• By applying voltage to electrically control a new “transistor” membrane, researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) achieved real-time tuning of ion separations-a capability previously thought impossible. • The recent work, which could make precision separation processes like water treatment, drug delivery and rare earth element extraction more efficient, was published in Science Advances.
Article Summaries:
- Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have demonstrated a voltage‑controlled MXene membrane that functions as a transistor, enabling real‑time tuning of ion separations. Published in Science Advances, the study shows that applying an electric field to the membrane alters its ion‑selective properties-a capability previously thought impossible. This breakthrough could improve precision separation processes, including water purification, targeted drug delivery, and extraction of rare‑earth elements, by allowing dynamic adjustment of membrane selectivity. The work highlights the potential of MXene materials for advanced separation technologies.
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