Improved Ion Transport in Hydrogel-Based Nanofluidics for Osmotic Energy Conversion.

ABSTRACT: In nature, ultrafast signal transfer based on ion transport, which is the foundation of biological processes, commonly works in a hydrogel-water mixed mechanism. Inspired by organisms' hydrogel-based system, we introduce hydrogel into nanofluidics to prepare a hydrogel hybrid membrane. The introduction of a space charged hydrogel improves the ion selectivity evidently. Also, a power generator based on the hydrogel hybrid membrane shows an excellent energy conversion property; a maximum power density up to 11.72 W/m² is achieved at a 500-fold salinity gradient. Furthermore, the membrane shows excellent mechanical properties. These values are achievable, which indicates our membrane's huge potential applications in osmotic energy conversion.

SUBMITTER: Chen W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7706090 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature