Scalable and highly selective graphene-based ion-exchange membranes with tunable permselectivity

Abstract Graphene oxide (GO) membranes have been proved to be ion-selective thanks their oxidized functional groups, which are naturally present on its surface. This ion selectivity, together with good mechanical strength, low cost, and simple synthesis, makes GO a great alternative material conventional costly polymers for the production of ion-exchange membranes. work focuses how produce as scalable approach tunable permselectivity. Their physicochemical properties were subsequently investigated by means selected characterization techniques. Results showed that selectivity size exclusion towards monovalent cations, reaching permselectivity up 96%. Interestingly, UV-light irradiation can also proposed green reduction method. increases due both decrease in dimension nanochannels swelling degree The addition binders was improve membranes’ properties. Finally, ionic resistance measured impedance spectroscopy, achieving 4.6 Ω cm 2 , orders magnitude lower than state-of-the-art graphene oxide-based