1
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Zhang H, Ma L, Zhang C, Qiu Y. Modulation of Ionic Current Rectification in Short Bipolar Nanopores. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:21866-21875. [PMID: 39360566 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c03204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Bipolar nanopores, with asymmetric charge distributions, can induce significant ionic current rectification (ICR) at ultrashort lengths, finding potential applications in nanofluidic devices, energy conversion, and other related fields. Here, with simulations, we investigated the characteristics of ion transport and modulation of the ICR inside bipolar nanopores. With bipolar nanopores of half-positive and half-negative surfaces, the most significant ICR phenomenon appears at various concentrations. In these cases, the ICR ratios are independent of electrolyte types. In other cases where nanopores have oppositely charged surfaces of different lengths, ICR ratios are related to the mobility of anions and cations. The pore length and surface charge density can enhance ICR. As the pore length increases, ICR ratios first increase and then approach their saturation, which is determined by the surface charge density. External surface charges of nanopores can promote the ICR phenomenon mainly due to the enhancement of ion enrichment inside the nanopores by external surface conductance. The effective width of exterior charged surfaces under various conditions is also explored, which is inversely proportional to the pore length and salt concentration and linearly related to the pore diameter, surface charge density, and applied voltage. Our results may provide guidance for the design of bipolar porous membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwen Zhang
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Shandong University, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanical Manufacture of Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, China
| | - Long Ma
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Shandong University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- School of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Yinghua Qiu
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Shandong University, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Key Laboratory of High Efficiency and Clean Mechanical Manufacture of Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Mechanical Engineering Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, China
- Suzhou Research Institute of Shandong University, Suzhou 215123, China
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2
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Saha K, Sonkusale S. Healable Liquid-Free Osmotic Power Generator Using Nanofluidic Membranes of 2D Vanadium Pentoxide Nanosheets. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:52358-52363. [PMID: 39298559 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c10682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Here, we report an osmotic power generator (OPG) using a restacked membrane of vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) nanosheets and an ion-infused gelatin hydrogel. This gel osmotic power generator (GOPG) has several advantages over traditional liquid-based OPG in portability, power output, and spillage safety. Under a 1000-fold salinity gradient, the GOPG achieved an output power density of 0.13 W m-2. We have studied the effect of different ions, the concentration gradient, and the membrane thickness to achieve maximum power output. Notably, physical damage to the V2O5 membrane can be healed by adding a drop of water. Cracks or damage to the gelatin gel can be healed by reheating and cooling. The GOPGs can be easily connected in series and/or parallel to add up the voltage and/or current values generated by individual devices for practical powering applications. We have demonstrated lighting up an LED and powering a humidity meter using a series of combinations with the GOPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kundan Saha
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Tufts University, Medford 02155, Massachusetts, United States
- Nano Lab, Tufts University, Medford 02155, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Sameer Sonkusale
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Tufts University, Medford 02155, Massachusetts, United States
- Nano Lab, Tufts University, Medford 02155, Massachusetts, United States
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3
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Liu L, Lu JL, Liu YH, Hu CK, Wang KX, Lu CX, Mi L, Chen XC. MOF-Decorated Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) Membranes with Underwater Superoleophobicity for Extracting Osmotic Energy from Oily Wastewater Effluents. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:51496-51503. [PMID: 39265038 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c10263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
Industrial processes generate huge volumes of oily saline wastewater. Instead of being sent to the drainage system immediately, extracting osmotic energy from these effluents represents a promising means to reuse these wastes and contributes to mitigate the ever-growing energy crisis. Herein, an MOF-decorated PTFE membrane is engineered to extract osmotic energy from oily wastewaters. Copper hydroxide nanowires (CHNs) are intertwined with polystyrenesulfonate sodium (PSS), deposited onto a poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) membrane, and thereafter used as metal precursors to in situ generate HKUST-1 doped with negative charges. The resulting HKUST-1PSS@PTFE hybrid membrane possesses abundant angstrom-scale channels capable of transporting cations efficiently and features a hierarchically structured surface with underwater superoleophobicity. The energy conversion performance of the HKUST-1PSS3.5@PTFE membrane can reach an output power density of 6.21 W m-2 at a 50-fold NaCl gradient, which is superior to those of pristine PTFE membranes. Once exposed to oily saline wastewater, the HKUST-1PSS@PTFE membrane can exhibit an excellent oil-repellent ability, thus contributing to sustain its osmotic energy harvesting. This work may promote the development of antifouling osmotic energy harvesters with a long working life and pave the way to fully exploit oily wastewater effluents as valuable energy sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, P. R. China
| | - Jia-Li Lu
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Hong Liu
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, P. R. China
| | - Chun-Kui Hu
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, P. R. China
| | - Ke-Xin Wang
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, P. R. China
| | - Chun-Xin Lu
- College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314001, P. R. China
| | - Li Mi
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, P. R. China
| | - Xia-Chao Chen
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, P. R. China
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4
