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Controlled Release of Molecular Intercalants from Two-Dimensional Nanosheet Films
Muchun Liu1, Deisy C Carvalho Fernandes2, Zachary S S L Saleeba2
1Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
ACS Nano
|December 6, 2021
Summary
Controlled release of molecules from 2D nanosheet hybrids is achieved by tuning diffusion through nanochannels. This study demonstrates how material design, including texturing, can precisely manage release rates for applications like antiviral agent delivery.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets can form heterostructures with molecular solutes, enabling controlled release of functional agents.
- Existing methods lack systematic design for controlling release kinetics (rate and lifetime) in these hybrids.
- Understanding molecular transport within layered solids is crucial for targeted applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and quantify the release kinetics of molecular agents from graphene oxide (GO)/molecular hybrids.
- To develop and validate a numerical model for predicting molecular release based on internal transport processes.
- To explore material design strategies for controlling release rates and extending release duration.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of various graphene oxide (GO)/molecular hybrids via solution co-deposition.
- Transient experiments to characterize release kinetics, locations, and mechanisms.
- Numerical modeling of internal transport processes to extract diffusion coefficients.
- In-plane texturing of films (wrinkling/crumpling) to modify release characteristics.
Main Results:
- Release kinetics were successfully modeled by internal transport, revealing diffusion coefficients 8 orders of magnitude lower than in free solution.
- Nanochannel confinement and serpentine path effects significantly retard molecular diffusion.
- In-plane texturing (wrinkling/crumpling) offers a design tool to modulate release rates.
- Controlled release of chemical virucidal agents was demonstrated as a key application.
Conclusions:
- 2D nanosheet-molecular heterostructures provide a platform for controlled molecular release.
- Molecular diffusion within nanochannels dictates release kinetics, enabling extended release durations.
- Material design, including mechanical texturing, is effective for tailoring release profiles for specific applications.
