Archaea-Inspired Switchable Nanochannels for On-Demand Lithium Detection by pH Activation.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The rapid growth of the lithium-ion battery industry has led to increased environmental lithium (Li) levels, raising concerns about biotoxicity.
• Current methods for detecting lithium ions (Li+) lack selectivity, sensitivity, and stability, hindering rapid and accurate monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a pH-controlled, biomimetic solid-state nanochannel system for on-demand lithium ion (Li+) detection.
• To create a Li+-responsive system inspired by archaeal ion exchangers for enhanced detection capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Designed a nanochannel system incorporating 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)benzoxazole (HPBO) as a Li+ recognition unit.
• Utilized pH control to modulate HPBO's charge and its specific coordination with Li+.
• Monitored changes in ionic currents through the nanochannel to quantify Li+ concentration.

Main Results:

• The biomimetic nanochannel system demonstrated specific Li+ recognition (>0.1 mM) under alkaline conditions.
• The system achieved precise and stable detection of Li+ within the toxic concentration range (>1.5 mM).
• HPBO's negative charge facilitated Li+ coordination, reducing nanochannel ion exchange capacity.

Conclusions:

• The developed nanochannel system offers a new approach for constructing Li+ detection nanodevices.
• This technology has potential applications in Li-related industries and medical services for monitoring lithium levels.