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Zhang X, Wang Y, Zheng J, Yang C, Wang D. Scan-Rate-Dependent Ion Current Rectification in Bipolar Interfacial Nanopores. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:1176. [PMID: 39337836 PMCID: PMC11433788 DOI: 10.3390/mi15091176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2024] [Revised: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
This study presents a theoretical investigation into the voltammetric behavior of bipolar interfacial nanopores due to the effect of potential scan rate (1-1000 V/s). Finite element method (FEM) is utilized to explore the current-voltage (I-V) properties of bipolar interfacial nanopores at different bulk salt concentrations. The results demonstrate a strong impact of the scan rate on the I-V response of bipolar interfacial nanopores, particularly at relatively low concentrations. Hysteresis loops are observed in bipolar interfacial nanopores under specific scan rates and potential ranges and divided by a cross-point potential that remains unaffected by the scan rate employed. This indicates that the current in bipolar interfacial nanopores is not just reliant on the bias potential that is imposed but also on the previous conditions within the nanopore, exhibiting history-dependent or memory effects. This scan-rate-dependent current-voltage response is found to be significantly influenced by the length of the nanopore (membrane thickness). Thicker membranes exhibit a more pronounced scan-rate-dependent phenomenon, as the mass transfer of ionic species is slower relative to the potential scan rate. Additionally, unlike conventional bipolar nanopores, the ion current passing through bipolar interfacial nanopores is minimally affected by the membrane thickness, making it easier to detect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Zhang
- School of Smart Health, Chongqing Polytechnic University of Electronic Technology, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Yunjiao Wang
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China;
| | - Jiahui Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education and Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; (J.Z.); (C.Y.)
| | - Chen Yang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education and Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; (J.Z.); (C.Y.)
| | - Deqiang Wang
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China;
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5
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Lin YC, Chen HH, Chu CW, Yeh LH. Massively Enhanced Charge Selectivity, Ion Transport, and Osmotic Energy Conversion by Antiswelling Nanoconfined Hydrogels. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:11756-11762. [PMID: 39236070 PMCID: PMC11421088 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c03836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Developing a nanofluidic membrane with simultaneously enhanced ion selectivity and permeability for high-performance osmotic energy conversion has largely been unexplored. Here, we tackle this issue by the confinement of highly space-charged hydrogels within an orderedly aligned nanochannel array membrane. The nanoconfinement effect endows the hydrogel-based membrane with excellent antiswelling property. Furthermore, experimental and simulation results demonstrate that such a nanoconfined hydrogel membrane exhibits massively enhanced cation selectivity and ion transport properties. Consequently, an amazingly high power density up to ∼52.1 W/m2 with an unprecedented energy conversion efficiency of 37.5% can be reached by mixing simulated salt-lake water (5 M NaCl) and river water (0.01 M NaCl). Both efficiency indexes surpass those of most of the state-of-the-art nanofluidic membranes. This work offers insights into the design of highly ion-selective membranes to achieve ultrafast ion transport and high-performance osmotic energy harvesting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chuan Lin
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan
University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Hsu Chen
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung 40724, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wei Chu
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan
University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung 40724, Taiwan
| | - Li-Hsien Yeh
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan
University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
- Advanced
Manufacturing Research Center, National
Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
- Graduate
Institute of Energy and Sustainability Technology, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan
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6
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Yang ZJ, Yeh LH, Peng YH, Chuang YP, Wu KCW. Enhancing Ionic Selectivity and Osmotic Energy by Using an Ultrathin Zr-MOF-Based Heterogeneous Membrane with Trilayered Continuous Porous Structure. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202408375. [PMID: 38847272 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202408375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Designing a nanofluidic membrane with high selectivity and fast ion transport property is the key towards high-performance osmotic energy conversion. However, most of reported membranes can produce power density less than commercial benchmark (5 W/m2), due to the imbalance between ion selectivity and permeability. Here, we report a novel nanoarchitectured design of a heterogeneous membrane with an ultrathin and dense zirconium-based UiO-66-NH2 metal-organic framework (MOF) layer and a highly aligned and interconnected branched alumina nanochannel membrane. The design leads to a continuous trilayered pore structure of large geometry gradient in the sequence from angstrom-scale to nano-scale to sub-microscale, which enables the enhanced directional ion transport, and the angstrom-sized (~6.6-7 Å) UiO-66-NH2 windows render the membrane with high ion selectivity. Consequently, the novel heterogeneous membrane can achieve a high-performance power of ~8 W/m2 by mixing synthetic seawater and river water. The power density can be largely upgraded to an ultrahigh ~17.1 W/m2 along with ~48.5 % conversion efficiency at a 50-fold KCl gradient. This work not only presents a new membrane design approach but also showcases the great potential of employing the zirconium-based MOF channels as ion-channel-mimetic membranes for highly efficient blue energy harvesting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Jie Yang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Li-Hsien Yeh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
- Advanced Manufacturing Research Center, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsiang Peng
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ping Chuang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Kevin C-W Wu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering & Nanomedicine, National Health Research Institute, Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli City, 350, Taiwan
- Center of Atomic Initiative for New Materials (AI-MAT), National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
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7
