Review
Environmental Sciences
Danilo Bertagna Silva, Gianluigi Buttiglieri, Sandra Babic
Summary: The development of UV-LED technology presents new possibilities for TiO(2) photocatalysis, but further research is needed on its application in real water matrices and environmentally relevant concentrations. To reduce costs, improving UV-LED efficiency, optimizing light uniformity, and adopting efficiency enhancement options like periodic illumination, wavelength coupling, and H(2)O(2) addition are essential.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Diana Rakhmawaty Eddy, Soraya Nur Ishmah, Muhamad Diki Permana, M. Lutfi Firdaus, Iman Rahayu, Yaser A. El-Badry, Enas E. Hussein, Zeinhom M. El-Bahy
Summary: The research proposed the addition of silica as a supporting material to TiO2 to overcome agglomeration and increase thermal resistance. The synthesized composite photocatalyst showed high crystallinity and better dispersibility, leading to superior efficiency in degrading phenolic compounds in wastewater compared to commercial TiO2 P25.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Daniel Olivo-Alanis, Alcione Garcia-Gonzalez, Miguel Angel Mueses, Refugio Bernardo Garcia-Reyes
Summary: A novel kinetic model was developed to predict the photocatalytic degradation of wastewater. The model takes into account the generation of reactive oxygen species, the rate of electron-hole pair generation, and the impact of reactive oxygen species on pollutants. The model demonstrated robustness and high accuracy under various operational conditions.
APPLIED CATALYSIS B-ENVIRONMENTAL
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Yawei Yang, Riyao Wang, Zhongji Han, Rui Wang, Jiancheng He, Chengyu Zhang, Wenxiu Que
Summary: Semiconductor photocatalysis using TiO2 nanomaterials has shown promise in the degradation of micropollutants for environmental remediation. In this study, a scalable and refreshable photocatalytic foam was successfully fabricated by immobilizing TiO2 catalyst nanoparticles on EVA foam. The fabricated foam demonstrated excellent photocatalytic activity, stability, and refreshability for in-situ micropollutant degradation.
ADVANCED SUSTAINABLE SYSTEMS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Iryna Kovinchuk, Nadiia Haiuk, Giuseppe Lazzara, Giuseppe Cavallaro, Georgii Sokolsky
Summary: The photocatalytic degradation of low-density polyethylene (PE) films with titanium and manganese dioxide nanoparticles was investigated. Composite PE films with different photocatalysts were prepared and subjected to UV irradiation. Tests and measurements on the PE films were conducted to evaluate the effects of the nanoparticles on the degradation and thermal behavior of PE. The results showed the coupling effects of titanium and manganese dioxide nanoparticles on PE degradation, and the influence of the nanoparticles on the tensile properties and wettability of the films.
POLYMER DEGRADATION AND STABILITY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jiatao Dang, Wenjun Pei, Fumeng Hu, Zaihui Yu, Shuheng Zhao, Jianjun Hu, Jiuli Liu, Dongliang Zhang, Zhixuan Jing, Xuan Lei
Summary: This study investigated the photocatalytic degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) using a TiO2/BC composite. The results showed that TiO2/BC-5-300 exhibited the highest degradation efficiency for SMX, reducing its impact on the growth of bean sprouts. This study provides important data and theoretical support for the treatment of antibiotic-contaminated wastewater using TiO2/BC.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Lucia del C. Cid, Claudia M. C. Vera, Patricio A. Sorichetti
Summary: This work presents a model of an annular batch slurry photocatalytic reactor using titanium dioxide at high concentrations and near-neutral pH. The model considers factors such as catalyst particle agglomeration and adsorption/desorption equilibrium, and was validated with measurements and simulations to find optimal design criteria at high catalyst concentrations. The mathematical model is simple and robust, suitable for design and scaling of photocatalytic reactors.
