Ion and Water Transport in 2D Nanofluidic Channels

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) lamellar membranes, featuring organized nanochannels, tunable interlayer spacing, and modifiable chemical properties, are emerging as promising candidates for both theoretical research and practical applications. Rational design and regulation of the physical/chemical properties of the nanofluidic channels as well as manipulation of external factors are crucial to achieve desirable performance for the applications related to mass transport. Focusing on the recent advances in ion and water transport within 2D nanofluidic channels, this work gives a brief overview of the fabrication of 2D lamellar membranes based on the strategy of exfoliation and reconstruction. Then the transport phenomena within 2D nanofluidic channels along with the mechanisms and influential factors are highlighted. The representative applications of 2D lamellar membranes are also covered, especially in the areas of osmotic energy conversion, water purification and desalination, as well as single-ion separation and extraction. It is concluded with a discussion of the current challenges and future perspectives in this potential field.