New ultrathin nanosheets set to transform dirtiest water into lifesaving resource: Aussie-led study

[Judi Lynn]

Source: Xinhua| 2020-06-06 20:25:27|Editor: huaxia

SYDNEY, June 6 (Xinhua) -- Australian-led researchers on Saturday said they have developed a new ultrathin porous membrane that completely separates potentially harmful ions such as lead and mercury from water, pointing to crucial clean drinking supplies for people globally through purification and desalination processes.

The researchers, led by Monash University and Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organization, developed the molecular sieve membrane using 2D nanosheets and "demonstrated their near perfection as building materials for membranes in ion separation from water", according to a university statement.

The nanosheets "can help remove harmful carcinogens from the atmosphere by creating highly porous membranes to facilitate the separation processes of gases and organic solvents, such as paint."

"In this world-first study, we were able to ... create a membrane that is permeable to water while achieving maximum porosity with nearly 100 percent rejection of ions. This study shows promise for the future application of this membrane to other filtration processes, such as gas separation," research study leader Xiwang Zhang said. The latest findings were published in academic journal Science Advances.

More:
http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-06/06/c_139119345.htm

[Beakybird]

1. Thank God for geniuses.

[msongs]

2. after toxic stuff is seperated, what will be done it? nt

[Midnight Writer]

3. I hope this plays out as effective. Water, I'm afraid, will be the next big commodity.