Single-layer MoS2 nanopores as nanopower generators

Title	Single-layer MoS2 nanopores as nanopower generators
Authors	Jiandong Feng, Michael Graf, Ke Liu, Dmitry Ovchinnikov, Dumitru Dumcenco, Mohammad Heiranian, Vishal Nandigana, Narayana R. Aluru, Andras Kis, Aleksandra Radenovic
Magazine	Nature
Date	07/13/2016
DOI	10.1038/nature18593
Introduction	Harnessing the osmotic pressure difference between fresh water and seawater offers a compelling, renewable, and clean method for power generation, often referred to as 'blue energy'. This process involves an electrokinetic phenomenon known as the streaming potential, which arises when an electrolyte flows through confined pores due to either a pressure gradient or a salt concentration gradient. Two-dimensional materials are considered highly efficient for such applications, given that water transport efficiency through a membrane is inversely proportional to its thickness. This research showcases the utility of single-layer molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) nanopores as osmotic nanopower generators. We recorded a substantial osmotically induced current resulting from a salt gradient, achieving an estimated power density of up to 1 000 000 watts per square metre. This current primarily originates from the atomically thin MoS2 membrane. Furthermore, the low power demands of nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices can be met by adjacent nanogenerators that convert energy from the local environment, such as a piezoelectric zinc oxide nanowire array or single-layer MoS2. We successfully employed our MoS2 nanopore generator to power a MoS2 transistor, thereby demonstrating a fully self-reliant nanosystem.
Quote	Jiandong Feng, Michael Graf and Ke Liu et al. Single-layer MoS2 nanopores as nanopower generators. Nature. 2016. Vol. 536(7615):197-200. DOI: 10.1038/nature18593
Element	Molybdenum (Mo) , Sulfur (S) , Zinc (Zn) , Oxygen (O)
Topics	Energy Materials , Photonic and Optoelectronic Materials , Smart and Functional Materials
Industry	Electronics , Energy Storage & Batteries , Research & Laboratory