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Ding Z, Gu T, Zhang M, Wang K, Sun D, Li J. Angstrom-Scale 2D Channels Designed For Osmotic Energy Harvesting. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2403593. [PMID: 39180252 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202403593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Confronting the impending exhaustion of traditional energy, it is urgent to devise and deploy sustainable clean energy alternatives. Osmotic energy contained in the salinity gradient of the sea-river interface is an innovative, abundant, clean, and renewable osmotic energy that has garnered considerable attention in recent years. Inspired by the impressively intelligent ion channels in nature, the developed angstrom-scale 2D channels with simple fabrication process, outstanding design flexibility, and substantial charge density exhibit excellent energy conversion performance, opening up a new era for osmotic energy harvesting. However, this attractive research field remains fraught with numerous challenges, particularly due to the complexities associated with the regulation at angstrom scale. In this review, the latest advancements in the design of angstrom-scale 2D channels are primarily outlined for harvesting osmotic energy. Drawing upon the analytical framework of osmotic power generation mechanisms and the insights gleaned from the biomimetic intelligent devices, the design strategies are highlighted for high-performance angstrom channels in terms of structure, functionalization, and application, with a particular emphasis on ion selectivity and ion transport resistance. Finally, current challenges and future prospects are discussed to anticipate the emergence of more anomalous properties and disruptive technologies that can promote large-scale power generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmao Ding
- Pen-Tung Sah Institute of Micro-Nano Science and Technology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Tribology in Advanced Equipment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Tiancheng Gu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, P. R. China
| | - Minghao Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, P. R. China
| | - Kaiqiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Tribology in Advanced Equipment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Daoheng Sun
- Pen-Tung Sah Institute of Micro-Nano Science and Technology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, P. R. China
| | - Jinjin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Tribology in Advanced Equipment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
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8
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Awati A, Yang R, Shi T, Zhou S, Zhang X, Zeng H, Lv Y, Liang K, Xie L, Zhu D, Liu M, Kong B. Interfacial Super-Assembly of Vacancy Engineered Ultrathin-Nanosheets Toward Nanochannels for Smart Ion Transport and Salinity Gradient Power Conversion. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202407491. [PMID: 38735853 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202407491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Ion-selective nanochannel membranes assembled from two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets hold immense promise for power conversion using salinity gradient. However, they face challenges stemming from insufficient surface charge density, which impairs both permselectivity and durability. Herein, we present a novel vacancy-engineered, oxygen-deficient NiCo layered double hydroxide (NiCoLDH)/cellulose nanofibers-wrapped carbon nanotubes (VOLDH/CNF-CNT) composite membrane. This membrane, featuring abundant angstrom-scale, cation-selective nanochannels, is designed and fabricated through a synergistic combination of vacancy engineering and interfacial super-assembly. The composite membrane shows interlayer free-spacing of ~3.62 Å, which validates the membrane size exclusion selectivity. This strategy, validated by DFT calculations and experimental data, improves hydrophilicity and surface charge density, leading to the strong interaction with K+ ions to benefit the low ion transport resistance and exceptional charge selectivity. When employed in an artificial river water|seawater salinity gradient power generator, it delivers a high-power density of 5.35 W/m2 with long-term durability (20,000s), which is almost 400 % higher than that of the pristine NiCoLDH membrane. Furthermore, it displays both pH- and temperature-sensitive ion transport behavior, offering additional opportunities for optimization. This work establishes a basis for high-performance salinity gradient power conversion and underscores the potential of vacancy engineering and super-assembly in customizing 2D nanomaterials for diverse advanced nanofluidic energy devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abuduheiremu Awati
- Shanghai Key Lab of Chemical Assessment and Sustainability, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China
| | - Ran Yang
- Shanghai Key Lab of Chemical Assessment and Sustainability, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China
| | - Ting Shi
- Shanghai Key Lab of Chemical Assessment and Sustainability, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China
| | - Shan Zhou
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
| | - Hui Zeng
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
| | - Yaokang Lv
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, P. R. China
| | - Kang Liang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Lei Xie
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi An Shi, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Dazhang Zhu
- Shanghai Key Lab of Chemical Assessment and Sustainability, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China
| | - Mingxian Liu
- Shanghai Key Lab of Chemical Assessment and Sustainability, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China
| | - Biao Kong
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
- Yiwu Research Institute, Fudan University, Yiwu, Zhejiang, 322000, P. R. China
- Shandong Research Institute, Fudan University, Jinan, Shandong, 250103, P. R. China
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9
