Heterogeneity of multiple-pore membranes investigated with ion conductance microscopy

Anal Chem. 2012 Mar 20;84(6):3003-9. doi: 10.1021/ac300257q. Epub 2012 Feb 29.

Abstract

Heterogeneous conductance of individual pores on a porous membrane was studied with a four-electrode scanning ion conductance microscope (SICM). Application of a potential difference across the membrane resulted in migration of ions through nanopores, where subsequent conductance changes were measured by a nanopipet positioned above the nanopore as a change in pipet current. Current responses of single-pore membranes and individual pores within a multipore membrane were examined and demonstrated variations in ion current rectification (ICR) ratios due to the small differences in pore geometries.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Electric Conductivity
  • Electrodes
  • Equipment Design
  • Ions / chemistry*
  • Membranes, Artificial*
  • Microscopy / instrumentation*
  • Nanopores / ultrastructure*
  • Porosity

Substances

  • Ions
  • Membranes, Artificial