Porous organic cages as synthetic water channels

Yi Di Yuan, Jinqiao Dong, Jie Liu, Daohui Zhao, Hui Wu, Wei Zhou, Hui Xian Gan, Yen Wah Tong, Jianwen Jiang () and Dan Zhao ()
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Yi Di Yuan: National University of Singapore
Jinqiao Dong: National University of Singapore
Jie Liu: National University of Singapore
Daohui Zhao: National University of Singapore
Hui Wu: NIST Center for Neutron Research, National Institute of Standards and Technology
Wei Zhou: NIST Center for Neutron Research, National Institute of Standards and Technology
Hui Xian Gan: National University of Singapore
Yen Wah Tong: National University of Singapore
Jianwen Jiang: National University of Singapore
Dan Zhao: National University of Singapore

Nature Communications, 2020, vol. 11, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Nature has protein channels (e.g., aquaporins) that preferentially transport water molecules while rejecting even the smallest hydrated ions. Aspirations to create robust synthetic counterparts have led to the development of a few one-dimensional channels. However, replicating the performance of the protein channels in these synthetic water channels remains a challenge. In addition, the dimensionality of the synthetic water channels also imposes engineering difficulties to align them in membranes. Here we show that zero-dimensional porous organic cages (POCs) with nanoscale pores can effectively reject small cations and anions while allowing fast water permeation (ca. 109 water molecules per second) on the same magnitude as that of aquaporins. Water molecules are found to preferentially flow in single-file, branched chains within the POCs. This work widens the choice of water channel morphologies for water desalination applications.

Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18639-7

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