CANADIAN JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Marta Kowalkinska, Szymon Dudziak, Jakub Karczewski, Jacek Ryl, Grzegorz Trykowski, Anna Zielinska-Jurek
Summary: In this study, TiO2 nanostructures with different morphologies and crystal facets were successfully prepared using TiOF2 as a precursor, demonstrating varying photocatalytic activity and mineralization efficiency. The TiO2 octahedra exposing {101} facets exhibited the highest photoactivity and mineralization efficiency among the obtained nanostructures. Surface effects of the photocatalyst were identified as influencing factors in mineralization efficiency and photodegradation products formation.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Huijuan Li, Yeting Yao, Xiaoyan Yang, Xusheng Zhou, Ran Lei, Sufang He
Summary: This study prepared composites of titanium (IV) oxide combined with montmorillonite (MMT) for photocatalysis application. The immobilization of TiO2 nanoparticles on MMT decreased their average size and enhanced the photocatalytic activity. The phenol degradation process was determined by HPLC, showing the conversion of phenol into maleic acid, carbon dioxide, and small molecules.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Prapatsorn Kaewkam, Apichaya Kanchanapaetnukul, Janista Khamyan, Nattapon Phadmanee, Kun-Yi Andrew Lin, Krisana Kobwittaya, Sanya Sirivithayapakorn
Summary: The study investigated the effects of TiO2 phases and UV light on photodegradation of LDPE films, finding that using TiO2-900°C with UV-C light resulted in the highest degradation efficiency. Analysis of crystal structure and elemental composition provided insights into the degradation mechanism of LDPE films.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Fateme Barjasteh-Askari, Ramin Nabizadeh, Aliasghar Najafpoor, Mojtaba Davoudi, Amir-Hossein Mahvi
Summary: This study combined Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to prioritize alternatives for photocatalytic diazinon removal. Criteria and alternatives were determined based on literature reviews and expert opinions. AHP and TOPSIS questionnaires were developed and distributed to experts for pairwise comparisons. Fuzzy values were used for mathematical calculations. TiO2-MIL-53(Fe) was synthesized and characterized for diazinon removal under LED visible light. The best option for photocatalytic diazinon removal was identified using the hybrid AHP-TOPSIS method.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Crystallography
Marta Kowalkinska, Jakub Karczewski, Anna Zielinska-Jurek
Summary: In this study, single-phase TiOF2 with various morphologies was prepared by a solvothermal method. The influence of TiOF2 morphology and precursor characteristics on the physicochemical properties of TiO2 were investigated. The experiments demonstrated that the crystallite size of the TiOF2 precursor and the number of fluoride ions used in the synthesis were the key factors affecting the photocatalytic activity of the final TiO2 photocatalyst.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Miguel Diaz-Sanchez, Roxana Nicoleta Murgu, Diana Diaz-Garcia, Jose M. Mendez-Arriaga, Sanjiv Prashar, Bela Urban, Jiri Pinkas, Martin Lamac, Michal Horacek, Santiago Gomez-Ruiz
Summary: This study synthesized titanium dioxide nanomaterials with improved catalytic and photocatalytic properties through co-doping with copper and fluorine. These nanomaterials showed effective degradation of industrial and emerging contaminants, as well as activity in coupling reactions and energy-related photocatalytic processes, making them potentially suitable for cleaner energy generation.
ADVANCED SUSTAINABLE SYSTEMS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Heba A. A. El-Gawad, Ebrahiem Esmail Ebrahiem, Montaser Y. Y. Ghaly, Ahmed A. A. Afify, R. M. Mohamed
Summary: This study demonstrates that photo-catalytic oxidation is a promising technique for treating simulated oily wastewater. Factors such as initial oil concentration, catalyst dose, stirring speed, pH value, and hydrogen peroxide dose were investigated for their impact on the degradation rate. It was found that the optimal operating parameters for oil removal were an initial oil concentration of 1 g/L, stirring speed of 850 rpm, pH of 8, 3 mL of hydrogen peroxide, and 1.5 g/L of titanium dioxide, resulting in a removal percentage of 98.43% after 40 minutes of irradiation. The application of these parameters to industrial oily wastewater resulted in a 99% oil removal rate after 40 minutes of reaction time with the addition of 3 mL of hydrogen peroxide.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Yi Chen, Mengjia Ran, Ziyan Zhou, Xinyi Han, Honglin Zhu, Jinchuan Gu
Summary: The study showed that a synthetic La/TiO2 supported on lithium silicon powder significantly improved photocatalytic efficiency for organic removal. The addition of hydrogen peroxide further enhanced the DMP removal rate to 100% by increasing hydroxyl and superoxide ion radicals. This eco-friendly LTL1 material demonstrates promising applications for cost-effective and environmentally friendly organic removal from water.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Emine Kayahan, Ulderico Di Caprio, Annelot Van den Bogaert, Mohammed N. Khan, Metin Bulut, Leen Braeken, Tom Van Gerven, M. Enis Leblebici
Summary: This study investigates the effects of using pure MEA in a spray column on mass transfer coefficient and absorption efficiency. The results show that increasing liquid flow rate and MEA concentration can improve the mass transfer coefficient. In addition, it is found that the inlet CO2 to MEA molar ratio greatly affects the absorption efficiency.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING AND PROCESSING-PROCESS INTENSIFICATION
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Jiaye Li, Peter Hanselaer, Kevin A. G. Smet
Summary: Accurate colorimetry requires accurate color matching functions and appropriate field sizes. In this study, the accuracy of the CIEPO06 model for different field sizes was investigated, and it was found that the estimated optimal field size often differed from the actual field size. Additionally, specific observer gaze positions did not significantly impact the results. The choice of primary sets had a larger impact on matching accuracy for the 2 degrees field size.
