a flow rate of 20 ln min-1, yielding a production rate (PR) of 33 g h-1. These values are obtained in air; in oxygen-enriched air, the results are typically better, at the cost of producing oxygen-enriched air. In the large reactor, the higher flow rates reduce the NOx concentration due to lower SEI, while maintaining a similar EC. This stresses the important effect of the geometrical configuration of the arc, which is typically concentrated in the center of the reactor, resulting in limited coverage of the reacting gas flow, and this is identified as the limiting factor for upscaling. However, our experiments reveal that by changing the reactor configuration, and thus the plasma geometry and power deposition mechanisms, the amount of gas treated by the plasma can be enhanced, leading to successful upscaling. To obtain more insights in our experiments, we performed thermodynamic equilibrium calculations. First of all, they show that our measured lowest EC closely aligns with the calculated minimum thermodynamic equilibrium at atmospheric pressure. In addition, they reveal that the limited NOx production in the large reactor results from the contracted nature of the plasma. To solve this limitation, we let the large reactor operate in so-called torch configuration. Indeed, the latter enhances the NOx concentrations compared to the pin-to-pin configuration, yielding a PR of 80 g h-1 at an EC of 2.9 MJ mol-1 and NOx concentration of 0.31%. This illustrates the importance of reactor design in upscaling. With the focus on feasibility evaluation of scaling-up plasma-based nitrogen fixation by combined experiments and thermodynamic modelling, we aim to tackle the challenge of design and development of an energy-efficient and scaled-up plasma reactor. |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
001203657700001 |
Publication Date |
2024-04-11 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:205435 |
Serial |
9155 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Kummamuru, N.B.; Ciocarlan, R.-G.; Houlleberghs, M.; Martens, J.; Breynaert, E.; Verbruggen, S.W.; Cool, P.; Perreault, P. |
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Title |
Surface modification of mesostructured cellular foam to enhance hydrogen storage in binary THF/H₂ clathrate hydrate |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
| |
Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Sustainable energy & fuels |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
1-15 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA) |
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Abstract |
This study introduces solid-state tuning of a mesostructured cellular foam (MCF) to enhance hydrogen (H-2) storage in clathrate hydrates. Grafting of promoter-like molecules (e.g., tetrahydrofuran) at the internal surface of the MCF resulted in a substantial improvement in the kinetics of formation of binary H-2-THF clathrate hydrate. Identification of the confined hydrate as sII clathrate hydrate and enclathration of H-2 in its small cages was performed using XRD and high-pressure H-1 NMR spectroscopy respectively. Experimental findings show that modified MCF materials exhibit a similar to 1.3 times higher H-2 storage capacity as compared to non-modified MCF under the same conditions (7 MPa, 265 K, 100% pore volume saturation with a 5.56 mol% THF solution). The enhancement in H-2 storage is attributed to the hydrophobicity originating from grafting organic molecules onto pristine MCF, thereby influencing water interactions and fostering an environment conducive to H-2 enclathration. Gas uptake curves indicate an optimal tuning point for higher H-2 storage, favoring a lower density of carbon per nm(2). Furthermore, a direct correlation emerges between higher driving forces and increased H-2 storage capacity, culminating at 0.52 wt% (46.77 mmoles of H-2 per mole of H2O and 39.78% water-to-hydrate conversions) at 262 K for the modified MCF material with fewer carbons per nm(2). Notably, the substantial H-2 storage capacity achieved without energy-intensive processes underscores solid-state tuning's potential for H-2 storage in the synthesized hydrates. This study evaluated two distinct kinetic models to describe hydrate growth in MCF. The multistage kinetic model showed better predictive capabilities for experimental data and maintained a low average absolute deviation. This research provides valuable insights into augmenting H-2 storage capabilities and holds promising implications for future advancements. |
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Corporate Author |
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Place of Publication |
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Language |
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Wos |
001208396000001 |
Publication Date |
2024-04-15 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
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ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:205764 |
Serial |
9232 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Borms, L.; Multani, M.; Bachus, K.; Dams, Y.; Brusselaers, J.; Van Passel, S. |
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Title |
Using natural language processing to monitor circular activities and employment |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Sustainable Production and Consumption |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
46 |
Issue |
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Pages |
42-53 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Economics; Engineering sciences. Technology; Engineering Management (ENM); Herman Deleeck Centre for Social Policy |
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Abstract |
In Europe, NACE codes are used for the official classification of sectors, however, the circular economy is not sufficiently captured in this classification. Therefore, this paper improves previous attempts for defining circular activities and jobs by web scraping techniques applied to each company in Belgium. We analyze their first, second, and third official NACE codes and compare these to the NACE codes they should have been allocated to according to the web scraping data. Subsequently, we calculate circularity scores for every sector to construct an indicator for the number of circular companies and jobs. The results show that the number of circular companies is lower than the baseline from official statistics when we only consider the companies' first and main NACE code. The estimates are higher than the baseline when we also take the second and third NACE codes into account and the estimated number of circular jobs is far higher than the baseline. This research upgrades previous classifications of circular sectors and demonstrates how web scraping and novel data might improve our understanding and capacity to build data. Based on the results in this paper, we recommend a uniform data collection such as reporting standards, and an inclusion of all circular strategies in sectoral classifications. |
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Wos |
001198897900001 |
Publication Date |
