Template synthesized gold nanotube membranes for chemical separations and sensing

We have developed a new class of synthetic membranes that consist of a porous polymeric support that contains an ensemble of gold nanotubes that span the thickness of the support membrane. The support is a commercially-available microporous polycarbonate filter with cylindrical nanoscopic pores. The gold nanotubes are prepared via electroless deposition of Au onto the pore walls; i.e., the pores acts as templates for the nanotubes. We have shown that by controlling the Au deposition time, Au nanotubes that have effective inside diameters of molecular dimensions (< 1 nm) can be prepared. These membranes are a new class of molecular sieves and can be used to separate both small molecules and proteins on the basis of molecular size. In addition, the use of these membranes in new approaches to electrochemical sensing is reviewed here. In this case, a current is forced through the nanotubes, and analyte molecules present in a contacting solution phase modulate the value of this transmembrane current.