Graphene Membraned Blocks Helium and Other Gasses, Allows Water Through

In summary, the article discusses a study on graphene membranes that allow water to flow freely while blocking other gases such as helium and hydrogen. The study suggests that the spacing between the layers of graphene is crucial, with a free channel spacing of five angstroms allowing for a low-friction flow of water. The authors also propose the existence of a percolating network of graphene nanocapillaries that allows water to move between layers and traverse the membrane. The article does not explain why helium and hydrogen are blocked, but the original paper linked suggests that this particular arrangement of graphite may be the cause.
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Drakkith
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Just read this article and figured I'd share it: http://arstechnica.com/science/news...-things-are-just-right-water-flows-freely.ars

However I do have a question. The article never explained why helium, hydrogen, and other gasses were being blocked, they only explained how water was allowed through. Per the article:
To explain how this was possible, the authors hypothesized that the size between the layers of graphene were just right. They suggest that, at a free channel spacing of just about five angstroms, a monolayer of water forms that is capable of undergoing a low-friction flow in the two-dimension channels that exist between the layers (take that, no slip hypothesis!). To move between layers—and hence traverse the membrane—the authors posit that a percolating network of graphene nanocapillaries exists that allows the water to flow throughout and across the membrane.

What about this particular way of assembling the graphite would cause helium and hydrogen to not leak out?
 
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FAQ: Graphene Membraned Blocks Helium and Other Gasses, Allows Water Through

What is graphene?

Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, making it the thinnest and strongest material known to mankind.

How does graphene membrane block helium and other gases?

Graphene has a dense and tightly packed structure, making it difficult for gas molecules to pass through. It also has a low permeability, meaning that even small gas molecules like helium cannot diffuse through the membrane.

Why does graphene allow water through?

Despite its ability to block gases, graphene is highly permeable to water molecules due to their small size and their ability to fit through the gaps between the carbon atoms in the lattice.

What are the potential applications of this technology?

The ability to selectively block gases and allow water through makes graphene membranes useful for desalination, water filtration, and gas separation in various industries such as energy production and medical technology.

Are there any challenges in using graphene membranes?

While graphene membranes have many potential applications, there are still challenges in producing large and high-quality membranes at a low cost. Additionally, the long-term stability and scalability of graphene membranes are still being researched.

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