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Yang Y, Zhou S, Lv Z, Hung CT, Zhao Z, Zhao T, Chao D, Kong B, Zhao D. Unipolar Ionic Diode Nanofluidic Membranes Enabled by Stepped Mesochannels for Enhanced Salinity Gradient Energy Harvesting. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:19580-19589. [PMID: 38977375 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Developing ionic diode membranes featuring asymmetric structures is in high demand for salinity gradient energy harvesting. These membranes offer benefits in mitigating ion concentration polarization, thereby promoting ion permeability. However, most reported works focus on the role of heterogeneous charge-based bipolar ionic diode membranes for ion concentration polarization suppression, with comparatively less attention given to maintaining ion selectivity. Herein, unipolar ionic diode nanofluidic mesoporous silica membranes featuring stepped mesochannels were developed via a micellar sequential oriented interfacial self-assembly strategy as a salinity gradient energy harvester. Due to the asymmetric mesochannels and unipolar structure (both sides carry negative charge), the ionic diode membranes exhibit a strong rectification ratio of ∼15.91 to facilitate unidirectional ion transport while maintaining excellent cation selectivity (cation transfer number of ∼0.85). Besides, the vertically aligned mesochannels significantly reduce ion transport resistance, generating a high ionic flux. Consequently, the unipolar ionic diode nanofluidic membranes demonstrate a power output of 5.88 W/m2 between artificial sea and river water. The unipolar feature gives notable enhancements of 296% and 144% in power output compared to the symmetric membrane and bipolar ionic diode membrane, respectively. This work opens up new routes for designing ionic diode membranes for salinity gradient energy harvesting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Shan Zhou
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China
| | - Zirui Lv
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Chin-Te Hung
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Zaiwang Zhao
- College of Energy Materials and Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010070, P. R. China
| | - Tiancong Zhao
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Dongliang Chao
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Biao Kong
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
| | - Dongyuan Zhao
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChEM, School of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, P. R. China
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10
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Xian W, Wu D, Lai Z, Wang S, Sun Q. Advancing Ion Separation: Covalent-Organic-Framework Membranes for Sustainable Energy and Water Applications. Acc Chem Res 2024; 57:1973-1984. [PMID: 38950424 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
ConspectusMembranes are pivotal in a myriad of energy production processes and modern separation techniques. They are essential in devices for energy generation, facilities for extracting energy elements, and plants for wastewater treatment, each of which hinges on effective ion separation. While biological ion channels show exceptional permeability and selectivity, designing synthetic membranes with defined pore architecture and chemistry on the (sub)nanometer scale has been challenging. Consequently, a typical trade-off emerges: highly permeable membranes often sacrifice selectivity and vice versa. To tackle this dilemma, a comprehensive understanding and modeling of synthetic membranes across various scales is imperative. This lays the foundation for establishing design criteria for advanced membrane materials. Key attributes for such materials encompass appropriately sized pores, a narrow pore size distribution, and finely tuned interactions between desired permeants and the membrane. The advent of covalent-organic-framework (COF) membranes offers promising solutions to the challenges faced by conventional membranes in selective ion separation within the water-energy nexus. COFs are molecular Legos, facilitating the precise integration of small organic structs into extended, porous, crystalline architectures through covalent linkage. This unique molecular architecture allows for precise control over pore sizes, shapes, and distributions within the membrane. Additionally, COFs offer the flexibility to modify their pore spaces with distinct functionalities. This adaptability not only enhances their permeability but also facilitates tailored interactions with specific ions. As a result, COF membranes are positioned as prime candidates to achieve both superior permeability and selectivity in ion separation processes.In this Account, we delineate our endeavors aimed at leveraging the distinctive attributes of COFs to augment ion separation processes, tackling fundamental inquiries while identifying avenues for further exploration. Our strategies for fabricating COF membranes with enhanced ion selectivity encompass the following: (1) crafting (sub)nanoscale ion channels to enhance permselectivity, thereby amplifying energy production; (2) implementing a multivariate (MTV) synthesis method to control charge density within nanochannels, optimizing ion transport efficiency; (3) modifying the pore environment within confined mass transfer channels to establish distinct pathways for ion transport. For each strategy, we expound on its chemical foundations and offer illustrative examples that underscore fundamental principles. Our efforts have culminated in the creation of groundbreaking membrane materials that surpass traditional counterparts, propelling advancements in sustainable energy conversion, waste heat utilization, energy element extraction, and pollutant removal. These innovations are poised to redefine energy systems and industrial wastewater management practices. In conclusion, we outline future research directions and highlight key challenges that need addressing to enhance the ion/molecular recognition capabilities and practical applications of COF membranes. Looking forward, we anticipate ongoing advancements in functionalization and fabrication techniques, leading to enhanced selectivity and permeability, ultimately rivaling the capabilities of biological membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weipeng Xian
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Chemical Engineering Manufacture Technology, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Di Wu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Chemical Engineering Manufacture Technology, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Zhuozhi Lai
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Chemical Engineering Manufacture Technology, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Sai Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Chemical Engineering Manufacture Technology, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Qi Sun
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Chemical Engineering Manufacture Technology, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
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11