2024-02-15 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
2352-5509 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
12.1 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 12.1; 2024 IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:204552 |
Serial |
9241 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Deleu, N.; Hillen, M.; Steenackers, G.; Borms, G.; Janssens, K.; Van der Stighelen, K.; Van der Snickt, G. |
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Title |
Combined macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) and pulse phase thermography (PPT) imaging for the technical study of panel paintings |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Talanta : the international journal of pure and applied analytical chemistry |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
270 |
Issue |
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Pages |
125533-11 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS) |
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Abstract |
Museum staff usually relies on a proven combination of X-ray radiography (XRR) and infrared reflectography (IRR) to study paintings in a non-destructive manner. In the last decades, however, the research toolbox of heritage scientists has expanded considerably, with a prime example being macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF), producing element-specific images. The goal of this article is to illustrate the added value of augmenting MA-XRF with pulse phase thermography (PPT), a variant of active infrared thermographic imaging (IRT), which is an innovative diagnostic method that is able to reveal variations between or in materials, based on a different response to minor fluctuations in temperature when irradiated with optical radiation. By examining three 16thand 17th-century panel paintings we assess the extent in which combined MA-XRF and PPT contributes to a better understanding of two commonly encountered interventions to panel paintings: (a) Anstuckungen (enlargement of the panel) or (b) substitutions (replacement of part of the panel). Yielding information from different depths of the painting, these two techniques proved highly complementary with IRR and XRR, expanding the understanding of the build-up, genesis, and material history of the paintings. While MA-XRF documented the interventions to the wooden substrate indirectly by revealing variations in painting materials, paint handling and/ or layer sequence between the original part and the extended or replaced planks, PPT proved beneficial for the study of the wooden support itself, by providing a clear image of the wood structure quasi-free of distortion by the superimposed paint or cradling. XRR, on the other hand, revealed other features from the wood structure, not visible with PPT, and allowed looking through the wooden panels, revealing e.g. the dowels used for joining the planks. Additionally, IRR visualised dissimilarities in the underdrawings. In this way, the results indicate that PPT has the potential to become an acknowledged add-on to the expanding set of imaging methods for paintings, especially when used in combination with MA-XRF, IRR and XRR. |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
001144098200001 |
Publication Date |
2023-12-09 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0039-9140; 1873-3573 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
6.1 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 6.1; 2024 IF: 4.162 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:203764 |
Serial |
9193 |
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| Permanent link to this record |
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Author |
Van Tendeloo, M.; Baptista, M.C.; Van Winckel, T.; Vlaeminck, S.E. |
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Title |
Recurrent multi-stressor floc treatments with sulphide and free ammonia enabled mainstream partial nitritation/anammox |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
The science of the total environment |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
912 |
Issue |
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Pages |
169449-12 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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Abstract |
Selective suppression of nitrite-oxidising bacteria (NOB) over aerobic and anoxic ammonium-oxidising bacteria (AerAOB and AnAOB) remains a major challenge for mainstream partial nitritation/anammox implementation, a resource-efficient nitrogen removal pathway. A unique multi-stressor floc treatment was therefore designed and validated for the first time under lab-scale conditions while staying true to full-scale design principles. Two hybrid (suspended + biofilm growth) reactors were operated continuously at 20.2 ± 0.6 °C. Recurrent multi-stressor floc treatments were applied, consisting of a sulphide-spiked deoxygenated starvation followed by a free ammonia shock. A good microbial activity balance with high AnAOB (71 ± 21 mg N L−1 d−1) and low NOB (4 ± 17 % of AerAOB) activity was achieved by combining multiple operational strategies: recurrent multi-stressor floc treatments, hybrid sludge (flocs & biofilm), short floc age control, intermittent aeration, and residual ammonium control. The multi-stressor treatment was shown to be the most important control tool and should be continuously applied to maintain this balance. Excessive NOB growth on the biofilm was avoided despite only treating the flocs to safeguard the AnAOB activity on the biofilm. Additionally, no signs of NOB adaptation were observed over 142 days. Elevated effluent ammonium concentrations (25 ± 6 mg N L−1) limited the TN removal efficiency to 39 ± 9 %, complicating a future full-scale implementation. Operating at higher sludge concentrations or reducing the volumetric loading rate could overcome this issue. The obtained results ease the implementation of mainstream PN/A by providing and additional control tool to steer the microbial activity with the multi-stressor treatment, thus advancing the concept of energy neutrality in sewage treatment plants. |
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Wos |
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Publication Date |
2023-12-18 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0048-9697; 1879-1026 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
9.8 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.8; 2024 IF: 4.9 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:202286 |
Serial |
9083 |
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Author |
Reynaert, S.; D’Hose, T.; de Boeck, H.J.; Laorden, D.; Dult, L.; Verbruggen, E.; Nijs, I. |
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Title |
Can permanent grassland soils with elevated organic carbon buffer negative effects of more persistent precipitation regimes on forage grass performance? |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
The science of the total environment |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
918 |
Issue |
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Pages |