COLOR RESEARCH AND APPLICATION
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ioanna Tzortzi, Christos Xiouras, Chrysovalantis Tserpes, Andromachi Tzani, Anastasia Detsi, Tom Van Gerven, Georgios D. Stefanidis
Summary: This study investigates the effect of microwave heating on the synthesis and pretreatment steps of HEURs. The results show that microwaves can significantly reduce processing time and energy consumption. However, PEG pretreatment/dehydration by microwaves leads to faster degradation of PEG and should be avoided.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING AND PROCESSING-PROCESS INTENSIFICATION
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ruben M. M. Dewes, Yanshen Zhu, Valentina Dami, Giovanni Baldi, Erin Koos, Tom Van Gerven
Summary: Ultrasound technology can significantly reduce the production time of nano-TiO2, especially when precursors with long alkoxide chains are used.
JOURNAL OF NANOPARTICLE RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Cedric Devos, Elena Brozzi, Tom Van Gerven, Simon Kuhn
Summary: In this study, a proof-of-concept modular nucleation section for seeded multiphase flow crystallization of an active pharmaceutical ingredient is presented. The setup can be operated in four different modes and provides insights into design and operation of crystallization processes. The study evaluates the performance of off-line continuous seeding, the yields of seeded and unseeded crystallization, the clogging behavior of the continuous microcrystallizer, and the effect of seeds and microbubbles on crystal size distribution.
ORGANIC PROCESS RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
(2023)
Biographical-Item
Acoustics
C. Argirusis, C. L. Bianchi, D. Boffito, P. Bra, P. Cintas, G. Cravotto, E. Flores, J. Y. Hihn, N. H. Ince, D. Kobayashi, J. Lee, J. M. Leveque, R. Mettin, A. Muthupandian, S. Nikitenko, B. Pollet, K. Suslick, T. Van Gerven
ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ulderico Di Caprio, Min Wu, Florence Vermeire, Tom Van Gerven, Peter Hellinckx, Steffen Waldherr, Emine Kayahan, M. Enis Leblebici
Summary: To mitigate the catastrophic impact of global warming, reducing CO2 emissions is crucial. The most advanced technology for reducing industrial CO2 emissions is the absorption of CO2 into aqueous mono-ethanolamine (MEA) solutions. While spray columns offer advantages such as reduced corrosion and enhanced mass transfer coefficients, there is currently no model available to predict these coefficients in spray columns.
JOURNAL OF CO2 UTILIZATION
(2023)
Article
Education & Educational Research
Serkan Solmaz, Liesbeth Kester, Tom Van Gerven
Summary: Virtual reality is a valuable tool for engineering education and training, helping to reduce barriers to understanding difficult concepts. In this study, the Virtual Garage, a virtual reality application with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, was developed to address challenges in engineering education. The prototype was well-received by graduate students and further improvements were identified to enhance the VR experience with CFD simulations.
EDUCATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Mathias Jacobs, Amer Hakki, Leen C. J. Thomassen, Simon Kuhn, Tom Van Gerven, Enis Leblebici
Summary: Photo-assisted methanol reforming was used to produce hydrogen as an alternative to catalytic steam reforming. 1wt.% Au/TiO2 was used as a photocatalyst and immobilized on beads or plates. The optimized system showed significantly higher hydrogen production compared to previous studies using beads as catalyst support, and it was also more energy efficient.