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Zhang X, Hu N, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Wang D. Effect of Membrane Thickness on Ion Transport in pH-Regulated Zero-Depth Interfacial Nanopores. Anal Chem 2024; 96:11009-11017. [PMID: 38934578 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c01700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Zero-depth interfacial nanopores, which are formed by two crossed nanoscale channels at their intersection interface, have been proposed to increase the spatial resolution of solid-state nanopores. However, research on zero-depth interfacial nanopores is still in its early stages. Although it has been shown that the current passing through an interfacial nanopore is largely independent of the membrane thickness, existing studies have not fully considered the impact of membrane thickness on other ion transport characteristics within these nanopores. In this paper, we investigate the electrokinetic ion transport phenomenon in the zero-depth interfacial nanopores, especially focusing on the influence of membrane thickness on the ion transport phenomenon. Our model incorporates the Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations and the Navier-Stokes equations, featuring a pH-regulated surface charge density. We find that when the thickness of the nanochannels is close to the interface size of the formed interfacial nanopore, the phenomenon of ion transport in the interfacial nanopore is similar to that in a conventional cylindrical nanopore. However, when the thickness of the nanochannels is much greater than the interface size of the formed interfacial nanopore, several distinct phenomena occur. The surface charge density on the inner walls of the interfacial nanopores has a small peak at the interface of the two crossing nanochannels, and the anion concentration changes greatly between the two nanochannels; that is, a much greater anion concentration forms in the nanochannel near the anode side than in the nanochannel near the cathode side. When the surface charge is nonzero, the electric field within the interfacial nanopore creates three extreme points, and the directions of the local electric fields are opposite at the ends of the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Zhang
- School of Smart Health, Chongqing College of Electronic Engineering, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Ning Hu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education and Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Yunjiao Wang
- Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, P. R. China
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, P. R. China
| | - Yun Zhao
- School of Smart Health, Chongqing College of Electronic Engineering, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Deqiang Wang
- Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, P. R. China
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, P. R. China
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12
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Tsutsui M, Hsu WL, Garoli D, Leong IW, Yokota K, Daiguji H, Kawai T. Gate-All-Around Nanopore Osmotic Power Generators. ACS NANO 2024; 18:15046-15054. [PMID: 38804145 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c01989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Nanofluidic channels in a membrane represent a promising avenue for harnessing blue energy from salinity gradients, relying on permselectivity as a pivotal characteristic crucial for inducing electricity through diffusive ion transport. Surface charge emerges as a central player in the osmotic energy conversion process, emphasizing the critical significance of a judicious selection of membrane materials to achieve optimal ion permeability and selectivity within specific channel dimensions. Alternatively, here we report a field-effect approach for in situ manipulation of the ion selectivity in a nanopore. Application of voltage to a surround-gate electrode allows precise adjustment of the surface charge density at the pore wall. Leveraging the gating control, we demonstrate permselectivity turnover to enhanced cation selective transport in multipore membranes, resulting in a 6-fold increase in the energy conversion efficiency with a power density of 15 W/m2 under a salinity gradient. These findings not only advance our fundamental understanding of ion transport in nanochannels but also provide a scalable and efficient strategy for nanoporous membrane osmotic power generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makusu Tsutsui
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 5267-0047, Japan
| | - Wei-Lun Hsu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Denis Garoli
- Optoelectronics Research Line, Instituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Morego 30, I-16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Iat Wai Leong
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 5267-0047, Japan
| | - Kazumichi Yokota
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-0395, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Daiguji
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Tomoji Kawai
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 5267-0047, Japan
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13
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Chen W, Zhou K, Wu Z, Yang L, Xie Y, Meng X, Zhao Z, Wen L. Ion-Concentration-Hopping Heterolayer Gel for Ultrahigh Gradient Energy Conversion. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:13191-13200. [PMID: 38603609 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Conventional solid ion channel systems relying on single one- or two-dimensional confined nanochannels enabled selective and ultrafast convective ion transport. However, due to intrinsic solid channel stacking, these systems often face pore-pore polarization and ion concentration blockage, thereby restricting their efficiency in macroscale ion transport. Here, we constructed a soft heterolayer-gel system that integrated an ion-selective hydrogel layer with a water-barrier organogel layer, achieving ultrahigh cation selectivity and flux and effectively providing high-efficiency gradient energy conversion on a macroscale order of magnitude. Specifically, the hydrogel layer featured an unconfined 3D network, where the fluctuations of highly hydrated polyelectrolyte chains driven by thermal dynamics enhanced cation selectivity and mitigated transfer energy barriers. Such chain fluctuation mechanisms facilitated ion-cluster internal transmission, thereby enhancing ion concentration hopping for more efficient ion-selective transport. Compared to the existing rigid nanochannel-based gradient energy conversion systems, such a heterogel-based power generator exhibited a record power density of 192.90 and 1.07 W/m2 at the square micrometer scale and square centimeter scale, respectively (under a 500-fold artificial solution). We anticipate that such heterolayer gels would be a promising candidate for energy separation and storage applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weipeng Chen
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Ke Zhou
- College of Energy, Soochow Institute for Energy and Materials Innovations (SIEMIS), Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for Advanced Carbon Materials and Wearable Energy Technologies, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, P. R. China
| | - Zhixin Wu
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Linsen Yang
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Yahui Xie
- College of Energy, Soochow Institute for Energy and Materials Innovations (SIEMIS), Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for Advanced Carbon Materials and Wearable Energy Technologies, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Multiscale Mechanics and Medical Science, SV LAB, School of Aerospace, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China
| | - Xue Meng
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Ziguang Zhao
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Liping Wen
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
