Nanoscale Pore-Pore Coupling Effect on Ion Transport through Ordered Porous Monolayers

Distinct from the conventional view that nanopores are considered independent channels for mass transport, recent study on the covalent organic framework (COF)-based monolayers characteristic of an ordered nanopore array exhibits a series of interesting properties originating from the strong interactions between adjacent pores. These interactions are determined to be highly dependent on interpore distance and pose a significant influence on the ion transport, accounting for the exceptional membrane performance including both selectivity and conductance. In this Perspective, we discuss the recently discovered nanoscale pore-pore coupling as well as the exciting features of porous nanostructures. We also look at the challenges and future opportunities of ion transport in ordered porous monolayers in the aspects of both fundamental research and practical use.

Automated summary

This Perspective discusses the strong interactions between adjacent pores in an ordered nanopore array of covalent organic framework-based monolayers, highlighting their impact on ion transport and showcasing the exciting features of porous nanostructures.