170623-15 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Plant and Ecosystems (PLECO) – Ecology in a time of change |
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Abstract |
Agricultural practices enhancing soil organic carbon (SOC) show potential to buffer negative effects of climate change on forage grass performance. We tested this by subjecting five forage grass varieties differing in fodder quality and drought/flooding resistance to increased persistence in summer precipitation regimes (PR) across sandy and sandy-loam soils from either permanent (high SOC) or temporary grasslands (low SOC) in adjacent parcels. Over the course of two consecutive summers, monoculture mesocosms were subjected to rainy/dry weather alternation either every 3 days or every 30 days, whilst keeping total precipitation equal. Increased PR persistence induced species-specific drought damage and productivity declines. Soils from permanent grasslands with elevated SOC buffered plant quality, but buffering effects of SOC on drought damage, nutrient availability and yield differed between texture classes. In the more persistent PR, Festuca arundinacea FERMINA was the most productive species but had the lowest quality under both ample water supply and mild soil drought, whilst under the most intense soil droughts, Festulolium FESTILO maintained the highest yields. The hybrid Lolium × boucheanum kunth MELCOMBI had intermediate productivity and both Lolium perenne varieties showed the lowest yields under soil drought, but the highest forage quality (especially the tetraploid variety MELFORCE). Performance varied with plant maturity stage and across seasons/years and was driven by altered water and nutrient availability and related nitrogen nutrition among species during drought and upon rewetting. Moreover, whilst permanent grassland soils showed the most consistent positive effects on plant performance, their available water capacity also declined under increased PR persistence. We conclude that permanent grassland soils with historically elevated SOC likely buffer negative effects of increasing summer weather persistence on forage grass performance, but may also be more sensitive to degradation under climate change. |
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Wos |
001183615800001 |
Publication Date |
2024-02-04 |
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Series Editor |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0048-9697; 1879-1026 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record |
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Impact Factor |
9.8 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 9.8; 2024 IF: 4.9 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:204498 |
Serial |
9191 |
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Author |
Gao, C.; Hofer, C.; Pennycook, T.J. |
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Title |
On central focusing for contrast optimization in direct electron ptychography of thick samples |
Type |
A1 Journal article |
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Year |
2024 |
Publication |
Ultramicroscopy |
Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
256 |
Issue |
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Pages |
113879-7 |
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Keywords |
A1 Journal article; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
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Abstract |
Ptychography provides high dose efficiency images that can reveal light elements next to heavy atoms. However, despite ptychography having an otherwise single signed contrast transfer function, contrast reversals can occur when the projected potential becomes strong for both direct and iterative inversion ptychography methods. It has recently been shown that these reversals can often be counteracted in direct ptychography methods by adapting the focus. Here we provide an explanation of why the best contrast is often found with the probe focused to the middle of the sample. The phase contribution due to defocus at each sample slice above and below the central plane in this configuration effectively cancels out, which can prevent contrast reversals when dynamical scattering effects are not overly strong. In addition we show that the convergence angle can be an important consideration for removal of contrast reversals in relatively thin samples. |
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Place of Publication |
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Wos |
001112166400001 |
Publication Date |
2023-11-03 |
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Series Editor |
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Series Title |
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Abbreviated Series Title |
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Series Volume |
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Series Issue |
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Edition |
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ISSN |
0304-3991 |
ISBN |
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Additional Links |
UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles |
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Impact Factor |
2.2 |
Times cited |
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Open Access |
Not_Open_Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: 2.2; 2024 IF: 2.843 |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:202029 |
Serial |
9066 |
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Author |
Van Alphen, S. |
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Title |
Modelling plasma reactors for sustainable CO2 conversion and N2 fixation |
Type |
Doctoral thesis |
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Year |
2023 |
Publication |
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Abbreviated Journal |
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Volume |
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Issue |
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Pages |
202 p. |
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Keywords |
Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT) |
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Abstract |
