Voltage-Gated Membranes Incorporating Cucurbit[ n]uril Molecular Containers for Molecular Nanofiltration

J Am Chem Soc. 2022 Apr 13;144(14):6483-6492. doi: 10.1021/jacs.2c01263. Epub 2022 Mar 29.

Abstract

Smart voltage-gated nanofiltration membranes have enormous potential for on-demand and precise separation of similar molecules, which is an essential element of sustainable water purification and resource recovery. However, the existing voltage-gated membranes are hampered by limited selectivity, stability, and scalability due to electroactive monomer dimerization. Here, for the first time, the host-guest recognition properties of cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) are used to protect the viologen derivatives and promote their assembly into the membrane by interfacial polymerization. Viologen functions as a voltage switch, whereas CB[7] complexation prevents its dimerization and improves its redox stability. The inhibited diffusion of the CB[7]-viologen complex enables the precise patterning of the surface structure. The resultant voltage-gated membrane displays 80% improved rejection performance, excellent recovery accuracy for similar molecules, and anti-fouling properties. This work not only provides an innovative strategy for the preparation of voltage-gated smart nanofiltration membranes but also opens up new avenues for ion-selective transmission in water treatment, bionic ion channels, and energy conversion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bridged-Ring Compounds* / chemistry
  • Dimerization
  • Imidazoles* / chemistry
  • Viologens

Substances

  • Bridged-Ring Compounds
  • Imidazoles
  • Viologens