Electro-osmotic diode based on colloidal nano-valves between double membranes

The rectification of electro-osmotic flows is important in micro- and nano-fluidics applications such as micropumps energy conversion devices. Here, we propose a simple diode which colloidal particles are contained between two parallel membranes with different pore densities. While the flow forward direction just pushes toward high-pore-density membrane, backward blocked by near low-pore-density clog pores. Nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations show strong nonlinear dependence on electric field for both current flow, indicating characteristics. A mathematical model to reproduce behavior constructed, introducing an effective diameter pores clogged particles. Good agreement obtained proposed estimated parameter values results direct simulations. has potential application downsized microfluidic pumps, e.g., pump induced under AC fields.