Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026

08:36
Triplet Fusion Upconversion Nanocapsule Synthesis
Published on: September 7, 2022
Nanocapsules with "invisible" walls.
Sergey A Dergunov1, Beata Miksa, Bill Ganus
1Institute for Nanomaterials Development and Innovation at the University of Memphis (INDIUM) and Department of Chemistry, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA.
Summary
Directed assembly creates nanometre-thin membranes from lipid bilayers. These advanced membranes allow free ion transport but block medium-sized molecules, offering selective permeability for various applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials science
- Membrane technology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Lipid bilayers are fundamental biological structures with selective permeability.
- Controlling membrane properties at the nanoscale is crucial for advanced separation and transport applications.
- Directed assembly offers a method for precise fabrication of nanostructures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare nanometre-thin membranes using directed assembly within lipid bilayers.
- To investigate the transport properties of these engineered membranes.
- To demonstrate selective permeability for ions versus medium-sized molecules.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of nanometre-thin membranes via directed assembly.
- Incorporation of membranes within lipid bilayer structures.
- Ion and molecule transport assays to assess membrane function.
Main Results:
- Successfully prepared nanometre-thin membranes with controlled structure.
- Demonstrated unhindered transport of ions across the membranes.
- Confirmed impermeability of the membranes to medium-sized molecules.
Conclusions:
- Directed assembly within lipid bilayers is an effective method for creating selective nanometre-thin membranes.
- These membranes exhibit precise control over transport, allowing ions while blocking larger molecules.
- Potential applications in separation technologies, drug delivery, and biosensing.

