Converting molecular monolayers into functional membranes

Abstract

Carbon nanomembranes are constructed from monolayers of molecular amphiphiles assembled on a water surface. The floating molecular film is cross-linked to form a mechanically stable nanomembrane. By varying the type of molecules, the surface area, and the exposure condition, the membrane's stiffness, thickness, and permeability can be tailored.

Keywords: 2D films; cross-linking; monolayers; nanomembranes; nanosheets.