Researchers from the University of Manchester, led by Dr. Ravalika Sajja, have recently published a study in the journal Nature Communications that sheds light on the impact of hydrocarbon contamination on angstrom-scale channels, which are incredibly narrow spaces measured in fractions of a nanometer. The team, which includes experts in materials science and nanofluidics, has been investigating how these tiny channels can become clogged and how to keep them clean for practical applications.
The researchers focused on the adsorption of hexane, a hydrocarbon, onto the surfaces of these ultra-narrow channels. They found that the degree of clogging depends on the size difference between the channels and the hexane molecules. In channels thinner than 2 nanometers, they observed a dynamic process where the channels could become clogged and then “revive” or clear themselves. This self-cleansing behavior is a promising finding for the stability and long-term use of these nanochannels.
The team demonstrated that the channels could remain stable for up to three years and that thermal treatment could effectively remove contamination and unclog the channels. This is crucial for the practical applications of nanofluidics in fields such as molecular sensing, separation, and power generation. The researchers also provided a method to assess the cleanliness of nanoporous membranes, which is vital for ensuring the reliability of these technologies in real-world settings.
For the energy industry, this research could have significant implications. For instance, in the development of advanced filtration systems for separating and capturing specific molecules, such as in carbon capture and storage technologies. The ability to maintain clean and stable nanochannels could enhance the efficiency and longevity of these systems. Additionally, in the field of energy generation, particularly in technologies that rely on molecular transport, such as certain types of fuel cells, understanding and mitigating contamination could lead to more robust and efficient devices.
In summary, the study highlights the importance of maintaining the cleanliness and stability of angstrom-scale channels for their practical applications. The self-cleansing nature of sub-2 nm thin channels and the effectiveness of thermal treatment in removing contamination are key takeaways that could inform the development of new technologies in the energy sector and beyond.
Source: Nature Communications, “Hydrocarbon Contamination in Angstrom-scale Channels” by Ravalika Sajja et al.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.