X-ray Fluorescence Ghost Imaging (XRF-GI) was recently demonstrated for x-ray lab sources. It has the potential to reduce acquisition time and deposited dose by choosing their trade-off with spatial resolution, while alleviating the focusing constraints of the probing beam. In this talk, we present the realization of synchrotron-based XRF-GI: We present both an adapted experimental setup and...
Three-dimensional elemental mapping at nanometer-scale resolution by atom probe tomography (APT)
M. Dialameh1, J. Scheerder1, R. Morris1, and C. Fleischmann1,2
1 imec, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
2 KU Leuven, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Quantum Solid-State Physics, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
masoud.dialameh@imec.be
Advances in atom probe tomography (APT) have expanded...
Our dependence to electronic tools has made the supply of critical raw metals (CRMs) crucial. Waste printed circuit boards (PCBs) is a promising source of such CRMs, but most of the latter are not recoverable with current industrial recycling practices. One major issue to be solved: the overall composition, and therefore the value, of this urban mine comprising of PCBs. Indeed, this is...
Globally, the annual demand for primary aluminium (Al) is estimated at ∼70 million tons and the uses of secondary Al or recycled Al consume only ∼7% of the energy compared to the primary Al.
Hence, it is vital to maximise the reuses and recycling rate of secondary Al to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions in Al industry.
In almost all commercial Al alloys, Fe is the most common...
Electrostatic potential, including both that contributed by electron-beam-induced specimen charging and intrinsic material-related mean inner potential (MIP), is crucial because it is influence the reaction between charged particles, chemical reactivity, and dielectric properties. Off-axis electron holography is a powerful TEM technique that can be used to map local variations in electron...
Bacteria and other microorganisms form biofilms upon and within materials, affecting their physical and chemical properties, such as pore-scale clogging, mineral precipitation, or gas production. Upon the surface, biofilms can be studied by electron and optical microscopy. However, within opaque materials, other techniques such as micro-computed tomography (µCT) are necessary. Unfortunately,...
The formability of Al2050 alloy is critical for manufacturing large and thick components while maintaining its outstanding performance [1]. Previous studies showed that pores and cracks occur during the hot deformation of this alloy and the pore growth follows three different paths (exponential, decelerated, mixed) [2]. To link the damage development during high-temperature loading with the...
Copper-Indium-Gallium-di-Selenide or CIGS panels are one of the promising alternatives in the market for thin-film solar technologies. CIGS panels are lightweight, durable and use less semiconductor materials as compared to Si-based PV modules [1, 2]. According to EU CRM materials report 2023, indium gallium and copper which are raw materials for CIGS panels are rated as critical or strategic...
A new-generation of synthetic bone scaffold is tailored using a bricks-and-mortar approach from bioactive glass nanoparticles BGNps (SiO2-CaO-P2O5 doped with metal ions, the bricks), and customized polymers (PLA, poly (lactic acid), the mortar). Used as synthetic implants for substitutive and regenerative therapies targeting mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORM), they must promote bone formation...
Most ZIF-derived carbons are rich in micropores, which slows oxygen transport to single-atom sites [1, 2]. We report a template-free, CNC-guided route that builds mesopores at the precursor stage and fixes atomically dispersed Co-N₄ centers in carbon. During in situ assembly, Co/ZIF-8 nucleates densely on cellulose nanocrystals and forms thin, open shells. After pyrolysis and acid washing,...
Hydrogen, as a high-potential energy carrier, stands out as a key solution for storing and regulating electricity generated from renewable sources [1]. In this context, ADELE HYDROGEN™ develops cutting-edge electrodes for alkaline electrolyzers, avoiding the use of noble metals or critical raw materials. However, further innovation is needed, particularly in optimizing electrode topology to...
In this work, we provide the first assessment of the microstructure and mechanical properties of Malouetia Tamaquarina (Aubl.) (Apocynaceae), commonly known as Molongó wood. The timber grows in the Amazonian region in blackwater areas and is employed in arts and crafts by indigenous populations.
The microstructure was characterised via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray computed...
Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides and/or nitrides, referred to as MXenes, have recently gained considerable attention due to their unique combination of properties, such as excellent electrical conductivity and high electrochemical capacitance. However, translating these nanoscale properties into bulk or macroscopic structures remains a challenge, as both pure and composite MXene...
A thorough understanding of the dispersion behaviour of Ti3C2Tx MXenes is crucial for their effective incorporation into advanced functional systems, such as fiber spinning, spray coating, and printable electronics. However, a significant challenge remains in characterizing the dynamic structural evolution of MXene nanosheets in liquid media, particularly regarding their stacking, spacing, and...
Conventional graphite anodes face limitations in capacity and rate capability, motivating sustainable carbons with hierarchical porosity to shorten lithium-ion transport paths and stabilize interfaces[1,2]. Herein, biomass-derived porous carbons were prepared by hydrothermal pretreatment followed by high-temperature activation to regulate pore architecture for lithium-ion battery anodes. The...
The advent of new materials has led to the development of multifunctional fibres with unique properties, such as electrical conductivity, energy harvesting/storage capacities, and sensing capabilities [1-2]. Since the discovery of two-dimensional (2D) MXene, specifically Ti3C2Tx, there has been various research on its fabrication into functional fibres due to...