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Proton and Li-Ion Permeation through Graphene with Eight-Atom-Ring Defects
Eoin Griffin1, Lucas Mogg1, Guang-Ping Hao1,2
1Department of Physics and Astronomy & National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
ACS Nano
|May 20, 2020
Summary
Defective graphene films block molecules but dramatically increase proton and lithium ion permeability, offering potential for advanced energy technologies. This study experimentally validates predictions about defect-enhanced membrane performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Graphene's impermeability to gases and liquids is well-established.
- Defects in graphene are theoretically predicted to enhance proton and ion transport.
- Experimental validation of defect-induced permeability changes in graphene has been lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally investigate the effect of atomic-scale defects on graphene's permeability to protons and ions.
- To quantify the enhancement in proton and ion transport through disordered graphene.
- To explore the potential applications of defective graphene in energy technologies.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of atomically thin carbon films with a high density of atomic-scale defects.
- Experimental measurement of gas, proton, and lithium ion transport across these films.
- Computational analysis of energy barriers for ion transport through different ring structures in graphene.
Main Results:
- Disordered graphene films effectively blocked molecular transport.
- Proton permeability was enhanced by approximately 1000 times compared to defect-free graphene.
- Lithium ions were also observed to permeate through the disordered graphene films.
- Eight-carbon-atom rings in defective graphene were identified as low-energy pathways for protons and Li ions.
Conclusions:
- Atomic-scale defects significantly enhance proton and ion permeability in graphene while maintaining molecular blocking capabilities.
- Disordered graphene, particularly with eight-carbon-atom rings, presents a promising material for advanced membranes.
- These findings support the potential use of disordered graphene in lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen technologies.