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Nekoubin N, Hardt S, Sadeghi A. Improved ionic current rectification utilizing cylindrical nanochannels coated with polyelectrolyte layers of non-uniform thickness. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:3641-3652. [PMID: 38623003 DOI: 10.1039/d4sm00123k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Conical nanochannels employed to create ionic current rectification (ICR) in nanofluidic devices are prone to clogging due to the contraction at one end. As an alternative approach for creating ICR, a cylindrical nanochannel covered with a polyelectrolyte layer (PEL) of variable thickness is proposed in the present study. The efficacy of the proposed design is studied by numerically solving the governing equations including the Poisson, Nernst-Planck, and Stokes-Brinkman equations. Furthermore, the fundamental mechanism behind ICR is explained using a simplified one-dimensional model. The effects of the nanochannel radius, concentration of PEL fixed charges, and bulk ionic concentration on the rectification factor are then investigated in detail. It is shown that the proposed nanochannel provides larger rectification factors as compared to conical nanochannels over wide ranges of the fixed charge concentration and bulk ionic concentration. Such a performance can be achieved even at channel radii much larger than the tip radius of conical nanochannels, indicating not only the better performance of the proposed nanochannel but also its likely longer service life, because of reducing the probability of total ionic current blockage. This means that the proposed nanochannel could find widespread use in fluidic devices, as a replacement for conical nanofluidic diodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Nekoubin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran 15875-4413, Iran
| | - Steffen Hardt
- Institute for Nano- and Microfluidics, TU Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Arman Sadeghi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj 66177-15175, Iran.
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15
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Liu TR, Fung MYT, Yeh LH, Chiang CH, Yang JS, Kuo PC, Shiue J, Chen CC, Chen CW. Single-Layer Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanopores as High-Performance Ionic Gradient Power Generators. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306018. [PMID: 38041449 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as promising candidates for efficient energy harvesting from ionic gradients. However, the exploration of robust 2D atomically thin nanopore membranes, which hold sufficient ionic selectivity and high ion permeability, remains challenging. Here, the single-layer hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanopores are demonstrated as various high-performance ion-gradient nanopower harvesters. Benefiting from the ultrathin atomic thickness and large surface charge (also a large Dukhin number), the hBN nanopore can realize fast proton transport while maintaining excellent cation selectivity even in highly acidic environments. Therefore, a single hBN nanopore achieves the pure osmosis-driven proton-gradient power up to ≈3 nW under 1000-fold ionic gradient. In addition, the robustness of hBN membranes in extreme pH conditions allows the ionic gradient power generation from acid-base neutralization. Utilizing 1 m HCl/KOH, the generated power can be promoted to an extraordinarily high level of ≈4.5 nW, over one magnitude higher than all existing ionic gradient power generators. The synergistic effects of ultrathin thickness, large surface charge, and excellent chemical inertness of 2D single-layer hBN render it a promising membrane candidate for harvesting ionic gradient powers, even under extreme pH conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ran Liu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Man Yui Thomas Fung
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Li-Hsien Yeh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
- Advanced Manufacturing Research Center, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, 10607, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hao Chiang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Jhih-Sian Yang
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, 11677, Taiwan
| | - Pai-Chia Kuo
- Institute of Atomic and Molecular Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Jessie Shiue
- Institute of Atomic and Molecular Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Chen
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, 11677, Taiwan
- Institute of Atomic and Molecular Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Wei Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
- Center of Condensed Matter Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
- Center of Atomic Initiative for New Materials (AI-MAT), National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
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16
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Chu CW, Tsai CH. Surface Modification of Nanopores in an Anodic Aluminum Oxide Membrane through Dopamine-Assisted Codeposition with a Zwitterionic Polymer. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:5245-5254. [PMID: 38408434 PMCID: PMC10938887 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c03654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Surface modification through dopamine-assisted codeposition with functional zwitterionic polymers can provide a simple and one-step functionalization under ambient conditions with robust and stable dopamine-surface interactions to improve the hydrophilicity of nanoporous membranes, thereby expanding their applicability to nanofiltration, ion transport, and blood purification. However, a significant knowledge gap remains in our comprehension of the mechanisms underlying the formation and deposition of dopamine/polymer aggregated coatings within nanoscale confinement. This study explores a feasible method for membrane modification through the codeposition of dopamine hydrochloride (DA) and poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (PSBMA) on nanopores of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes. Our findings demonstrate that the aggregated coatings of DA and PSBMA nanocomposites can effectively deposit on the surfaces within cylindrical AAO nanopores, significantly enhancing the hydrophilicity of the nanoporous membranes. The morphology and homogeneity of the nanocomposite coatings within the nanopores are further investigated by varying PSBMA molecular weights and AAO pore sizes, revealing that higher molecular weights result in more uniform deposition. This work sheds light on understanding the codeposition of DA and zwitterionic polymers in nanoscale environments, highlighting a straightforward and stable surface modification process of nanoporous membranes involving functional polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Wei Chu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Feng Chia University, Xitun District, Taichung 40724, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsuan Tsai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Feng Chia University, Xitun District, Taichung 40724, Taiwan