200 years ago, humanity started the industrial revolution by discovering fossil fuels, which lead to unprecedented technological advancements. However it has become alarmingly clear that the major environmental concerns associated with fossil fuels require a short-term transition from a carbon-based energy economy to a sustainable one based on green electricity. A key step concerning this transition exists in developing electricity-driven alternatives for chemical processes that rely on fossil fuels as a raw material. A technology that is gaining increasing interest to achieve this, is plasma technology. Using plasmas to induce chemical reactions by selectively heating electrons in a gas has already delivered promising results for gas conversion applications like CO2 conversion and N2 fixation, but plasma reactors still require optimization to be considered industrially competitive to existing fossil fuel-based processes and emerging other electricity-based technologies. In this thesis I develop computational models to describe plasma reactors and identify key mechanisms in three different plasma reactors for three different gas conversion applications, i.e. N2 fixation, combined CO2-CH4 conversion and CO2 splitting. I first developed models to describe a new rotating gliding arc (GA) reactor operating in two arc modes, which, as revealed by my model, are characterized by distinct plasma chemistry pathways. Subsequently, my colleague and I study the quenching effect of an effusion nozzle to this rotating GA reactor, reaching the best results to date for N2 fixation into NOx at atmospheric pressure, i.e., NOx concentrations up to 5.9%, at an energy cost down to 2.1 MJ/mol. Afterwards, I investigate the possible improvement of N2 admixtures in plasma-based CO2 and CH4 conversion, as significant amounts of N2 are often found in industrial CO2 waste streams, and gas separations are financially costly. Through combining my models with the experiment from a fellow PhD student, we reveal that moderate amounts of N2 (i.e. around 20%) increase both the electron density and the gas temperature to yield an overall energy cost reduction of 21%. Finally, I model quenching nozzles for plasma-based CO2 conversion in a microwave reactor, to explain the enhancements in CO2 conversion that were demonstrated in experiments. Through computational modelling I reveal that the nozzle introduces fast gas quenching resulting in the suppression of recombination reactions, which have more impact at low flow rates, where recombination is the most limiting factor in the conversion process. |
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Additional Links |
UA library record |
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Impact Factor |
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Times cited |
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Open Access |
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Notes |
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Approved |
Most recent IF: NA |
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Call Number |
UA @ admin @ c:irua:194811 |
Serial |
7270 |
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Kovács, A. |
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A structured methodology for natural deep eutectic solvent selection and formulation for enzymatic reactions |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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viii, 216 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE); Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS) |
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Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) show great promise as media for enzymatic reactions in areas where (bio)compatibility with natural or medicinal products is a must. While in theory they can be tailored to the intended reaction to ensure optimized yields, the knowledge to date is predominantly empirical, with some mechanistic reports providing a fragmented view at best. Therefore, it is not easy to explain experimental observations, let alone make predictions. The aim of this study was to develop a structured, holistic understanding of the effects of NADES media on enzymatic reactions, distinguishing between effects on solubility, solvation, viscosity, inhibition and denaturation. Experimental and computational chemistry methods were combined to separately study the interactions between enzyme, substrate, and NADES as reaction media. The initial enzyme activity and the final conversion of vinyl laurate transesterification by immobilized Candida antarctica lipase were studied experimentally. The direct effect of NADES on the same enzyme was modeled by molecular dynamics simulation. The effect of solubility was studied by both experimental and computational methods. To predict the solubility and viscosity of NADES, data-driven models were developed by combining group contribution and machine learning methods, based on the accumulated experimental knowledge on NADES found in the literature. Finally, the composed relationships and prediction models were applied to the practical example of deacetylation of mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs). The experimental findings show that the chosen NADES system has a significant effect on both the apparent initial activity and the final conversion. However, in the simulations, the enzyme retains its original structure; moreover, NADES has an additional stabilizing effect on the enzyme. In addition, changes in the molar ratio of the compounds in NADES do not show a significant effect on the stability of the enzyme. These results indicate that the main effect of NADES on the reaction is mainly related to the substrate-solvent interactions (solvation energy) and the viscosity of the system. On the other hand, the experimental results only confirmed the significance of solvation, viscosity did not show a clear correlation with the studied reaction parameters. The machine learning models built for solubility and viscosity gave quantitative predictions of these properties. The accumulated knowledge was used to optimize the yield in the deacetylation reaction of MELs. The combination of these methods provides fundamental knowledge about the effect of NADES on biocatalysis, but the results are also applicable to other uses of NADES. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:194886 |
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7276 |
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De Backer, J. |
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The versatile nature of cytoglobin, the Swiss army knife among globins, with a preference for oxidative stress |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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XVIII, 232 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Pharmacology. Therapy; Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – Antwerp (PLASMANT); Proteinscience, proteomics and epigenetic signaling (PPES) |
