Constructing Two-Dimensional (2D) Heterostructure Channels with Engineered Biomembrane and Graphene for Precise...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Rare earth elements (REEs) possess unique properties driving diverse applications.
• Separating REEs with similar chemical properties, like scandium ions (Sc³⁺), presents significant challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for the precise recognition and efficient separation of target rare earth ions.
• To construct and evaluate two-dimensional (2D) heterogeneous channels for selective ion sieving.

Main Methods:

• Engineered E. coli membranes were integrated between graphene oxide (GO) layers to create 2D heterogeneous channels.
• Lanmodulin (LanM) within the channels facilitated selective binding and conformational changes for Sc³⁺ recognition.
• The structural integrity and functionality of LanM were maintained by the E. coli membranes, which also controlled channel spacing.

Main Results:

• The 2D heterogeneous channels demonstrated high selectivity for trivalent ions, particularly Sc³⁺ (SF_Fe/Sc≈3, SF_Ce/Sc≈167, SF_La/Sc≈103).
• The engineered membranes exhibited excellent long-term stability and resistance to tensile strain.
• The method proved effective in preventing membrane swelling and achieving sub-nanometer interlayer spacing.

Conclusions:

• A simple, efficient, and cost-effective strategy for constructing 2D interlayer heterogeneous channels was established.
• This approach offers a promising solution for the precise sieving and efficient extraction of scandium from rare earth elements.