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17
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Guo Y, Sun X, Ding S, Lu J, Wang H, Zhu Y, Jiang L. Charge-Gradient Sulfonated Poly(ether ether ketone) Membrane with Enhanced Ion Selectivity for Osmotic Energy Conversion. ACS NANO 2024; 18:7161-7169. [PMID: 38380884 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c11944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Engineered asymmetric heterogeneous ion-selective membranes have become a focal point for their improved efficiency in harnessing osmotic energy from ionic solutions with varying salinity. However, achieving both energy conversion efficiency and excellent chemical stability necessitates effectively mitigating the formation of detrimental interface cracks between two different layers. We develop a charge-gradient sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) membrane (CG-SPEEK) on a large-scale using a straightforward coating method. As an osmotic energy generator, CG-SPEEK membrane achieves an impressive output power density of 9.2 W m-2 and exhibits ultrahigh cation selectivity (0.99), with an energy conversion efficiency of 48% at a 50-fold NaCl concentration gradient. The results highlight the ion diode effects of CG-SPEEK, driven by a charge density gradient that accelerates cation transport while suppressing ion concentration polarization. Density functional theory simulations provide further insights, revealing that the energy barrier for Na+ ion transport through CG-SPEEK membrane is lower than that through a homogeneous SPEEK membrane. This work not only enhances our understanding of ion transport dynamics but also establishes the CG-SPEEK membrane as a promising candidate for efficient osmotic energy conversion applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Xiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shaosong Ding
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Huanting Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Ying Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-inspired Materials and Interfacial Science, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
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18
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Zhang K, Wu H, Zhang X, Dong H, Chen S, Xu Y, Xu F. Bacterial nanocellulose membrane with opposite surface charges for large-scale and large-area osmotic energy harvesting and ion transport. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129461. [PMID: 38237827 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
How to optimize ion-exchange membrane materials has been the key for researchers recently working on the use of reverse electrodialysis to harvest osmotic energy. Based on the considerations of improving membrane performance and conversion to large-area industrial production, this work first proposes an easy-industrialized strategy to treat bacterial cellulose membranes by hot pressing and hot pressing with etherification modification, and then to obtain anion-selective and cation-selective membrane pairs (PBC-M and NBC-M) with opposite charges. The PBC-M obtained by multi-step treatment has excellent hydrophobicity, good surface charge density, and more favorable nanochannel size for the functioning of double layer. The maximum output power density of 44.1 mW m-2 was obtained in artificial river water and seawater simulated salinity gradient power generation. Applied to a larger test area, the power output of the system where a single membrane is located can reach 2.2 × 10-3 mW, which is ahead of similar experimental products. The two membranes prepared can also be used in combination, which provides a new idea for full cell design. It's important to open up a new route for optimizing nanofluidic channel design, regulating ion flux transport, and advancing the large-scale industrialization of biomass nanofluidic membrane RED system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kejian Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China
| | - Hongqin Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China
| | - Huilin Dong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China
| | - Shen Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China
| | - Yanglei Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, PR China.
| | - Feng Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, MOE Engineering Research Center of Forestry Biomass Materials and Bioenergy, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, PR China; Key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, PR China.
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Wang J, Cui Z, Li S, Song Z, He M, Huang D, Feng Y, Liu Y, Zhou K, Wang X, Wang L. Unlocking osmotic energy harvesting potential in challenging real-world hypersaline environments through vermiculite-based hetero-nanochannels. Nat Commun 2024; 15:608. [PMID: 38242879 PMCID: PMC10799064 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44434-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Nanochannel membranes have demonstrated remarkable potential for osmotic energy harvesting; however, their efficiency in practical high-salinity systems is hindered by reduced ion selectivity. Here, we propose a dual-separation transport strategy by constructing a two-dimensional (2D) vermiculite (VMT)-based heterogeneous nanofluidic system via an eco-friendly and scalable method. The cations are initially separated and enriched in micropores of substrates during the transmembrane diffusion, followed by secondary precise sieving in ultra-thin VMT laminates with high ion flux. Resultantly, our nanofluidic system demonstrates efficient osmotic energy harvesting performance, especially in hypersaline environment. Notably, we achieve a maximum power density of 33.76 W m-2, a 6.2-fold improvement with a ten-fold increase in salinity gradient, surpassing state-of-the-art nanochannel membranes under challenging conditions. Additionally, we confirm practical hypersaline osmotic power generation using various natural salt-lake brines, achieving a power density of 25.9 W m-2. This work triggers the hopes for practical blue energy conversion using advanced nanoarchitecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China.
| | - Zheng Cui
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Shangzhen Li
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Zeyuan Song
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Miaolu He
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Danxi Huang
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuan Feng
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - YanZheng Liu
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Ke Zhou
- College of Energy, Soochow Institute for Energy and Materials InnovationS (SIEMIS), Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for Advanced Carbon Materials and Wearable Energy Technologies, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Xudong Wang
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Research Institute of Membrane Separation Technology of Shaanxi Province, Key Laboratory of Membrane Separation of Shaanxi Province, School of Environmental & Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, China.