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Since its discovery 20 years ago, many studies have been performed to gain insight into the functional role of cytoglobin (Cygb). However, Cygb has been proven to be a promiscuous protein. Yet, there is a consensus that Cygb is a cytoprotective protein involved in redox homeostasis. CYGB is a ubiquitously expressed hexacoordinated globin that is highly expressed in melanocytes and is often found to be downregulated during melanocyte-to-melanoma transition. In Chapter III, we investigated the molecular mechanism through which CYGB could be involved in redox regulation. Here, we showed that CYGB contains two redox-sensitive cysteine residues and that the formation of an intramolecular disulfide bridge resulted in the heme group becoming more accessible to external ligands. This supports the hypothesis that Cys38 and Cys83 serve as sensitive redox sensors. In Chapter IV we showed that CYGB mRNA and protein levels were elevated upon exposure to hypoxia. Interestingly, this upregulation was most likely HIF-2α-dependent. We propose that in melanoma, HIF-2α, rather than HIF-1α, positively regulates CYGB under hypoxic conditions in a cell type specific way. In Chapter V, the cytotoxic effect of indirect NTP treatment in two melanoma cell lines with divergent endogenous CYGB expression levels was investigated. We confirmed that NTP endows cytotoxicity that induces cell death through apoptosis and that this was mediated through the production of ROS. Moreover, we showed that CYGB protects melanoma cells from ROS-induced apoptosis by the scavenging of ROS. Interestingly, CYGB expression influenced the expression of NRF2 and HO-1. We identified the lncRNA MEG3 as a possible mechanism through which NRF2 expression and its downstream target HO-1 can be regulated by CYGB. In chapter VI, increased basal ROS levels and higher degree of lipid peroxidation upon RSL3 treatment contributed to the increased sensitivity of CYGB knockdown G361 cells to ferroptosis. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis demonstrates the enrichment of multiple cancer malignancy pathways upon CYGB knockdown, supporting a tumor-suppressive role for CYGB. Remarkably, CYGB expression regulation was identified as a critical determinant of the ferroptosis–pyroptosis therapy response. This suggests that CYGB is involved in the regulation of multiple modes of programmed cell death. FInally, we sought to delineate the RONS that are responsible for plasma-induced ICD. Our results highlight the importance of the short-lived species. Furthermore, we are first to demonstrate that NTP-created vaccine is safely prepared and offers complete protection. Moreover, we provide conclusive evidence that direct application of NTP induces ICD in melanoma. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:193568 |
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7277 |
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Khan, S.U. |
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Singlet oxygen-based photoelectrocatalysis : from photosensitizer structures to plasmonic enhancement |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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182 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
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Singlet molecular oxygen (1O2) has continuously attracted researchers' interest because of its involvement in various processes, such as in photodynamic reactions in biological and chemical systems. 1O2 is an effective electrophile and potent oxidizing agent and can be easily generated by photosensitization via the illumination of organic dyes with visible light. As described in Chapter 1, 1O2 has gained prominence in various applications such as wastewater treatment, photodynamic therapy of cancer, organic synthesis, and recently developed 1O2-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensing of phenolic compounds. Phenolic compounds are a potential source of contaminants that originates from industrial effluents and waste products of chemical and pharmaceutical industries. These phenolic compounds pose severe threats to humans and aquatic life after reaching the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to develop photoactive materials that efficiently generate 1O2 and oxidize phenolic compounds and antibiotics. The existing 1O2 generating photosensitizers (PSs) include porphyrins, phthalocyanines (Pcs), subphthalocyanines (SubPcs), and other dyes such as derivatives of xanthene (e.g., Rose Bengal (RB)), and fluorinated boron-dipyrromethene (BODIPYs), and phenothiazinium dyes (e. g. Methylene Blue (MB)) which display long-lived triplet excited state and can be used in 1O2-based applications. This thesis focuses on preparing efficient hybrid materials based on newly synthesized Pcs, different surface area titanium dioxide (TiO2) and plasmonic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for their use in the PEC detection of phenolic compounds. The first focus was on developing a fast amperometric method to test the photo-electrocatalytic activity of 1O2 producing PSs dissolved in MeOH based on the redox cycling of an electroactive phenolic compound, hydroquinone (HQ) (Chapter 2). This method of testing PSs does not require the accumulation of a reaction product since the amperometric signal develops near instantly when the light is on, which enables dynamic monitoring of a PSs activity at varying conditions in a single experiment. This method was crucial to measure high 1O2 quantum yield and low yield in the same experimental conditions. Moreover, the obtained results revealed a range of working parameters affecting the PEC activity of PSs. The next goal was to immobilize tert-butyl substituted aluminum Pc (t-BuPcAlCl) on the solid support, which showed a high 1O2 quantum yield. However, before immobilizing Pc on a solid support such as TiO2, it is essential to know the electronic energy level of Pcs for the possible electron transfers from Pcs to TiO2. Therefore, Chapter 3 explored the (spectro)electrochemical properties of t-BuPcAlCl Pc. Next, in Chapter 4, t-BuPcAlCl Pc and other tert-butyl substituted Pcs with Zn central metal, t-BuPcZn, and its metal-free derivative t-BuPcH2 were immobilized on different surface area TiO2. The PEC activity of immobilized Pcs on TiO2 toward different phenols and antibiotics was studied, and the action mechanism was revealed and compared with sterically hindered fluorinated Pc F64PcZn. In the final part of this thesis plasmonic AuNPs were introduced combined with trimethylsilane-protected acetylene functionalized ZnPc (TMSZnPc) to study the synergistic effect that boosts the overall activity toward the detection of phenols under visible light illumination (Chapter 5) . The TMSZnPc was coupled with AuNPs via a click chemistry approach. The 1O2 quantum yield of TMSZnPc improved significantly after conjugating with AuNPs, and, subsequently, the PEC activity for detecting HQ. The theoretical and experimental investigation demonstrated that the plasmonic enhancement of TMSZnPc is driven by the near-field mechanism. This shows the importance of plasmonic AuNPs with other photoactive species for their use in 1O2-based applications. The fundamental knowledge obtained in this doctoral study will ultimately deepen the understanding of developing 1O2-based PEC sensors for detecting phenolic compounds and pharmaceuticals in the wastewater stream, helping to choose efficient materials and, in the last instance, a more sustainable future especially access to clean water for everyone. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:193342 |
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7337 |
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Yang, T. |
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Characterization of Laves phase structural evolution and regulation of its precipitation behavior in Al-Zn-Mg based alloys |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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ii, 106 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Electron microscopy for materials research (EMAT) |
