A Poisson/Nernst-Planck model for ionic transport through synthetic conical nanopores

A theoretical model for ionic transport through synthetic conical nanopores obtained using the track-etching technique is presented. The model is based on the Poisson and Nernst-Planck equations. The results provided by the theory are compared with recent experimental current-voltage curves obtained for polymeric membranes containing single, gold-coated conical nanopores. The calculated profiles of average concentration and electric potential along the pore symmetry axis allow for an intuitive explanation of the recti. cation properties observed in these systems.