Charge transport in graphene oxide

Abstract

The transport of ionic species in nano-fluidic channels has recently attracted tremendous interest in various research areas. This is because extraordinary nanoscale transport phenomena have been achieved in these materials, including ultrafast and highly selective ion movement. A variety of organic and inorganic materials have been employed to construct nano-channels or nano-pores with controlled sizes and dimensions. In particular, because of its unique two-dimensional planar architecture, as well as the possession of numerous oxygenated functionalities, GO has emerged as a promising building block for high-performance nano-fluidic ion channels. The simple exfoliation-reconstruction approach can readily assemble individual GO sheets into a free-standing, layered, film-like structure. In addition to its utilization as a versatile solid support for nano-fluidic ion transport, GO can play different but positive roles as a filler in composite electrolytes, as a mixed proton/electron conductor, and as a selective ion permeation membrane. Herein, we summarize the recent advances in the transport of ionic species within GO-based electrolytes. Moreover, the perspectives and current challenges of this promising field are discussed.