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Al-Zn-Mg-based high strength alloys are widely used in aerospace applications due to their low density and excellent mechanical properties. A systematic study of the structural evolution of the nano-precipitation phase and its growth mechanism is an important guide for the design of new high-strength alloys. In this work, the Laves structure precipitates in Al-Zn-Mg(-Cu/Y) alloy was systematically characterized. Based on the structure evolution, the structure of submicron Laves particles and quasicrystalline particles in the alloy at microscale, as well as the regulation of the precipitation behavior after adding Y at nanoscale were further investigated. The main innovative results are summarized as follows: (1) Investigation on coexistence of defect structures in Laves structural nanoprecipitates. Three types of Laves structures can coexist within the η-MgZn2 precipitates: C14, C15 and C36, and the Laves structure transition sequence of C14→C36→C15 in this system was determined. Meanwhile, it was found that there are diverse defect structures in the MgZn2 phase, including stacking faults, planar defects and five-fold domain structures, which have significant effects on relieving the internal stress/strain of the precipitates. (2) Investigation on multiple phase transition of Laves structural nanoprecipitates from C14 to C36 and from C14 to quasicrystal clusters. It is found that C14 precipitates can be completely transformed into the C36 precipitates. And it is also found that the C14 Laves phase structure can also transform into quasicrystalline clusters. These investigations on various phase transition mechanisms among Laves phases provide theoretical support for the microstructural characterization of materials containing multi-scale Laves phases. (3) Characterization of Laves and quasicrystal structural particles in submicron scale. Submicron-scale quasicrystal particles were obtained in conventional casting Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys for the first time. Industrial impurity elements Fe and Ni can induce the formation of quasicrystalline particles. When there is no Fe/Ni enriched in particles, the structure is characterized as C15-Laves phase. When Fe/Ni is as quasicrystalline core, a stable core-shell quasicrystalline structure with Al-Fe-Ni nucleus and Mg-Cu-Zn shell can be formed. (4) Investigation on the regulation of nanoscale Laves precipitates’ growth. To regulate the defect structure of the precipitates, rare earth element Y was added in Al-Zn-Mg alloys and its influence on the precipitation behavior was investigated. The addition of Y element can dynamically combine with different alloying elements during aging process, which can refine the size of precipitate and further improve the nucleation rate and precipitation rate of the precipitates. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:196404 |
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7631 |
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Voordeckers, D. |
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Design to breathe : understanding and altering wind patterns in street canyons to reduce human exposure to air pollution |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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xxii, 303 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Research Group for Urban Development; Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS) |
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Air pollution is proclaimed by the World Health Organiaation (WHO) as the biggest environmental threat to human health. Street canyons, or urban roads flanked by a continuous row of high buildings on both sides, are perceived as typical bottleneck areas for air quality due to their lack of natural ventilation. This doctoral thesis aims to integrate expert knowledge on in-canyon flow fields and pollution dispersion in street canyons from the specialized field of (bio)engineering into the field of urban planning and vice versa. In Chapter 1, a Geospatial Information System (GIS) method was developed to detect exposure zones and hotspot street canyons. A critical combination between aspect ratio (AR > 0.65) and traffic volume (TVmax > 300) was detected and subsequently used to detect hotspot street canyons in three major European cities (Antwerp, London and Paris). Chapter 2 focusses on acquiring in-depth knowledge on flow and concentration fields in street canyons by conducting an extensive literature review on over 200 studies and translates this knowledge into nineteen guidelines and eleven spatial tools, comprised in a toolbox for urban planning. Subsequently, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used into a research trough design process (Chapter 4) to illustrate how the design tools can be applied to a specific case study (Belgiëlei, Antwerp). Alternations to traffic lanes (traffic lane reduction and lateral displacement) combined with low boundary walls (LBWs), were found to reduce NO2 levels in the entire pedestrian area up to – 3.6 % and peak pollutions were reduced by -8 %. A maximum NO2 reduction was reached by combining a traffic lane displacement with hedges, adjustments to the tree planting pattern and an increased ground-level permeability, leading to reductions up to – 4.5 % in the pedestrian areas. In conclusion, urban design was found to be a valuable tool to enhance the effect of emission reduction strategies and draw in-canyon concentrations closer to the value of the background concentration. However, the background concentration seemed to dominate the efficiency of the urban design interventions and therefore, additional measures should be taken to reduce background pollution levels. This dissertation aims to contribute to the awareness of air pollution in street canyons, as well as support local governments in taking action by delivering spatial tools and guidelines applicable for urban planning and represents a framework for the dissemination of expert information on air quality in street canyons to the field of urban planning. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:196399 |
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7767 |
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Vizarim, N.P. |
