Ion dynamics and Manipulation Under Extreme Confinement

Ion dynamics and precise control in nanochannels play key roles biological systems, energy conversation, environmental engineering. However, the mechanics behaviors of ions their manipulation mechanism under extreme confinement remain largely unexplored. Biological ion channels acting as life’s transistors can gate simultaneously fast selective transport through atomic-scale filters to maintain vital life functions. This inspiration motivates quest for artificial structures with simultaneous functions selectivity, electrical gating at atomic scale. Here, we experimentally investigate graphene 3 angstrom size report an transistor exhibiting ultrafast highly controlled by gating, where diffusion coefficient reaches two orders magnitude higher than that bulk water. We observe has a threshold behavior due critical barrier hydrated insertion, similar channels. Our situ optical measurements suggest likely originates from dense packing concerted movement inside is analogous “Newton’s cradle” [1]. discovery opens door both fundamental understanding applications such water desalination, mineral extraction, medical dialysis.