Single-Layer Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanopores as High-Performance Ionic Gradient Power Generators

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Energy Harvesting

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D) materials are promising for ionic gradient energy harvesting.
• Developing robust 2D nanopore membranes with high ionic selectivity and permeability is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate single-layer hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanopores as high-performance ion-gradient nanopower harvesters.
• To investigate the potential of hBN membranes for energy generation under extreme pH conditions.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication and characterization of single-layer hBN nanopore membranes.
• Measurement of ion transport and power generation under varying ionic gradients.
• Testing membrane performance in highly acidic and alkaline environments.

Main Results:

• hBN nanopores exhibit fast proton transport and excellent cation selectivity due to ultrathin thickness and large surface charge.
• A single hBN nanopore generates up to ≈3 nW of proton-gradient power under a 1000-fold ionic gradient.
• hBN membranes demonstrate robust power generation from acid-base neutralization, reaching ≈4.5 nW with 1 M HCl/KOH.

Conclusions:

• Single-layer hBN nanopores are highly effective for harvesting ionic gradient power, even in extreme pH environments.
• The unique properties of hBN, including its ultrathin nature, large surface charge, and chemical inertness, make it ideal for advanced energy harvesting applications.