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Dynamic behavior of Skyrmions under the influence of periodic pinning in chiral magnetic infinite thin films |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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212 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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The miniaturization of transistors for application in new processors and logic devices poses a significant challenge in the field of materials. Spintronics, which relies on controlled movement of magnetic nanostructures, offers a promising solution. Among the candidates, magnetic skyrmions are considered one of the most promising. These chiral spin structures, characterized by topological protection and enhanced stability compared to vortices or magnetic bubbles, have been extensively studied. To advance in the control of skyrmion motion, essential for practical applications, we investigated their dynamic behavior in a two-dimensional chiral magnet at zero temperature. Our study focused on the influence of periodic arrays of pinning centers. The simulations considered skyrmions as point-like particles considering the following interactions: skyrmion-skyrmion interactions, interactions with pinning center arrays, a current of polarized spins, and the Magnus force. We conducted calculations for scenarios involving a single skyrmion as well as different skyrmion density values in the material. The aim was to explore possibilities for controlled skyrmion motion, investigate different dynamic regimes, and examine collective effects. The results demonstrate that by adjusting the size, strength, and density of the pinning centers, we can effectively control the motion of individual skyrmions and manage the flow of multiple skyrmions. Furthermore, we discovered that periodic arrays of pinning centers can facilitate topological selection when different species of skyrmions with distinct Magnus components are present. Employing alternating currents, we observed the significant role of the ratchet effect in the skyrmion dynamics. By fine-tuning the amplitudes of the alternating currents, we achieved direct and controlled motion of skyrmions in specific directions. These findings hold potential for advancing our understanding of skyrmion dynamics and can inspire future technological applications involving these quasi-particles. Overall, we anticipate that our results will be valuable to the scientific community, contributing to a deeper comprehension of skyrmion dynamics and paving the way for future technological applications. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:198101 |
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8852 |
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Hassani, H. |
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First-principles study of polarons in WO₃ |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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181 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Condensed Matter Theory (CMT) |
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Polarons are quasiparticles emerging in materials from the interaction of extra charge carriers with the surrounding atomic lattice. They appear in a wide va- riety of compounds and can have a profound impact on their properties, making the concept of a polaron a central and ubiquitous topic in material science. Al- though the concept is known for about 75 years, the origin of polarons is not yet fully elucidated. This thesis focuses on WO 3 as a well-known prototypical system for studying polarons, which inherent polaronic nature is linked to its remark- able electrical and chromic properties. The primary objective of this research is to provide a comprehensive atomistic description and understanding of polaron formation in WO 3 using first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calcula- tions. Additionally, the investigation explores the interactions between polarons and the possibility of bipolaron formation. Following a systematic strategy, we first extensively analyze the dielectric and lattice dynamical properties of WO 3 in both the room-temperature P 2 1 /n and ground-state P 2 1 /c phases. Our specific focus is on characterizing the zone-center phonons, which serve as the founda- tion for identifying the phonon modes involved in the polaron formation and charge localization process. Subsequently, we examine the impact of structural distortions on the electronic structure of WO 3 to elucidate the interplay between structural distortions and electronic properties, thereby laying the groundwork for understanding electron-phonon couplings. By incorporating these critical fac- tors, we address our primary research goals. The most common explanation for the polaron formation is associated with the electrostatic screening of the extra charge by the polarizable lattice. Here, we show that, even in ionic crystals, this is not necessarily the case. We demonstrate that polarons in this compound arise primarily from non-polar atomic distortions. We then unveil that this unexpected behavior originates from the undoing of distortive atomic motions, which lowers the bandgap. As such, we coin the name of anti-distortive polaron and validate its appearance through a simple quantum-dot model, in which charge localization is the result of balancing structural, electronic, and confinement energy costs. Then, we also study the polaron-polaron interaction and present the formation of the antiferromagnetic W 4+ bipolaronic state with relatively large formation energy. Our analysis of the W 4+ bipolaronic distortions on the global structure reveals the same behavior as in experiments where the highly distorted monoclinic phase transforms into a tetragonal phase as a function of doping. Additionally, leveraging our previous findings on asymmetric polaronic distortion and examin- ing different merging orientations, we stabilize the antiferromagnetic W 5+ -W 5+ bipolaronic state with an energy lower than the W 4+ state. This thesis clari- fies the formation of unusual medium-size 2D polarons and bipolarons in WO3,which might be relevant to the whole family of ABO 3 perovskites, to which WO 3 is closely related. The simplicity of the concept provides also obvious guidelines for tracking similar behavior in other families of compounds. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:198169 |
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8868 |
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Wittner, N. |
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Improving and characterising solid-state fungal pretreatment by Phanerochaete chrysosporium for sugar production from poplar wood |
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Doctoral thesis |
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2023 |
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206 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Engineering sciences. Technology; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE) |
