Biological and Biomimetic Membranes

Abstract

This chapter focuses on lipid and polymer‐based biomimetic membranes for separations. We first discuss the structure, organization, and transport properties of biological membranes that form the inspiration for biomimetic membranes with a focus on aspects relevant to synthetic membrane development. This is followed by a description of the novel properties and current strategies for synthesis of biomimetic membranes. Lipid and polymer‐based membranes are discussed as well as the emerging area of artificial‐channel‐based membranes. A short outlook on the advancements needed for commercialization of biomimetic membranes is also presented.

Bioinspired and biomimetic membranes for water purification and chemical separation: A review

“…Secondly, the positively charged Arg185 near the selectivity site contributes to the electrostatic repulsion of cations (Murata et al, 2000). Moreover, the internal hydrophobic environment contributed by the multiple hydrophobic amino acid residuals along the inner wall facilitates rapid water conductance which acts as a similar mechanism 'slip flow' as found in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) (Kruse et al, 2006;Kumar et al, 2013;Tunuguntla et al, 2017;Song et al, 2018). Finally, water dipole rearrangement aided by several amino acid groups (Asn76 and Asn192 in two Asn-Pro-Ala motifs in the middle of the protein) blocks the formation of a continuous water wire along the pore and prevents proton transport, thus making AQPs strict water channels (Agre, 2004).…”

“…Compared to the tortuous, discontinuous channels within the polyamide network of commercial reverse osmosis (RO) membranes (Kumar et al, 2013), over billions of years' evolution in biology bestows BWCs with delicate structures that possess exceptional water permeability and selectivity. For scientists and engineers, AQPs' structures have shed light on bioinspired energy-efficient Fig.…”