Nanopore Creation in Graphene at the Nanoscale for Water Desalination

Graphene-based 2D materials are renowned for their electrical, optical, magnetic, and mechanical properties. However, achieving stable, freestanding membranes for water desalination remains a major challenge. In response, we introduce a pioneering concept of a graphene device-based water filtration system. This system, featuring two graphene electrodes with nanopores, achieves the highest permeability value of 1208 L/h·m²·bar while maintaining a 100% salt rejection due to the electric field. We present a straightforward method for controlling membrane pore sizes at the nanoscale using argon-plasma magnetron sputtering, demonstrating that the nanopores in graphene are controllable and potentially size-tunable. Furthermore, we enhance the membrane by incorporating two types of substrates, SiO₂ and SiC, making our concept more practical for industrial applications while preserving excellent desalination performances.