APPLIED CATALYSIS A-GENERAL
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yafei Mao, Xing Yang, Tom Van Gerven
Summary: In recent years, the hybrid technology of CO2 capture-mineral carbonation (CCMC) using alkaline streams has become popular. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on the choice of amine types and sensitivity of parameters in the simultaneous CCMC process. In this study, we investigated the CCMC process using different amines and found that DEAE is the ideal choice due to its high carbonation efficiency and low sensitivity to temperature. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for future CCMC processes. This technology could contribute to carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) efforts in achieving carbon neutrality.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Ioanna Tzortzi, Christos Xiouras, Chrysi Choustoulaki, Andromachi Tzani, Anastasia Detsi, Guillaume Michaud, Tom Van Gerven, Georgios D. D. Stefanidis
Summary: In this work, the synthesis processes of hydrophobically modified ethoxylated urethanes (HEURs) were investigated. It was found that the two-step method allows for higher molecular weight polymers with less toxic diisocyanates compared to the conventional one-step method. The addition timepoint of the end-capping agent can be tailored to achieve HEURs with a wide range of molecular weight and polydispersity index. Efficient end-capping of high molecular weight polymers remains a challenge and alternative mixing technologies should be considered.
INDUSTRIAL & ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Industrial
Philippe Chan, Tom Van Gerven, Jean-Luc Dubois, Kristel Bernaerts
Summary: Safety training is necessary in high-risk industries, and VR serious games can be used as a hands-on training tool to motivate and engage trainees. However, complicated usability and unfamiliarity with VR technology can affect trainees' autonomous motivation for safety training.
Article
Acoustics
Ariana Bampouli, Quinten Goris, Jonas Van Olmen, Serkan Solmaz, Mohammed Noorul Hussain, Georgios D. Stefanidis, Tom Van Gerven
Summary: In this work, the effect of viscosity on ultrasound field was investigated experimentally and numerically by sonication of mixtures with increasing viscosity using an ultrasonic horn at 30 kHz. The study qualitatively and semiquantitatively examined the impact of higher viscosity on acoustic pressure distribution using sonochemiluminescence and quantified acoustic streaming effects using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). A numerical model was developed to predict cavitationally active zones, considering both thermoviscous and cavitation based attenuation. The results showed two cavitation zones and a decrease in intensity with increasing viscosity. The findings have important implications for the design and modeling of horn based sonochemical reactors.
ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Cedric Devos, Anja Vananroye, Ruth Cardinaels, Christos Xiouras, Tom Van Gerven, Simon Kuhn
Summary: Cooling crystallization of small organic molecules is important for drug product separation. This study investigates shear-induced nucleation in a parallel plate geometry and reveals the connection between nucleation and the formation of circular crystalline patterns. The results show that nucleation occurs preferentially in high shear rate zones at the outer edges of the plates. The study also proposes a new mechanism involving stick-slip motion and surface modification to control pattern formation.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
L. Van de Perre, K. A. G. Smet, P. Hanselaer, M. Dujardin, W. R. Ryckaert
Summary: This study examines the influence of wall luminance and correlated colour temperature (CCT) on observers' perception of brightness and preference for scenes in a controlled office environment without windows. The experiment involved 20 observers and 20 lighting scenes with different CCT values and luminances. The results indicate that higher wall luminance leads to increased brightness perception, while different CCT values have no significant effect on brightness. Scene preference increases with wall luminance up to a certain level, but further increase in luminance does not have a significant impact. Preference for scenes also varies with different CCT values.
LIGHTING RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Laura L. Trinkies, Marlene Crone, Michael Tuerk, Manfred Kraut, Roland Dittmeyer
Summary: In this study, mono- and bimetallic Pd and Pt catalysts were deposited via supercritical fluid reactive deposition (SFRD) on TiO2 coated additively manufactured substrates. The focus of this work was to evaluate the suitability of these catalysts for the direct synthesis of H2O2 in the liquid phase. The results showed that all catalysts exhibited high activity and productivity, with PdPt bimetallic catalysts showing the highest productivity and an increase in Pd loading leading to a decrease in productivity. Comparison with literature data demonstrated the high suitability of the SFRD method for the proposed application, with the added benefits of simplicity and environmental friendliness in catalyst production.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING AND PROCESSING-PROCESS INTENSIFICATION
(2024)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Xiongbao Hu, Zuguo Shen, Yu Wang
Summary: It is impossible to control the outer wall temperature of the micro-combustor below the maximum allowable temperature of commercial thermoelectric generators simply through increasing the equivalent heat transfer coefficient. Three simple strategies were developed to improve temperature uniformity, yet none of them could ensure full temperature control.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING AND PROCESSING-PROCESS INTENSIFICATION
(2024)