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20
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Liu Y, Zhang S, Song R, Zeng H, Wang L. Preanchoring Enabled Directional Modification of Atomically Thin Membrane for High-Performance Osmotic Energy Generation. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:26-34. [PMID: 38117701 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c03041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Salinity gradient energy is an environmentally friendly energy source that possesses potential to meet the growing global energy demand. Although covalently modified nanoporous graphene membranes are prospective candidates to break the trade-off between ion selectivity and permeability, the random reaction sites and inevitable defects during modification reduce the reaction efficiency and energy conversion performance. Here, we developed a preanchoring method to achieve directional modification near the graphene nanopores periphery. Numerical simulation revealed that the improved surface charge density around nanopores results in exceptional K+/Cl- selectivity and osmotic energy conversion performance, which agreed well with experimental results. Ionic transport measurements showed that the directionally modified graphene membranes achieved an outstanding power density of 81.6 W m-2 with an energy conversion efficiency of 35.4% under a 100-fold salinity gradient, outperforming state-of-the-art graphene-based nanoporous membranes. This work provided a facile approach for precise modification of nanoporous graphene membranes and opened up new ways for osmotic power harvesting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuancheng Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, School of Integrated Circuits, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shengping Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, School of Integrated Circuits, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies and Center for Nanochemistry, Beijing Science and Engineering Center for Nanocarbons, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Beijing Graphene Institute, Beijing, China 100095, China
| | - Ruiyang Song
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, School of Integrated Circuits, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Haiou Zeng
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, School of Integrated Circuits, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Luda Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, School of Integrated Circuits, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies and Center for Nanochemistry, Beijing Science and Engineering Center for Nanocarbons, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Beijing Graphene Institute, Beijing, China 100095, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Integrated Circuits, Beijing, China 100871, China
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Ma S, Hao J, Hou Y, Zhao J, Lin C, Sui X. Confined amphipathic ionic-liquid regulated anodic aluminum oxide membranes with adjustable ion selectivity for improved osmotic energy conversion. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 653:1217-1224. [PMID: 37797497 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.09.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
To attain carbon neutrality and carbon peaking, there is an urgent need to convert the vast amount of blue energy present between seawater and river water into usable electricity. Reverse electrodialysis based on ion-exchange membranes is a promising way to efficiently achieve osmotic energy conversion. Anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes are frequently used for osmotic energy harvesting because of their uniform nanopore channels, high flux, and excellent stability. However, the existing surface modification methods are complex and inefficient. In this study, an amphiphilic ionic liquid was selected to modify a porous anodic alumina membrane via simple capillary insertion. Due to the abundance of pH-dependent amphiphilic OH groups on the surface of AAO pore channels, the ionic liquids not only provide abundant surface charge but can also intelligently adjust its surface charge to different environments. In addition, it fills the AAO nanochannels to provide a continuous ion transport network. The modified hybrid membrane achieves efficient and stable osmotic energy conversion performance. This simple and feasible strategy paves the way for further improvements in commercial membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhui Ma
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Jinlin Hao
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yushuang Hou
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Jiawei Zhao
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Cuncai Lin
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xin Sui
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
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Qiao N, Li Z, Zhang Z, Guo H, Liao J, Lu W, Li C. Effect of membrane thermal conductivity on ion current rectification in conical nanochannels under asymmetric temperature. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1278:341724. [PMID: 37709465 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, there have been extensively theoretical studies on the phenomenon of ion current rectification (ICR) induced by the asymmetric electrical double layer (EDL). As a key factor influencing the behavior of ion transport, temperature is given high priority by researchers. The thermal conductivity of the material commonly employed to prepare nanopores is 2-3 times higher than that of liquid solutions, which may affect ion transport within the nanochannel. However, it is often neglected in previous studies. Thus, we investigate the effect of membrane thermal conductivity on the ICR in conical nanochannels under asymmetric temperature. Based on the PNP-NS theoretical model, the ion current, the rectification ratio, as well as the temperature and ion concentration distributions along the nanochannel are calculated. It is found that the thermal conductivity of the solid membrane noticeably affects the temperature distribution across the nanochannel, altering the ion transport behavior. Larger membrane thermal conductivity tends to homogenize the temperature distribution in the nanochannel, leading to a decline of ionic thermal down-diffusion by a positive temperature difference and ionic thermal up-diffusion by a negative temperature difference, with the former promoting and the latter inhibiting ion current. As a result, the rectification ratio decreases under the positive temperature difference and increases under the negative temperature difference as the thermal conductivity of the membrane increases. These studies will be instructive for the design of nanofluidic diodes and biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Qiao
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Zhenquan Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Hengyi Guo
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Jiaqiang Liao
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Wei Lu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China
| | - Changzheng Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Electrochemical Energy Materials, Nanning, Guangxi, 530004, China.
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