Solvent-free lipid bimolecular membranes of large surface area

The formation of a solvent-free lipid bimolecular membrane of large surface area (approx. 2 mm2) by the successive transfer of two monolayers upon an aperature of a closed chamber has been demonstrated. The electrical parameters of the membrane appear to be similar to the conventional Montal-Mueller solvent-free membrane. The use of a closed chamber greatly increases the stability of the membrane to mechanical disturbances and produces hydrostatic equilibrium necessary for electrical measurements.