Subatomic species transport through atomically thin membranes: Present and future applications

Atomically thin two-dimensional materials present opportunities for selective transport of subatomic species. The pristine lattice of monolayer graphene and hexagonal boron nitride, although impermeable to helium atoms, allows for transmission of electrons and permits transport of thermal protons and its isotopes. We discuss advances in selective subatomic species transport through atomically thin membranes and their potential for transformative advances in energy storage and conversion, isotope separations, in situ electron microscopy and spectroscopy, and future electronic applications. We outline technological challenges and opportunities for these applications and discuss early adoption in imaging and spectroscopy that are starting to become commercially available, as well as emerging applications in the nuclear industry and future application potential in grid storage, clean/green transportation, environmental remediation, and others.

Automated summary

Atomically thin two-dimensional materials offer opportunities for selective transport of subatomic species, including electrons and thermal protons. These technologies have transformative potential in energy storage, isotope separations, electron microscopy, and other applications, but are currently facing technological challenges.