(Closed) (DesalMem) Development of Ultra-Efficient Nanoporous Membranes for Desalination based on Transition Metal Carbonitrides

At a glance

Key Expected Outcomes

TitleDevelopment of Ultra-Efficient Nanoporous Membranes for Desalination based on Transition Metal Carbonitrides
Reference2022.15645.UTA
Scientific AreaNano Materials for New Markets
Funding (US)100 000 USD
Leading InstitutionsInstituto de Polímeros e Compósitos, University of Minho, PT

The University of Texas at Austin, US
Duration12 months
Start dateSeptember 24, 2024
End dateDecember 31, 2025
KeywordsDesalination; MXene; Atomistic Modeling

What is DesalMem about?

The project aims to to develop desalination membranes based on 2D transition-metal carbides and nitrides (MXenes). We will explore the idea of introducing sub-nanometer in-plane nanopores in MXene layers to increase its ion-sieving properties while also increasing its water permeability. The team will use computational methods to study the transport through different pore structures and identify the optimal one. This project will advance the desalination science and technology.

How will DesalMem contribute to develop better materials for desalination membranes?

The team will perform atomistic modeling using density functional theory and molecular dynamics to identify the optimal materials and structures, which can be experimentally tested. This may lead to better desalination membranes to meet the increasing global needs for fresh water.

Project Team

Bruno Faria

Assistant Researcher at Instituto de Polímeros e Compósitos, Universidade do Minho, PT

Yuanyue Liu

Associate Professor at The University of Texas at Austin, US