Hydrocarbon contamination in angström-scale channels

Nonspecific molecular adsorption like airborne contamination occurs on most surfaces including those of 2D materials and alters their properties. While the surface is studied using a plethora techniques, effect confined system such as nanochannels, nanopores leading to clogging still lacking. We report systematic investigation hydrocarbon in angstrom slit channels varied heights. Hexane chosen mimic angstrom-channels evaluated via Helium gas flow measurement. The level hexane adsorption, other words, degree depends size difference between hexane. A dynamic transition revival process shown sub-2 nm thin channels. Long-term storage stability our demonstrated here up three years, alleviating unclogging thermal treatment. This study highlights importance nanochannels demonstrates self-cleansing nature enabling robust platform for transport separation studies. provide method assess cleanliness nanoporous membranes, which vital practical applications nanofluidics various fields sensing, power generation.