Nanopores are much more than just tiny holes. A new study has revealed the amazing ability of nanopores to selectively permeate ions and molecules, an ability that could be used to create a new generation of sensors and separators. This technology could allow researchers to create highly specialized nanopore membranes that can be used to selectively sort various molecules and ions with remarkable precision. The research team used a combination of advanced molecular dynamics simulations and experimental techniques to analyze the dynamics of the nanopore membrane and how it can selectively permeate molecules and ions. They found that the membrane can be tuned to selectively allow molecules or ions of a certain size or charge to pass through it, while blocking those with a different size or charge. This phenomenon, called permselectivity, could open the door to a wide range of applications, from water purification to drug delivery.

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source: Phys.org