Novel membrane design mimics protein channels for efficient energy harvesting

A analysis crew from the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Expertise of the Chinese language Academy of Sciences, together with collaborators, has launched a novel membrane design that mimics organic protein channels to boost proton transport for environment friendly power harvesting. The research was published within the Journal of the American Chemical Society.

Proton transport is prime to many organic processes and power conversion strategies. Impressed by the ClC-ec1 antiporter present in Escherichia coli, which facilitates the motion of chloride (Cl^–) and protons, the researchers developed a hybrid membrane composed of covalent natural frameworks (COFs) built-in with aramid nanofibers (ANFs).

This ANF/COF composite kinds a strong hydrogen-bonding community and options amide teams that selectively bind to Cl^– ions, considerably reducing the energy barrier for proton conduction.

In acidic environments, including simply 0.1% Cl^– ions (relative to protons) will increase the membrane’s proton permeation charge threefold, reaching 9.8 mol m^-2 h^-1. This enhancement was not noticed with different anions like NO₃^– or SO₄^2-, emphasizing the distinctive position of Cl^–.

The system’s proton hopping mechanism, validated by way of spectroscopy and density practical principle (DFT) calculations, demonstrates that Cl^– binding stretches ANF chains, improves hydrogen-bond networks, and permits environment friendly migration of H⁺ ions.

Importantly, the membrane’s efficiency interprets into real-world functions. Below simulated acidic wastewater situations, the ANF/COF membrane achieved an output energy density of 434.8 W m^-2—one of many highest reported thus far for osmotic power technology. It additionally confirmed structural stability over 9,000 minutes (~150 hours) of operation in extremely acidic media.

“This work exemplifies how mimicking nature can address real environmental and energy challenges,” stated co-corresponding creator Prof. Zhu Ying from Beihang University. “Our membrane not only enhances proton transport efficiency but also opens the door to converting industrial waste acid into electricity.”

This research highlights a novel Cl^–-assisted proton transport paradigm, offering a blueprint for next-generation membranes in power and environmental functions.