Diatom-inspired biomimetic nanochannels with wettability regulation for highly selective BPA detection and removal

Organic pollutants, with strong persistence and high accumulation, pose significant threats to ecosystem stability and human health. Developing high-performance purification membrane for on demand detection and removal of organic pollutants is of paramount significance and remains a challenge. In nature, diatoms feature delicate, highly ordered nanoporous structures that efficiently adsorb different substances, including organic pollutants, heavy metal ions, and biomolecules. Herein, inspired by diatoms' purification mechanism, we designed and constructed a biomimetic nanochannel membrane with wettability regulation for highly selective bisphenol A (BPA) detection and removal. By leveraging the unique nanochannel array structure and the host-guest interaction of surface-anchored β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), the biomimetic nanochannels exhibit excellent BPA responsiveness through wettability regulation, with high selectivity and sensitivity. Upon alternating exposure to BPA and oxidation conditions, the system realizes cyclic and reversible BPA detection with distinct current responses, showcasing the excellent reusability of the nanodevices. Furthermore, the nanochannel membrane can be successfully employed for the efficient adsorption and removal of BPA on demand in aquatic environments. This nanodevice provides a facile, efficient, and versatile biosensing platform for precise BPA analysis and removal, holding significant potential for advancing the development of high-performance biomimetic materials in environmental pollutant treatment.