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Pretreatment is a critical step in the conversion of lignocellulose into biofuels and biochemicals. During pretreatment, the recalcitrance of lignocellulose is reduced, e.g. by removing lignin, thereby making the carbohydrates more accessible for enzymatic saccharification. Fungal delignification by white-rot fungi is a biotechnological alternative to chemical/physicochemical methods, which is carried out in solid-state fermentation with mild reaction conditions and without the formation of microbial inhibitors. However, fungal pretreatment presents some challenges, such as long pretreatment time, non-selective and low delignification, low enzymatic digestibility and feedstock sterilisation requirement, making its commercial implementation challenging compared to conventional methods. This study investigates the possibility of improving and characterising the solid-state fungal pretreatment of poplar wood by Phanerochaete chrysosporium. The individual and combined effects of MnSO4 and CuSO4 supplements on the delignification of sterilised wood are investigated using response surface methodology to improve the degree and selectivity of fungal delignification. Spore-inoculated solid-state fermentations are carried out for 4 weeks in sterile vented bottles. The mechanism of the concerted action of the metal ions on lignin degradation is then elucidated by relating fungal growth and ligninolytic enzyme activities to lignocellulose degradation as a function of pretreatment time. The optimised metal-supplemented system is then applied to the pretreatment of non-sterilised wood using different inoculation techniques (spores and pre-colonised substrate), nutrients (metal ions with or without glucose and sodium nitrate) and cultivation environments (sterile aerated bottles and open trays). The fermentations are then characterised using infrared spectroscopy, in particular NIR and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, with the aim of developing rapid lignin quantification methods as an alternative to conventional wet chemical methods. Finally, the feasibility of producing fermentable sugars from sterilised and non-sterilised poplar wood using fungal pretreatment is evaluated through a techno-economic analysis. Supplementing the pretreatment system with 2.01 µmol CuSO4 and 0.77 µmol MnSO4 g-1 wood resulted in 1.9-fold higher lignin degradation, 2.3-fold higher delignification selectivity value and 2.9-fold higher glucose yield. The improved delignification could be explained by the concerted action of Mn2+ and Cu2+ ions, with Mn2+ ions inducing and Cu2+ prolonging manganese peroxidase production responsible for delignification. Fungal pretreatment at non-sterile conditions was obtained using trays in a simple solid-state fermentation set-up without sterile aeration. A 1:3 ratio of pre-colonised and untreated wood was applied for inoculation and only Cu2+, Mn2+ and sodium nitrate as supplements. Remarkably, this technology resulted in a comparably high glucose yield (28.51 ± 0.28%) to the traditional method using sterilised wood, sterile aeration and spores as inoculum, while reducing the amount of wood to be sterilised by 71.2%. Infrared spectroscopy-based methods with high coefficients of determination (R_CV |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:197185 |
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8883 |
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Van Putte, N. |
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Improving groundwater dynamics : a key factor for successful tidal marsh restoration |
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2023 |
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166 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL); Ecosphere |
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Tidal marshes take up and release certain elements from and to the river water. Hence, they act as a filter, improving the estuarine water quality. This filtering function depends on the interaction between the marsh soil and water that infiltrates into the marsh platform at high tide and seeps out of the creek banks at low tide. In the past centuries, many tidal marshes disappeared due to large scale land reclamations, together with their associated ecosystem services. Nowadays, tidal marshes are increasingly restored on formerly embanked agricultural areas to regain these ecosystem services. Here, we studied the effect of historical agricultural land use on the contribution of restored tidal marshes to water quality improvement, and we investigated several solutions to stimulate the water quality improving function in newly restored tidal marshes. In restored tidal marshes, the soil is often compacted due to the historical agricultural land use, leading to a reduced organic matter content and micro- and macroporosity. In this compacted soil, groundwater flow is hindered, leading to a more waterlogged soil and reduced groundwater dynamics in the restored marsh as compared to a natural marsh. The depth of groundwater drainage and the groundwater flow velocity have important implications for the processes that contribute to water quality improvement, e.g. removal of nitrogen, phosphorus retention and silica cycling. Where groundwater drains deeper, i.e. in the vicinity of tidal creeks and in a more porous soil, these processes are promoted. We suggest that, in newly restored tidal marshes, the soil porosity can be increased by amending the soil (e.g. with organic matter), and the distance to the nearest tidal creek can be reduced by creek excavation. Numerical modelling showed that the largest gain in groundwater dynamics and seepage was attained when both measures were applied together. The effect of organic soil amendments on groundwater dynamics and nutrient cycling was further explored in a large scale in situ mesocosm experiment. Where the soil was amended, groundwater drained deeper and nitrogen removal increased. For new tidal marsh restoration projects, we advise to conduct an explorative soil study. When the soil is heavily compacted, design measures, such as creek initiation and organic soil amendments can be applied to jumpstart the contribution to water quality improvement of newly restored tidal marshes. |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:196965 |
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8884 |
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Drăgan, A.-M. |
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Investigation of the electrochemical behaviour of illicit substances and their redox pathways in the development of nanomaterial-modified platforms for decentralized analysis |
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2023 |
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169 p. |
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Doctoral thesis; Pharmacology. Therapy; Engineering sciences. Technology; Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab) |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:199086 |
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8892 |
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Shi, P.; Gielis, J.; Niklas, K.J.; Niinemets, Ü.; Schrader, J. |
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Leaf functional traits : ecological and evolutionary implications |
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2023 |
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185 p. |
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ME3 Book as editor; Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology (DuEL) |
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2023-04-14 |
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978-2-8325-2086-4; 1664-8714 |
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UA @ admin @ c:irua:198002 |
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8894 |
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